The Department of Microbiology, Punjab Agricultural University, has been awarded Experiential Learning Project titled “Production of Biofertilizers and Fermented Products” by ICAR-DARE, New Delhi. The project is under the EFC Scheme “Strengthening and Development of Higher Agricultural Education in India”. The department has been sanctioned funds of Rs 16.0 lacs as the first instalment for financial year 2025-2026.
Dr Urmila Gupta, Principal Scientist (REE)-cum-Head, Department of Microbiology is the Principal Investigator (PI) and Dr GS Kocher, Principal Microbiologist; Dr Priya Katyal, Microbiologist and Dr Seema Garcha, Microbiologist, are the Co-PIs. The project has been designed by keeping in mind the importance of skill development for potential entrepreneurs. It is important to mention here that the department has developed several technologies for production of several industrially important products (Fermented beverages like Low Alcoholic Naturally Carbonated beverages, Natural Vinegar, Kombucha, Bioenzymes and biofertilizers) that have been recommended by Research and Evaluation Committee (REC) for commercialization. The curriculum of this ELP unit will be designed in a way to give hands-on experience to the students on basic knowledge and skills on production of these products including management, economic concepts, communication, marketing, technology, legal or regulatory aspect, support system and research skills which are needed for entrepreneurship development.
The PAU Vice-Chancellor Dr Satbir Singh Gosal; Registrar Mr Rishi Pal Singh, Dean of Postgraduate Studies Dr MIS Gill, and Dean of College of Basic Sciences and Humanities Dr Kiran Bains congratulated the PI and Co-PIs for their achievement.
https://www.pau.edu/index.php?_act=manageEvent&DO=viewEventDetail&intID=11176
