Punjab Agricultural University Organises Punjab Science Congress

The inauguration ceremony of 21^st Punjab Science Congress took place at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) on February 07, 2018. Member of NITI Aayog, Professor Ramesh Chand inaugurated the event. In 2018, the theme of Punjab Science Congress is ‘Scientific Advances for Inclusive Development and Environmental Protection’. PAU organised science congress in collaboration with Punjab Academy of Sciences, Patiala.

Addressing the gathering at Punjab Science Congress, Professor Ramesh Chand pointed that the quest for improving the quality of life is still prevalent in the society despite materialistic progress. Science plays a premier role in improving the quality of life, and it is the responsibility of the society to reflect and understand the current trend of science, its weaknesses and strengths, he explained.

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Explaining further, Professor Ramesh Chand pointed that India is ahead of China in terms of investment in R & D (Research and Development). While India is spending 34% on R&D, China is spending 23%. However, there is a wide disparity in terms of publications between India and China. India needs to maintain interdisciplinary collaborations to conserve the natural resources and protect the environment. ‘Science makes miracles’, and it will play a vital role in benefitting the farmers, he concluded.

Delivering the Presidential Address, Vice-Chancellor of PAU, Dr. Baldev Singh indicated that disparity persists between urban and rural, agriculture and non-agriculture despite progress in science and technology. There is a need to carry out a detailed analysis of environmental protection and inclusive development. Extensive research, proper utilisation of resources, minimizing duplication and developing networks are necessary to come up with recommendations, he explained.

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Punjab Science Congress witnessed the participation of 900 delegates, agricultural scientists, experts from government and non-government organisations and 200 teachers and students.

During the event, Punjab Academy of Sciences conferred ‘Life Time Achievement Award’ to Adjunct Professor at PAU School of Agriculture Biotechnology, Dr. DS Brar for his outstanding contribution to agriculture.

Image Courtesy: Times of India