Emphasizing the need to strengthen the agricultural extension system in Punjab, S. Gurmeet Singh Khuddian, Hon’ble Agriculture Minister, Punjab, said that the latest scientific technologies must be effectively communicated to farmers to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability. He highlighted that agricultural input dealers, being the first point of contact for farmers, have a crucial role to play in disseminating scientific knowledge and promoting the adoption of improved agricultural practices.
The Minister was addressing the gathering as Chief Guest at the inauguration of the one-year Diploma in Agricultural Extension Services for Input Dealers (DAESI) and the valedictory function of the Certificate Course in Integrated Nutrient Management (CCINM), organized by the Punjab Agricultural Management & Extension Training Institute (PAMETI) at the PAU Campus, Ludhiana, on 7 July 2026.
He congratulated the newly enrolled DAESI participants and the successful trainees of the Certificate Course in Integrated Nutrient Management.While appreciating PAMETI’s efforts in strengthening the extension system through quality training programmes, he emphasized that continuous capacity building of agricultural input dealers and extension personnel is essential for promoting scientific and sustainable farming practices.
Earlier, Dr. K B Singh, Director, PAMETI, welcomed the Hon’ble Agriculture Minister, distinguished guests, faculty members, officials, and participants. In his welcome address, Dr. Singh stated that the DAESI programme is a significant initiative aimed at enhancing the technical knowledge and advisory skills of input dealers. He also congratulated the participants of the CCINM and expressed hope that the knowledge gained during their training would contribute to judicious use of nutrients.
The programme concluded with an interactive session, during which the participants shared their experiences and expressed their appreciation for the practical and knowledge-oriented training imparted by the experts.On the occasion, certificates were awarded to the successful participants of the Certificate Course in Integrated Nutrient Management (CCINM), while the newly admitted DAESI participants were encouraged to make the best use of the one-year diploma programme to enhance their professional competence and advisory skills.
The formal proceedings concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by the organizers.