Diploma in agri extension services launched at PAU

Dr Sardara Singh Johl, former Chancellor of the Central University of Punjab, inaugurated two batches of the one-year diploma in Agricultural Extension Services for Input Dealers (DAESI) at the Punjab Agricultural Management and Extension Training Institute (PAMETI).

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The event was also attended by Dr Parvender Sheoran, Director of ICAR- Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute (ATARI) Zone-1, and Dr Makhan Singh Bhullar, Director of Extension Education at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU).

During his inaugural address, Dr Johl emphasised the importance of understanding the correct use of agricultural inputs, stressing their application in the right quantity, at the right time, and in the right way. He urged the candidates to take a hands-on approach to farming, learning through direct experience rather than relying solely on labourers.

Dr KB Singh, Director of PAMETI, highlighted the objectives of the diploma course in his welcome address, noting that the program aims to equip individuals involved in selling agricultural inputs like seeds, fertilizers and pesticides with specialised knowledge and skills. He underscored the significance of agricultural extension education in transforming input dealers into para-extension professionals.

Dr Parvender Sheoran spoke on the need to optimise the use of fertilisers and pesticides according to PAU’s package of practices, emphasising that educating farmers on the judicious use of agrochemicals is essential to reduce production costs and improve crop yield.

Dr MS Bhullar congratulated the candidates, noting that this course would not only open up business opportunities but also enhance their agricultural practices. He encouraged the participants to engage with experts and ask questions for a better understanding of the subject matter.

Dr Rupinder Kaur, State Coordinator for DAESI and Deputy Director of HRM at PAMETI, discussed the crucial role input dealers play in ensuring responsible use of agricultural inputs as the first point of contact for farmers. She explained that the National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management (MANAGE), under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, GoI, launched this location-specific diploma to build the capacity of input dealers.

Dr RK Kalra and Dr Damanjeet Kaur, Retd Professors at PAU and facilitators of the diploma program, provided candidates with guidelines and instructions. They informed participants that the technical knowledge would be delivered through contact classes and field visits on Saturdays for 48 days spread over the year. They encouraged active participation and clear communication with experts for a thorough understanding of the course material.