Yale Delegation Explores Agricultural Advancements at PAU
Ludhiana, March 15, 2024 (Amrik Singh Prince)
Professor Anthony Acciavatti, accompanied by thirteen graduate students from Yale University, USA, engaged in discussions with Dr. Satbir Singh Gosal, Vice-Chancellor of Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, and university officials. Prof. Acciavatti, an architect and historian of science and technology, leads a course titled “The History of Agriculture and Green Revolution” at Yale. He arranged for his students to interact with PAU administration and students, as well as visit agricultural field areas, museums, Kisan Mela, etc.
Dilating upon PAU’s three-pronged approach of research, teaching and extension, Dr. S.S. Gosal emphasized its association with the ‘Green Revolution.’ He explained that the university is renowned for pioneering protective and processing technologies coupled with innovative technology transfer mechanisms. Dr. Gosal emphasized PAU’s commitment to addressing productivity enhancement and environmental concerns. He outlined the institution’s focus on climate-resilient technologies, genome editing, trait-specific crop development, speed breeding, molecular breeding, biotic stress forewarning systems, sustainability, soil health management, Artificial Intelligence, IoT-based technologies, etc. Addressing nutritional deficiencies through trait-specific varieties is a key priority, he revealed.
Dr. Rishi Pal Singh (IAS), the Registrar of Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), provided a detailed overview to the visiting foreign delegation regarding the university’s exceptional research capabilities, which are on par with the finest institutions globally. He emphasized the crucial role of disseminating accurate information and advisories to farmers, a responsibility that the university executes proficiently. Dr. Singh reiterated that in today’s digital era, access to relevant information and content is paramount. He emphasized that staying updated with the latest advancements in agricultural technology is essential for catalyzing the agricultural sector’s growth in the state.
Professor Acciavatti reflected on the profound impact of the Green Revolution, noting its transformative effects on agrarian landscapes and rhythms. Regarding Yale’s infrastructure, particularly classrooms, Prof. Acciavatti explained that lecture halls vary in size based on the intended discipline of use. They typically include projectors, lecterns, stages, and seating, with specialized facilities such as mock surgery setups for medical streams. In terms of collaboration, he mentioned Yale’s interest in fostering cross-border mobility between Yale and PAU through student and faculty exchanges.
The visitors expressed their admiration for various aspects of India during their interaction. They highlighted the unique Indian cuisine, diverse landscapes, rich cultures, urban design, green spaces, stepwells, Nek Chand’s Rock Garden, vibrant colours in architecture, and the warm hospitality of the people as some of the attractions that draw them to the country.
Dr. Vishal Bector, Associate Director (Institution Relations) at PAU, warmly welcomed the guests and effectively managed the interaction. Dr. Jagdeep Sandhu, Coordinator of the Internal Quality Assurance Cell, was also in attendance during the event.
