Grow fruits for nutritional security, Punjab Agricultural University’s VC advises farmers
Ludhiana, July 16
An exhibition of mangoes and pears and Kisan Goshti were jointly organised by the Department of Fruit Science of Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) and Dr MS Randhawa Fruit Research Station, Gangian, at Dasuya in Hoshiapur today.
A large number of fruit growers reached Dasuya to have a glimpse of mango and pear varieties, besides new agricultural technologies. They also got to interact with fruit scientists.
Dr Satbir Singh Gosal, Vice-Chancellor, PAU, was the chief guest, while a progressive farmer, Jagmohan Singh Ghuman, was the guest of honour.
“Mango is a mouth-watering fruit, a gift which has been bestowed upon the masses with vibrant colour, delectable taste and overflowing sweetness,” said Dr Gosal, while lauding Kandi and Sirowal areas of Punjab for carving a niche in mango cultivation. Stating that the importance of fruits had gained momentum after the Covid-19 pandemic for nutritional security, the PAU VC advocated fruit cultivation, especially, that of mango and pear fruits on vacant lands.
“The Department of Fruit Science and the Fruit Research Station of Gangian is evolving several fruit varieties and technologies to bring innovation, rejuvenate old plants and popularise fruit cultivation among farmers of Punjab,” he added.
Dr AS Dhatt, Director of Research, shed light on the popular fruit varieties developed by the PAU and called upon scientists to focus on evolving market-driven fruit varieties for farm sustainability. The demand for ‘patharnakh’ was augmenting across the world, he said, adding that the PAU was laying thrust on improving this variety.
Dr MS Bhullar, Director of Extension Education, said the exhibition showcased desi varieties in addition to top-class varieties of alphonso, dusherri, langra and chupan varieties of mango. Besides, chutney, amchoor, aam papad, juice, murabba and sharbat were also on display at stalls, he said. Among pear, various varieties such as Punjab soft, patharnakh, Punjab gold, Punjab nectar, Punjab beauty, kifar, etc. were on display, he said.
