Kisan Mela (Farmers’ Fair) in Ludhiana After Floods.

Kisan Mela (Farmers’ Fair) in Ludhiana After Floods: Experts Shared Ways to Increase Production, Farmers Arriving from Across the State.

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A Kisan Mela has been held at the Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) in Ludhiana following the floods in Punjab. There are a lot of farmers attending the market from the flooded villages. Experts in agriculture had previously come to the remainder of Punjab, where floods had also happened, to advise farmers on their crops.

The fair’s theme this time was “Increase production and increase income.” Farmers talked about the difficulties caused by the floods at the show, while experts offered methods to boost agricultural revenue. Nevertheless, there were no cultural events planned at the fair this time.

Serious discussions were had on the challenges farmers face caused by floods, such as crop damage, soil erosion, machinery ruin, and animal catastrophe. Despite this, the farmers showed a strong desire for independence and creativity.

Farmers examining various seeds.

Damage to 5 Lakh Acres of Land and Crops.

According to PAU Vice-Chancellor Dr Satbir Singh Gosal, the floods have damaged 5 lakh acres of land, equipment, animals, and food grains as a result of the Ravi River overflowing. He cautioned that the following crop will likewise be impacted by silt and clay deposits.

Punjab Establishes 35 Seed Centres

With the assistance of its non-teaching and teaching staff, PAU has announced a wheat seed subsidy to benefit farmers, according to the vice chancellor. According to him, Punjab now has 35 seed centres where farmers can conveniently obtain seeds.

Dr. Gosal suggested that farmers use contemporary methods like sensor-based irrigation, GNSS-based auto-steering systems, and residue management strategies like surface sowing. He urged farmers to encourage their young people to remain in agriculture instead of leaving for other countries.

At this farmers’ fair, there is a lot of interest in PBW 872, a new wheat variety.

The Demand for PBW 872 Wheat Is High

The implementation of integrated farming systems, such as crop diversification and goat rearing, was emphasised by Dr A.S. Dhatt, PAU’s Director of Research. Additionally, he introduced new crop types, including Punjab Potato 103 and 104, SML 2575 summer moong, PL 942 oats, and PBW 872 wheat. 24.5 quintals of wheat per acre are produced by the PBW 872 cultivar.