Punjab Agricultural University holds daylong brain storming session on potential of wine production in Punjab!

Ludhiana, July 21, 2016: The Punjab Agricultural University held a one day brain storming session on the potential of wine production in Punjab. Besides PAU experts led by Director of Research, Dr R.K. Gumber, the invitees included Dr SD Sawant, Director NRC grapes, Pune, Dr Ajay Sharma, Principal scientist NRC grapes and Dr Neeraj Aggrawal, Vice President, Sula vineyards, Maharashtra from outside Punjab, Veer Partap Rana, Director, Rana Sugar Mills, NP Singh, CEO, Innovative herbal distillers Ltd, Chef Hitesh Arora, Kipps Restaurant, Ludhiana were among the entrepreneurs who attended the session. Four progressive farmers involved in grape cultivation represented the farming community.
Dr MIS Gill, Head, Department of Fruit Science and Dr GS Kocher, Senior Microbiologist made presentations highlighting research on status of grape cultivation, evaluation of local wine varieties and wine production in PAU. Dr SD Sawant appreciated the good work being carried out in PAU especially on evaluation of local varieties for wine production and for initiation of work on protected cultivation in grapes.
The house was of the opinion that protected cultivation of grapes holds good potential in the state. The queries of farmers as well as entrepreneurs were answered by Dr Sawant, Dr Neeraj Aggrawal as well as PAU experts. A keen interest was shown equally by the grape growers and distillers. It was felt that if buy back guarantee mechanism is developed in the state, especially by processing industry, there is immense scope for expansion of area under fruit crops especially grapes. A wine tasting session was also held to get feedback on the red wine prepared by PAU scientists. The session ended with vote of thanks from Dr RS Sidhu, Director of Extension, PAU.