Sowing seeds of change: PAU V-C roots for rural talent with 10% quota

Ludhiana: The Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) organized a Kisan Mela at Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Rauni, Patiala, drawing a large gathering of farmers eager to learn about emerging technologies, improved crop varieties and sustainable farming practices. The event formed part of PAU's outreach efforts to prepare farmers for the forthcoming kharif cropping season through scientific advisories, demonstrations and direct interaction with agricultural experts.Vice-chancellor Satbir Singh Gosal visited the field demonstrations and agro-industrial exhibition showcasing improved crop varieties, farm machinery, precision farming technologies and water-saving practices.Dr Gosal also announced that beginning this year, PAU has reserved 10% seats in B.Sc Agriculture for rural students who reside in villages and have completed their Class 10 education from village schools.Gosal stated that feedback of farmers plays a crucial role in helping the university develop better varieties and technologies. He highlighted that Patiala is the only district in Punjab that hosts three PAU centres including the Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), the Fruit Research Station, and the Farm Advisory Service Centre, and therefore farmers of the district carry a special responsibility to safeguard the environment and adopt sustainable farming practices. He urged farmers to visit the experimental fields displaying various rabi crops and observe which varieties are best suited to their farms.He also announced that a processing centre equipped with grading and processing machinery will soon be established at KVK Rauni and is expected to become operational within the next two to three months.In the case of basmati cultivation, Gosal cautioned farmers against using ten pesticides banned by PAU due to residue concerns, which can adversely affect export prospects. Instead, he recommended seed treatment with bio-pesticides.Encouraging diversification, he urged farmers to gradually move beyond the paddy-wheat cycle and adopt crops such as sugarcane, moong and mash using PAU-recommended varieties.He added that students graduating in agriculture from PAU often gain admission to prestigious universities abroad, and advised families not to waste money on agents but instead allow their children to pursue education and build legitimate careers through proper academic channels.