A two-day training program on groundnut cultivation under the National Mission on Edible Oils Oilseeds (NMEO-Oilseeds) was organized by the Department of Farmer Welfare in collaboration with Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Mansa at Hotel Mehak. Over 100 farmers from across the district participated, aiming to boost oilseed production and promote self-reliance in edible oils as per the mission’s objectives.
Dr. Gurdeep Singh, Deputy Director of KVK Mansa, inaugurated the session by emphasizing the critical role of marketing strategies for oilseed crops to ensure better returns for farmers. He also highlighted emerging challenges due to changing weather patterns, including erratic monsoons and rising temperatures, and shared practical insights on crop residue management for the ongoing paddy harvest to prevent soil degradation and stubble burning.
Dr. Ranvir Singh, Assistant Professor (Plant Protection), delivered a detailed lecture on cultivation techniques for groundnut, including optimal sowing times, soil preparation, and integrated pest management. He focused on seed treatment to control white grub and collar-stem rot.
In a special segment on livestock care, Dr. Ajay, Assistant Professor (Animal Science), advised farmers on post-flood management for farm animals, stressing the need for dry bedding, deworming, and monitoring for waterborne diseases after recent heavy rains in the region.
The program concluded with Dr. Tejpal Singh Sran, Assistant Professor (Vegetable Science), outlining KVK Mansa’s ongoing activities, including demo plots and extension services and utility services provided by KVK Masna. He underscored the importance of modern marketing techniques, such as digital platforms and farmer producer organizations (FPOs), to enhance agricultural profitability.
Participants appreciated the interactive sessions. The event aligns with the government’s push for doubling oilseed production by 2030, fostering resilience among Punjab’s farming community.