The Punjab Agricultural University’s (PAU) Regional Research Station in Faridkot organized a comprehensive training programme on dragon fruit cultivation as part of the NABARD-sponsored project, “Popularization of Dragon Fruit Cultivation in District Faridkot: A Step Towards Crop Diversification and Water Conservation.” The event attracted prominent dignitaries and selected farmers, focusing on establishing dragon fruit as a sustainable and profitable alternative crop for the region.
Dr Kuldeep Singh, Director of RRS Faridkot, presided over the event, joined by Mr Ashwani Kumar, District Development Manager (DDM) NABARD, and Mr Rameshwar, Lead District Manager (LDM) Faridkot. The programme aimed to empower the farming community by imparting knowledge and practical skills in dragon fruit cultivation.
Dr Amardeep Kour, a Horticulturist at RRS Faridkot, delivered an informative lecture on dragon fruit’s economic potential and climate suitability for Punjab, stressing its role in diversifying crops for higher income and sustainability. Dr Sudhir Mishra, Agrometeorology’s at RRS Faridkot, discussed dragon fruit’s low water requirements and adaptability, emphasizing its relevance for regions experiencing water scarcity and climate variability.
Mr Rameshwar outlined NABARD’s initiatives to establish demonstration units for dragon fruit farming. At the same time, Mr Ashwani Kumar noted the rising demand for dragon fruit in Punjab and suggested that the initiative could be expanded across the state if successful.
The programme featured an interactive session where farmers shared feedback and received guidance on challenges in dragon fruit farming. The event concluded with a field visit, offering participants practical insights into the cultivation process. Dr Amardeep Kour thanked the participants and stakeholders and highlighted the project’s potential to transform Faridkot’s agricultural landscape by promoting crop diversification and water conservation.
Read more: https://www.pau.edu/index.php?_act=manageEvent&DO=viewEventDetail&dataE=datae&intID=9891
