Amritsar Hosts Key Seminar to Elevate Sugarcane Farming Practices
In a significant move to bolster agricultural productivity, a comprehensive seminar was organized at the Cooperative Sugar Mill in Ajnala, Amritsar. This event, held in collaboration with the Regional Research Station, Kapurthala, under the Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), aimed to equip local farmers with cutting-edge knowledge to enhance both yield and sugar recovery from spring sugarcane crops.
Strategic Initiative Driven by Sugarfed Punjab
The program was conducted as part of a broader outreach initiative, following directives from Dr. Senu Duggal, Managing Director of Sugarfed Punjab. Its primary objective is to disseminate improved sowing practices and modern agricultural methodologies to sugarcane growers across the region, ensuring they can maximize profitability and sustainability.
Focus Areas for Enhanced Agricultural Output
The seminar delved into several critical aspects of sugarcane cultivation:
- Expansion of Spring Sugarcane Area: Encouraging farmers to increase cultivation under spring conditions for optimal growth.
- Adoption of New Technologies: Introducing innovative tools and techniques to streamline farming processes.
- Promotion of Early-Maturing Varieties: Highlighting high-recovery sugarcane strains that mature quickly, reducing crop cycles.
- Full Mechanization: Addressing labour shortages by advocating for complete mechanization of crop management, from planting to harvesting.
Expert Insights from PAU Specialists
Renowned experts from PAU provided scientific guidance to participating farmers. Dr. Navdeep Singh Jamwal, a plant breeder, discussed suitable sugarcane varieties and effective crop planning strategies to boost yield and recovery rates. Dr. Jashanjot Kaur, a crop scientist, elaborated on scientific cultivation techniques, including advanced weed management and care for ratoon crops to ensure sustained productivity. Additionally, Dr. Rajinder Kumar, an entomologist, briefed attendees on major pest threats to sugarcane and outlined effective management practices to mitigate these risks.
Call to Action from Mill Management
Shubhash Chander, General Manager of Ajnala Sugar Mill, urged growers to embrace improved technologies and high-recovery varieties. He emphasized that such adoption is crucial for increasing profitability and ensuring the long-term viability of sugarcane farming in the area.
This seminar underscores a concerted effort by agricultural authorities and institutions to empower farmers with knowledge and tools, fostering a more resilient and productive sugarcane sector in Punjab.
