MoU signed

Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) has signed a memorandum of understating with the Star Agriseeds Private Limited, Jaipur, today. Under the pact, the company has agreed to produce certified seed of the moong variety SML 668 developed by the varsity for seed distribution to the farmers of Punjab. Dr Balwinder Singh, director, Research, PAU, and Sunil Kumar Goyal, director, Star Agriseeds Private Limited, signed the agreement in the presence of Dr Sandeep Kapur, comptroller, PAU; Dr KS Thind, head, Plant Breeding and Genetics, PAU; and Raghav Goyal, a representative of Star Agriseeds Private Limited. Dr Balwinder Singh said this tie-up would go a long way in producing certified seed for further distribution to the farmers. Seeds produced will be labeled as “Produced by Star Agriseeds Private Limited and Developed and Marketed by PAU,” he told. The University will provide timely destination wise movement order of seed to the company, he said. This agreement will be valid for a period of one year, he added. SK Goyal said their company was carrying out the business of seed production in Rajasthan and other states of India. He said the company has agreed to organise a minimum 200 acres seed production programme of moong variety SML 668 through its regular seed organisers, during 2016 production season, for subsequent seed sale or distribution to the farmers in Punjab through the University. He further added the joint venture will help in supplying quality seed to the farmers of Punjab.

Cultivate turmeric on small scale, say Experts

The agronomy experts of Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) have advised the farmers to start commercial cultivation of turmeric only on small scale, for gaining experience in production as well as marketing of the produce. According to Dr Thakar Singh, head, Department of Agronomy, turmeric, commonly known as ‘haldi,’ offers a good scope for diversification of cereal based cropping system. It is largely used in diversified forms such as a condiment, colouring agent, curry powder and for flavorings, he told. Besides, it is also used in drug and cosmetic industries, he said, adding that the turmeric can be grown and processed easily for household purpose. Another expert, Dr Amandeep Singh Brar said, “As the consumption of turmeric is limited in each house, large-scale cultivation of turmeric can cause glut in the market and may lower the prices.” Before going for commercial cultivation of turmeric, knowledge about its processing should be gained and market avenues should be explored, he advised. The turmeric cultivation in the state will be helpful in meeting its own demand as well as boosting the country’s export, he observed. The experts have also cautioned the farmers against the cultivation of white turmeric, which is not useful for making dried ginger (sund). “Many times, farmers cultivate white turmeric by considering it as dried ginger (sund). Sometimes, people also sell the seed of white turmeric as dried ginger (sund),” they observed. The experts have urged the farmers not to sow white turmeric. — TNS