ਪੰਜਾਬ ਖੇਤੀਬਾੜੀ ਯੂਨੀਵਰਸਿਟੀ
PUNJAB AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY
ਪੰਜਾਬ ਖੇਤੀਬਾੜੀ ਯੂਨੀਵਰਸਿਟੀ
PUNJAB AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY
Since establishing its first KVK in Gurdaspur in 1982-83, PAU has expanded its footprint to 18 KVKs across Punjab, strengthening the backbone of PAU’s extension system. Also referred to as Farm Science Centres, these KVKs operate with a mandate of technology assessment and demonstration for its application and capacity development. Funded by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), KVKs act as front-line extension agencies with a primary focus on on-farm testing & refinement of technology, frontline demonstrations, skill development of farmers & extension personnel, acting as knowledge resource centres, providing advisories using ICT, providing quality seed, planting material, bioagents, and organising diverse extension activities for the farmers. With their tireless and industrious work culture, KVKs are often humorously dubbed ‘Koyi Vi Kam’ (literally “they can handle any task”), reflecting their versatility and readiness to rise to any occasion with determination. Staying true to the “learning by doing” philosophy at its core, KVKs empower farmers to cultivate smarter practices, providing essential resources, expertise, and confidence to thrive sustainably and profitably. Here are some highlights of their impactful services.
On-Farm Testing and Refinement (OFTs): By working closely with regional research stations and state extension personnel, KVKs test research findings under regional field conditions. By combining scientific research with local farming needs, KVKs may fine-tune the existing technologies for their smooth adoption.
Cluster Frontline Demonstrations (CFLDs): KVKs promote cultivation of oilseeds, pulses, and other crops through Cluster Frontline Demonstrations under the National Food Security Mission (NFSM) and the National Mission on Oilseeds and Oil Palm (NMOOP). CFLDs showcase how improved practices like seed treatment, and integrated nutrient and pest management, enhance productivity while generating valuable data on yields and production constraints.
Capacity Building of Farmers, Rural Youth and In-Service Personnel: KVKs provide hands-on training for farmers, rural youth, and women in areas like hybrid seed production, beekeeping, mushroom cultivation, dairy farming, poultry, food processing, tailoring, and embroidery, etc. These programmes aim to boost income and self-reliance. Short-term courses for farmers and extension personnel keep them updated on the latest technologies.
Seed Production, Planting Material and PAU Literature: Seed is the basic input and its quality is critical to successful crop production. KVKs produce high-quality seeds, planting materials, vegetable nurseries, bio-agents, and mineral mixtures, making them accessible to farmers. These initiatives ensure the availability of superior inputs, essential for productive farming.
Technology Park and Demonstration Units: KVKs showcase live demonstrations of the latest production and protection technologies at their farms. Farmers can witness these technologies in action during both kharif and rabi seasons. Additionally, demonstration units for beekeeping, mushroom cultivation, dairy, poultry, fishery, rooftop gardening, vermicomposting, vegetable and fruit nutrition gardens, minimal processing units and more, provide vocational training opportunities to rural masses, equipping them with practical skills and knowledge.
