US varsity may tie up with Punjab Agricultural University

In a bid to join hands for research and academics, a seven-member delegation from Purdue University (PU), USA, visited Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) to explore and discuss possibilities of bilateral collaboration. The visitors gave power point presentations on collaborative opportunities and various aspects of agriculture. The visiting delegation, led by Karen Plaut, associate dean and director of agricultural research; comprised K G Raghothama, associate director, international programmes in agriculture, Joe Anderson, head, department of agronomy, Mitch Tuinstra, department of plant breeding, Charlie Wolushuk, department of botany and plant pathology; Indrajeet Choubey, department of agricultural and biological engineering and Alex L. Renaud, department of agronomy. Dr Dhillon said there could be joint ventures in areas like water use efficiency, climate change, farm mechanization and bio-energy. He also said the two countries could have a tie-up in the area of value addition to agriculture. He also suggested faculty exchange programmes. Elaborating on research opportunities in the College of Agriculture, PU, USA, K Plaut said, "We are looking ahead in building partnerships with international varsities." According to her, feeding and providing energy to a burgeoning population is a major challenge.