The inauguration of the first agriculture college in the State is a big step in a direction that is fraught with difficulty. The aim of the institution and the Salesians, who started it, is to impart scientific knowledge to those interested in pursuing agriculture as a career so that areas that have the potential to excel can be utilised. That the institution will give preference to sons and daughters of farmers is a clear indication that it is on the right track. The hard part is that the work force is gradually moving from agriculture to white collar jobs in cities and along the coast. Labour is difficult to find, but besides this drawback, there are numerous success stories. News that the State would be self-sufficient in Anthuriums, Gerberas and Orchids is proof that the sector is evolving. The challenge before the college is to turn agriculture into a profession that yields good returns and reduce the pressure on industry alone to create more jobs.
