PAU signs MoAs for surface seeding technology to tackle farm fires

Ludhiana, June 25, 2024: Working proactively to deal with the issue of paddy straw burning, Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) has inked pacts with two farm machinery manufactures including GSA Industries (Agrizone), Patiala and Saeco Stips Pvt. Limited Doraha for the commercialization of PAU Surface Seeder Technology.

Dr Satbir Singh Gosal, Vice-Chancellor, PAU, congratulated the manufacturers for coming forward for the benefit of soil health and environment. He reiterated the commitment of PAU towards eradicating the stubble burning practice. “In-situ management of paddy straw has been termed as a golden process that not only avoids paddy straw burning but also adds to the health and productivity of the soil,” he added.

Dr AS Dhatt, Director of Research, termed PAU Surface Seeder Technology as a cost effective method for sowing wheat in time without burning paddy residue. He stated that the technology offers an efficient and affordable solution for dealing with paddy residue.

Dr Hari Ram, Head, Department of Agronomy, and Dr JS Gill, Agronomist, said that the benefits of surface seeding include good crop stand with no-lodging, lesser effect of harsh weather conditions, water saving and curtailed use of herbicide application.

Dr Khushdeep Dharni, Associate Director, Technology Marketing and IPR Cell, stated that till date, PAU has signed 23 MoAs with farm machinery manufacturers for disseminating PAU surface seeding technology at gross root level. To promote the technology, more MoAs are likely to be signed, he added.

Dr GS Mangat, Additional Director of Research (Agriculture), and Dr Mahesh Narang, Head, Department of Farm Machinery and Power Engineering, were also present on the occasion.