Dr. Tejinder Singh Riar assumes charge as PAU Director of Students’ Welfare
Babushahi Bureau
Ludhiana (Punjab), November 14, 2026: Dr Tejinder Singh Riar assumed charge as Director of Students’ Welfare today. His appointment was approved by the PAU Board of Management at a meeting chaired by Vice-Chancellor Dr Harvinder Singh Dhaliwal.
With over six years of service as Additional Director, Communication Centre, Dr Riar has played a significant role in strengthening the University’s extension outreach and facilitating the dissemination of agricultural knowledge and technologies among the farming community. He previously served as Associate Director (Skill Development) and was also entrusted with the additional responsibility of Estate Officer in August 2026.
Dr Riar has made notable contributions to promoting agripreneurial skills and capacity-building initiatives among farmers across Punjab and other parts of northern India. His academic experience encompasses teaching undergraduate and postgraduate courses, including extension training, extension administration, communication processes and the philosophy of extension education.
An accomplished academician and extension specialist, Dr Riar has authored 40 research papers, 18 books, 42 bulletins and 150 extension articles. His research has primarily focused on enhancing the effectiveness of farmers’ groups and institutions through organised training programmes and capacity-building interventions.
A prominent voice in agricultural communication, he has been instrumental in connecting farmers with practical and scientific information through television and radio programmes, having conducted more than 1,700 television and radio interactions. He has also organised over 1,200 training programmes for farmers, farm women, rural youth, extension personnel and agricultural professionals, facilitating their exposure to emerging agricultural technologies and improved farming practices.
Dr Riar has been closely associated with the functioning and coordination of several farmer organisations, including the PAU Kisan Club, Beekeepers’ Association, PAU Seed and Nursery Producers’ Club, PAU Tree Growers’ Association, PAU Flower Growers’ Club, PAU Soybean Growers’ Club, Crop Residue Management Association and PAU Organic Farming Club. He also serves as In-charge of Kairon Kisan Ghar.
Beyond his academic and extension accomplishments, Dr Riar is a former national-level basketball player and a recipient of the prestigious PAU University Colour. His sporting background is expected to bring valuable experience and perspective to the promotion of sports and the nurturing of emerging sporting talent at the University.
Congratulating Dr Riar on his appointment, Vice-Chancellor Dr Harvinder Singh Dhaliwal expressed confidence that, under his leadership, the Directorate of Students’ Welfare would further strengthen its efforts to foster a positive, supportive and enriching campus environment. He hoped that the Directorate would scale new heights in sports, cultural pursuits and other co-curricular activities, contributing to the holistic development of students.
Expressing gratitude to the Vice-Chancellor for reposing confidence in him, Dr Riar reaffirmed his commitment to working tirelessly for student welfare and further strengthening the University’s progressive traditions. He emphasised that his foremost priority would be to create a warm, welcoming and homely atmosphere for students, both in the hostels and across the University campus, ensuring that they feel supported and encouraged throughout their academic journey.