Sri Guru Granth Sahib World University Hosts Seminar on Millets

 

The Department of Agriculture at Sri Guru Granth Sahib World University, Fatehgarh Sahib, organized a One-Day National Seminar on “Millets: Nature’s Functional Superfood in collaboration with Kheti Virasat Mission (KVM). The seminar aimed to promote awareness about the nutritional, environmental and economic benefits of millets, often referred to as “smart foods” due to their climate resilience and health benefits. The event was presided over by the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Prit Pal Singh, who emphasized the importance of reviving traditional crops like millets in the context of climate change and food security. Dean Academic Affairs, Prof. Sukhwinder Singh Billing addressed the gathering, highlighting need of the sustainable agriculture in Punjab. The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Ruchika Bhardwaj, Millet Breeder from the Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, PAU Ludhiana, who shared in-depth insights into recent advancements in millet breeding and the role of millets in ensuring nutritional security. Other notable participants included Dietician Kamal Bajwa from Patiala who discussed the nutritional advantages of incorporating millets in daily diets and Sardar Gurmukh Singh, popularly known as the “Kodra Farmer” of Batala who shared his personal journey of millet cultivation and sustainable farming practices.

Adding a culinary perspective,  Sandeep Kaur from Gurdaspur conducted a live demonstration on millet-based cooking, showcasing simple and healthy millet recipes. Sarbjeet Kaur from Jaitu displayed a stall exhibit featuring value-added millet products, drawing attention from both students and faculty.

An Essay Writing Competition was held to engage students. The event concluded with remarks by Dr. Jaspreet Kaur Dhillon, In-Charge, Department of Agriculture and was marked by enthusiastic participation from faculty and students.