To fortify ties between the agricultural sector and academic research, officials from the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Hoshiarpur District, visited the PAU - Regional Research Station and PAU-College of Agriculture at Ballowal Saunkhri.

Dr Manmohanjit Singh, Dean of PAU-College of Agriculture, provided an overview of the station's research endeavours, ongoing projects, and avenues for academic enrollment. Dr Singh's presentation elucidated the vital role of research stations in pioneering advancements that bolster agricultural sustainability and productivity.

During the visit, Dr Gurvinder Singh, an Extension Scientist, emphasised the symbiotic relationship between Punjab Agricultural University and the Department of Agriculture and Farmer Welfare, Punjab. He underscored the significance of collaborative efforts in disseminating cutting-edge agricultural practices to farming communities. Dr Singh also shed light on the university's adoption of modern extension methodologies geared towards furnishing farmers with up-to-date insights and techniques.

Dr Vijay Kumar, Plant Breeder, shared insights into the latest crop varieties recommended by PAU.

A pivotal aspect of the visit encompassed a visit to the research trials conducted at the station, elucidated by Dr Vijay Kumar and Agronomist Dr Balwinder Singh Dhillon. The officials gained invaluable insights into the experimental endeavours to optimise crop management practices and foster sustainable agricultural methodologies.

Additionally, Dr Amin Bhatt, a Soil Scientist, and Dr Krishna Kumar Sharma, a Plant Pathology scientist, gave a glimpse into the state-of-the-art laboratories housed within the research station. The interactive session provided a comprehensive understanding of the available cutting-edge research equipment and facilities, underscoring the station's commitment to advancing agricultural science.