Reflecting the forward-looking vision of Prof. (Dr.) Karamjeet Singh, Vice-Chancellor of Guru Nanak Dev University, a two-day workshop on “Advanced Technological Intervention in Smart Farming” was organised with the objective of connecting farmers with emerging technologies and practical innovations in agriculture. Under the leadership of Prof. (Dr.) Karamjeet Singh, the initiative brought together over 500 farmers, researchers, industry experts and academicians on a common platform to deliberate on technology-driven agricultural solutions.
Prof. (Dr.) Karamjeet Singh emphasised the need for universities to work closely with farming communities and focused on enhancing agricultural productivity, sustainability and farm profitability through Artificial Intelligence (AI), drones, IoT, precision farming and smart irrigation systems. Under RUSA 2.0 (Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan), the Department of Electronics Technology, Guru Nanak Dev University, in collaboration with the Centre for Agricultural Research and Innovation (CARI) and in association with the Agri Live International Trade Association (AITA), organized this workshop with the objective of promoting technology-driven, sustainable, and profitable agricultural practices.
The event has been conceptualized under the guidance of Prof. Pratap Kumar Pati, Coordinator, CARI, whose continuous efforts in fostering interdisciplinary research, innovation, and outreach have significantly strengthened the linkage between academic institutions, industry, and farming communities. The inaugural session was presided over by Prof. (Dr.) Karamjeet Singh, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Patron of the workshop, who formally inaugurated the event and delivered the presidential address.
Addressing the gathering, he emphasized that technological advancements should ultimately serve the welfare of farmers and that universities must work closely with farming communities to provide practical solutions to agricultural challenges. Stressing the philosophy of “Sarbat Da Bhala,” he urged scientists and academicians to ensure that research and innovation contribute to the collective prosperity of society.
Sh. Kahan Singh Pannu (Retd. IAS), Chief Guest of the programme, delivered the keynote address and highlighted the importance of technology in increasing both agricultural productivity and farmers’ income, particularly for small and marginal farmers. He expressed concern over the rapidly depleting groundwater resources and advocated the adoption of modern technologies such as drones, Artificial Intelligence, and precision agriculture for the judicious use of water and the conservation of soil health.
He further emphasized that the gap between farmers and university scientists must be bridged to ensure the successful implementation of technological interventions in agriculture. Introducing the theme of the workshop, Prof. Ravinder Singh Sawhney emphasized the growing importance of IoT, AI, drone technology, remote sensing, and image processing in shaping the future of smart agriculture.
Dr. Jaipreet Kaur, Assistant Professor, Department of Electronics Technology and Deputy Coordinator of the event, welcomed the dignitaries and participants. Prof. (Dr.) Ravinder Kumar, Department of Electronics Technology and Professor In-charge, Public Relations appreciated the efforts being undertaken to connect technological innovation with grassroots agricultural development.
The session was also attended by Sh. Sarabjit Singh Bal, Chairman, Zila Parishad, and S. Bhagwant Singh Sialka, Member, SGPC, Amritsar. Dr. Rajdeep Singh Sohal, Coordinator of the workshop, proposed the vote of thanks and expressed gratitude to all distinguished guests, experts, participants, collaborating organizations, and stakeholders for their valuable support in making the event successful.