57% drop in stubble burning in Punjab: PAU VC

Ludhiana: As the two-day Kisan Mela concluded at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) on Saturday, shor duration rice seed varieties PR 121, 114 126 and 122 sold like hot cakes on the last day of the fair.
Farmers were also drawn to the stalls of basmati varieties 1121, 1509 and the newly released 1718. However, field functionaries advised them to not grow basmati on large areas as there has been a significant drop in crop prices.
PAU’s agro-industrial ground was abuzz with activities concerning field demonstrations, farmers-scientist interactions, technical session, sale of quality seeds and farm literature, and cultural programmes.Winners of various farm competitions were awarded prizes on the concluding day of the event.
Varsity students had also displayed cup coasters made out of paddy straw amid many other models.
AS Miglani, Punjab secretary personnel and mission director, Directorate of Ground Water Management, who was the chief guest, expressed concern over the water crisis in Punjab. He said, “To produce one kg of paddy, 4,000 litres of water is being used. Though the state government is providing free electricity and water, the farmers must value these resources and conserve them for future generations. There is an urgent need to adopt cultivation of alternative crops such as fruits, vegetables and flowers.”
Miglani also underlined the need for focusing on marketing techniques to provide financial benefits to farmers.
PAU vice-chancellor Dr Baldev Singh Dhillon said, “With the emerging agrarian challenges, the need of the hour is to reduce the cost of cultivation, make judicious use of farm inputs, maintain farm accounts, and grow fruits and vegetables for domestic consumption.”
Dhillon also emphasised on adopting subsidiary occupations such as beekeeping, mushroom cultivation, dairy, poultry etc. for reaping economic benefits. He disclosed that there has been 57 per cent decrease in stubble burning in Punjab due to which the environmental pollution has lessened.
Presenting the research highlights, Dr Navtej Bains, director of research, PAU, said, “Farmer’s experience, feedback and input is vital for the success of agricultural research.” He informed about the characteristics of the newly developed varieties of basmati, kharif maize, summer moong, Napier bajra, guava and fig. He also apprised the farmers of the newly recommended production and protection technologies.