Photo Source: Babushahi Bureau
PAU hosts California State University delegation ahead of Kisan Mela, strengthening global agricultural ties
Babushahi Bureau
Ludhiana (Punjab), March 22, 2025: Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana, extended a warm welcome to a delegation from California State University, Fresno (CSU Fresno), ahead of its renowned two-day Kisan Mela—the world’s largest farmer-scientist interface.The visit, facilitated by the Punjabi American Farmers Group, California, and Samagra Unnayan Foundation (SUF), Mohali, highlights growing Indo-US collaboration in agriculture and environmental sustainability.
Led by PAU alumnus and CSU Associate Professor of Pomology Dr. Gureet Brar, along with Dr. Sharon Benes, Professor of Soil Science, the delegation expressed admiration for Punjab’s dynamic agricultural landscape.
Dr. Brar, who is mentoring PAU student Anirudh under a collaborative program at CSU, described his visit as an emotional homecoming. “It’s a privilege to return to my roots and witness this grand celebration of science and farming,” he shared.
PAU Vice-Chancellor Dr. Satbir Singh Gosal welcomed the delegation, emphasizing the importance of global knowledge exchange in advancing sustainable agriculture.
He briefed them on the 390+ exhibition stalls at the Mela, showcasing innovations in farm mechanization, climate-smart agriculture, crop diversification, organic farming, and agro-processing.
“I hope you engage meaningfully with our faculty, students, and progressive farmers, gaining valuable insights into India’s agricultural transformation,” he said.
Dr. Makhan Singh Bhullar, Director of Extension Education, honored the guests with a floral welcome, highlighting the significance of Indo-US cooperation in addressing global agricultural challenges.
The CSU delegation expressed enthusiasm about witnessing the farmer-scientist interface in action and applauded the scale and impact of the Kisan Mela.
As a gesture of goodwill, the delegates presented souvenirs from CSU and showcased packaged agricultural produce such as almonds, dried peaches, pistachios, and trail mix, underscoring the agricultural richness of California’s Central Valley.
Dr. Manjeet Singh, Dean, College of Agricultural Engineering, introduced the visitors to PAU’s latest advancements in agro-engineering and the special agro-industrial exhibition at the Mela, demonstrating cutting-edge technologies for enhanced productivity and sustainability.
Also present was Sunal Roamin, environmentalist and Vice President of SUF, who shared insights into their environmental conservation efforts across Punjab.The CSU delegation will further immerse in Punjab’s grassroots agricultural innovation during a stay at SUF’s Barota Farms camp from March 26-28.
Dr. Vishal Bector, Associate Director (Institutional Linkages), coordinated the visit, ensuring the delegation was well-versed in key highlights of the Mela, including live crop demonstrations, AI applications in agriculture, precision farming tools, value-added food products, and interactions with award-winning progressive farmers.
Despite the soaring temperatures, the delegation was assured that the technological diversity, cultural richness, and spirited energy of the event would leave them inspired by Punjab’s vibrant agricultural heritage.