SKM seriously noted West Bangal incidents

22nd February 2022 at 09:06 PM

Farmers of West Bengal's Birbhum District Should Not be Forced to Give up Farmlands and Farm Livelihoods for the Sake of Mining of and Industry: SKM  

groundxero photos

Ludhiana//New Delhi: 22nd February 2022: (Punjab Screen Bureau)::

Samyukt Kisan Morcha has noted with alarm reports emerging from West Bengal that farmers of Deocha-Panchami-Harinsingha-Dewanganj area of Birbhum District are being forced to accept a “compensation package” announced by the State Govt. for giving up their farmlands and pastures on which the State Govt. wants to set up a greenfield coal mining project. It is learnt that about a third of such farmers are santhal adivasis and there is also a sizeable population from the minority community and disadvantaged classes. It is reported that the State Govt. has not followed the legal process of holding gram sabhas, presenting the mining project details and rehabilitation package in such sabhas and obtaining consent from the villagers in such sabhas. Instead, the administration has followed a clandestine process of obtaining purported consent from individuals, which is illegal. It is further learnt from media reports that democratic and peaceful protests by farmers are being brutally repressed by the local police and administration and a reign of terror has been unleashed on adivasi villagers, many of whom, along with activists who are supporting them, have been arrested and jailed.   

SKM makes it clear that farmers should not be compelled to give up their farmlands, pastures, homestead and farm livelihood for the sake of mining and industry unless they give their consent through a process clearly laid down in the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013. Samyukt Kisan Morcha shall always work to protect the right and interest of farmers and stand with India’s agrarian society in any crisis they face. 

SKM urges the Government of West Bengal to hear the voice of farmers of Deocha-Panchami-Harinsingha-Dewanganj area in a transparent, public and legally mandated manner so that justice is done to farmers. SKM urges the Chief Minister of West Bengal to instruct the local police and administration to immediately stop repression and arrest of villagers and activists and allow an environment of peaceful and democratic engagement to commence. 

Issued by-

Dr. Darshan Pal, Hannan Mollah, Jagjit Singh Dallewal, Joginder Singh Ugrahan, Shivkumar Sharma (Kakkaji), Yudhveer Singh, Yogendra Yadav

Email: samyuktkisanmorcha@gmail.com

Planned to Crush Farmers Movement

 4th October 2021 at 4:58 PM

Kendri Singh Sabha on Lakhimpur Kheri Killing 

Chandigarh: 4th October 2021:( Kartika Singh//Punjab Screen)::

Killing of the peacefully protesting farmers at Lakhimpur Kheri in Uttar Pradesh was planned to crush their movement by unleashing the direct State-sponsored violence, that too, after openly threatening the protesters by a Federal Minister.

Sikh intellectuals associating with the Singh Sabha said such actions coming from those running the country’s Home Affairs was all the more condemnable and manifested the reversal of the democracy into a totalitarian regime which Indians should have to resist to preserve their hard earned freedom. 

On Sunday six farmers including Lovepreet Singh (20), Daljeet Singh (35), Nachhattar Singh (60) and Gurvinder Singh (19) were mowed down by a car driven by the son of Union State Home Minister Ajay Mishra and injured around 12-15 other protesters.

Reports said that Ashish Mishra Teni (son of Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Ajay Mishra Teni) came with three vehicles around the time when the farmers were dispersing from their protest at the helipad and mowed them down. Also attacked and injured Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM} leader Tajinder Singh Virk when the attackers tried to run a vehicle over him. Before that attackers fired shots killing a farmer on the spot.

The Sikh thinkers said the gory incident shows that the Modi government has not only launched repression on the farmer movement but also attempting to communalise and polarise the society by singling out and targeting the farmers belonging to a visible and miniscule minority of the Sikhs in Uttar Pradesh. Already the government had made concerted efforts to project the Sikh farmers protesting at Delhi borders as “separatist Khalistanis and terrorists” to divide and weaken the farmer agitation.

Following Union State Minister Ajay Mishra ( see video), Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar too doled out open threats to the protesting farmers. He has openly instigated the BJP/ RSS workers at a meeting a few days ago asking them to organise themselves into armed groups all over Haryana and attack the protesting farmers.

The Haryana Chief Minister went to the extent of saying, “now there is no option but to mount an open attack on the farmers and such acts of theirs (BJP/RSS workers) would earn them prominence in politics and history.” (see video)

We appeal to the Opposition parties to come forward and openly join the agitating farmers to defeat the undemocratic moves of the frustrated Modi regime. We are sure the Opposition’s mere statements on condemnation of the incident and demanding like registering of murder case against the minister’s son and others would not serve the rightful purpose of the Indian democracy at this crucial juncture.

We also appeal to Punjabis and particularly Sikhs not to get provoked and resist peacefully the State sponsored violence on the farmers for a larger issue of saving the democracy.

At the same time, the role of 'godi' (lapdog) media is condemnable as it has been attempting either to suppress the tragic incident or projecting it as a clash between the protesting farmers and the BJP workers. 

Signatories to the joint statement are: Former National Minority Commission Vice Chairman Prof Bawa Singh, Principal (retd) Sucha Singh,  Senior journalists Jaspal Singh Sidhu and Sukhdev Singh , Dr Piare Lal Garg, Prof Manjit Singh, Editor Desh Punjab Gurbachan Singh Jalandhar, Dr Narinder Singh and Author Rajwinder Singh Rahi.

Talk to Farmers to Find Way Forward-Capt.Amrinder Singh

 17th September 2021 at 01:20 PM

‘Scrap Farm Laws,’, Punjab CM Tells Centre as Black Laws Complete 1 Year

*“Why Can’t Constitution be Amended 128th Time to Revoke Fatm Laws’

 Capt. Amarinder Asks BJP-LED Central Govt.

Chandigarh: 17th September 2021: (Punjab Screen Bureau)::

As the nation marked one year of the black Farm Laws, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Friday demanded immediate scrapping of the legislations by the Centre, calling for detailed discussions with the farmers to find a way forward.

Pointing out that many farmers had died in these protests, the Chief Minister said it was high time the Central Government realised its blunder and withdrew the legislations in the interest of the farmers and the nation.

The Chief Minister, wearing a #nofarmers_nofood bade, was inaugurating the 3rd state level virtual Kisan Mela organised by Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana. The 2-day mela is centered on the theme: ‘KARIE PARALI DI SAMBHAL, DHARTI MAA HOVE KHUSHHAL”, in line with the state government’s focus on eliminating stubble burning.

“Till date, the Indian Constitution has been amended as many as 127 times, so why can it not be amended once again to scrap the Farm Laws and resolve the imbroglio resulting from them,” asked the Chief Minister. “What is the problem in doing it a 128th time,” he demanded to know from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government at the Centre, which was out to ruin the farmers.

What was happening with the farmers today was extremely sad, given the immense contribution made by them to India’s development and progress, said Captain Amarinder, calling for immediate revocation of the laws, which he said were detrimental to the interest not just of the agricultural community but the entire country.

Recalling that he had been asked by the Centre to stop Punjab’s farmers from going to Delhi last November, the Chief Minister said he had refused point blank to do so, as protest is the democratic right of farmers. “Why should they not protest? How can I stop them,” he asked, making it clear that he continues to stand with the farmers in their fight against the draconian legislations, with his government continuing to give compensation and jobs to the families of the deceased farmers.

Noting the contribution of Punjab and its farmers to the country’s growth, the Chief Minister said the state, with only 1.53 % of total geographical area of India, produces about 18% of the country’s wheat, 11% paddy, 4.4% cotton and 10% milk. For the past many decades, Punjab has been contributing about 35-40% of wheat and 25-30% of rice to the central pool, he said, expressing pride in the achievements of the state’s farmers.

The Chief Minister pointed out that the state had attained a record wheat productivity (5188 kg/ha) and production (182.6 lakh tons) during 2018-19. It also achieved a record rice productivity (4366 kg/ha) and production (133.8 lakh tons) during 2017-18. Record cotton productivity (827 kg lint/ha) was also achieved during 2019-20, he added, giving full credit for these achievements to the hardworking farmers of Punjab and the improved agricultural technologies developed by PAU.

The Chief Minister, who recalled that he had been attending Kisan Melas since 1970, stressed on the importance of Agriculture as the lifeline of Punjab, and urged farmers to take full advantage of PAU’s advancements in technologies, seeds etc. He underlined the importance of continued research to keep pace with the developments in agriculture the world over. Citing Israel’s success in use of drip irrigation for judicious use of the fast-depleting water table, the Chief Minister said Punjab’s ground water level had been continuously going down. The state’s diversification programme was linked to ensure minimal use of water, he added.

In his welcome address earlier, Anirudh Tewari, ACS(D)-cum-Vice Chancellor, PAU, said that during the Covid pandemic, the Chief Minister had asked all departments to be innovative to ensure continuance of work and extension service to farmers and the virtual Kisan Mela was a step in this direction. Farmers who were unable to come personally to attend the event earlier were now able to join virtually, he added.

Referring to the Mela’s theme, Tewari pointed out that Punjab had been demanding Rs 100 per quintal assistance for farmers for stubble management from the Government of India, with the Chief Minister also personally raising the issue several times with the Prime Minister. He spoke about the measures taken by the state government to check stubble burning and also to promote crop diversification. He referred to the promotion of horticulture and exotic vegetables to wean farmers away from the wheat-paddy cycle.

Dr Jaskaran Singh Mehal, Director Of Extension Education, PAU, spoke about the reach of the Kisan Mela, which farmers from across the country had been joining. The live telecast of the mela and the interactions with the farmers on YouTube and Facebook were facilitated a strong and bigger outreach and impact, he added.

Dr Inderjeet Singh, Vice Chancellor, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary & Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana, described the Mela as an important platform to support farmers. These Kisan Melas are a source of great information on latest advances in agriculture – on quality seed and planting material of improved varieties of various field, horticultural and vegetable crops is being made available to farmers from PAU campus as well as from outstations all over Punjab, he said.

The Kisan Mela will witness give panel discussions on virtual platform, relating to: Crop Residue Management, Scope of Horticultural and Forestry Crops, Natural Resource Management, Livestock Production and Subsidiary Occupations, as well as Processing, Value Addition and FPOs etc.

Digital materials like charts and videos along-with audio explanation of the matter on Field Demonstrations, Food Processing, Subsidiary and Allied Occupations are being shown to the farmers for their knowledge update.

A link on ‘Talk to Experts’ (Sawal Tuhade-Jawab Asade) has been shared with farmers to address their queries. Another link each for Farmer Success Stories, Self Help Groups (SHGs), and Farmer Producer Organization (FPOs) run by PAU trainees is also operational.

Why police turned a blind eye to mischief makers

Friday: 29th January 2021 at 3:21 PM

Medical Team questioned on Red Fort Incident

After Return from Delhi Borders: 29th January 2021: (Punjab Screen Bureau)::

We the doctors and paramedical staff Have been organizing  medical Camps at Tikri and Singhu borders on behalf of Indian Doctors for Peace and Development (IDPD).  Our medical teams marched along with the tractors. We are pained at the events that occurred on 26th January when a few unscrupulous elements hoisted flag at Red Forte. This situation arose when police created hurdles on agreed route & looked other way around to facilitate prohibited route.  since we were present there throughout we are eye witness to affirm that such hooliganism was done by a miniscule number of people and it could have been very well prevented if the police had been little cautious. Moreover being Republic day police outnumbered hooligans. It is anybody's guess why police turned a blind eye to mischief makers. Thousands of tractors took out the march peacefully at the stipulated route. The march was so peaceful that not a single glass pane was broken, not a car was overturned, nor any bus burnt, nor any damage to any public property was caused by the people who marched on the tractors. Locals showered flower petals & served langar on the way. It is difficult to comprehend how these unscrupulous elements  could reach Red Forte which is nearly 20 Kilo meters away from the Singhu border. This smacks of some deep rooted conspiracy behind it. However during the tractor march we treated several  farmers who were injured seriously by the Lathi charge or tear gas shells by the police. Hands of two people were badly damaged which  they may never get  back to completely normal state. One patients was overrun by the vehicle. Three patients sustained fractures. There were many with minor injuries . It is sad to know that a medical team led by Dr Swaiman was attacked by the police at a time when they were giving medical aid to the injured including the policemen. Similarly at Singhu Ambulance was smashed & Dr Balbir Singh pushed aside when he was attending an injured farmer. As medical personnel we feel that   people are already sitting there for over two months now and have developed several medical problems which are likely to get aggravated in the coming time. Therefore whereas we appeal to the protesters to be calm and cautious we appeal to the government to repeal these laws in ongoing budget session, restore peace & tranquility to create congenial atmosphere for dialogue & discussion. Democratic Govt is duty bound to consult farmers, State Govts & consumers before framing laws. We hope & pray better sense will prevail. 

Our team members included Dr Arun Mitra, Dr Gagandeep Singh, Dr Balbir Singh, Dr Monika Dhawan, Dr Param Saini, Dr S S Sidhu, Dr Suraj Dhillon, Dr Gurvir Singh, Dr Rajan SIdhu, Kuldip Singh, Anod Kumar, Swaroop Singh, Amninder Singh, staff of the Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarbha Dental Collage and Hospital worked hard during the tractor march to serve the injured.  

Demise of Tabiba a big loss to the farming community-PAU

Tue, May 29, 2018 at 4:58 PM

He was a recipient of Babu Jagjiwan Ram Puraskar

Ludhiana: 29th May 2018: (Punjab Screen Bureau)::

The senior officials of Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) expressed deep grief over the sad demise of S. Darshan Singh Tabiba, a progressive farmer who played a significant role in crop diversification and touched heights in agriculture by adopting PAU recommendations. A resident of village Hayatpura (near Machhiwara), district Ludhiana, S. Tabiba practiced farming on 100 acres of land by adopting recommendations of the University. He was also engaged in fish farming and practiced it on 38 acres of area. In addition, he owned big poultry, dairy and pig farms; feeding habits of the animals was one of his areas of interest. He believed in developing farm machinery himself and made modifications in combine harvester for better performance.  He also developed a machinery to manage wheat straw, which was sold to the farmers as well. He was a recipient of Babu Jagjiwan Ram Puraskar by Government of India and S. Dalip Singh Dhaliwal Memorial Award by PAU in 1998. He had long association with PAU Kisan Club, of which, he was the President as well as the member also.

         Dr J.S. Mahal, Director of Extension Education; Dr N.S. Bains, Director of Research; and other senior officials of PAU prayed for the peace of departed soul. They said his demise was a big loss the farming community.

PAU holds kisan mela at RRS, Ballowal Saunkhri

Fri, Sep 8, 2017 at 6:00 PM

Drip irrigation technique can be benefit farmers of Kandi area: Dr. Gosal

Ballowal Saunkhri: 8th September 2017: (Punjab Screen Bureau)::

The series of PAU Kisan Melas kick started with the first mela at Regional Research

Station, Ballowal Saunkhri (Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar) today. Farmers and farm

women in big number thronged the mela to see the live demonstrations, purchase

planting material and farm literature, and discuss their farm related issues with the PAU

scientists. The mela aimed at urging the farmers to not burn paddy straw, save

environment and cut expenses on social functions. Dr S.S. Gosal, Member, Board of

Management, PAU, was the chief guest while Dr Baldev Singh Dhillon, Vice-Chancellor,

PAU, presided over the inaugural session. Sh Chaudhary Darshan Lal Mangupur, MLA,

Balachaur, was the special guest on the occasion.

In his inaugural address, Dr Gosal said, “Farmers repose full faith in the Regional

Research Station, Ballowal Saunkhri. This station was established in 1982 and has

served the farming community tremendously.” Expressing concern over water shortage

in the Kandi region, Dr Gosal said the use of drip irrigation technique can benefit the

farmers of this area. He also called for judicious use of fertilizers, saying no to paddy

straw burning, saving environment and regularizing agricultural income. Dr Gosal urged

the farmers to avail the subsidy on tractors, being provided by the Department of

Horticulture, Punjab.

In his presidential remarks, Dr Dhillon said, “With 206 per cent cropping intensity,

the yield of various crops in Punjab has seen a rise.” He called upon the farmers to use

good quality seed, make fertilizers’ use as per requirement, use biofertilizers for good

soil health and maintain farm records for economic sustainability. He stressed on the

farmers to not indulge in paddy straw burning and instead adopt its management

technologies. Dr Dhillon further said the PAU scientists are making all-out efforts to

address the issues of the farmers of Kandi region. Voicing concern over farmers’

suicides, he highly praised the students of Gursewa College of Nursing, Garshankar, for

their theatrical skills while enacting a play, which aimed at spreading the message

“Suicide is not the solution, rather fight against all odds of life.”

The special guest, Sh Mangupur expressed his sincere gratitude to the

agricultural experts for focusing on the Kandi region. He advised the farmers to seek

University’s technical expertise regarding agriculture and its allied occupations. He also

talked about the developmental activities.

On the occasion, S. Jagjit Singh, SDM, Balachaur, was also present.

Dr M.S. Dhaliwal, Additional Director of Research (Horticulture), PAU, while

highlighting research priorities, said, “The University is conducting research on nearly

100 crops. A total of 809 crop varieties and hybrids have been developed and

recommended by PAU till date, out of which, 173 are at the national level.” The focus

area of PAU’s research is on the development of crop varieties requiring less

water, fertilizers and resistant to various insect-pests and diseases, he added. Dr

Dahliwal also apprised farmers of several newly released crop varieties and their

production- protection technologies.

Earlier, Dr G.S. Buttar, Additional Director of Extension Education, PAU,

welcomed the dignitaries and the farmers, farm women and the rural youth. He said the

number of farmers participating in this mela is seeing an upward trend. The challenges

of Kandi region are different from all, he added. “About 34 per cent of population of

Punjab is having less than 5 acres of land. This Regional Research Station came up

with the special objective of serving the small farmers of the Kandi region

(Nawanshaher, Hoshiarpur and Ropar),” he added. In addition, four Krishi Vigyan

Kendras are established at Langroya, Bahowal, Ropar and Pathankot

to address the issues of the farmers, he told. Dr Buttar urged the visitng farmers to reap

benefits by receiving trainings in various aspects of agriculture from these KVKs.

Dr Manmohanjit Singh, Director, Regional Research Station, Ballowal Saunkhri,

proposed the vote of thanks. During the mela, as many as 116 stalls were put up by

various departments of PAU and other organizations. Huge rush of farmers was seen at

the seed sale centre of this station. The students of Gursewa College of Nursing also

enthralled the gathering with their giddha performance.

Kisan Mela at Regional Station Faridkot by PAU

Fri, Mar 10, 2017 at 3:35 PM

Sow PAU seeds, adopt subsidiary occupations

Ludhiana: 10 March 2017: (Punjab Screen Bureau)::

To showcase the latest farm technologies for Kharif crops, Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) held a Kisan Mela at its Regional Station, Faridkot today. Mr Jang Bahadur Singh Sangha, Former Member, Board of Management, PAU as well as a progressive farmer, inaugurated the Kisan Mela which focused on the theme “Sow PAU seeds, adopt subsidiary occupations, do efficient marketing and maintain farm records.”  In addition to interaction with the experts, the farmers obtained solutions to farm queries, viewed live demonstrations, and purchased seeds, planting material and PAU farm publications. Dr Ashok Kumar, Director of Research presided over the function and Dr Gurmeet Singh Butter, Additional Director of Extension Education, also graced the occasion.

In his inaugural address, Mr. Sangha greeted the gathering and said that the prime objective of such pastoral fairs is two-way interaction between the agricultural scientists and the farmers. Equating the kisan melas to knowledge-encapsulated events, he advocated a two-pronged strategy for ensuring a lucrative agricultural enterprise, viz., judicious expenditure and adoption of subsidiary ventures. Opining that PAU Kisan Divas is unique, he said that it is a divas of knowledge where farmers interact with university scientists to gain new knowledge on farming.Mr. Sangha, who himself is an ace potato grower, said that PAU has contributed immensely towards national food security. The farmers should keep constant liaison with the university scientists to learn the latest techniques of farming, he explained. He further pointed out that in the post green revolution era, Punjab is facing new challenges. Urging the farming community to opt for hybrid seed production, he emphasized judicious use of inputs, timely testing of soil andadoption of auxiliary occupations for supplementing income. He exhorted the farmers to purchase quality seeds from the University and seek its guidance regarding good varieties.

Dilating upon the research achievements of PAU, Dr Ashok Kumar, Director of Research, said, “Crop varieties that need less water and fertilizer, are tolerant to biotic and abiotic stresses, and give better yield, are being developed by the university.” In order to counter the emerging challenges in the arena of agriculture, the PAU has focused its attention on yield-centric, lucrative as well as environment-friendly endeavors, he added. PAU has developed/released new varieties namely Punjab Basmati 4 and Punjab Basmati 5 of basmati; and CoPb 92, CoPb 93 and CoPb 94 of sugarcane, he briefed. Dr Kumar also cited the newly recommended production-protection technologies for various crops.

While welcoming the dignitaries and the farmers, Dr G.S. Butter, Additional Director Extension Education, PAU, appealed to the farmers to follow PAU recommendations. He encouraged them to attend trainings imparted at the different KVKs of the university. Such trainings would arm them with the latest knowledge to tackle the challenges which came in the form of weather, weeds, pests, etc., he averred.  Dr Pankaj Rathore, Director, Regional Research Station, Faridkot, while proposing the vote of thanks, shed light on the activities of RRS, Faridkot and new crop varieties, released by PAU.

Several stalls with exhibits as diverse as implements, improved seeds, solar energy, farm literature, etc., were displayed during the Kisan Divas. The scientists of PAU answered a volley of questions from the farmers during an interactive session. Subject matter specialists of PAU gave useful tips to farmers about the new crop production and protection technologies, farm mechanization for Kharif crops, etc.

IBDC at PAU would help in enhancing the income of the farmers

Honey production in high in India 

But its usage is more in foreign countries-Sampla

Ludhiana: 22nd December 2016: (Punjab Screen Bureau): For More Photos Click Here

An ‘Integrated Beekeeping Development Centre (IBDC)’ was inaugurated at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) today by Sh Arjun Ram Meghwal, Minister of State for Finance and Corporate Affairs, Government of India. Sh Vijay Sampla, Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, also graced the occasion as guest of honour. Senior officials, faculty of PAU, and progressive beekeepers of Punjab were also present on the occasion.For More Photos Click Here

Sh Meghwal said, “Punjab is known for Green Revolution and agricultural development.” The Central Government is making all out efforts to double the income of the farmers as well as agriculture related entrepreneurs by 2022, he added. Further, he discussed the problems of the beekeepers and assured them of full support in resolving their issues.

Sh Sampla said, “Although honey production in high in India, yet its usage is more in foreign countries.” He said the establishment of this Centre at PAU would help in enhancing the income of the farmers, keeping the environment pollution free, and improving the quality of honey. He also deliberated on social aspects of honey and said that there was lot to learn from this agriculture item.For More Photos Click Here

Dr Baldev Singh Dhillon, Vice-Chancellor, PAU, expressed his sincere gratitude to the Central Government as well as State Government for starting number of schemes for sustaining food security and recognizing significant contributions of PAU in promoting beekeeping as a profitable subsidiary occupation. “Punjab is a leading state in honey production,” he said, while disclosing that the state is producing 39.5 per cent of honey of the country, which is being exported to 48 countries.” “There is a progress in the income of the farmers, but thrust needs to be laid on increasing profits,” he observed. The Integrated Beekeeping Development Centre at PAU would go a long way in giving additional benefits to the farmers, he added. Dr Dhillon also highlighted various crop varieties and commercialization of processing technologies.For More Photos Click Here

Dr S.K. Malhothra, Horticulture Commissioner, Government of India, said that pollination improvement in beekeeping would lead to increased honey production. He lauded All India Coordinated Research Project on Beekeeping at PAU and said that seeing its good work, the Central Government decided to set-up this Centre in the University. He also stressed on following best management practices, and setting-up diagnostic lab and pilot processing plants.For More Photos Click Here

Dr Gurkanwal Singh, Director of Horticulture, Punjab, said that along with honey production, focus was being laid on developing high value bee products. He urged the Central Government to exempt beekeeping from GST. He also referred to the introduction of ‘apitherapy,’ a source of income generation as well as beneficial for public health.
For More Photos Click Here

S. Simranjeet Singh, President of Progressive Beekeepers Association, Punjab, shed light on beekeepers’ problems such as transportation, reduced nectar in sarson and sunflower, etc. He lauded PAU for equipping beekeepers with the useful knowledge and said that beekeeping was the most lucrative occupation, requiring less expenditure and land.
For More Photos Click Here

Agroadvisory Bulletin-27-Sep-2016 from PAU

Tue, Sep 27, 2016 at 4:33 PM

Light to moderate rain/thundershowers likely

Light to moderate rain/thundershowers likely at isolated places during next 24 hrs and weather is likely to be dry thereafter. During this period, maximum and minimum temperatures are expected to remain between 34-35oC and 23-25oC, respectively. The maximum relative humidity is expected to remain between 64-74% and minimum between 33-48% during these days.

                   It is optimum time to plant autumn season sugarcane (20th September to 20th October). Fodder crops barseem, shaftel should be sown from last week of September to first week of October. 

                  Plant hoppers during these days pose a serious threat in paddy. The crop dries up in patches. The plant hoppers can be controlled by spraying Confidor/Crocodile 17.8 SL @ 40 ml or Ekalux/Quinalmass 25 EC @ 800 ml or Coroban/Dursban 20 EC @ 1 litre in 100 litres of water per acre. For better results, direct the spray towards the base of the plants.

                  If Sheath blight also starts appearing on different rice varieties, spray the crop with Amistar Top 325 SC or Tilt/ Bumper 25 EC (propiconazole) or Folicur/ Orius 25 EC (tebuconazole) or Moncern 250 EC (pencycuron) @ 200 ml or Nativo 75 WG @ 80 g or Lusture 37.5 SE (flusilazole + carbendazim) @ 320 ml or Bavistan 50 WP (carbendazim) @ 200 gm in 200 litres of water per acre. Apply first spray at boot stage of crop and second after 15 days. Prevailing weather and age of the rice crop is favourable for the development of false smut of rice. To check the disease give first spray of Kocide 46 DF @ 500 g/acre at booting stage of the crop and second spray of Tilt 25 EC @ 200 ml in 200 litres of water after 10 days.

                  In basmati, stem borer is a serious problem. When more than 2% dead hearts or white ears appear, spray Fame 480 SC @ 20 ml or Mortar 75 SG @ 170 g or Coragen 20 SC @ 60 ml or Monocil 36 SL @ 560 ml or Coroban/Dursban/Lethal/Chlorguard/Durmet/Classic/Force 20 EC one litre or Fipronil 80 % WG @ 15 g in 100 litres of water per acre. In adition to these, granular insecticides i.e. Ferterra 0.4 GR @ 4 kg/acre or Padan/Caldan/Kritap/Sanvex/Nidan/Marktap/Miftap 4 G @ 10 kg/acre or Regent/Mortel/Mifpro/Mahaveer GR 0.3 G @ 6 kg/acre in standing water can also be applied.

                  To control weeds in pea, spray Stomp 30 EC @ 1 litre/acre or Afalon @500 g/acre as preemergence application using 150-200 litres of water. Avoid early sowing to check wilt/root rot diseases. Pea wilt can be controlled by treating seeds with Bavistin @ 1g or Captan @ 2 g/kg seed. Apply 3 kg Thimet 10 G or 10 kg Furadan 3 G per acre in furrows at sowing for reducing the infestation of stem fly.

                  It is the ideal time for planting of evergreen fruit plants. During this month, for management of fruit drop in kinnow, spray the crop with Ziram 27 SC @ 1250 ml or Propiconazole 25 EC @ 500 ml or Bavistin 50 WP @ 500 gm in 500 litres of water per acre. The weed infestation is major problem during rainy season. To control weeds apply post emergence application of Glycel 41 SL or Gramaxone 24 WSC @ 1.6 liters per acre in 200 liters of water during this season. Avoid drift of weedicide on fruit plant parts.

Kisan Mela at Faridkot attracted more younger generation

Wed, Sep 14, 2016 at 3:43 PM

Scientists and Doctors Committed to Improve Health:Dr Raj

Ludhiana-14 Septmeber 2016: (Punjab Screen Bureau):

The Kisan Mela at Regional Research Station, Faridkot, witnessed a humongous crowd of farmers, reasserting the validity of such melas, which are an ideal platform to reach out to the farming community at large. A colourful mêlée of more than a hundred inviting stalls, decorated with buntings, beckoned the teeming visitors. 

This Kisan mela at Faridkot attracted more younger generation. young boys and girls were watching each and every stall to gain more education of agriculture and horticulture. They said Agriculture is still super job for us. We will improve the weak economic situation of our farmers and country. These boys and girls have accepted the challenge arise after suicides by farmers. leaving behind the all differences these children explained that land is our mother and agriculture is our religion. They said,'we will not allow anyone to pollute our soil, water, air and harmony".

The theme of the Kisan Mela was “PAU kheti sifarshan, faslan layi vardaan; vigyani kheti naal hi safal hon kirsan.” The theme conveys a strong message that the ‘PAU Package of Practices’ is a boon for healthy crop production. The incorporation of scientific and technological innovations is vital to achieve success in agriculture.

The Kisan Mela was inaugurated by Punjab State Awardee, Dr Raj Bahadur, a renowned orthopedician and the Vice Chancellor of Baba Farid University of Health Sciences, Faridkot. Dr B. S. Dhillon, Vice Chancellor, PAU, presided over the function. Dignitaries from PAU- Dr R. K. Ghumber, Director of Research; Dr R. S. Sidhu, Director of Extension Education; Dr Jagdish Kaur, Additional Director of Communication; as well as Dr H. S. Kalsi, Chief Agricultural Officer and the first Director of Regional Research Station, Faridkot; and Dr Pankaj Rathore, Director, Regional Research Station, Faridkot lent their presence to the occasion. 

In his welcome address, Dr R. S. Sidhu expressed his gratitude towards the farmer visitors who had turned up in huge numbers, which in itself symbolized the huge success of the pastoral fair. He exhorted them to attend trainings imparted at the seventeen KVKs of the university. Such trainings would arm them with the latest knowledge to tackle the challenges which came in the form of weather, weeds, pests etc.

The Chief Guest, Dr Raj Bahadur, in his inaugural address congratulated the PAU scientists who identified crop maladies and worked relentlessly to eradicate them as well as to bring such information to the doorstep of the farmer; thus establishing a likability between scientists and doctors who are committed to improved health, albeit in their respective fields. He also raised his concerns about the rising cases of farmers’ suicides, the depletion of the water table; thereby stressing the need to go in for crop diversification and mechanized community farming. He lauded the efforts of the university for conducting such educative fairs which aided the transfer of knowledge to the farmers who are the true beneficiaries. "We accept the challenge"

In his warm and sagacious address, Dr B. S. Dhillon, Vice Chancellor, PAU, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the farmers for adopting the recommendations of the PAU experts from time to time. He encouraged them to keep up with this practice and as a word of caution, also suggested that experimenting new varieties must be limited initially; and that the results and their experiences be shared with scientists which would positively impact future research tremendously. He congratulated his farming brethren who had cooperated immensely in checking the depleting water table; leading to a positive increase of 45% in the state. He expressed his joy in sharing that an overall decrease of Rs 600 crores was witnessed in the consumption of urea, but at the same time he suggested the controlled use of phosphorous rich urea to sustain the biological health of the soil. He also advised the farming community not to resort blindly to the use of pesticides; rather use them sparingly, with discretion. Here he suggested them to resort to manual weeding in case the problem wasn’t severe. Dr Dhillon expressed satisfaction that the white fly menace had been curbed to a large extent by the collective efforts of the state government, the university and the farmers. Further, he also suggested that stubble burning be avoided and to use the same as compost. He stressed the benefits of collective mechanized farming and marketing, which have already yielded a 35% national gain as per the recent data available.

Dr Gumber, who has rendered 15 years of service at KVK, Faridkot, before joining as Director of Research, PAU, announced several new varieties of seeds released by the university. He recommended Wheat 677 and 725, which were immune to yellow and brown rust; African Sarson, which could be threshed and harvested by combines and also yielded more oil; Tomato varieties- Punjab Gaurav, Punjab Sartaj and Punjab Red Cherry; Brinjal- PB HR 42 & 43; Pea- Punjab 89, 83 & 87; Pumpkin- PBH 1 & 2, to name a few. He also recommended varieties of flowering crops such as the Gladiolas- PB 25 and Sweet Peas- PSP 43, 31, 57, 62 & 82. He further informed the audience about the improved packing technology which included the cling film/sheet for increasing the shelf life of vegetables. Dr Gumber suggested the use of the improvised Lucky Seed Drill instead of the traditional suhaga. Further, he insisted on reduced stubble burning of rice straw, which could be achieved by using PAU Happy Seeder which helps to reduce rice straw into mulch as well as helps in retaining moisture. He recommended the use of Canola oil extracted from gobhi sarson and rye. Encouraging the farmers to adopt more scientific manners in farming, he also suggested the use of Biofertilizer Consortium to improve the seed variety and also the adoption of Leaf Colour Chart which would indicate the exact amount of urea to be used. His educative remarks were much appreciated by the farmers present in the audience.

The interactive session among the PAU scientists and the farmers was quite eventful. The experts eagerly answered their queries. Their opinions on various issues were well sought after.

A cultural bonanza was offered to regale the audience. Traditional folk singers and the engaging witty repertoire of Dr. Jaswinder Bhalla, Head, Extension Education, PAU added colour to the atmosphere.

A meeting of 90 farmer leaders was held today in Delhi

Mon, Jul 13, 2015 at 7:38 PM

30 farmer's movement leaders participated

New Delhi: July 13, 2015: (Punjab Screen Bureau);

A meeting of 90 farmer leaders from 30 farmer's movement was held today in Delhi with Swaraj Abhiyan national convenor Prof. Anand Kumar and Yogendra Yadav. The 2-day meeting will conclude tomorrow with a resolution for way forward on the Jai Kisan Andolan. The farmer leaders representing at least 13 states of India held a healthy round of discussion on the solutions to issues like land acquisition, remunerative farming & compensation.

 

Similar meetings have been held in Maharashtra and Karnataka where farmer's organisation have already extended their full support to Jai Kisan Andolan. Organisations like the Karnataka Rajya Raiyyat Sangha KRSS, led by Chamrasa Mali Patil; Tamilaga Vyavasayagel Sangam led by Dr. Rajriga and the Tamil Nadu Vyavjaye Tevalam Sangham led by MS Selvaraj have declared their support to the Jai Kisan Andolan of Swaraj Abhiyan.

 

Some of the prominent farmers movement & organisations which are attending the 2-day Delhi conclave of Jai Kisan Andolan are:

 

1. Kisan Sangharsh Samiti, Madhya Pradesh, Dr. Sunilam

2. All India Agragaami Sabha, Madhya Pradesh, Jayant Verma

3. Odissa Rajya Krishak Sangathan, Orissa, Lingaraj

4. Kisan Manch, UP, Dr. Raghuvansh Mani Pandey

5. Bhatta Parsaul Andolan, UP, Manvir Singh Teotia

6. Vaigai Farmers Society, Tamil Nadu, M Raji Subhash

7. Kisan Adhikar Manch, Gujarat, Bharat Singh

8. Kisan Jagriti Manch, MP, Hajrat Ali

9. Kisan Mazdoor Sangathan, Bihar, Devnath Devan

10. Bhumi Bachao Andolan, Delhi, Bhupendra Singh Rawat

11. IPF, Akhilendra Pratap Singh

12. Vaikalpik Krishi Abhiyan, Prof. Somnath Tripathi

13. Chaitanya Rural Women's Development Society, Telengana, K. Veeraswamy

14. Dalit Mahila Sangham, AP, V. Murugama

15. INSAF, Rajasthan, Virendra Vidrohi

16. Bhartiya Kisan Union (Harpal Group), Harpal Singh

17. Kisan Vikas Andolan, Bihar, Mithilesh Yadav

18. Voice of India, West Bengal, Sanjit Narain Bhattacharya

19. Krishi Bhumi Bachao Morcha, UP, Raghvendra Ram

20. National Alliance of Farmers Movement, Rakesh Rafiq/Arjun Prasad Singh/Ranjit Singh

21. Bhartiya Kisan Union, Harpal Singh

22. Kisan Sangharsh Morcha, Birendra Rai

23. Rashtriya Kisan Manch, Vinod Singh

24. Raiyathu Swaraj Vedika, Kiran Kumar Vissa

 

Note - A press conference will be held by Yogendra Yadav & Prof. Anand Kumar along-with some of the farmer leaders after the conclusion of 2-day conclave.

 

Venue: ND Tiwari Bhavan, Deen Dayal Upadhyay Marg, Near ITO, Delhi

 

Time: 3pm tomorrow

Punjab Kisan Sabha organized a 24 hour hunger strike

Mon, Sep 22, 2014 at 4:08 PM
Demanded complete implementation
The recommendations of Dr Swaminathan Commission raised again

Ludhiana: 22 September 2014: (Rector Kathuria//Punjab Screen):
With a demand for complete implementation of the recommendations of Dr Swaminathan Commission on Agriculture  to waive-off loans towards poor farmers, for increase in the minimum support price (MSP) and purchase by Govt. agencies, monthly pension of Rs 3000 to every man, woman, farmer,khet mazdoor and artisans  the Ludhiana Distt. Unit of Punjab Kisan Sabha organized a  24 hour hunger strike in front of Deputy Commissioner office at Mini Secretariat here at Ludhiana today.

While addressing the gathering Comrade Kartar Singh Bowani, Vice President of Punjab Kisan Sabha said the policies of  privatisation, liberalization and corporatisation the Govt.  has virtually stopped public spending on rural development, agriculture and irrigation. The Govt. is not implementing the recommendations of Dr Swaminathan Agricuture Commission. All the natural and state resources are being handed over to the big Corporates at the throw away prices. Small house-hold and medium industrial sector has closed in large number leading unemployment to the youth particularly the  village youth.

Comrade  Surinder Jalaldiwal, President said that the inputs like diesel, fertilizers and chemicals are becoming expensive. The Govt. is not giving full price and is systematically abolishing the procurement by the state agencies.

Comrade Amandeep Singh,General Secretary said that the economic level of rural people is falling . It is an irony that there is no social security in the old age for the food providers.

Other speakers criticized the anti farmer policies of the government at the centre and state for ignoring their demands which has led large number of suicides by the farmers throughout India, including Punjab.  Kissans have to face huge losses every year due to natural calamities that affect their production which are many a time destroyed. But governments  do not have any policy for them in this regard to meet the loss.

The farmer organizations also warned of introduction of GM crops without safety audit. Such a move may lead to several problems for our food security and health in future.  Others speakers include Comrades Jang Singh Sirthala, Paramjit Singh, Pyara Singh Mann, Bharpur Singh, Gurnam Singh Sarpanch, Khushal Singh and Ramchand.

Grewal claimed successful Rail Roko protest

Fri, Feb 7, 2014 at 5:00 PM

Trains stopped at Shergarh, Bathinda Rly Stations 

Bathinda: 7 February 2014 (Satpal Soni//Ravi Nanda//Punjab Screen):

Today BJP Kisan Morcha hold Rail Roko protest at Railway Station Shergarh, Bathinda with large number of farmers and party workers. Talking with the media persons at railway track Shergarh today, National Secretary Kisan Morcha and Prabhari Himachal Pradesh Advocate Sukhminderpal Singh Grewal said that today at hundreds of places in India lakh's of farmers are sitting on Railway tracks. He said that it's a message to the Congress led UPA Government does not take any positive step on the demands of the farmers, now BJP Kisan Morcha is ready for Kisan Aakrosh Divas on 7th February throughout the country. He said on that day morcha workers and farmers will sit on Railway track for which Government of india will be responsible. Grewal stated that after the Kisan Adhikar Divas by Kisan Morcha on 30th January the death anniversary of Gandhi and Kisan Morcha had stage dharnas in all the 618 district centres in pain and grief to expose anti- farmer polices of Congress-led UPA government before the general public. Grewal said that in Congress led UPA Government, the farmers of our country are facing drought condition created by the policies of government. He said that when the crops are destroyed, it is the death of the farmer not the crops. He said that 1,45,000 farmers were forced to commit suicides during the UPA rule. He alleged that the Government is directly responsible for these suicides. He said that the out dated policies and non  implementation of the proposed polices are behind these deaths. Grewal said that the benefit of UPA government’s loan waiver scheme went to banks and not to farmers. He said that the banks are now sending notices of attachment to farmers. The farmers of Yamuna Nagar in Haryana have even offered to give their kidney against payment of loans. Grewal said that BJP Kisan Morcha will raise issue of implementation of Swaminathan Commission regarding remunerative prices with 50% profit for the farmers. He said that our other issues are the recommendations made by the Chief Ministers Committee about compensation of Rs 10,000 per acre for risk management must also be implemented, the increased prices of mixed fertilizers must be taken back.

All India Conference of AIKF on March 28, 29 and 30, 2014

Fri, Dec 27, 2013 at 5:26 PM

Kirti Kisan Sabha, Punjab Ludhiana holds its meeting

Doraha: 27 December 2013: (Pawan Kumar Kaushal//Punjab Screen Bureau):

Ludhiana district committee of Kirti Kisan Sabha Punjab met here under the president ship of Azad Singh Khatra, a veteran Kisan leader.

Com. Lakhwinder Singh Buani, General Secretary Kirti Kisan Sabha Punjab placed the agenda and the history of the organization in the state. He also mentioned the struggles launched by the organization for the cause of kisan movement.

Com. Kuldip Singh member of central co-ordination Committee of All India Kisan Federation reported on the decisions of the meetings of central co-ordination held in Warangal (Andhra Pradesh), Jaipur (Rajasthan) and Patna (Bihar). He also disclosed that All India Conference of A I K F is being organized on March 28, 29 and 30, 2014 at Kisan Bhavan Chandigarh.

The meeting passed resolutions demanding adequate MSP on wheat as it felt that price announced is too low to cover even the costs incurred by the farmers. The meeting also demanded compensation for the damages on the Paddy for the loss suffered by them due to untimely rain and hailstorm.

The meeting in a special resolution demanded subsidy on diesel to the farmers and regular power supply of ten hours daily.

The meeting expressed its serious concern over the menace of stray cattle in Pujab. Stray cattle are causing harm to the crops. The meeting demanded that the government should make proper arrangements in this regard. The meeting also opposed the property tax imposed on the common man. Among those present were Jang Singh, Sukhdev Singh, President and Secretary of district Kirti Kisan Sabha respectively Amanjit Singh Chankoyan, Amarjit Singh Faizgarh, Darshan Singh and Surjit Singh Malaud and others

Statement released by the District Secretary, Kirti Kisan Sabha, Ludhiana Comrade Sukhdev Singh, Kila Raipur.