PAU launches Training Programme on Integrated Farming Systems in Mardapur Village for Income Enhancement

Ludhiana, July 10, 2024: The All India Coordinated Research Programme on Integrated Farming System, School of Organic Farming PAU Ludhiana (Main Centre), in collaboration with the OFR Center Patiala, recently launched a training programme on integrated farming systems aimed at enhancing farmers' incomes in Mardapur village, Block Ghanor, District Patiala.

The event featured Dr. Satbir Singh Gosal, Vice Chancellor of Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, as the chief guest. Dr. Gosal emphasized adopting integrated farming systems (IFS) for income enhancement and balanced nutrition for farmers' families. He highlighted that IFS is a multifaceted, whole-farm approach that addresses the challenges faced by marginal and small farmers by increasing employment opportunities and income through integrating various farm enterprises. This system facilitates eco-friendly utilization of farm waste, leading to nutrient and organic matter-rich soil for sustaining productivity. Dr. Gosal underscored the low investment and high profitability potential of IFS as a tool for rural economic improvement and encouraged farmers to use PAU recommended crop varieties.

During the programme, Dr. Ajay Choudhary discussed disease prevention in crops, while Dr. Neeraj Rani, a soil scientist, provided insights into the use of vermicompost within IFS. Dr. N. Ravisankar, Project Coordinator from ICAR-Indian Institute of Farming Systems Research, Modipuram, Meerut, elaborated on the national-level activities of the scheme and advocated that IFS ensures a balanced and consistent supply of food, fodder, and other consumables throughout the year by integrating multiple enterprises. This approach reduces the risk of monetary losses linked with seasonal changes and crop failures, thereby increasing food security and allowing farmers to earn extra income by trading surplus produce.

Dr. Sohan Singh Walia, Director of the School of Organic Farming, shared strategies for increasing the income of small and marginal farmers through IFS. The event also saw participation from Dr. A.K. Parusti and Dr. Raghubir Singh from ICAR-IIFSR, Modipuram.

The programme concluded with expressions of gratitude from Dr. Vajinder Pal Kalra from PAU, Ludhiana, and Dr. Jaswinder Singh from OFR Patiala to the chief guest, the scientists, and the farmers for their participation and contributions.