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Thursday, 16 May 2024

Khudian Reiterates Commitment to Farmers’ Welfare During PAU Visit

Ludhiana, June 24, 2023: During his maiden visit to Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, the newly appointed Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare of Punjab, Gurmeet Singh Khudian reiterated the government's commitment to farmers' welfare under the leadership of S. Bhagwant Mann. Khudian was interacting with Dr Satbir Singh Gosal, PAU Vice-Chancellor and the officers of the university at a dinner meeting.


Showering PAU with effusive praise, Khudian hailed it as a quintessential institution that served as a beacon of education, research, technology transfer, and extension services. Recognizing its contribution to the agricultural economy of the state, he expressed his desire for the Agriculture Department of Punjab and PAU to synchronize their efforts, united in their pursuit of uplifting the farmers and the wider community. He believed that the focus of such service should be on providing dignified livelihoods for small-scale farmers and marginalized individuals, infusing their lives with hope and prosperity.


Khudian remarked that the rural youth, blessed with an innate affinity for farming, should be encouraged to pursue agricultural
education, which would fortify their skills and unlock the potential for profitable farming. The minister also stressed the imperative of
revitalizing and adapting the agricultural extension system to meet the ever-evolving needs of the farming community. Furthermore, he
delved into the immense scope of allied fields in bestowing self-sufficiency upon the farmer.


While exchanging ideas, Dr S.S. Gosal briefed the Minister about the university's research triumphs in safeguarding crops and refining
processing technologies. He narrated the transformative journey of PAU, emphasizing its pioneering efforts in farm mechanization and
fostering strong bonds with the farmers. Drawing a parallel between the intricate components of a well-oiled machine, Dr Gosal drew attention to the seamless integration of teaching, research, and extension within the university's framework. Moreover, he acquainted the minister with the training programs conducted by KVKs in allied activities, particularly on processing, packaging, and marketing of agricultural products. He further explained how PAU empowers self-help groups and motivates women to adopt entrepreneurship to attain financial independence and self-reliance.


As the evening progressed, Dr Nirmal Jaura, the Director of Students' Welfare, extended the vote of thanks. The entire program was
coordinated by Dr Vishal Bector,  Associate Director Institutional Relations.

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