The PAU- Farm Advisory Service Centre (FASC), Tarn Taran, in collaboration with the Department of Plant Pathology, PAU, Ludhiana, organized a training camp on “Seed/Nursery Treatment in Basmati Rice” in the adopted village of Dugri, Tarn Taran. The event aimed to combat foot rot disease in Basmati rice and was attended by over 50 enthusiastic farmers. The camp’s primary goal was to encourage farmers to adopt seed and nursery dip treatment practices to enhance Basmati rice production, ensuring higher yields and improved quality.
Dr. Parvinder Singh, in Charge of FASC, Tarn Taran, welcomed the participants and highlighted the extension activities undertaken by FASC scientists. He urged farmers to purchase seeds of recommended varieties from the University Seed Farm, Usman, and FASC, Tarn Taran.
Dr. Amarjit Singh, Principal Extension Scientist (Plant Pathology), led the technical session by discussing the diagnostic symptoms of foot rot disease. He demonstrated seed and root dip treatments of Basmati rice using Trichoderma asperellum to prevent foot rot, which can cause significant losses. He also educated farmers on identifying other diseases in Basmati rice and implementing appropriate control measures.
Dr. Parminder Kaur, SES (Plant Pathology), outlined various activities planned for the adopted village during the Kharif and Rabi seasons. She encouraged farmers to contact them via WhatsApp groups for immediate problem-solving. Additionally, farmers received guidance on the judicious use of agrochemicals.
Dr. Savreet Khehra, an expert in Fruit Science, emphasized the importance of growing fruit plants in kitchen gardens for family nutritional security. She provided tips on caring for fruit plants during the summer season.
Dr. Parminder Singh, DES (Agronomy), explained the agronomic practices for cultivating paddy and Basmati crops. He encouraged farmers to adopt direct-seeded rice techniques to conserve water.
At the conclusion of the camp, Trichoderma asperellum and Sprint 75 WS fungicide were distributed to the farmers for treating 8 kg of seed. Farmers were advised to stay in touch with the experts for future guidance.
Read more: https://www.pau.edu/index.php?_act=manageEvent&DO=viewEventDetail&dataE=datae&intID=9202
