From Crop Diversification to Livestock Innovation: ICAR DG Charts Roadmap for Future-Ready Punjab at PAU Kisan Mela and GADVASU Pashu Mela
Dr. M.L. Jat, Secretary (DARE) and Director General (ICAR), outlined a forward-looking, integrated roadmap for Punjab’s agriculture while addressing farmers, scientists, veterinarians, and stakeholders as Chief Guest at the Kisan Mela of Punjab Agricultural University and the Pashu Palan Mela of Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University.
At PAU, he emphasized crop diversification as a cornerstone for sustainable agriculture, praising the mela theme “Adopt Crop Diversification, Protect Environment.” He highlighted that central missions on cotton, pulses, oilseeds, and high-yielding varieties can accelerate diversification, supported by ICAR–PAU technologies addressing land, water, environmental, and marketing challenges. Commending Punjab farmers, he noted the nearly 90% reduction in paddy straw burning and stressed the need for stronger market research, balanced fertilizer use, soil testing, and resource-use efficiency. He also called for research on phosphorus use efficiency, artificial intelligence in agriculture, value chains, and a comprehensive agri-food system approach, along with a clear roadmap for Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) and specialized farming zones.
At GADVASU, Dr. Jat highlighted the critical role of livestock in India’s growth story, noting its contribution of nearly ₹17.5 lakh crore to the economy, with dairying as a major driver of rural prosperity and human health. Linking livestock to the vision of Viksit Bharat, he emphasized integrated crop–livestock systems and urged a shift from quantity to quality in production. He advocated adoption of advanced reproductive technologies such as embryo transfer and called for upgrading veterinary healthcare infrastructure to modern standards. Citing progressive farmers’ achievements, including record milk yields, he underscored the sector’s vast potential.
Promoting a “One Country, One Goal” approach, he called for stronger collaboration among farmers, scientists, and institutions, while lauding Punjab farmers for their progressive outlook. Addressing future challenges, he stressed climate-resilient technologies and entrepreneurship-driven models in both agriculture and livestock sectors. Reaffirming commitment, he assured that ICAR will continue to strengthen universities and research systems to drive sustainable and inclusive agricultural growth.
