PAU-BITS Pilani tie up to marry agri with tech

Ludhiana: Punjab Agricultural University recently tied up with BITS-Pilani for collaborative ventures in precision agriculture, data analytics, internet of things (IoT), geospatial science, and joint research and training programmes, heralding a new era of interdisciplinary excellence.
PAU vice-chancellor Satbir Singh Gosal said, "While the university had been collaborating with other agricultural universities and institutes, it has now signed an MoU with BITS-Pilani for advancements in technology. Technology and innovation will drive the next wave of agriculture. This collaboration is expected to facilitate the integration of cutting-edge tools viz., AI, drones, IoT sensors, robotics, spectroscopy, and GIS, into various facets of agriculture.
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He emphasised PAU's continued pursuit of partnerships that convert research into scalable, field-level solutions to benefit farmers and industry stakeholders. He said, "The next phase of development in agriculture can be driven through technology. Such technologies are also expected to reduce the use of water. For example, sensors can tell information if the optimum level of moisture has reached and it can automatically shut down water release, which would save water.
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Citing another example, he said, "Technologies such as machine-driven sowing of paddy can bring about transformative changes. Sensors and robots can now detect yellowing of plants, indicating lack of nitrogen, enabling the spraying of it on the exact spot and in exact measure, preventing excessive use. This will also save cost and increase yield."
Ajmer Singh Dhatt, director of research (PAU), spoke about the university's leading role in agricultural innovation. He cited its monumental contributions to crop breeding, nutrient and water use efficiency, conservation agriculture, and its pivotal role in the Green Revolution. This strategic tie-up would infuse PAU's research ecosystem with the latest technological insights, he said.
Manjeet Singh, dean, College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, said, "The agreement aims to build long-term institutional synergies to address the emerging challenges in agriculture in India."

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