Punjab's Agricultural Champions: GADVASU Unveils CM Award Winners

Ludhiana is buzzing with excitement as the prestigious Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (GADVASU) has officially unveiled the names of two remarkable farmers selected for the coveted Chief Minister's Award. This esteemed recognition celebrates individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to agriculture and animal husbandry, pushing the boundaries of traditional farming practices in Punjab.

The distinguished recipients, Sukhwinder Singh and Gurdial Singh, stand as beacons of innovation and dedication in their respective fields.

Their success stories not only highlight personal triumphs but also serve as powerful inspirations for the wider farming community, demonstrating the immense potential within integrated and dairy farming.

Sukhwinder Singh, a dynamic 48-year-old from Dhaul Kalan village in Gurdaspur, has been lauded for his pioneering spirit in integrated farming.

His approach is a harmonious blend of various agricultural activities, creating a sustainable and highly productive ecosystem. Starting with a modest two crossbred cows, Sukhwinder has meticulously grown his dairy operation to an impressive 14 cows, yielding a substantial 150 litres of milk daily. But his vision extends far beyond dairy; his farm is a diverse hub featuring 65 goats, 10 thriving fish ponds, and extensive cultivation of Basmati rice, wheat, maize, and a variety of fruits and vegetables.

Beyond his own farm, Sukhwinder passionately shares his knowledge, actively training and guiding fellow farmers towards similar integrated success.

Equally commendable is the journey of Gurdial Singh, a 65-year-old seasoned farmer from Bassi Pawan village in Bathinda, who has been celebrated for his exceptional achievements in dairy farming.

Gurdial's dedication transformed his humble beginnings with two cows into a robust operation boasting 30 high-yielding crossbred cows, producing an impressive 300 litres of milk every single day. His farm is a testament to modern agricultural efficiency, where he also expertly cultivates essential crops like wheat, paddy, and mustard, leveraging advanced farm machinery to optimize his yields and operations.

The Chief Minister's Award is not merely an honour; it is a recognition of unwavering commitment, progressive thinking, and entrepreneurial prowess.

Farmers are chosen for their outstanding contributions across various sectors, including dairy, pig, goat, fisheries, poultry farming, and especially integrated farming models. These awardees are seen as vital role models, providing invaluable technical guidance and inspiration to their peers. The selection criteria emphasize modern techniques, sustainable practices, and the ability to significantly impact the agricultural landscape.

Dr.

Inderjeet Singh, Vice-Chancellor of GADVASU, and Dr. Parkash Singh Brar, Director of Extension Education, highlighted the significance of these awards in motivating farmers to adopt innovative and sustainable practices. They underscored that the awardees embody the spirit of progress and serve as living examples of how dedication and smart farming can lead to remarkable success.

Both Sukhwinder Singh and Gurdial Singh will be formally felicitated and presented with their prestigious awards on March 22.

The ceremony will take place during the much-anticipated Pashu Palan Mela, an annual event hosted by GADVASU, which draws farmers and enthusiasts from across the region to celebrate advancements in animal husbandry and agriculture. This event promises to be a fitting tribute to their hard work and a source of inspiration for countless others.