Training programme for Afgan Delegates begins at PAU

Ludhiana: The Punjab Agricultural University has signed MoU with ICARDA (International Centre for Agriculture Research in the Dry Areas) to impart two, five-days training programmes on, ‘Field inspection and seed sampling methodology of major cereals, pulses and vegetable’ and ‘Visit of SPCD key staff from seed certification and production system in India’, for Afghanistan delegates by the office of Director (Seeds), Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana from 10 to 14 December, 2018.  As many as 14 Afghan delegates are participating in these trainings. Chairing the inaugural function, Dr K.S. Thind, Additional Director of Research (CI), PAU, highlighted the importance of good quality seed for enhancing the food production. He also stressed upon certification of seed. Dr. Sain Dass, Consultant, ICARDA, appreciated the role of PAU in developing high yielding varieties/ hybrids and their seed availability to the farmers.

Earlier, Dr. Tarsem Singh Dhillon, Associate Director (Seeds), welcomed the delegates. He elaborated that quality seed plays an important role in increasing crop productivity and improving the socio-economic status of farmers. The purpose of these trainings is to provide useful tips to delegates like, the various steps involved in quality seed production i.e. field inspection, seed certification, seed sampling, grading and packing etc and to understand the seed certification and production system in India. For this purpose, visits will also be conducted to public and private organizations dealing with seed production and certification. Dr. Rajinder Singh, Sr. Scientist (Veg. Seeds) also highlighted PAU’s achievements in seed production by the University.

Dr. Gaurav Khosla proposed the vote of thanks. He said the training would help in augmenting quality seed production in Afghanistan.