Bathinda, June 26: A major upgrade to agricultural quality control is underway in Punjab with the introduction of specialized testing facilities designed to protect local cultivators. Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian established the state’s premier Bio-Fertilizer Quality Control Laboratory in Bathinda. During the same event, the foundation stone was laid for an upcoming Rs 2 crore Seed Testing Lab situated at Kheti Bhawan on Dabwali Road.
These modern facilities are structured to eliminate dependencies on external testing centers, allowing for swift verification of agricultural products. The newly opened bio-fertilizer hub, built for Rs 1.5 crore, can process a minimum of 1,000 samples each year, offering a reliable mechanism for farmers transitioning away from conventional chemical inputs. Together, the facilities will provide a scientific shield against counterfeit or low-quality supplies.
The project reflects ongoing state efforts to modernize farming resources and safeguard the economic interests of the rural workforce. By keeping operations localized, the department intends to minimize procedural delays before the upcoming sowing cycles.
“The government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann is committed to providing high quality seeds, fertilizers and other agricultural inputs to the farmers,” S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian stated. The Agriculture Minister further declared, “These laboratories will eliminate the hassle of farmers having to send samples to other states for testing. Now the entire process will be completed in Punjab itself, which will save both time and money.”
The technical advantages of the infrastructure were mirrored by agricultural experts at the venue. Agriculture Director Dr. Gurjit Singh Brar asserted that availability of testing within the state itself will help in implementing quality standards, reducing delays in results and helping farmers take right decisions before sowing. He also maintained that these two laboratories will strengthen the technical capacity of the department and ensure timely and reliable testing of seeds and organic fertilizers.
The launch event concluded in the presence of several state leaders and policymakers, including MLAs Jagroop Singh Gill and Master Jagsir Singh, as well as Joint Director Narinder Pal Singh Benipal.
