The inaugural function of 3 days National conference on ‘Transformation of Agro-technologies for Enhancing Production under Diverse Agroecosystem’ organized by College of Agriculture, Waghai in association with Indian society of Agronomy- Navsari Chapter was held in the gracious presence of Hon'ble Vice-Chancellor Dr. Z. P. Patel as President of the function; Dr. S.R. Gadakh, Hon'ble Vice-Chancellor, Dr. PDKV, Akola, Maharashtra and Dr. A. K. Vyas, Hon'ble Vice-Chancellor, Agriculture University, Kota, Rajasthan as Guests of honour; Dr. T. R. Ahlawat, DR, NAU; Dr. J. J. Pastagia, Principal, CoA, Waghai and Dr. H. M. Virdia, President, NC-ISA on October 12, 2023.

Hon'ble VC in his presidential address emphasized the imperative of integrating indigenous technological knowledge with modern Agron-technology. He urged scientists to prioritize listening to farmers first, as they possess invaluable insights into the challenges and potential solutions. Additionally, he shared his perspectives on how biochar can serve as a regenerative technology, offering solutions to numerous problems related to natural resources. Recognizing the pressing issue of climate change, he stressed the importance of adopting climate-smart and resilient practices to mitigate its consequences, while advocating for the development of farmer-friendly technologies at the micro level.

Hon'ble VC congratulated Organizing secretary Dr. Ajay P. Patel and all members of organizing team for successful organization and gathering of scientists & students of various states in this very important conference at Saputara. The souvenir containing abstracts was released in the inaugural function. Total around 254 participants from 8 different states have registered for this seminar.

Several awards were presented during the inaugural function. Dr. D. D. Patel, Principal of College of Agriculture, Bharuch, was honored with the Distinguished Agriculturist Award. Dr. R. H. Patil, Professor and Head of Agronomy at UAS, Dharwad, received the Eminent Scientist Award. Dr. Tushar Patel, Assistant Professor at the College of Agriculture, Bharuch, was bestowed with the Young Scientist Award (Agronomy). Dr. Narendra Singh, Assistant Research Scientist received the Young Scientist Award (Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry). Ms. Anamika Burman from ICAR-IARI was recognized with the Best M.Sc. Thesis Award in Agronomy, while Mr. Bhavik Keniya received the Best Thesis Award in Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry.