Seminar on maize for crop diversification under changing climatic scenario concludes
National-level event held at PAU
cityairnews
Feb 11, 2020 06:18
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Ludhiana: Various aspects of maize production practices, mechanization, value-addition, use of maize in sustainable livestock industry and innovative market linkages were discussed on the concluding day of the two-day National Seminar on “Maize for Crop Diversification under Changing Climatic Scenario” at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) on Monday. The seminar was organized by Maize Technologists Association of India (MATI), New Delhi in association with ICAR-Indian Institute of Maize Research (IIMR) and PAU, Ludhiana, to mark the sixth Foundation Day of ICAR-IIMR.
Dr Baldev Singh Dhillon, Vice-Chancellor, PAU, was the chief guest, while Dr NS Malhi, former Vice-Chancellor, Guru Kashi University, Talwandi Sabo, Bathinda, was the guest of honour. Dr NS Bains, Director of Research, PAU, chaired the valedictory programme.
Dr Dhillon highlighted the need to popularize maize towards the diversification of cropping systems in Punjab. He also stressed on the need for mechanization to increase the farm profitability and possible integration of maize dryer in maize value chain development.
Dr Malhi said, “Maize is an extremely versatile crop and has an immense potential.”
Dr Sujay Rakshit, Director, ICAR-IIMR, underlined the need to develop products and aggressively commercialize them, so that maize program receives its visibility. Four technical sessions including seven lead talks were held today. Besides, eight presentations were also made, he informed.
During the concluding session, “Dr Joginder Singh Outstanding Award” was bestowed on Dr JC Shekar, Principal Scientist, Winter Nursery Center; whereas “Dr NN Singh Young Scientist Award” was presented to Dr SL Jat and Dr Bhupender Kumar. The “Manihar Outstanding PG Award” was given to one Ph.D. and one M.Sc. student. The MTAI fellowship was given to seven distinguished maize scientists, including Dr BS Dhillon. The MTAI Honorary fellowship was conferred upon 13 retired maize scientists.
