Punjab Agricultural University Invites Applications for Innovative Farmer Awards 2023

The Directorate of Extension Education at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) has opened applications for the esteemed "Innovative Farmer Awards 2023" in a bid to promote crop diversification and recognize the exceptional efforts of farmers in the state. This annual event aims to honor progressive farmers in Punjab for their remarkable achievements in agriculture, horticulture, and allied occupations. The awards will be presented during the upcoming PAU Kisan Mela, scheduled to take place in September.

Dr. GS Buttar, the Director of Extension Education at PAU, provided insights into the various categories and prizes of the awards. The prestigious Sardar Dalip Singh Dhaliwal Memorial Award, accompanied by a cash prize of Rs 5,000, a plaque, and a citation, will be bestowed upon a self-cultivating farmer excelling in field crops in Punjab. Additionally, the Parwasi Bharti Award, carrying a cash prize of Rs 8,000, a plaque, and a citation, will recognize a self-cultivating farmer engaged in diversified farming systems.

To highlight the importance of vegetable cultivation, the Sardar Ujagar Singh Dhaliwal Memorial Award will be presented to a self-cultivating vegetable grower who dedicates at least 60 percent of their operational land to vegetable crops during both the winter and summer seasons. The award holds a cash prize of Rs 3,100, a plaque, and a citation. Furthermore, the Sardar Surjit Singh Dhillon Award, accompanied by a cash prize of Rs 5,000, a plaque, and a citation, will be given to a self-cultivating small farmer with land holdings up to 5 acres.

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Recognizing the significant contribution of women in agriculture, the Sardarni Jagbir Kaur Grewal Memorial Innovative Woman Farmer Award will be presented to women actively involved in agriculture and allied enterprises in Punjab. This award carries a cash prize of Rs 3,100, a plaque, and a citation, acknowledging their exceptional contributions.

In addition to individual awards, a village panchayat or town will be honored with the Bhai Babu Singh Brar Pond Award for maintaining the best pond in their respective area. The pond should have a minimum area of 2 kanals and be at least 4 feet deep. Evaluation criteria for the award include the cleanliness of water, efficient pond management, and the utilization of water for various purposes.

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Dr. Buttar emphasized that the last date for submitting applications to the PAU Director of Extension Education is July 14. Separate applications will be accepted for each award category. He encouraged farmers to apply promptly and seize the opportunity to be recognized for their exceptional work.

The "Innovative Farmer Awards 2023" serve as a platform to celebrate the efforts of Punjab's farmers, encourage crop diversification, and foster excellence in agriculture, horticulture, and allied occupations. PAU's commitment to honoring these exceptional individuals and their dedication to the farming community will undoubtedly inspire others to follow suit, promoting the growth and prosperity of the agricultural sector in Punjab.

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