On the onset of STC Local course coordinator, Dr. Mithlesh Sharma and Course Coordinator Dr. Poonam Syal welcomed all the participant in one week Short Term course on Unnat Bharat Abhiyaan (UBA) and Role of Technical Institutions. It was told that UBA is a flagship program of the Ministry of Education, Government of India, aimed at bringing transformational change in rural India by bridging the gap between the academic world and rural communities. The program intends to create a framework for the development of rural areas, which is aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations.
A short-term course on Unnat Bharat Abhiyaan is designed to create awareness and provide hands-on training to students, faculty members, and other stakeholders about the UBA program. The course duration can vary from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the level of detail and the scope of the program.
The short-term course on Unnat Bharat Abhiyaan covers the following topics:
DAY/DATE | Session - I 10 AM to 11.30 AM | Session - II 11.30 AM to 1 PM | Session - III 2.30 PM to 4 PM |
Monday 17/04/2023 | Unnat Bharat Abhiyan – An Overview (Prof. Poonam Syal) | Construction Technologies for Sustainable Rural Development (Dr. Amit Goyal) | Renewable Energy based Technologies and Schemes of PEDA (Er. Money Khanna, Manager, PEDA) |
Tuesday 18/04/2023 | Opportunities in Agri and Rural Entrepreneurship (Dr. HK Vinayak) | Organic Farming for Sustainable agriculture (Dr. Amandeep Singh Sidhu, Agronomist, PAU, Ludhiana) | Soil and Water Conservation Techniques (Dr. OPS Khola, Principal ScientistICAR- IISWCRC) |
Wednesday 19/04/2023 | Water Resource Management (Dr. Rakesh Sharda, Principal Scientist, College of Engg. & Technology, Ludhiana) | Fish Culture Practices and Schemes for Fisheries (Ms. Shubhwant Kaur,Sr. Fisheries Officer, Punjab) | NABARD Schemes for Farm and Off Farm Sector (Expert from NABARD, Chandigarh) |
Thursday 20/04/2023 | Biomass utilisation Technologies (Prof. Poonam Syal) | Agroforestry for Economic Rural Development (Dr. Rishi Singh Gill,Principal Scientist, Agroforestry, PAU, Ludhiana) | Soil Health Analysis and Management (Dr. S Pal, Sr. Scientist, ICAR- IISWCRC) |
Friday 21/04/2023 | Internet of Things and its Applications for Rural Development (Dr. Garima Saini) | Millets for Environment Sustainability (Prof. Poonam Syal) | Course Feedback and Valediction (Prof. Poonam Syal) |
Overview of the various sessions are as follows:
Day-1
Session-1 Unnat Bharat Abhiyan – An Overview- (Prof. Poonam Syal)
Introduction to Unnat Bharat Abhiyaan: The course begins with an overview of the UBA program and its objectives. The participants are introduced to the concept of rural development and the role of academia in addressing rural issues.
Session-2 Construction Technologies for Sustainable Rural Development-(Dr. Amit Goyal)
Construction Technologies for Sustainable Rural Development: Safe, and comfortable housing, infrastructure, and facilities. Here are some construction technologies that can contribute to sustainable rural development:
a. Earth construction: Earth construction is a sustainable and cost-effective construction technology that involves using locally available soil to build structures. Earth construction techniques, such as compressed stabilized earth blocks (CSEB) and rammed earth, provide thermal insulation, moisture control, and acoustic properties that are suitable for rural environments.
b. Bamboo construction: Bamboo is a versatile, renewable, and eco-friendly construction material that has been used for centuries in rural areas. Bamboo structures are lightweight, flexible, and earthquake-resistant, making them ideal for rural areas prone to natural disasters.
c. Green roofs: Green roofs are a sustainable construction technology that involves covering roofs with vegetation. Green roofs provide insulation, absorb rainwater, reduce heat island effects, and enhance biodiversity in rural areas.
d. Rainwater harvesting: Rainwater harvesting is a sustainable construction technology that involves capturing and storing rainwater for domestic and agricultural use. Rainwater harvesting can reduce water scarcity, improve water quality, and promote sustainable agriculture in rural areas.
e. Solar power: Solar power is a sustainable energy technology that can provide electricity to rural areas that are not connected to the grid. Solar panels can be used to power homes, schools, health clinics, and community centers in rural areas.
In conclusion, sustainable construction technologies play a vital role in promoting sustainable rural development. These technologies can provide affordable, durable, and eco-friendly housing, infrastructure, and facilities that improve the quality of life in rural areas. By promoting sustainable construction technologies, we can create sustainable and resilient rural communities that are prepared to face the challenges of the future.
Session -3 Renewable Energy based Technologies and Schemes of PEDA (Er. Money Khanna, Manager, PEDA)
The Punjab Energy Development Agency (PEDA) is a government agency responsible for promoting renewable energy and energy conservation in the state of Punjab, India. PEDA offers various schemes and programs to promote renewable energy-based technologies. Here are some of the renewable energy-based technologies and schemes offered by PEDA:
1. Solar power: PEDA offers various schemes to promote solar power in Punjab, such as the Grid-Connected Rooftop Solar Power Plant scheme, Solar Water Heating System scheme, and Solar Street Light scheme. These schemes encourage the use of solar power for electricity generation, water heating, and lighting in residential, commercial, and industrial sectors.
2. Biomass power: PEDA promotes biomass power generation through various schemes, such as the Biomass Gasifier scheme and the Biomass Power Plant scheme. These schemes encourage the use of agricultural waste, forestry residues, and municipal solid waste for electricity generation in rural and urban areas.
3. Wind power: PEDA promotes wind power generation through the Wind Energy Program, which offers financial incentives and technical assistance to wind power projects in Punjab.
4. Energy conservation: PEDA offers various energy conservation schemes, such as the Energy Conservation Building Code scheme and the Energy Efficient Street Lighting scheme. These schemes encourage the adoption of energy-efficient technologies and practices in buildings and public lighting systems.
5. Energy auditing: PEDA offers energy auditing services to industries, commercial establishments, and government buildings to identify energy-saving opportunities and promote energy conservation.
In conclusion, PEDA offers various schemes and programs to promote renewable energy-based technologies in Punjab. These schemes encourage the adoption of solar, biomass, wind power, and energy-efficient technologies and practices to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve energy security, and promote sustainable development.
Day-2
Session-1 Opportunities in Agri and Rural Entrepreneurship (Dr. HK Vinayak)
Opportunities in Agri and Rural Entrepreneurship: Agri and rural entrepreneurship offer numerous opportunities for individuals and communities to create sustainable livelihoods and promote rural development. Here are some opportunities in agri and rural entrepreneurship:
a. Organic farming: Organic farming is a growing sector in agriculture that offers opportunities for entrepreneurs to produce and market organic fruits, vegetables, and other crops. Organic farming is a sustainable and eco-friendly practice that can improve soil health, reduce water pollution, and provide healthier food options for consumers.
b. Agro-processing: Agro-processing involves transforming raw agricultural products into value-added products such as juice, jams, pickles, and dairy products. Agro-processing can increase the value of agricultural products and create employment opportunities in rural areas.
c. Livestock farming: Livestock farming, including dairy and poultry farming, can provide a sustainable livelihood for entrepreneurs in rural areas. Livestock farming can also provide a source of protein and other essential nutrients for local communities.
d. Rural tourism: Rural tourism is a growing sector that offers opportunities for entrepreneurs to develop and promote tourism in rural areas. Rural tourism can showcase the unique culture, heritage, and natural beauty of rural communities, creating employment opportunities for local residents.
e. E-commerce: E-commerce platforms provide opportunities for agri and rural entrepreneurs to reach new markets and customers. Online marketplaces can connect farmers and artisans with consumers, creating new opportunities for rural entrepreneurship.
f. Renewable energy: Renewable energy technologies, such as solar, wind, and biomass, offer opportunities for agri and rural entrepreneurs to generate income while promoting sustainable energy. Renewable energy can provide power to rural communities, creating new employment opportunities and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
In conclusion, agri and rural entrepreneurship offer numerous opportunities for sustainable livelihoods and rural development. By leveraging these opportunities, entrepreneurs can create new businesses, generate employment, and contribute to the growth and prosperity of rural communities.
Session -2 Organic Farming for Sustainable agriculture (Dr. Amandeep Singh Sidhu, Agronomist, PAU, Ludhiana)
Organic farming is a sustainable agricultural practice that emphasizes the use of natural and nvironmentally-friendly techniques to grow crops and raise livestock. Organic farming is based on the principles of ecological balance, soil health, and biodiversity, and it aims to produce healthy food while minimizing the environmental impact of agriculture. Here are some of the benefits of organic farming for sustainable agriculture:
a. Environmental sustainability: Organic farming practices promote biodiversity and ecological balance by avoiding the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and genetically modified organisms. Organic farmers use natural methods such as crop rotation, composting, and biological pest control to maintain soil health and minimize environmental pollution.
b. Health benefits: Organic farming produces crops that are free from harmful chemical residues, and it promotes the use of organic food that is free from synthetic chemicals and pesticides. Organic farming can improve human health by reducing exposure to harmful chemicals and promoting the consumption of healthy, nutrient-rich food.
c. Economic sustainability: Organic farming provides economic benefits to farmers by reducing their dependence on expensive chemical inputs and promoting the use of local resources. Organic farming can also provide opportunities for small farmers to enter into niche markets and obtain higher prices for their products.
d. Soil health: Organic farming practices focus on soil health, which is critical for sustainable agriculture. Healthy soil can improve crop yields, reduce erosion and runoff, and sequester carbon from the atmosphere.
e. Climate change: Organic farming can help mitigate climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture. Organic farming practices such as crop rotation, intercropping, and cover cropping can increase
The course includes a field visit to a rural area, where participants get an opportunity to interact with the local community and understand the ground-level challenges faced by them. The participants are encouraged to identify the potential areas of intervention and develop action plans.
Session -3 Soil and Water Conservation Techniques (Dr. OPS Khola, Principal Scientist ICAR-IISWCRC)
Soil and water conservation techniques are methods used to prevent soil erosion and promote the efficient use of water in agriculture, forestry, and other land-use practices. These techniques aim to reduce the negative impacts of human activities on the environment and maintain the sustainability of natural resources. Here are some of the most common soil and water conservation techniques:
a. Contour farming: This involves plowing and planting along the contour lines of the land to prevent water runoff and soil erosion.
b. Terracing: This technique involves building stepped embankments along slopes to reduce soil erosion and improve water retention.
c. Crop rotation: This involves rotating crops on a given piece of land over time to help maintain soil fertility and reduce soil erosion.
d. Cover cropping: This involves planting cover crops to protect the soil from erosion, add organic matter to the soil, and improve soil health.
e. Conservation tillage: This technique involves minimal tillage of the soil to reduce soil disturbance and promote soil conservation.
f. Mulching: This involves covering the soil with organic materials such as straw, leaves, or compost to reduce water evaporation and soil erosion.
g. Water harvesting: This involves collecting and storing water during the rainy season for later use in the dry season.
h. Drip irrigation: This involves applying water directly to the plant roots using a system of pipes and drip emitters, reducing water loss through evaporation and runoff.
i. Riparian buffer zones: This involves planting vegetation along the banks of streams and rivers to reduce soil erosion and filter pollutants from runoff.
j. Agroforestry: This involves integrating trees into agricultural systems to improve soil fertility, reduce erosion, and provide shade and windbreaks.
By adopting these techniques, farmers and landowners can reduce soil erosion, conserve water, improve soil health, and promote sustainable land use practices.
Day-3 Session -1 Water Resource Management (Dr. Rakesh Sharda, Principal Scientist, College of Engg. & Technology, Ludhiana)
Water resource management refers to the planning, development, allocation, and conservation of water resources for various uses such as agriculture, industry, domestic, and environmental purposes. It involves the implementation of policies, regulations, and strategies to ensure the sustainable use of water resources and the protection of water quality. Here are some key aspects of water resource management:
a. Water supply: Managing water supply involves ensuring that adequate amounts of water are available for various uses, such as domestic, industrial, and agricultural uses.
b. Water conservation: This involves reducing water use through efficient water management practices, such as fixing leaks, using low-flow fixtures, and implementing water-efficient technologies.
c. Water quality: Managing water quality involves protecting and maintaining the quality of water resources, including preventing pollution and treating contaminated water.
d. Water allocation: Allocating water involves determining how water resources will be used and distributed among various stakeholders, such as farmers, industries, and households.
e. Water pricing: Pricing water involves setting prices for water use, which can encourage efficient use and conservation.
f. Water infrastructure: Building and maintaining water infrastructure, such as dams, pipelines, and treatment facilities, is essential for managing and distributing water resources.
g. Stakeholder engagement: Engaging with stakeholders, including communities, industries, and government agencies, is important for developing and implementing effective water management strategies.
h. Climate change adaptation: Adapting to the impacts of climate change on water resources, such as changes in rainfall patterns and sea level rise, is critical for ensuring the long-term sustainability of water resources.
Effective water resource management requires collaboration among various stakeholders and the integration of multiple approaches, such as conservation, infrastructure development, and stakeholder engagement, to ensure the sustainable use and protection of water resources.
Session -2 Fish Culture Practices and Schemes for Fisheries (Ms. Shubhwant Kaur, Sr. Fisheries Officer, Punjab)
Fish culture practices and schemes for fisheries in Punjab, India include:
a. Integrated Fish Farming: This involves the integration of fish farming with other agricultural practices such as dairy farming, poultry farming, and horticulture. This helps to maximize the use of resources and increase the overall productivity of the farm.
b. Composite Fish Culture: This involves the culture of multiple fish species in the same pond or tank. This helps to increase the overall productivity of the pond and reduce the risk of disease outbreaks.
c. Cage Culture: This involves the culture of fish in cages suspended in open water bodies such as reservoirs, lakes, and rivers. This method is ideal for areas where land is limited or unsuitable for pond culture.
d. Recirculatory Aquaculture System (RAS): This involves the use of a closed system for fish culture where water is continuously recycled and treated for reuse. This method is ideal for areas with limited water resources or high environmental regulations.
e. Fish Seed Production: The government of Punjab also provides schemes for fish seed production to encourage farmers to produce their own fish seed instead of relying on external sources. This helps to reduce the cost of production and increase the profitability of fish farming.
f. National Fish Development Board (NFDB): The NFDB provides financial assistance to fish farmers in Punjab for various activities such as the construction of ponds, installation of aerators, and purchase of fish seed and feed.
Overall, these fish culture practices and schemes for fisheries in Punjab aim to increase the productivity and profitability of fish farming while promoting sustainable and environmentally friendly practices.
Session -3 NABARD Schemes for Farm and Off Farm Sector (Expert from NABARD, Chandigarh)
Organic farming is a sustainable agricultural practice that emphasizes the use of natural and environmentally-friendly techniques to grow crops and raise livestock. Organic farming is based on the principles of ecological balance, soil health, and biodiversity, and it aims to produce healthy food while minimizing the environmental impact of agriculture. Here are some of the benefits of organic farming for sustainable agriculture:
1. Environmental sustainability: Organic farming practices promote biodiversity and ecological balance by avoiding the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and genetically modified organisms. Organic farmers use natural methods such as crop rotation, composting, and biological pest control to maintain soil health and minimize environmental pollution.
2. Health benefits: Organic farming produces crops that are free from harmful chemical residues, and it promotes the use of organic food that is free from synthetic chemicals and pesticides. Organic farming can improve human health by reducing exposure to harmful chemicals and promoting the consumption of healthy, nutrient-rich food.
3. Economic sustainability: Organic farming provides economic benefits to farmers by reducing their dependence on expensive chemical inputs and promoting the use of local resources. Organic farming can also provide opportunities for small farmers to enter into niche markets and obtain higher prices for their products.
4. Soil health: Organic farming practices focus on soil health, which is critical for sustainable agriculture. Healthy soil can improve crop yields, reduce erosion and runoff, and sequester carbon from the atmosphere.
5. Climate change: Organic farming can help mitigate climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture. Organic farming practices such as crop rotation, intercropping, and cover cropping can increase
Day-4 Session-1 Biomass utilisation Technologies (Prof. Poonam Syal)
Biomass utilization technologies involve the conversion of organic matter into various forms of energy and materials. Here are some examples of biomass utilization technologies:
1. Bioenergy: Biomass can be converted into various forms of bioenergy, including biofuels, biogas, and biomass-based electricity. Biofuels can be used as a substitute for conventional fuels such as gasoline and diesel, while biogas can be used as a source of renewable energy for heating and electricity generation.
2. Biochar: Biochar is a form of charcoal that is produced by heating biomass in the absence of oxygen. Biochar can be used as a soil amendment to improve soil fertility, water retention, and carbon sequestration.
3. Bioplastics: Biomass can be used to produce bioplastics, which are a type of plastic made from renewable resources such as cornstarch, sugarcane, or potato starch. Bioplastics are biodegradable and compostable, making them a more sustainable alternative to conventional plastics.
4. Biochemicals: Biomass can be used to produce a variety of biochemicals, including biodegradable polymers, organic acids, and enzymes. These biochemicals can be used in a variety of applications, such as the production of biodegradable packaging materials and the treatment of wastewater.
5. Pyrolysis: Pyrolysis is a thermal process that involves heating biomass in the absence of oxygen to produce bio-oil, biochar, and gases such as methane and hydrogen. Bio-oil can be used as a substitute for conventional fossil fuels, while biochar can be used as a soil amendment.
6. Anaerobic digestion: Anaerobic digestion is a process that involves breaking down organic matter in the absence of oxygen to produce biogas and organic fertilizers. Anaerobic digestion is a common method for treating organic waste such as food waste and animal manure.
In conclusion, biomass utilization technologies offer a range of opportunities to convert organic matter into energy and materials in a sustainable and environmentally-friendly manner. By leveraging these technologies, we can reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and promote a more sustainable and circular economy.
Session-2 Agroforestry for Economic Rural Development (Dr. Rishi Singh Gill, Principal Scientist, Agroforestry, PAU, Ludhiana)
Agroforestry is a land use management system that combines the cultivation of trees, shrubs, and crops in a way that benefits the environment and the economy. It is a sustainable practice that can provide economic and social benefits to rural communities while also promoting environmental sustainability. Here are some ways in which agroforestry can contribute to economic rural development:
a. Diversification of income: Agroforestry can provide multiple sources of income for rural communities, such as from the sale of timber, fruits, nuts, and other agricultural products. This diversification can reduce the economic risks associated with relying on a single source of income.
b. Soil health: Agroforestry practices can improve soil health by reducing soil erosion, increasing soil fertility, and improving water retention. This can lead to increased crop yields and better economic returns for farmers.
c. Carbon sequestration: Agroforestry practices can also contribute to climate change mitigation by sequestering carbon in trees and soil. This can lead to economic benefits for rural communities through carbon credit payments.
d. Improved ecosystem services: Agroforestry practices can improve ecosystem services such as water quality, biodiversity, and habitat conservation. This can lead to increased tourism and recreational opportunities, which can generate additional economic benefits for rural communities.
e. Reduced input costs: Agroforestry can reduce input costs such as fertilizers and pesticides by promoting natural pest control and soil fertility. This can lead to increased economic returns for farmers while also promoting environmental sustainability.
In conclusion, agroforestry is a sustainable land use management system that can provide economic and social benefits to rural communities while promoting environmental sustainability. By leveraging agroforestry practices, rural communities can improve their economic and social well-being while also contributing to a more sustainable and resilient future.
Session-3 Soil Health Analysis and Management (Dr. S Pal, Sr. Scientist, ICAR- IISWCRC)
Soil health analysis and management are critical components of sustainable agriculture. Soil health analysis involves assessing the physical, chemical, and biological properties of the soil, while soil health management involves implementing practices to maintain or improve these properties. Here are some key aspects of soil health analysis and management:
a. Soil testing: Soil testing is the first step in soil health analysis, and it involves collecting soil samples and analyzing them for nutrient levels, pH, organic matter content, and other properties. Soil testing can help farmers determine which nutrients are deficient in their soil and how much fertilizer is needed to correct these deficiencies.
b. Organic matter management: Organic matter is a key component of soil health, as it provides nutrients and improves soil structure and water-holding capacity. Soil health management practices such as cover cropping, reduced tillage, and crop rotation can help increase organic matter levels in the soil.
c. Nutrient management: Soil health management practices such as precision agriculture, integrated nutrient management, and use of organic fertilizers can help maintain optimal nutrient levels in the soil, which can improve crop yields and reduce fertilizer runoff.
d. Soil conservation: Soil erosion can lead to reduced soil fertility and water quality, so soil health management practices such as conservation tillage, contour farming, and use of vegetative cover can help prevent erosion and maintain soil health.
e. Soil biology: Soil biology plays an important role in soil health, as it affects nutrient cycling, soil structure, and plant growth. Soil health management practices such as crop rotation, cover cropping, and use of compost can promote soil biology and improve soil health.
In conclusion, soil health analysis and management are essential for sustainable agriculture. By implementing soil health management practices, farmers can improve soil fertility, crop yields, and environmental sustainability, while also reducing input costs and increasing profitability.
Day-5 Session -1 Internet of Things and its Applications for Rural Development (Dr. Garima Saini)
The Internet of Things (IoT) is a technology that involves connecting physical objects and devices to the internet to collect and exchange data. This technology has several applications for rural development, some of which are:
a. Smart Agriculture: IoT can be used to monitor and control various aspects of agriculture, such as soil moisture, temperature, and humidity. This can help farmers optimize crop yield and reduce water usage.
b. Livestock Monitoring: IoT can be used to monitor the health and behavior of livestock by tracking their movements, body temperature, and feed consumption. This can help farmers detect diseases early and improve animal welfare.
c. Water Management: IoT can be used to monitor water resources such as rivers, lakes, and reservoirs. This can help in the efficient management of water resources and prevent water scarcity.
d. Rural Healthcare: IoT can be used to monitor the health of rural residents by collecting and analyzing data from wearable devices and other medical equipment. This can help in the early detection and management of health issues.
e. Rural Education: IoT can be used to provide online education and e-learning opportunities for rural residents. This can help bridge the education gap between urban and rural areas.
f. Smart Energy Management: IoT can be used to monitor and control energy consumption in rural areas, including homes and businesses. This can help in reducing energy costs and improving energy efficiency.
Overall, the applications of IoT for rural development are vast and varied, and the technology has the potential to improve the quality of life and livelihoods of rural communities around the world.
Session-2 Millets for Environment Sustainability (Prof. Poonam Syal)
Millets are a group of small-seeded grasses that have been cultivated for thousands of years in different parts of the world. They are hardy crops that are highly adaptable to different climatic conditions and soil types, making them ideal for sustainable agriculture. Here are some ways in which millets can promote environmental sustainability:
a. Drought Tolerance: Millets are highly drought-tolerant crops that can grow in low rainfall areas, making them a good choice for regions prone to drought and water scarcity. This reduces the need for irrigation and helps conserve water resources.
b. Soil Health: Millets have deep root systems that help to break up compacted soil and improve soil health. They are also low-input crops that require minimal use of fertilizers and pesticides, reducing the environmental impact of agriculture.
c. Biodiversity: Millets are grown in a variety of ecosystems and can support diverse agroecosystems. This promotes biodiversity and enhances the resilience of agricultural systems in the face of environmental challenges.
d. Carbon Sequestration: Millets have the potential to sequester carbon in the soil and contribute to climate change mitigation. They have a low carbon footprint and require less energy to grow and harvest than many other crops.
e. Nutrient-rich: Millets are highly nutritious and have a low glycemic index, making them ideal for a healthy diet. They are also gluten-free, making them a good choice for people with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
In summary, millets are a sustainable and environmentally friendly crop that can contribute to environmental sustainability through their ability to thrive in low-input and low-water environments, promote biodiversity, and help mitigate climate change.
Session-3 Course Feedback and Valediction (Prof. Poonam Syal)
Course feedback and valedictory session was concluded by Dr. Poonam Syal, Course coordinator and Dr. Mithlesh Sharma, Local Course coordinator. All faculty members gained the valuable knowledge which will definitely help them in upliftment of rural strata. Vote of thanks was delivered and efforts of faculty members was appreciated.
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