adminOn September 4, 2025, the Ecoclub in collaboration with the Green Chemistry Network Centre Chapter hosted an awareness session for farmers in the University Conference Hall. Over 120 participants — farmers, young agri-entrepreneurs, and agricultural workers — attended the programme, which focused on safe and sustainable farming practices.
Experts Share Practical Solutions
The session featured experts from Syngenta: Dr. Bhanu Manjunath Narayan, R&D Director (Goa), and Mr. Ajay Kumar Singh, Business Manager, Syngenta India Ltd. Drawing on years of field experience, they offered clear guidance on responsible pesticide use, crop protection techniques, and innovations that can help balance productivity with environmental care.
Why This Matters
Pesticides are important for protecting crops, but misuse can damage soil health, harm biodiversity, and lead to pesticide resistance. To address these issues the session aimed to:
- Encourage responsible pesticide use.
- Share safe storage, handling, and disposal practices.
- Promote Integrated Pest Management (IPM) as a sustainable approach.
- Introduce scientific, farmer-friendly innovations for healthier crops and communities.
Key Takeaways
Safe Use: Farmers were advised to use personal protective equipment such as gloves, masks, and protective clothing, and to adopt measures that reduce spray drift and protect nearby water sources.
Correct Dosage: Speakers stressed the importance of following product labels and manufacturer recommendations. Over-application wastes resources and harms crop quality.
Storage & Disposal: Guidance was given to keep pesticides in well-ventilated, locked spaces away from food and water supplies, and to dispose of containers responsibly.
Integrated Pest Management: IPM — combining biological controls and cultural practices with minimal chemical use — was presented as a long-term, cost-effective strategy for pest control.
Connecting to Global Goals
The programme also linked local farming practices to global priorities. Promoting safe pesticide use and IPM advances the UN Sustainable Development Goals, including Good Health & Well-Being (SDG 3), Responsible Consumption (SDG 12), Climate Action (SDG 13), and Life on Land (SDG 15).
A Shared Commitment
Professor Sukhjeet Singh (Director, IQAC) and Dr. Bubun Banerjee (Department of Chemistry), who coordinated the event, underscored Akal University’s commitment to safer, sustainable agriculture. Participants left with practical knowledge and an expressed interest in follow-up training, field demonstrations, and ongoing support. Akal University intends to continue this outreach to support sustainable farming across Punjab and beyond.
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