Dr. V.B. Mehta, Vice Chancellor, Dr.Balasaheb Sawant Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth, Dapoli has been bestowed with Honorary Rank of Colonel Commandant NCC at the auspicious hands of Brig. R.C. Shard, Dy. Director General, NCC, Maharashtra in a scintillating investiture ceremony organized at Sir Viswesarayya auditorium of the University on January 2, 2008 in the august presence of Col. D. Bahuguna, Group Commander, Kolhapur Group, Dr. G.D. Joshi, Director of Instruction and Shri. V.R. Kale, Registrar of the University.

Brig. Shard, in his conferment speech, congratulated Dr. Mehta and sought his cooperation in the advancement of NCC activities. He further said, "Maharashtra NCC has got a generous patron like Dr. Mehta. His assistance will certainly help NCC movement to spread, strengthen and become more sociable. It's a matter of pride for all the University employees that out of nineteen universities in Maharashtra only six vice chancellors have been given this prestigious honour".

Dr. Mehta, in his acceptance speech, said that it was the honour of all his university associates and humbly accepted the Rank. "We are, of course, proud of our military power. I am an agricultural scientist; I am a kisan and associated to science. This honorary rank now allows me to carry the title of jawan also. We believe in coexistence and we are exemplified by 'harmonized control', but whenever our enemies waged war on us our armed forces came out with glorious victories. Our defense forces have proved that men are more important than arms and ammunition," he added. He assured every possible help for proliferation of NCC activities.

At the outset, Shri. Kale reviewed University activities. Col. Bahuguna introduced Brig. Shard and Dr. Joshi cited "Address of Honour" bringing up the contributions of Dr. Mehta. A booklet commemorating the ceremony was released at the hands of Brig. Shard.

Earlier, a pipping ceremony was held at Vice-Chancellor's office. NCC troop offered guard of honour to Dr. Mehta and Brig. Shard.

Mrs. Mehta, Mrs. Shard, Mrs. Bahuguna, directors, officers, employees and students of the University, officers of 19 and 22 Maharashtra Battalions, respectable citizens graced the occasion in large number.