Adopt resilient crop varieties, optimise water, fertiliser use, farmers urged

The Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) launched its annual kisan mela series with a successful event at the Regional Research Station, Ballowal Saunkhari, in Nawanshahr. The mela saw enthusiastic participation from farmers who engaged with agricultural experts, attended live demonstrations and purchased quality seeds, planting materials and farm literature.

This year’s event revolved around the theme: “Naviyan Kheti Takneekan Apnao, Kharach Ghatao, Chaad Vadao” (adopt new farming techniques, reduce costs, increase yields).

PAU Vice-Chancellor Dr Satbir Singh Gosal, in his presidential address, urged farmers to adopt resilient crop varieties, optimise water and fertiliser use, and seek expert guidance from PAU scientists. He emphasised the role of kisan melas in spreading knowledge about modern agricultural techniques and encouraged organic farming and self-marketing. Additionally, he stressed the importance of reducing unnecessary farm input costs while investing in literature such as package and practices for rabi and kharif crops to enhance farm productivity.

Renowned international scientist Dr GS Khush, the chief guest, highlighted PAU’s contributions to the kandi region’s agricultural progress. He spoke about the importance of soil conservation and selecting crops based on soil suitability. He also encouraged the processing and self-marketing of farm produce and urged local youth to pursue a BSc in agriculture at the Regional Research Station, which he believes will uplift the region.

Dr Makhan Singh Bhullar, Director of Extension Education, PAU, advised farmers to take advantage of PAU’s research and training programmes for financial self-sufficiency. He encouraged them to maximise small landholdings, cultivate kitchen gardens and promote organic farming. He also recommended growing maize, gram and fodder crops for higher profitability.

Dr Ajmer Singh Dhatt, Director of Research, PAU, addressed Punjab’s key agricultural challenges, including climate change, water scarcity and rising cultivation costs. He announced the release of new crop varieties, including PR 132 Basmati rice and Punjab Potato 103 and 104. He also emphasised water conservation and recommended cultivating millets, medicinal plants like garlic and turmeric and high-value crops such as gladiolus, chrysanthemum, and litchi.

The event also featured a poetic tribute to Punjab’s agricultural heritage by Guest of Honour Dr Bikram Singh Gill, while SBS Nagar Deputy Commissioner Ankurjeet Singh praised PAU’s ongoing research and its impact on the farming community.

Recognising excellence in farming, Gurmit Singh (beekeeping), Jujhar Singh (soybean cultivation), Manpreet Singh (IFA member), Saurav Kumar and Jagdeep Singh were honoured for their achievements.

Closing the event, Dr Manmohanjit Singh, Dean of PAU-COA & Director, RRS, Ballowal Saunkhari, expressed gratitude to all participants. He reaffirmed PAU’s commitment to enhancing farmers’ financial stability through advanced agricultural technologies and improved seed varieties.