CHANDIGARH: The Punjab State Farmers’ and Farm Workers’ Commission (PSFC) organised a one-day International Symposium on “Advances in Ecological Sustainable Rice Cultivation and National Food Security – Unlocking Potential of Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) in Punjab” at Hotel Shivalik View, Chandigarh, bringing together experts, policymakers, scientists, and progressive farmers to deliberate on the future of sustainable rice cultivation.
The symposium aimed to address emerging challenges in paddy cultivation, particularly groundwater depletion, rising input costs, and climate stress, while exploring the potential of Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) as a viable alternative to conventional methods.
The symposium was also attended by distinguished Special Guests, including Dr. Satbir Singh Gosal, Vice Chancellor, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana; Dr. Jatinder Paul Singh Gill, Vice Chancellor, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana; Dr. Virender Kumar, Research Director, International Rice Research Institute – South Asia Research Centre, Varanasi; Dr. T.N. Prakash Kammardi, former Chairman, Karnataka Agricultural Price Commission (KAPC), Bengaluru; Dr. Pushpinderpal Singh, Project Director, AWaDH, IIT Ropar; and Dr. Vinay Singh, Representative, FAO of the United Nations.
The experts shared their perspectives on sustainable rice cultivation, technological innovations, and the role of DSR in addressing water and climate challenges. The speakers deliberated on DSR, highlighting both its advantages and practical challenges in adoption. Dr. Kulvinder Singh Gill highlighted an upcoming collaborative project with the Punjab State Farmers’ and Farm Workers’ Commission aimed at modifying paddy genetics to develop a long-term solution to stubble burning.
Dr. Gurdev Singh Khush appreciated the efforts of the Commission in organising the symposium and bringing together diverse stakeholders on a critical issue.
Sh. Harchand Singh Barsat unveiled a pocket data book titled “Punjab Agriculture, 2026”, developed by the Commission as part of its ongoing effort to establish a comprehensive agricultural data bank.
Prof. (Dr.) Sukhpal Singh, Chairman, PSFC, presented a detailed overview of Punjab’s agricultural scenario, particularly focusing on rice production and its implications for food security. He raised key questions regarding the sustainability of current cropping patterns, the role of DSR, and the need to balance national food security with ecological concerns, setting the stage for focused deliberations during the symposium.