Punjab Agriculture Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian on Monday initiated the construction of a bio-fertilizer testing laboratory at Kheti Bhawan in Phase-6, Mohali. The estimated cost for this project is around Rs 2.5 crore.
During the ceremony, Minister Khudian highlighted the commendable decisions taken by the Punjab Government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, for the welfare of farmers. As part of this initiative, the government has decided to establish three bio-fertilizer testing laboratories in the state, with the first laboratory already underway in Gurdaspur and a similar one planned for Bathinda.
Minister Khudian emphasized the significance of having in-state laboratories for testing bio-fertilizers. Previously, the state had to send samples to laboratories in other states to verify the quality of bio-fertilizers, leading to delays in preventing the sale of substandard products. The establishment of these laboratories within Punjab aims to provide farmers with high-quality bio-fertilizers, promoting poison-free agriculture.
Regarding the new agricultural policy in development, Minister Khudian acknowledged that its implementation might take some time. However, he assured that efforts are being made to ensure the policy is robust and devoid of loopholes that could adversely affect farmers.
Dr. Jaswant Singh, Director of the Agriculture Department, outlined the benefits of the laboratory for farmers, emphasizing its role in improving the quality of bio-fertilizers and supporting poison-free agriculture.
Dr. Gurmail Singh, District Chief Agriculture Officer, expressed gratitude to all involved personalities, including the Cabinet Minister, and assured efficient management of the laboratory. The event saw the presence of various dignitaries, including District Planning Committee Chairperson Prabhjot Kaur, Dipankar Garg, S.D. M. Mohali, Dr. Rajesh Kumar Raheja, Cane Commissioner Punjab, and other officials from the Agriculture Department.