Ludhiana, September 18, 2025 (Yes Punjab News)
Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) kickstarted its series of Rabi Season Kisan Melas at the Regional Research Centre, Faridkot, drawing a large turnout of farmers and farm women under the theme “Jinsan to Utpadh Banaie, Kheti Manfa Hor Vadhaie” (Transform produce into products, increase farm profitability).
The event was inaugurated by Sardar Kultar Singh Sandhwan, Hon’ble Speaker, Punjab Vidhan Sabha, as Chief Guest. Mr. Gurdit Singh Sekhon, MLA Faridkot and Engineer Amarjit Singh Dhillon, Member Administrative Board, PAU graced the occasion as special guests. The mela was presided over by Dr. Satbir Singh Gosal, Vice Chancellor, PAU.
Addressing the farmers, Speaker Sandhwan praised the Kisan Melas as vital platforms for spreading technical know-how. Congratulating PAU on retaining the top rank among agricultural universities nationwide for the third consecutive year, he said Punjab’s fertile soil and hardworking farmers have helped India secure the second position in rice production and seventh in wheat production globally.
He urged farmers to embrace cooperative farming, adopt processing technologies, and learn from PAU’s scientific guidance to boost productivity and profitability.
Expressing empathy for flood-affected farmers of Punjab’s riverine areas, Dr. Gosal shared that PAU is already testing the fertility of flood-washed soils. Stressing the need to convert raw produce into value-added products, he explained how setting up small and large processing units at the domestic or village level could ensure better utilization of agricultural commodities, minimize waste, and generate substantial income.
He encouraged farmers to seek training at PAU’s Krishi Vigyan Kendras, Skill Development Centre, and Agro Processing Centre to avail government schemes and facilities.
Highlighting ongoing research at RRS Faridkot, Dr. Gosal urged farmers to diversify into sugarcane, dragon fruit, black berry, and almond cultivation and also to procure fodder, pulses, oilseed, and vegetable kits directly from PAU.
Dr. Ajmer Singh Dhatt, Director Research, PAU, detailed the development of 974 crop varieties, with over 250 recommended nationwide.
He introduced the new wheat variety PBW 872, barley PL 942, and moong SML 2575, while showcasing innovations like the driverless tractor equipped with a Global Navigation System and the paddy seedling sowing machine capable of planting 150 quintals of seedlings per hour. He also emphasized retaining stubble in fields to enrich soil microorganisms and improve fertility.
Dr. Makhan Singh Bhullar, Director Extension Education, welcomed dignitaries, scientists, and farmers. He said the massive turnout reflects the farmers’ faith in PAU’s research and extension. He invited them to the flagship Kisan Mela at PAU Ludhiana on September 26–27, urging adoption of allied industries and scientific farming for better income.
The proceedings were conducted by Dr. Kuldeep Singh, Associate Director, Public Relations, PAU, while the vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. Kuldeep Singh, Director, RRS Faridkot.
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