In collaboration with ASAR (Clean Air Punjab), the Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) successfully organized the “Sustainable Agriculture and Crop Residue Management Summit” at the Pal Auditorium, PAU, Ludhiana. The event brought together progressive farmers from 23 districts, PAU officers, including Director of Research, Dr Ajmer Singh Dhatt, Deans of various colleges, Heads of Departments, faculty from PAU, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) representatives, and key stakeholders to recognize Punjab’s unsung heroes who have made remarkable contributions to sustainable agriculture and crop residue management. Held under the banner “Honouring Our Champions of a Greener Punjab,” the summit provided a platform for discussions, knowledge sharing, and awards highlighting innovative practices in sustainable farming.

The Chief Guest, Dr Satbir Singh Gosal, Vice-Chancellor, PAU, honoured progressive farmers for their exceptional contributions to sustainable farming practices, especially stubble conservation. In his keynote address, Dr Gosal underscored the critical role of Punjab’s farmers in addressing environmental challenges and shaping the future of agriculture. He commended the award-winning farmers for adopting in-situ stubble management techniques, improving environmental quality and enhancing soil health, yield, and profitability. He encouraged them to inspire fellow farmers to adopt these practices and highlighted PR 126 as a superior paddy variety for farmers.

The programme began with a welcome address and context set by Mr Sanam Sutirath Wazir, State Head of Climate Action at ASAR. He emphasized the need to change the narrative around stubble burning by exploring practical solutions instead of blaming farmers. Highlighting the adverse effects of stubble smoke on health and the environment, he shared ASAR’s initiatives, including raising awareness among school children and empowering women through electric autorickshaw learning and subsidies.

Dr Makhan Singh Bhullar, Director of Extension Education at PAU, praised progressive farmers for trusting PAU’s recommendations. Citing the example of Palwinder Singh from Fatehgarh Sahib village, who has not burned stubble for over a decade, he detailed the benefits of in-situ straw management, including increased organic content in the soil, reduced fertilizer usage, improved crop resistance, and prevention of waterlogging.

The summit featured a video presentation, “Beyond Stubble,” showcasing innovative approaches to crop residue management. Dr Prabhjyot Kaur, PAU Professor of Agrometeorology and mentor to Clean Air initiatives was honoured alongside progressive farmers.

Participants engaged in discussions on sustainable techniques and practical solutions for crop residue management. Experts shared insights into innovative practices, encouraging continued collaboration for environmental sustainability.

Dr. G.P.S. Sodhi, the Additional Director of Extension Education, coordinated the programme with backend support from Navneet Kaur, a student of Agrometeorology.

The summit marked another milestone in PAU’s commitment to fostering innovation and sustainability in agriculture. It inspired farmers, researchers, and stakeholders to work toward a cleaner, greener Punjab.