Workshop on millet value chain at JGND PSOU

Patiala, March 6

Jagat Guru Nanak Dev Punjab State Open University (JGND PSOU) organised a workshop on ‘Millet Value Chain for Sustainable Agroecology of Punjab’ today. The workshop aimed to share the findings of the study on the collaborative project sponsored by the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR). It covered the region of Punjab and surveyed farmers and consumers. A total of 2,260 samples were taken from 15 districts for the study, and the findings would be part of a policy document to be framed by the Centre. The project is part of the Government of India initiative IYM 2023 (International Year of Millet). Vice-Chancellor Karamjeet Singh spoke about the importance of agroecology in Punjab. He said, “As food security and environmental sustainability are of paramount significance, large-scale implementation of agroecological practices may provide the country’s population with food security. These practices will also enhance livelihood opportunities and improve public health.” The keynote address was delivered by Prof Sukhdev Singh, a retired professor from the Department of Sociology at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) in Ludhiana. Prof Sukhdev addressed the issues of climate change and the need to build resilience through agroecological initiatives. He said, “Agroecological food production systems may provide better yields and economic returns to farmers.” The Chief Guest of the workshop, Prof GS Mangat, Additional Director of Research (Crop Improvement) at PAU, spoke on the ongoing research and development efforts to enhance crop yield and quality.