In a concerted effort to improve the production of quality rice seed, the Department of Plant Pathology in collaboration with the Director (Seeds), Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), organized a specialized one-day training programme on the “Management of Seed-borne Diseases in Rice.” Under the guidance of Director of Research Dr Ajmer Singh Dhatt, the training programme focused on managing seed-borne diseases, with a particular emphasis on Bakanae disease in Basmati rice. The event saw active participation from scientists representing various Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), university research centers, and University Seed Farms across the State.
Dr PS Sandhu, Head, Department of Plant Pathology, gave a brief introduction, highlighting the critical need to address seed-borne diseases especially the Bakanae, a major threat to Basmati rice production. He stressed that effective management of seed-borne diseases was essential for ensuring the high quality and marketability of rice seed produced by the University.
The training programme was conducted by Dr Mandeep Hunjan, Principal Plant Bacteriologist and Dr Yesmin Kaur, Plant Pathologist, who provided in-depth knowledge on the identification, prevention, and the control of Bakanae disease. Participants were also taken on a field visit, where they observed disease management techniques in practice and gained practical experience in tackling this disease.
Dr Rajinder Singh, Associate Director of Seeds, highlighted that the knowledge gained from the training programme camp would significantly aid in producing disease-free seed, essential for sustaining the quality and reputation of Basmati rice. He also commended the Department of Plant Pathology for organizing this vital training, which was expected to have a lasting impact on the participants’ ability to manage seed-borne diseases effectively.
Dr Amarjit Singh, Principal Extension Scientist, also underscored the significance of the program, emphasizing its role in equipping the scientists with the necessary tools and knowledge to effectively manage seed-borne diseases.
Read more: https://www.pau.edu/index.php?_act=manageEvent&DO=viewEventDetail&dataE=datae&intID=9519
