PAU cautions farmers against infestation in kharif crops

Ludhiana, July 7, 2023: At the monthly training camp for the members of Kisan Club of Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), farmers were advised to remain alert regarding the incidence of insect-pests and diseases in paddy, basmati, cotton, maize and chilli crops, which if not checked in time can result in severe yield and economic losses.

Dr Amarjit Singh, Senior Extension Scientist (Plant Pathology) and Dr YS Pandha, an entomology expert, warned the farmers against the attack of stunting virus in rice, resulting in dwarf plants; foot rot in basmati; pink bollworm in cotton and fall armyworm in maize.

Dr Ritu Raj, an expert from Plant Clinic, PAU, urged the farmers to go in for diagnosis of plants, found infested with any disease. “You can bring the plant samples to the Plant Clinic at the Directorate of Extension Education, PAU, Ludhiana or can contact experts of Krishi Vigyan Kendras or Farm Advisory Service Centres for immediate remedy in case of any doubt,” she advised.

Dr Poonam Bakhetia and Dr Amarjit Kaur, experts of Food Science and Technology, demonstrated the making of value added products from seasonal fruits such as mango fruity and panna; water melon punch; and preparation of sweets like gulab jamun, ghiya pinnis and besan ki burfi for festival seasons.

Dr Kuldeep Singh, Head, Department of Extension Education and Coordinator of Kisan Club, stressed that entrepreneurship development was need of the hour. In her welcome remarks, Dr Rupinder Kaur, Associate Director (Skill Development) and Coordinator of women’s wing of the club, observed: “Self-reliance is a way to economic stability.”

Mr Amrinder Punia, President of the club, and Dr Prerna and Ms Kamal from women’ wing, proposed a vote of thanks. As many as 100 farmers and 58 farm women participated in the camp.