Punjab Cotton Factories and Ginners Association meets PAU VC to address cotton industry challenges

Ludhiana, June 25,2024: A crucial interaction meeting between the Punjab Cotton Factories and Ginners Association and scientists from Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) was held today under the chairmanship of Dr. S. S. Gosal, Vice-Chancellor of PAU Ludhiana. The meeting aimed to address pressing issues faced by the cotton industry in Punjab.

The delegation from the association included notable members such as Bhagwan Bansal, President; Janak Raj Goel, Vice President; Pappi Aggarwal, Director; and Kailash Garg, Vice President of the Punjab Cotton Factories and Ginners Association, Bathinda. The group expressed concerns over several key issues impacting cotton cultivation in the region. Scientists from PAU, Ludhiana and Regional Research Stations in Bathinda and Faridkot were also present.

Among the primary challenges highlighted were the decline in cotton acreage due to pink bollworm infestations, the inconsistent supply of high-quality seeds and pesticides, the need for timely canal water availability, and the rising costs associated with cotton picking. The delegation also stressed the urgency for early access to pink bollworm-resistant transgenic cotton hybrids/varieties.

In response, Dr. Gosal assured that PAU is actively conducting trials to evaluate new transgenic cotton varieties resistant to pink bollworms. He emphasized the extensive research and extension activities being undertaken by PAU, which include close collaborations with Punjab farmers. Dr. Gosal also highlighted the critical need for support from the cotton industry to bolster ongoing cotton research at PAU.

Dr. A. S. Dhatt, Director of Research at PAU, further informed the association that PAU rigorously evaluates and recommends suitable Bt cotton hybrids annually, tailored for the cotton-growing regions of Punjab. He underscored the importance of cultivating these recommended Bt cotton hybrids to enhance productivity and combat pest issues effectively.

The association proposed the establishment of a Cotton Development Board in Punjab to systematically address and resolve various issues affecting the state's cotton industry. This initiative aims to streamline efforts and provide targeted solutions to bolster the sector.

The meeting concluded with a mutual agreement on the necessity for continued dialogue and cooperation between the cotton industry and PAU to ensure sustainable growth and development of cotton cultivation in Punjab.