The Department of Biology and the Student Development Centre of SPN College, under the aegis of Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, in collaboration with Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Bahowal, and the Farm Advisory Service Centre (FASC), Gangian, organized a Camp-cum-Awareness Programme on Crop Residue Management. The event began with an inaugural session in which Principal Dr. Sameer Sharma warmly welcomed the distinguished guests from Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana. The eminent dignitaries who graced the occasion included Dr. Maninder Singh Bons, Associate Director, KVK, Bahowal, Dr. Charanjeet Kaur, Principal Extension Scientist, FASC, Gangian, Dr. Rakesh Kumar Sharma, Senior Extension Scientist (Entomology), FASC, Gangian, Dr. Indira Devi, District Extension Scientist (Fruits), FASC, Gangian, and Madam Sunita.

As part of the programme, various competitive events were organized, including on-the-spot poster making, essay writing, and a declamation contest on the theme “Burning of Crop Residue – Its Disadvantages and Methods to Save or Preserve Crop Residue and Environment.” These activities witnessed the enthusiastic participation of about 200 students. The contests were followed by a Jagrookta Rally, through which the students reached out to the community to spread awareness about the hazardous effects of crop residue burning. The competitions were judged by subject experts: the declamation contest by Dr. Deepika Sharma, Dr. Amrinder Kaur, and Prof. Rekha Rani; the essay writing by Prof. Tarandeep Kaur; and the poster competition by Prof. Pankaj Sareen and Dr. Gopi Sharma.

The technical session featured insightful talks by experts. Dr. Maninder Singh Bons delivered an elaborate lecture on the harmful consequences of crop residue burning. He not only explained the reasons why farmers resort to this practice but also suggested practical, eco-friendly alternatives for managing crop residue, such as composting, fodder utilization, and energy generation. He also highlighted techniques to reuse crop residue in an environmentally sustainable manner. Dr. Charanjeet Kaur further elaborated on the significant efforts being undertaken by Punjab Agricultural University to address the issue of stubble burning. The event was effectively coordinated by Dr. Rakesh Kumar Sharma, who also motivated students to act as responsible citizens and contribute to creating awareness on this pressing environmental challenge.

The winners of all competitions were felicitated with certificates and mementos to recognize their talent and efforts. In the declamation contest, Simranpreet Kaur secured the first position, followed by Simran in second and Damanpreet Kaur in third. In the essay writing competition, Prabhjot Kaur stood first, Sanampreet Kaur second, and Amanjot third. The poster-making competition was won by Diya Raj, with Vansika and Simran Sharma securing the second and third positions respectively.

In his address, Principal Dr. Sameer Sharma expressed his delight and congratulated the organizers for their dedicated efforts in raising awareness about an important environmental issue. He emphasized that SPN College has always encouraged and supported initiatives that contribute to the betterment of society and the environment. The distinguished guests from Punjab Agricultural University also honoured Principal Dr. Sameer Sharma, Dr. Gurpreet Kaur, Head, Department of Biology, Dr. Jyoti Sharma, Prof. Meenu, and Prof. Isha for their contributions towards the successful conduct of the event. In the valedictory session, Dr. Charanjeet Kaur conveyed her heartfelt gratitude to the SPN College Management Committee, Principal, faculty members, and students for their active involvement and praised the efficient teamwork of the college staff. Dr. Gurpreet Kaur also extended her thanks to the SPN College Management Committe, Principal Dr. Sameer Sharma, the supporting Faculty members and students for their unwavering support and cooperation, which made the event a grand success.