Punjab Farmers’ Fairs Draw Huge Participation, Spotlight Innovation and Sustainability

Ludhiana, March 2026 : Enthusiasm ran high among farmers as the two-day Farmers’ Fair at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) and the Animal Husbandry Fair at Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University commenced with vibrant participation on Friday. Despite a rain alert issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), farmers turned up in large numbers, undeterred by overcast skies, and were welcomed by cool weather and energetic organisers.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann inaugurated the Farmers’ Fair at PAU, while State Agriculture Minister Gurmeet Singh Khuddian launched the Animal Husbandry Fair. Both events showcased the latest advancements in agriculture and allied sectors, creating a platform for knowledge exchange, innovation, and community engagement.

At PAU, the Farmers’ Fair witnessed significant activity as attendees explored improved Kharif crop varieties, planting materials, biofertilisers, and agricultural publications. Farmers interacted with experts, sought solutions to farming challenges, and attended live demonstrations on modern agricultural practices. In addition, stalls run by self-help groups (SHGs) offered a range of food products and garments, highlighting rural entrepreneurship.

One of the fair’s major attractions was the array of food stalls serving traditional Punjabi snacks. Prepared using both LPG cylinders and traditional earthen stoves (chulhas), these delicacies added a cultural flavour to the event. A cultural programme further enlivened the atmosphere, captivating visitors and reinforcing the region’s rich heritage.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann emphasised the importance of agriculture as Punjab’s backbone. He urged farmers to continue treating farming as their primary occupation and a matter of pride. Highlighting contributions to agricultural science, he expressed gratitude to renowned scientist Dr. Gurdev Singh Khush, often referred to as the “Father of the Rice Revolution,” and announced plans to establish a research centre in his honour.

Agriculture Minister Gurmeet Singh Khuddian stressed the urgent need for water conservation to restore Punjab’s ecological balance. PAU Vice Chancellor Dr. Satbir Singh Gosal echoed similar concerns, advocating crop diversification to tackle pressing challenges such as depleting groundwater, climate change, stubble burning, and declining farm incomes. Director of Extension Education M.S. Bhullar encouraged farmers to adopt technologies and crop varieties developed by PAU and participate in training programmes conducted by Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs).

Meanwhile, the Animal Husbandry Fair at the veterinary university focused on promoting livestock-based income opportunities. Minister Khuddian urged farmers to diversify into animal husbandry enterprises to enhance their earnings. Vice Chancellor Dr. J.P.S. Gill highlighted the theme, “Animal Husbandry: From Local Strengths to Global Standards,” underscoring the sector’s growing importance.

The fair featured high-quality germplasm, including cows, buffaloes, goats, and poultry breeds. Experts provided guidance on livestock management, poultry farming, and fisheries, addressing common challenges faced by farmers. Demonstrations of milk testing kits, mastitis detection, and animal care practices drew keen interest.

Innovations were also on display, including integrated fish farming systems, ornamental fish exhibits, and eco-friendly fertiliser sticks derived from aquatic plants. The College of Dairy and Food Science Technology introduced products like goat milk soap and premium cheese packaging, while the Department of Livestock Products Technology showcased high-protein food items such as ‘Core-3 Energy Delight’ and ‘G-E-M balls.’

Overall, the fairs successfully combined innovation, sustainability, and cultural vibrancy, reaffirming Punjab’s commitment to strengthening its agricultural and allied sectors.