A field day on “Production of pesticide free Basmati Rice” was organised by Farm Advisory Service Centre (FASC), Tarn Taran on 29.08.2023 at village Bhuchar Kalan, Block Gandiwind, District Tarn Taran. The main objective of the field day was to create awareness among farmers to produce good quality Basmati so that they will get more price in the market. More than 120 farmers participated in the programme.

Dr. Parvinder Singh, Incharge, FASC, Tarn Taran welcomed the farmers and told the activities being carried out by FASC, Tarn Taran. He shared the basmati production scenario of Tarn Taran and the role of FASC, Tarn Taran in production of residue free basmati in the district. He suggested the farmers to adopt recommended varieties which are less prone to insect pests and diseases. He stressed the farmers to produce pesticide free basmati by using judicious use of pesticides.

Dr. Parminder Kaur, District Extension Specialist (Senior Most), FASC, Tarn Taran delivered lecture on identification of insect pests and diseases and their management in Basmati rice. She laid emphasis to adopt proper and timely application of recommended pesticides. She advised the farmers to adopt seed treatment in Basmati rice for the control of foot rot and suggested them to follow IPM practices in Basmati.

Dr. Parminder Singh Sandhu, District Extension Scientist (Agronomy), told the farmers to follow integrated weed management for control of weeds in Basmati. He gave more emphasis on how water saving techniques will be benefitted in the future.

Dr. Savreet Khehra, District Extension Scientist (Fruits) stressed the farmers to grow fruit plants for their own requirement along with field crops. She also advised the farmers for testing of their soils before cultivation of fruit plants. At the end, she extended the vote of thanks to all the participants. PAU literature and mineral mixture etc. was also sold in this programme.