Punjab News: In Ontario, Canada towards taking Punjab's agriculture and nutrition model to the international level. 'Globalization of Food and Nutrition Security of Punjab' International seminars were organized on the subject. In this, Punjab State Food Commission (PSFC) Chairman Bal Mukand Sharma gave information about the ongoing Poshan Bagh campaign in the state and the export possibilities of Punjab's winter vegetables. Neena Tangri, Trade Development Minister of the Government of Ontario also attended the program as the chief guest.
Nutrition gardens in more than 5000 schools
Bal Mukand Sharma said that in Punjab with the help of Education Department More than 5000 schools are being motivated to develop nutrition gardens. Herbs, vegetables and fruits are being grown in these. The produce from these gardens is also being used in mid-day meals in schools.
Along with this, in Anganwadi centers 'Nutrition Garden' are being established. These are aimed to help improve the nutrition of pregnant women and lactating mothers with children aged 0 to 3 and 3 to 6 years.
Big market for Punjab's vegetables abroad
According to Bal Mukand Sharma, winter vegetables of Punjab are of good quality and for these Indonesia, Philippines, Japan, Canada, USA and Australia There is market potential in countries like He said that production also gets the benefit of natural reduction in insects during the hot season from April to September.
If the export of Punjab's vegetables increases in these markets, it can increase the income of farmers and also provide foreign exchange to the country.
24 ton container was sent to Canada
Ontario Trade Development Minister Neena Tangri informed about cooperation between Punjab and Ontario in the field of food processing, food export and vegetables. He told that about six months ago at Sirhind of Fatehgarh Sahib Pagro Frozen Foods Frozen Fruit, Broccoli, Cauliflower, Carrots and Potatoes from 24 ton container Was sent to Toronto as a test. It has been ordered again due to its good quality.
Emphasis also on increasing nutrients in crops
Dr. Gurbachan Singh, former Agriculture Commissioner, Government of India, pointed out the need to promote horticulture along with cash and commercial crops. In crops like wheat and rice they Zinc, Iron and Magnesium For example, it was advised to adopt organic fortification to increase micronutrients.
The seminar also laid emphasis on nutritious food, food quality and better packaging standards. The event was hosted by Jarnail Singh, President, Global Food Choice.