22 January 2024, Punjab: Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) played host to a distinguished African delegation led by Mr. Saidi Mkomwa, CEO of ACT Network, Kenya, to delve into the realms of scale-appropriate farm mechanization on January 20, 2024. The focal point of the discussions was the exploration of collaborative opportunities between the African delegates and PAU scientists, aiming at comprehensive training in mechanized agriculture to uplift farming systems across Africa.
Mr Mkomwa underscored the potential for intensive training programs in Kenya with the support of the Indian government, citing India’s prowess as a manufacturing giant of tractors and farm machinery.
Highlighting the parallels between agricultural challenges in India and Africa, Dr HS Sidhu, in his presentation on regenerative agriculture, expounded on the farm machinery developed by PAU and the breakthroughs achieved.
Mr David Moore, CEO of Regenerator, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the need to align solutions for agricultural problems in both countries.
PAU Vice-Chancellor Dr Satbir Singh Gosal showcased the university’s rich legacy as a premier Indian agricultural institute, detailing multiple collaborations with top foreign universities on all continents. Dr Gosal further stressed PAU’s commitment to fostering international collaborations and its role as a catalyst for innovative solutions in global agriculture.
Dr Ajmer Singh Dhatt, PAU Director of Research, delved into the ongoing research areas, addressing existing and emerging problems in agriculture to find viable solutions.
Dr Manjeet Singh, Dean of the College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology underscored the institution’s commitment to conservation and sustainability-focused research on various agricultural machines and technologies, mainly on post-harvest product processing operations.
Dr MK Narang delivered the vote of thanks, marking a significant step towards fostering mutually beneficial ties in agricultural advancement. The delegation, including Indian scientists from Uganda and ICRISAT also participated in the discussion. Dr Vishal Bector coordinated the event.
