Series of events at KVK Ropar to solemnise ‘Chetna Yatra’ for the cause of paddy residue management

Ludhiana, October 9, 2023: Under the aegis of Directorate of Extension Education, PAU & ICAR-ATARI, Zone-1, Ludhiana, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Ropar solemnised the Chetna Yatra to raise awareness about the importance of paddy residue management. The event took place on October 8, and featured a series of activities aimed at engaging farmers and rural youth in the cause.

The day commenced with a "Chaupal Charcha" at 8:00 am in the village of Silomasko, located in the Chamkaur Sahib block. This engaging discussion brought together approximately 110 farmers and rural youth from the district. Dr. Satbir Singh, Deputy Director (Trg.), KVK Ropar led the event and Dr. Sanjeev Ahuja moderated the conversation. The discussion began with brief introductions and soon evolved into a productive exchange of ideas between KVK Scientists and the young farmers of the district.

Following the "Chaupal Charcha," an enthusiastic "Jagrukta Rally" started from Silo Masko village. A large convoy of people and vehicles joined the rally, chanting slogans in support of paddy residue management. The rally proceeded to Bela, where it merged with the lively district-level awareness camp.

The district-level awareness camp witnessed a significant turnout, with more than 250 participants in attendance. The event was presided over by the esteemed Dr. Charanjit Singh, MLA of Sri Chamkaur Sahib, Ropar.

The Chetna Yatra organized by KVK Ropar successfully engaged the local community in discussions about paddy residue management, fostering awareness and understanding among farmers and rural youth. The camp started with a welcome address by Dr Satbir Singh. He shed light on various advancements in techniques of paddy residue management and also discussed the prospects of technique of surface seeding. He also elaborated the significant advantages of higher organic matter and enhanced nutrient retention of surface residue management.

The camp was carried forward with lecture session by Dr. Sanjeev Ahuja, Associate Professor (Horticulture), who shed light on use of paddy straw in horticultural crops for mushroom cultivation. Dr. Aparna, Associate Professor (Livestock Production) discussed about the prospectus of diversified livestock farming through backyard poultry and rearing of goats. Ms. Ankurdeep Preety, Assistant Professor (Agroforestry) discussed crop diversification through agroforestry in Ropar and Dr. Princy, Assistant Professor (Home Science) discussed about home science trainings and value addition of food. A gala exhibition of KVK activities and seed sale counter witnessed queue of keen farmers.

In his presidential remarks Dr Charanjit Singh appreciated the efforts of KVK Ropar for organization of this grand CRM campaign. He acquainted that crop residue management through conservation agriculture can improve soil productivity and crop production by maintaining soil organic matter level in addition to the changes in the chemical and physical properties of the soil. He expressed his earnest desire for Ropar district to be totally free of paddy residue burning for which he sought full support from KVK.

The event ended with vote of thanks from Dr. Sanjeev Ahuja.