Ludhiana: Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) has signed an agreement with a local firm to license its protection kit for stored pulses. Dr Ajmer Singh Dhatt, director of research, PAU, and Rajan Goel from the firm signed the memorandum on behalf of their organisations.The kit offers an eco-friendly and scientific method to safeguard stored pulses from pests in retail packets and containers. Developed by a team of scientists, including Dr Manpreet Kaur Saini, Dr MS Alam, Dr Surekha Bhatia, and Dr Anjali Sidhu, the technology creates an environment unfavourable for insects without compromising grain quality.“This technology is a safe and cost-effective solution for farmers and traders to reduce post-harvest losses,” said Dr Saini, entomologist (storage). She added that the kit is easy to use, requires minimal technical skill, and leaves no chemical residues.The kit was developed under the AICRP on Post-harvest Engineering and Technology Scheme. Dr Khushdeep Dharni, associate director of the technology marketing and IPR cell, stated that the innovation would enhance storage life and profitability for small stakeholders. “PAU is focusing on disseminating lab outcomes to the masses through commercialisation,” he said.
