PAU Notes: Godrej, varsity to partner for cotton farmers’ welfare, sustainable practices

Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, May 6

Rakesh Swami, group president (Corporate Affairs), at Godrej Industries Limited and Associate Companies, recently led a delegation to Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana, to explore potential partnerships aimed at promoting sustainable agricultural practices and enhancing the livelihoods of cotton farmers in the country. The meeting saw a gathering of PAU officials, including Vice-Chancellor Dr Satbir Singh Gosal, along with cotton breeders, textile experts and entomologists.

Swami began the discussion by emphasising Godrej’s long-standing commitment to sustainability, highlighting initiatives such as energy efficiency, water conservation and waste management. He pointed out these strategies are not just a corporate choice but a necessity for businesses today, as they navigate disruptive changes while ensuring a sustainable future. Summarising the company’s successful projects that have benefitted numerous farmers, he cited income enhancement programmes like organic farming, poultry units and farm equipment banks.

Dr Gosal expanded on the cotton cultivation in the state, summarising PAU’s major thrust areas in cotton research, he prioritised germplasm acquisition, breeding programmes, and eco-friendly pest management technologies. He also quoted innovative pest management technologies like SPLAT and PB knot techniques for controlling pink bollworm.

Looking ahead, Dr Gosal listed mechanisation of operations, use of drones for spraying with defined Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), identification of plant architecture for HDPS trials, etc, as some of the key domains to consider for immediate line of action followed by a roadmap for long-term goals.

About The Author

Tribune News Service

The Tribune News Service brings you the latest news, analysis and insights from the region, India and around the world. Follow the Tribune News Service for a wide-ranging coverage of events as they unfold, with perspective and clarity.

Join Whatsapp Channel of The Tribune for latest updates.

#Punjab Agricultural University PAU