Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) has taken significant steps in tackling the persistent issue of paddy straw burning by collaborating with two farm machinery manufacturers, GSA Industries (Agrizone) from Patiala and Saeco Stips Pvt. Limited from Doraha. This partnership aims to commercialize the innovative PAU Surface Seeder Technology, designed to address the environmental and soil health challenges posed by traditional straw burning methods.
Vice-Chancellor Dr. Satbir Singh Gosal praised the manufacturers for their proactive approach, highlighting PAU's dedication to eliminating the practice of stubble burning. He highlighted the benefits of in-situ paddy straw management, describing it as a "golden process" that not only prevents harmful burning but also enhances soil health and productivity.
Dr. A.S. Dhatt, Director of Research, underscored the economic efficiency of the PAU Surface Seeder Technology, noting its ability to facilitate timely wheat sowing without the need to burn paddy residue. He pointed out that this technology offers a practical and affordable solution for managing paddy straw, benefiting both farmers and the environment.
Further elaborating on the advantages of surface seeding, Dr. Hari Ram, Head of the Department of Agronomy, and Dr. J.S. Gill, Agronomist, mentioned several key benefits. These include improved crop stands with reduced lodging, increased resilience to adverse weather conditions, water conservation, and a reduction in the need for herbicides.
Dr. Khushdeep Dharni, Associate Director of the Technology Marketing and IPR Cell, revealed that PAU has already signed 23 Memorandums of Agreement (MoAs) with various farm machinery manufacturers to disseminate the Surface Seeder Technology at the grassroots level. He indicated that additional MoAs are expected to be signed in the future to further promote this technology.
The event also saw the participation of Dr. G.S. Mangat, Additional Director of Research (Agriculture), and Dr. Mahesh Narang, Head of the Department of Farm Machinery and Power Engineering, reflecting the collaborative effort within PAU to advance sustainable agricultural practices.
Through these strategic partnerships and technological advancements, PAU is demonstrating its commitment to fostering sustainable farming practices that benefit both the environment and the agricultural community.
