National Seminar Of Energy Efficiency Begins At PAU

Ludhiana, November 3, 2015: “Energy conservation is the need of the hour” said Dr Baldev Singh Dhillon, Vice-Chancellor, Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) while inaugurating the two-day national seminar on “Upscaling Energy Efficiency and Sustainable Practices in Agriculture Sector” in the University today. The seminar has been jointly organized by the School of Energy Studies for Agriculture, PAU; PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry; and Petroleum Conservation Research Association (PCRA). Delegates, farm engineers from PAU, and farmers from various parts of Punjab are participating in the seminar.

Dr Dhillon said proper selection of farm machinery, and its appropriate use on custom hiring basis by the farmers can play a key role in efficient use of energy. Highlighting the priority areas of research like conservation agriculture, paddy straw management, etc. he said University aims at reducing the input costs and enhancing the income of the farmers.

The Guest of Honour, Dr B.S. Pathak, former United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Consultant, said, “Energy crops like sugarcane, maize, sweet sorghum, etc. need land, water, fertilizers and can only be grown at the cost of food crops.” Expressing concern over the biomass burning, he said focus on energy conservation, diversification and mechanization is essential. He also highlighted the resources, import, export and availability of now-renewable energy sources.

Mr Nilkanth S. Ahvad, Executive Director, PCRA traced the history of the organization (PCRA) and highlighted its achievements. He suggested that 640 Krishi Vigyan Kendras across the country can contribute to the cost-cutting, income enhancement and energy saving by educating the farmers. “Out of 30 per cent, 15 per cent of energy saving is also good,” he said. Mr Ahvad pointed out that the farm equipment, developed by public sector, is entirely different from the one developed by private sector. He called upon the engineers, students and farmers to contribute collectively to improving engineering.

Earlier, in his welcome remarks, Dr J.S. Mahal, Dean, College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, highlighted the importance of energy resources in agriculture sector. He emphasized on adopting new techniques for using energy efficiently in different farm areas.

Dr Praveen Rathee, Regional Director, PHD Chamber, said, “Agriculture is the backbone of Indian economy. It plays a vital role in national growth as well as employment generation.” Using energy efficiently and preserving it after using in various areas calls for the attention of the farm experts, he observed.

Mr U.S. Ahuja, Chairman, PHD Chamber, Ludhiana Chapter, while proposing the vote of thanks, hoped that the two day deliberations would go a long way in promoting energy efficiency among the farmers.

The technical sessions saw discussions on energy conservation opportunities in farm sector, proper selection and evaluation of farm machinery and equipment, renewable energy technologies in agriculture, and energy efficient farm equipment.