Punjab Agricultural University's (PAU) two-day Kisan Mela with the theme of 'Kheti Melain De Rang, Sudhre Beej, Machinery, Kitaban De Sang', is aimed at urging farmers to use improved seeds, make optimal use of farm machinery and read farm literature for technical guidance.

In his inaugural address, the chief guest, PAU vice-chancellor Baldev Singh Dhillon, appealed to farmers to not make use non-recommended cotton varieties and pesticides. Agro-chemicals should be used in the right amount and at the right time and right place, he advised. Expressing concern over water issues and changing climate, he urged farmers to diversify by growing alternate crops like maize, fruits, and vegetables.

The guest of honour, Counsel General of Canada in Chandigarh, Christopher Gibbins said that out of 12 lakh Indo-Canadians, 7 lakh are from Punjab and they are making immense contribution to Canadian agriculture. Gibbins added that they would like to expand their research programmes by venturing jointly with Punjab in dairy and fishery sectors, food-processing, farm mechanisation and climate change.