In a significant move poised to transform its campus and research capabilities, the Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) in Ludhiana has unveiled an ambitious roadmap for comprehensive development, targeting completion by 2026. Vice-Chancellor Dr. Satbir Singh Gosal detailed plans encompassing major infrastructure upgrades and cutting-edge agricultural research initiatives.
Major Infrastructure Overhaul: From Library to Roads
A cornerstone of the upgrade is the modernization of the university library with an investment of approximately Rs 12 crore, slated for completion by July 2026. This project aims to substantially bolster academic and research support for both students and faculty members.
To accommodate its rising student population, PAU is expanding residential facilities. Construction is underway on a new hostel near the Punjab Agricultural Management and Extension Training Institute (PAMETI). Additionally, an extra floor is being added to hostel number 15. These two projects will collectively create around 80 new rooms for students.
The university's sports infrastructure is also set for a facelift. Plans include modernizing the shooting range to increase its capacity to about 100 points, providing state-of-the-art facilities. Furthermore, astroturf will be installed on the tennis lawns to promote the sport on campus.
A major internal road revamp is in progress, involving the recarpeting and widening of roughly 16 kilometres of roads. Key stretches, including the road from Gate No. 2 to Parker House and from Flower Chowk to the open-air theatre, will be widened to 50 feet. A new chowk near the open-air theatre will be developed, leading to a 40-foot-wide road up to the Golden Jubilee landmark square.
Boosting Research & Digital Agriculture
Beyond bricks and mortar, PAU is intensifying its focus on advanced agricultural research and technology. Dr. Gosal emphasized a strong push for geospatial intelligence and digital agriculture. This includes conducting detailed soil mapping in select districts using soil spectroscopy to generate precise data on soil health.
On the biotechnology front, the university is advancing towards the commercial production of tissue culture-based potato seeds. Its upgraded tissue culture laboratory has a target to produce around 10 lakh plants or tubers using these advanced techniques.
A critical research thrust will be on developing climate-resilient plant varieties to help farmers adapt to changing environmental conditions. The university also plans to place special emphasis on bio-fertilizers to promote organic farming and continue its work on bio-fortification to improve the nutritional quality of crops.
Connecting Farm to Market & Promoting Entrepreneurship
PAU is strengthening its farm-to-market linkages. The agro-processing plant, established this year, is now manufacturing value-added products. These items, including processed foods, will be made available to the public at a new dedicated sales point near the university post office. The outlet will also promote and sell PAU's trait-specific varieties like chapati-focused wheat, canola oil, and basmati rice.
To foster innovation and self-employment, the university will step up efforts to promote agribusiness and entrepreneurship, with a greater focus on regenerative agriculture practices. Another key initiative planned for 2026 is the introduction of affordable, small-scale farm machinery specifically tailored for small and medium-sized farmers.
"With infrastructure development, advanced research, and digital tools coming together, we aim to strengthen our role in sustainable and future-ready agriculture," Dr. Gosal stated, outlining a holistic vision for PAU's growth.
