The Tribune, Chandigarh, India

AGRICULTURE

PAU to focus on nanotechnology

Ludhiana, June 19
Nanotechnology is fast emerging to be the future of scientific research. It deals with the study of dimensions and tolerances of less than 100 nanometres (one thousand millionth of a metre). It particularly involves the manipulation of individual atoms and molecules.

Nanotechnology has attracted lot of research world over. The high-resolution imaging for exploring structural, molecular and nano realms is now possible at electron microscopy and nanoscience (EMN) Laboratory at the university.

According to PAU vice-chancellor M.S.Kang, this first state-of-the-art facility in Punjab would prove conducive for research in agriculture, basic biological and biomedical, chemical and material sciences and also industrial research. The imaging with the latest equipment would promote understanding of cellular and molecular properties, mechanisms and interactions in relation to abiotic and biotic stresses in crop plants. This would further help in resolving various problems in improving agricultural production.

He said nanotechnology had emerged as one of the most innovative scientific fields with immense commercial potential and was highly relevant in agriculture. About the EMN lab facility at the university, he said that imaging of particles as small as 1 nanometre, which is one billionth part of a metre, would enable scientists to develop technologies relevant to agriculture and food systems. — TNS

Plea for action against vet pharmacist
Our Correspondent

Mandi Ahmedgarh, June 19
Seeking stern action against a veterinary pharmacist for allegedly duping dairy farmers on the pretext of insurance policies for cattle, Kuldip Singh Mangewal, a senior SAD leader and son of former animal husbandry minister (during Congress regime), has urged the Chief Minister of Punjab to impress upon the authorities to eliminate the restriction on the number of animals to be insured by the department.

Meanwhile, the office of secretary of the department confirmed that necessary action would be taken after the receipt of representation by the leader.

Accusing Ratan Singh, a veterinary pharmacist, posted at Payal, of duping him and a number of other farmers on the pretext of insuring their cattle, Mangewal demanded that the limit of two cattle per farmers should be lifted and all cattle owned by them should be got insured by the department.

While Usha Sharma, secretary, Animal Husbandry Department, Chandigarh, was not available for comments, her PA maintained that strict action would be taken against the pharmacist in case the charges levelled by the complainant were proved.

EDUCATION

Prize distribution for students of free coaching
Our Correspondent

Mandi Gobindgarh, June 19
As part of the rural upliftment and mass literacy drive by the Desh Bhagat Institute, free coaching classes were held for the benefit of plus 2 students during May and June.The students hailed from Amloh, Bhadson, Nabha, Patiala, Khanna, Ludhiana, Sirhand, Ambala & Rajpura.

Basic knowledge of English-speaking,personality development and computer education were given.

Alaknanda Dayal, Deputy Commissioner, Fatehgarh Sahib, was the chief guest & the keynote speaker while Dr Zora Singh, chairman, and Shalini Gupta, director of the institute, presided over the function and gave away the prizes.