A four-member delegation from Kansas State University (KSU), USA, visited Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) today to explore opportunities for collaboration in diverse areas. The delegation, led by Dr Stacy L. Hutchinson, Professor, Biological and Agricultural Engineering, College of Engineering, KSU, interacted with senior officials and heads of various departments of PAU. The visiting members also comprised Dr Vishali Sharda, Assistant Professor, KSU; Kelsey McDonough, a Ph.D student of Biological and Agricultural Engineering, KSU and Marleigh Hutchinson.

Dr Hutchinson said, “KSU looks forward to developing cooperation in food, energy and water with focus on understanding their socio-economic aspects.” Suggesting building partnership for student exchange programme, she observed it would benefit students of both the Universities. Discussing the agriculture scenario of US, she said the declining water table and grass burning are the issues of utmost concern in their country.

Dr Navtej Singh Bains, Director of Research, said, “PAU has a long association with KSU and developing ties in thrust areas will be a good start.” He stated, “There has been an overuse of water in Punjab. It is a matter of great focus. The future research looks at initiating a change with the help of joint venture.” Dr Bains also explained the PAU recommended sub-surface drip irrigation technology, agro-processing techniques and farm mechanization.

Welcoming the delegation, Dr Ashok Kumar, Additional Director of Research (Bioenergy and Farm Mechanization), said the declining water resources and burning of paddy straw are the major challenges being confronted in Punjab.

Dr Vishal Bector, Associate Professor and Nodal Officer, Corporate and International Linkages, PAU, said the College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, PAU, also aims at collaborating with KSU in the project on Precision Agriculture.

Dr Sharda said the caliber of PAU students is highly acknowledged by KSU.

During the meet, Dr PPS Pannu, Additional Director of Research (Natural Resource and Plant Health Management); Dr O.P. Choudhary, Head, Department of Soil Science; and Dr Rajeev Aggarwal, Head, Department of Soil and Water Engineering also participated in the discussion.

Photo Caption: 1) Senior officials and Heads of various Departments of PAU pose for a group photo with US delegation from Kansas State University.

2) Dr Navtej Singh Bains, Director of Research, PAU, presenting a set of PAU publications to Dr Stacy L. Hutchinson, Professor, Biological and Agricultural Engineering, Kansas State University, USA.