In a crucial move to safeguard winter crops and livestock, the Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) has mandated its extension scientists to remain available around the clock in their respective districts. The directive was issued by the university's Director of Extension Education, M S Bhullar, during a monthly review meeting held on Monday.
Round-the-Clock Vigilance for Farm Emergencies
Presiding over the review of research and extension activities, M S Bhullar highlighted the severe risks posed by the current weather patterns. He pointed out that plunging temperatures, dense fog, and intensifying cold waves signal significant threats to standing crops, as well as human and animal health. "Farmers and the public must take extra care," Bhullar cautioned.
Bhullar further warned that the severe weather conditions could trigger new outbreaks of pests and diseases. He instructed the extension staff to align closely with farmers' immediate needs, ensuring timely advice reaches them directly through print, electronic, and social media platforms. Emphasizing proactive measures, he advocated for crop diversification and special focus on protecting high-value fruits and vegetables from damaging cold snaps that can drastically reduce yields. He also pushed for promoting green manuring practices through seed production of related crops.
Expert Recommendations for Climate Resilience
G S Mangat, Additional Director of Research for Agriculture, stressed the importance of adapting to changing conditions. He emphasized a shift towards cultivating low-water and climate-resilient crop varieties. Mangat advised boosting the production of oilseeds and pulses, promoting the use of PAU-developed biofertilizers, advancing mechanization for crops like groundnut, and ensuring the timely supply of nutri-products for dairy farmers. He strongly recommended regular field inspections during the cold season to prevent both yield and financial losses.
Key Focus Areas and Farmer Partnership
G P S Sodhi, Additional Director of Extension Education, outlined specific focus areas for the season. These include monitoring the status of winter vegetables, managing yellow rust in wheat, proper handling of off-season cotton sticks, rice straw management, and providing timely updates on the wheat crop. "Advising farmers on crop vulnerability to pests and diseases in extreme cold is vital to avoid economic losses," Sodhi stated.
Recognizing the practical knowledge of cultivators, Sodhi called for prompt feedback from farmers, noting them as the "real experimenters" in the field. This collaborative approach is seen as essential for developing and disseminating effective, real-time solutions to the challenges posed by Punjab's peak winter.
