Ohio State University/Punjab Agricultural University
Country:
India
Award Date:
2004
Award Amount:
$299,632.00
Cost Share:
$234,250.00
Other Partners:
Indian Council of Agricultural Research
The partners are collaborating to promote agricultural diversification and the transformation of raw food products into quality, high-value commodities with extended shelf life and potential for export. This effort will result in 1) new programs at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) in agricultural education, research, and extension; 2) enhanced rural economic growth; 3) improved rural incomes and employment opportunities; and 4) greater opportunities for the export of agricultural products. Introducing alternative crops into the rice-wheat farming system will help improve soil and water quality, create off-farm employment, generate additional income, and provide more equitable income distribution. To enhance PAU’s linkages with the private sector, the partnership will form an agribusiness advisory committee, integrate the private sector more into the current instructional program, and create internship opportunities for students. The partners will also develop a pilot food industries center to stimulate the creation of new food processing industries in rural areas.