Punjab Agricultural University Hosts Second Kisan Mela, Talks About Innovation and Sustainability in Agriculture

The second Kisan Mela organized by Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) concluded on Thursday, March 7, at the Regional Research Station, Ballowal Saunkhri, marking another effort towards agricultural innovation and sustainability. Dr. SS Gosal, Vice-Chancellor of PAU, graced the event as the chief guest, where farmers engaged in a day filled with learning, demonstration, and interaction with agricultural experts.

The event, themed "Kheti Naal Saahiak Dhanda, Parivar Sukhi Munafa Changa," offered a platform for farmers to interact directly with experts, participate in live demonstrations, and acquire quality seeds, planting material, and agricultural literature. It underscored the importance of adopting high-quality hybrid seeds, diversifying into subsidiary occupations, and embracing entrepreneurship to ensure economic sustenance.

Technological Advancements and Sustainable Practices

Ms. Kiranjeet Kaur, a Member of the Board of Management, highlighted the vital role of scientific advancements and technological interventions by PAU in propelling the agricultural development of the Kandi region. She stressed the necessity of maintaining soil quality and encouraged small and marginal farmers to explore food processing and self-marketing to enhance their livelihoods.

Dr. Makhan Singh Bhullar, Director of Extension Education at PAU, Ludhiana, emphasized the significance of the mela in promoting self-sufficiency among farmers. He encouraged the attendees to leverage PAU’s research for self-employment and to participate actively in the university's training programs for setting up their own enterprises.

Research Priorities and Environmental Sustainability

Dr. Ajmer Singh Dhatt, Director of Research at PAU, elaborated on the university's research priorities, focusing on addressing new challenges such as climate change, water scarcity, and rising cultivation costs. He announced the release of nine new crop varieties and underscored the importance of drip irrigation and judicious pesticide use to combat the depleting water table in Punjab.

The event also saw the participation of Mr. Navjot Pal Singh Randhawa, (IAS) Deputy Commissioner, SBS Nagar, and other dignitaries who lauded the efforts of PAU in benefiting the farming community through its research and initiatives.

The mela concluded on a high note with cultural performances, demonstrating the vibrant spirit of the agricultural community. The successful event not only showcased the latest in agricultural research and practices but also strengthened the bond between the university and the farming community, paving the way for a sustainable agricultural future.