KVK Kapurthala under the aegis of the Directorate of Extension Eduation, Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana organized a village level awareness camp on Rodent control on 18/12/2025 at Dhaliwal Bet. The main objective of creating awareness among farmers and rural households about the economic losses caused by rodents and the importance of adopting timely and scientific rodent management practices. At the outset, Dr Suman Kumari, Asstt. Prof. (Plant Protection) discussed about the identification of common rodent species prevalent in agricultural fields, grain stores, and residential areas, and highlighted their breeding behavior, feeding habits and damage symptoms in standing crops and stored produce. She further explained the concept of integrated rodent management, emphasizing cultural, mechanical, biological, and chemical control measures. A Practical demonstration was also carried out on the preparation and safe use of rodent bait formulations, including the correct method of mixing rodenticides with food attractants and the importance of pre-baiting to enhance effectiveness. She advised the farmers about proper placement of bait formulation and laid special emphasis on safety precautions to avoid accidental poisoning of humans, livestock, and non-target organisms, along with the need for proper disposal of dead rodents. After that Mrs. Avneet Kaur, Assoc. Prof. (H. Sci.) delivered a lecture on importance of nutrition and balanced diet. She motivated the farmers to eat balanced diet that includes cereals, pulses, and seasonal vegetables and fruits and avoid consuming fast-food. At the end, Dr Harinder Singh, Incharge, KVK Kapurthala interacted with the farmers and advised them to start a new start ups at village level by exploring domestically available resources. An Interactive discussion was also held where farmers shared their experiences and seeks solutions to rodent-related problems specific to their locality. At the end of the programme, the prepared bait formulation was placed in the fields as a practical demonstration to educate the farmers on the correct method, timing, and placement of poison bait for effective rodent control. The camp concluded with a strong message on community participation, stressing that coordinated village-level action is essential for achieving effective and long-term rodent control, thereby reducing crop losses, safeguarding stored grains, and improving farm income and food security.
ਪੰਜਾਬ ਖੇਤੀਬਾੜੀ ਯੂਨੀਵਰਸਿਟੀ
PUNJAB AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY