The Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) Kisan Mela, held on March 14, 2024, was a vibrant celebration of agricultural innovation and entrepreneurship. Dr. Gurdev Singh Khush, a renowned agricultural scientist known as the “Paddy Daddy,” graced the event as the guest of honor, accompanied by his wife, Harwant Kaur Khush. The mela, which spanned two days, saw a tremendous turnout of farmers, farm women, and youths from Punjab and neighboring states.
Inauguration and Key Highlights Of PAU Kisan Mela
- Inauguration by Sardar Gurmeet Singh Khuddian: The Agriculture Minister of Punjab inaugurated the mela, highlighting PAU’s pivotal role in the Green Revolution and its ongoing efforts to boost the agricultural sector.
- Encouragement for Youth: The Minister expressed concern over the trend of Punjabi youths migrating abroad and urged them to consider launching their enterprises in the state with minimal investment.
- Diversification in Agriculture: Farmers were advised to diversify their crops by cultivating pulses, maize, and engaging in subsidiary occupations like animal husbandry.
Government Initiatives
- Solar Pump Installation: The Punjab government announced plans to install 90,000 solar pumps across the state to provide electricity to farmers, promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
- Financial Support for PAU: Dr. Gurdev Singh Khush and Sardar GS Dhillon made significant donations to PAU, demonstrating their commitment to agricultural education and research.
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PAU’s Impact and Future Directions
- Overwhelming Response: The mela received an overwhelming response from farmers not only in Punjab but also from states like Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh.
- Agricultural Achievements: PAU’s wheat variety ‘PBW 826’ and rice varieties ‘PR 126’ and ‘PR 131’ have revolutionized agriculture in India, becoming the preferred choice for many farmers.
- Challenges and Solutions: Experts discussed the challenges faced by farmers, including water scarcity, weather fluctuations, and environmental degradation, emphasizing the need for sustainable agricultural practices.
- Entrepreneurial Empowerment: Dr. Satbir Singh Gosal, Vice-Chancellor of PAU, encouraged farmers to embark on a self-reliant entrepreneurial journey, empowering them economically and socially.
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PAU’s Research and Innovations
- New Crop Varieties: PAU has developed several new crop varieties, including basmati, fodder maize, bajra, and proso millet, catering to the diverse needs of farmers.
- Food Processing Technologies: The university has pioneered food processing technologies, such as high-protein soy powder and extruded snacks made from millets, enhancing the value of agricultural produce.
- Farm Machinery: PAU showcased innovative farm machinery, such as remote-based Paddy Transplanter and UAV-based drones for spraying, improving efficiency and productivity in agriculture.
Recognition and Awards
- Progressive Farmers: Six progressive farmers were honored for their exceptional contributions to horticulture, crop production, and subsidiary occupations.
- PAU Scientists: Six PAU scientists were recognized for their tireless efforts to uplift agriculture and allied fields, showcasing the university’s commitment to research and innovation.
Conclusion
The PAU Kisan Mela was not just a gathering of farmers but a testament to the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship in agriculture. It served as a platform for knowledge exchange, recognition of excellence, and a call to action for sustainable agricultural practices.
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FAQs
- What was the theme of the PAU Kisan Mela? The mela’s theme was “Kheti Naal Saahaaik Dhanda, Parivaar Sukhi Munafa Changa,” focusing on entrepreneurial ventures for enhanced family earnings.
- What government initiatives were announced at the PAU Kisan Mela? The Punjab government announced the installation of 90,000 solar pumps and additional financial support for PAU.
- How did PAU contribute to agricultural innovation? PAU developed new crop varieties, food processing technologies, and innovative farm machinery to improve agricultural practices.
- Who were the notable personalities present at the PAU Kisan Mela? Dr. Gurdev Singh Khush, Sardar Gurmeet Singh Khuddian, and Dr. Satbir Singh Gosal were among the notable personalities present at the mela.
- What were some key highlights of the PAU Kisan Mela? The PAU Kisan Mela featured live field demonstrations, an agro-industrial exhibition, and cultural programs, among other attractions.
