US Scientist from Purdue Varsity delves upon digital agriculture at PAU

Ludhiana, January 4, 2024: An Associate Professor from the Agricultural and Biological Division of the Purdue University, USA, Dr Dharmendra Saraswat visited the College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology (COAE&T), Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), to participate in talk-cum-interaction meet. The Punjab Chapter of the Indian Society of Agricultural Engineers had successfully organized the meeting with an aim to enlighten the post-graduate students about the ongoing initiatives in digital agriculture at Purdue University, USA.

A visiting Fullbright Scholar to India under USIEF, Dr Saraswat shared his expertise and knowledge on the advancements in digital agriculture, shedding light on the transformative technologies and methodologies being employed in his Digital Discovery (DAD) Lab at Purdue University. He emphasized that transformation in agriculture was possible by converting data into information for making decisions. Further, in India, there was a lot of infusion of drone technology and sensors, he observed, while stating that a plethora of data generated by their use could transform farming practices of small and marginal farmers. He also delved upon topics such as precision agriculture, data-driven decision-making, open source decision support system, and the integration of smart technologies to enhance productivity and sustainability in agriculture. Besides, Dr Saraswat remarked that Purdue University was open for collaboration with PAU in the areas of research and education.
Dr Manjeet Singh, Dean of COAE&T, while lauding the speaker’s informative talk, said that it was not only an opportunity for the faculty and students to gain insights into the global advancements in digital agriculture but also provided a platform for interaction and discussions. Dr Singh acknowledged the role of digital technologies in shaping the future of agriculture and shared the College's efforts in integrating advanced technological education into its curriculum.

Dr JP Singh, Head, Department of Soil and Water Engineering, while welcoming the dignitaries and the students, highlighted the importance of partnerships with international institutions like Purdue University with thrust on the exchange of ideas, research findings, and practical experiences, ultimately benefiting the growth and innovation of agricultural engineering in the region.

The event was moderated by Dr Samanpreet Kaur, Secretary Punjab Chapter of ISAE. Later, Dr Satish Gupta, Treasurer-cum-Joint Secretary, proposed a vote of thanks.