27 March, 2024 (Yes Punjab News)
Dr. Satbir Singh Gosal, Honorable Vice-chancellor, PAU inaugurated two batches of One-year Diploma in Agricultural Extension Services for Input Dealers (DAESI) at Punjab Agricultural Management and Extension Training Institute (PAMETI).
Dr. Makhan Singh Bhullar, Director of Extension Education, PAU and Dr. Parkash Singh, Chief Agricultural Officer, Ludhiana also graced the occasion.
Dr. SS Gosal, in his inaugural address, pointed out the importance of quality seeds, optimizing use of fertilizers and pesticides/insecticides as per package of practices of PAU for improving crop yield in the state. He said that there is a great need to educate farmers about judicious use of agro chemicals to reduce the cost of production.
Dr. KB Singh, Director, PAMETI, while extending a warm welcome to all guests and participants, said that this diploma program focuses on providing specialized knowledge and skills to individuals involved in selling agricultural inputs like seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides.
He explained the importance of agricultural extension education for the input dealers to transform them into para-extension professionals.
Dr. MS Bhullar said that Agri-Input Dealers are a primary source of information to the farming community, besides the supply of inputs.
So, with a better understanding of agricultural techniques and technologies, input dealers can help farmers enhance their productivity and yield. He also stressed upon the adoption of ethical business practices along with knowledge of agri-inputs for overall agricultural development.
Dr. Parkash Singh appreciated the efforts and content to be covered by PAMETI during this program. He said that this will surely equip input dealers with the necessary expertise to support farmers in optimizing their agricultural practices and improving crop yields.
Dr. Rupinder Kaur, State Coordinaor- DAESI and Deputy Director-HRM, PAMETI while explaining the objective of the programme, said that input dealers play a crucial role in enhancing farm productivity while ensuring responsible use of agricultural inputs. But majority of these dealers do not have formal agricultural education.
Therefore, National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management (MANAGE), Ministry of Agri & Farmers’ Welfare, GoI has launched this location-specific diploma, which will facilitate them to serve the farmers better.
Dr. RK Kalra, Retd. Professor (Extension Education), PAU and facilitator of this diploma program explained the guidelines and instructions to all candidates.
She said that the technical information will be delivered through Contact Classes and field visits by agricultural experts & practitioners on saturdays for 48 days spread over a year.
She motivated the participants to actively participate during classes and acquire knowledge from scientists/experts as much as possible to transfer the same to the farmers for their welfare.
