PAU set for infrastructure overhaul with Punjab government's Rs 40 crore special capital grant

Ludhiana, March 6, 2024: In a landmark move, the Government of Punjab has allocated a substantial grant of Rs 40 crore to Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) in its 2024-25 budget acknowledging the pivotal role played by the university in agriculture and rural development. The allocation is specifically designated for the development of research-related and other infrastructure at PAU, aiming to fortify its Research, Teaching, and Extension (RTE) programs.

Expressing gratitude for this special allocation, Dr. Satbir Singh Gosal, the Vice-Chancellor of PAU, lauded the government’s sensitivity towards education and the welfare of the farming community. He extended heartfelt appreciation to Punjab Chief Minister Sardar Bhagwant Mann and Finance Minister Sardar Harpal Singh Cheema for recognizing PAU’s contributions The Vice-Chancellor emphasized the significance of this initiative, considering PAU’s 60 years of dedicated service to the state and the nation. This grant will catalyze significant advancements, especially in the realms of skill and entrepreneurship development, he added.

Dr. Gosal revealed that the grant is flexible and will be utilized for various purposes, including improving research infrastructure, upgrading hostel facilities, modernizing classrooms, and procuring state-of-the-art laboratory equipment. The funds will play a crucial role in elevating PAU’s capabilities to foster trait-specific, climate-resilient, and biofortified varieties, aligning with the goals of a sustainable agricultural revolution.

Acknowledging the government’s assurance of continuous monetary support in the future, Dr. Gosal affirmed PAU’s commitment to maintaining high standards. He underscored the university’s role in advancing agricultural development, optimizing inputs for farmers’ savings, and facilitating collaborations between entrepreneurs and farmers.

The Vice-Chancellor outlined the university’s ambitious plans for infrastructure development and revamping. Besides, PAU aims to embrace smart and precision agriculture by incorporating technologies such as drones, sensors, blockchain, AI, remote sensing, IoT, weather stations, GIS applications, nursery development, seed processing, farm automation, hydroponics, mushroom and vertical farming, aeroponics, and greenhouses.

This comprehensive approach towards infrastructure development and technological integration reflects PAU’s commitment to steering the state towards sustainability and addressing climate change-induced challenges. The university, with the support of the government, envisions a future where it continues to serve as a research asset, driving agricultural productivity and fostering innovation for the betterment of the farming community and the state at large, Dr. Gosal concluded.

Among those present on the occasion were Mr Rishi Pal Singh, Registrar; Dr AS Dhatt, Director of Research; and Dr MS Bhullar, Director of Extension Education.

Earlier, Dr TS Riar, Additional Director Communication, welcomed the print and electronic media.