This muskmelon variety is rich in taste, quality and sweetness, and has a comparatively longer shelf life
23 May, 2026 – Sangrur : With an aim to help Punjab farmers reap more profits and ensure supply of quality muskmelon to consumers, the Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Sangrur, of Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) organised a Field Day on New Muskmelon variety “Punjab Amrit” in technical collaboration with the Department of Vegetable Science, PAU, Ludhiana. Farmers have been apprised of the benefits of this variety.
This muskmelon variety is rich in taste, quality and sweetness, and has a comparatively longer shelf life.
The visit was conducted at the field of a progressive farmer, Balwinder Singh Sohi, of Bhari Mansa village in Dhuri tehsil of Sangrur district. The programme witnessed an active participation of more than 75 farmers, rural youth and vegetable growers from different villages of the district.
The event was organised under the guidance of Dr Mandeep Singh, incharge, PAU-KVK, Sangrur, with the objective of promoting crop diversification through vegetable cultivation and creating awareness amongst vegetable growers regarding newly released vegetable varieties, improved production technologies and sustainable farming practices.
During the technical session, experts from Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana, and allied departments deliberated on various important aspects of vegetable production.
Dr. Satpal Sharma, Head-cum-Principal Vegetable Breeder, Department of Vegetable Science, PAU, Ludhiana, graced the occasion as a special guest and highlighted the importance of crop diversification through vegetable cultivation and encouraged farmers to adopt newly released vegetable varieties developed by Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana. He specifically discussed improved varieties of muskmelon and potato, emphasizing their higher yield potential, better quality and suitability for Punjab conditions.
Sharing details of the new muskmelon variety “Punjab Amrit”, he stated that this variety has medium-long, strong vines with dark green leaves. Its fruits are oval-round, and have a netted rind. There are no stripes on its rind. This variety is rich in qualities like taste, quality and sweetness, and has a comparatively longer shelf-life. This variety is also suitable for sowing in November under the low tunnel technique using plastic mulching. He further stated that this variety competes with Bobby hybrid. Its unique feature is that the farmers can produce its seed themselves, and its seed is cheaper than Bobby hybrid.
Farmers were also briefed about vegetable production where experts discussed improved production practices in vegetable crops and guided farmers about scientific cultivation techniques, quality seed selection, nutrient management and timely agronomic operations for achieving higher yield and better-quality produce.
Dr Harpal Singh, entomologist, elaborated on integrated insect-pest control and integrated disease management practices in vegetable crops. He advised farmers to adopt need-based and eco-friendly plant protection measures for reducing unnecessary pesticide use and maintaining environmental safety.
Dr Amarjit Singh, Principal Extension Specialist (Plant Pathology), provided detailed information regarding disease management in vegetable crops and shared recommendations for effective control of major fungal, bacterial and viral diseases affecting vegetable cultivation.
Dr Sayad Patel, Vegetable Breeder informed the participants about newly released and promising hybrid/varieties in chilli and tomato suitable for Punjab conditions. He explained the yield potential, quality traits and market demand of these improved varieties.
Dr. Vitasta, AP (Home Science), delibrated on processing and value addition of horticultural crops. She emphasised the importance of processing for minimising post-harvest losses and generating additional income opportunities for farmers and rural women.
Kulwinder Singh, Horticulture Officer, informed the farmers about various schemes and subsidy programmes being implemented by the State Horticulture Department for promotion of vegetable cultivation and protected farming.
An interactive session was also held in which farmers discussed their field problems with the experts and got scientific solutions related to vegetable production and crop management.
The participating farmers visited the field demonstrations of muskmelon and other vegetable crops where experts explained the performance, yield potential and management practices of the newly introduced varieties.
The Tribune