MANAGE's New Role in Agricultural Skill Development
The National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management (MANAGE), located in Hyderabad, has recently been recognized as a Centre of Excellence-Skills (CoE-Skills) in the [agriculture](/topic/agriculture-msp) sector by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) of the Government of India. This recognition, which was formally awarded on November 2, 2026, during a ceremony at Kaushal Bhawan in New Delhi, marks a significant milestone for the institute, which has been operational since 1987.
The recognition was presented by Smt Debashree Mukherjee, Secretary of MSDE, and is valid for a period of three years. This designation is expected to enhance MANAGE's capabilities in agricultural skill development and entrepreneurship, aligning with the Government of India's vision of fostering a skilled workforce in the agricultural sector.
Strengthening Agricultural Extension Systems
Established with the aim of strengthening the agricultural extension system in India, MANAGE has been pivotal in providing training, consultancy, research, and policy support in agricultural extension. The institute offers various educational programs, including:
These programs are designed to equip agricultural professionals and aspiring entrepreneurs with the necessary knowledge and competencies to thrive in the agricultural sector. The recognition as a Centre of Excellence will further bolster these initiatives, allowing MANAGE to diversify its offerings and enhance its impact on agricultural skill development.
- Post Graduate Diploma in Agri-warehousing Management (PGDAWM)
- Post Graduate Diploma in Agricultural Extension Management (PGDAEM)
- Post-Graduate Diploma in Management (Agri-Business Management)
A Vision for Agricultural Entrepreneurship
The empanelment of MANAGE as a Centre of Excellence is not just a recognition but a commitment to advancing agricultural entrepreneurship in India. Under the leadership of Shri Sanjay Kumar Agarwal, IAS, Director General of MANAGE, the institute aims to promote innovative approaches in agricultural extension and facilitate entrepreneurship development.
Agarwal emphasized the significance of this recognition, stating, "This milestone reflects the dedication, hard work, and high standards upheld by the Institute in the field of capacity building. It brings with it great responsibility to further strengthen the standards for program execution and enhance our contribution to the nation’s skilling mission."
The recognition is expected to create new opportunities for MANAGE to engage with various stakeholders in the agricultural sector, including government bodies, educational institutions, and industry leaders, to foster a more skilled and competent workforce.
Training Programs and Knowledge Sharing Initiatives
MANAGE has been actively involved in organizing training programs and knowledge-sharing initiatives aimed at enhancing the skills of agricultural extension functionaries. These programs are tailored to meet the evolving needs of the agricultural sector, ensuring that professionals are equipped with the latest knowledge and practices.
The institute's training initiatives focus on:
Through these initiatives, MANAGE aims to create a dynamic environment where agricultural professionals can share knowledge, collaborate, and innovate, ultimately contributing to the growth of the agricultural sector in India.
- Capacity building for agricultural extension workers
- Promoting innovative agricultural practices
- Facilitating entrepreneurship development in agriculture
Future Prospects and Commitment to Excellence
The recognition as a Centre of Excellence is a testament to MANAGE's ongoing commitment to advancing agricultural extension and skill development. The institute plans to leverage this recognition to enhance its training programs and expand its reach within the agricultural community.
The leadership team, including Dr K C Gummagolmath, Dr Veenita Kumari, and Dr Shalendra, has been instrumental in developing the vision for this initiative. Their collective efforts aim to align MANAGE's objectives with the broader goals of the Government of India, focusing on creating a skilled, competent, and entrepreneurial workforce in agriculture.
As MANAGE embarks on this new chapter, the institute is poised to play a crucial role in shaping the future of agricultural education and skill development in India, reinforcing its status as a leader in agricultural extension management.
The recognition of MANAGE as a Centre of Excellence is a significant step towards enhancing the agricultural landscape in India, ensuring that the workforce is well-equipped to meet the challenges of the future.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Recognition Date | November 2, 2026 |
| Validity Period | 3 Years |
| Established | 1987 |
| Key Programs | PGDAWM, PGDAEM, PGDM (Agri-Business) |
| Director General | Shri Sanjay Kumar Agarwal |





