PAU Launches Training Programme on Integrated Farming System in Patiala to Boost Farmer Incomes

The All India Coordinated Research Programme on Integrated Farming System, under the School of Organic Farming at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) Ludhiana, in collaboration with the OFR Center Patiala, has initiated a training programme on integrated farming systems (IFS) aimed at boosting farmers' incomes. The training took place in Mardapur village, Block Ghanor, District Patiala.

The event featured Dr. Satbir Singh Gosal, Vice Chancellor of PAU, Ludhiana, as the chief guest. Dr. Gosal advocated for the adoption of IFS to enhance income and provide balanced nutrition for farmers' families. He explained that IFS is a comprehensive approach that integrates various farm enterprises to address the challenges faced by marginal and small farmers.

This system not only increases employment opportunities but also boosts income by efficiently utilizing farm waste, enriching soil with nutrients and organic matter. Dr. Gosal highlighted the low investment and high profitability potential of IFS as a significant tool for rural economic improvement and urged farmers to adopt PAU recommended crop varieties.

During the programme, Dr. Ajay Choudhary provided insights into crop disease prevention, while soil scientist Dr. Neeraj Rani discussed the benefits of using vermicompost within the IFS framework. Dr. N. Ravisankar, Project Coordinator from ICAR-Indian Institute of Farming Systems Research, Modipuram, Meerut, elaborated on the national-level activities of the scheme.

He emphasized that IFS ensures a consistent supply of food, fodder, and other consumables year-round by integrating multiple enterprises, thereby mitigating risks associated with seasonal changes and crop failures. This approach not only enhances food security but also provides farmers with the opportunity to earn additional income by selling surplus produce.

Dr. Sohan Singh Walia, Director of the School of Organic Farming, shared strategies to increase the income of small and marginal farmers through IFS. The event also featured contributions from Dr. A.K. Parusti and Dr. Raghubir Singh from ICAR-IIFSR, Modipuram.

The programme concluded with expressions of gratitude from Dr. Vajinder Pal Kalra of PAU, Ludhiana, and Dr. Jaswinder Singh of OFR Patiala, who thanked the chief guest, the scientists, and the farmers for their active participation and valuable contributions.