PAU Shines in Rice Research, Awarded Best AICRP Centre

Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana, has garnered two prestigious awards at the 59th Annual Group Meeting of the All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Rice. The event, held at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi, from April 24 to 26, 2024, brought together rice research centres from across India to discuss advancements in the field and to recognize outstanding achievements.

PAU stood out among 45 AICRP centers specializing in rice across India, securing two significant accolades: Best AICRP Centre (Rice Agronomy) and Best AICRP Centre (Overall). The awards underscore PAU's commitment to pioneering research and innovation in rice cultivation.

The recognition was a testament to the exceptional progress made by PAU's Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, with a team of dedicated rice scientists driving groundbreaking advancements in the field.

Dr. Satbir Singh Gosal, the Vice-Chancellor of PAU, expressed immense pride in the team's accomplishments, highlighting the excellence and collaborative spirit that define PAU's research ethos. He emphasized the institution's dedication to advancing agricultural science for the benefit of farmers and food security in India.

Dr. Ajmer Singh Dhatt, Director Research, and Dr. V.S. Sohu, Head of the Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, echoed similar sentiments, praising the team's dedication, expertise, and teamwork that propelled PAU to the forefront of rice research.

PAU's impact on rice cultivation has been profound, with the development of short-duration rice varieties coupled with tailored production and protection technologies. These high-yielding varieties, such as PR 126 and PR 131, have gained widespread adoption due to their disease resistance, cost-effectiveness, and superior milling quality. Presently, PAU varieties cover 70 percent of Punjab's rice cultivation area and are increasingly popular in neighboring states like Haryana.

PAU's adoption of resource-conserving practices like direct-seeded and transplanted rice has further boosted yields and profitability. This innovative approach, combined with advanced agronomic techniques, has elevated Punjab to the pinnacle of rice productivity in India, setting global benchmarks for sustainable agriculture.

The success story of PAU in Punjab serves as a blueprint for enhancing food security and sustainable agriculture nationwide. Through continuous research and innovative practices, PAU continues to lead the way in transforming agricultural landscapes, ensuring a brighter future for farmers and food production in India.