Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) will organise a special academic–industry exhibition on digital agriculture and smart farming during its upcoming Kisan Mela scheduled for March 20–21, 2026, at the university campus in Ludhiana. The two-day exhibition will focus on the theme “Emerging and Cutting Edge Digital Technologies for Smart Agriculture,” highlighting the latest innovations transforming modern farming practices.
The initiative aims to connect farmers with emerging digital technologies and provide a platform for collaboration between researchers, agricultural start-ups and industry stakeholders. The exhibition will showcase advanced tools and solutions designed to improve productivity, resource efficiency and sustainability in agriculture.
Under the guidance of Vice-Chancellor Satbir Singh Gosal, PAU has recently established the School of Digital Innovations for Smart Agriculture (S-DISA) at its College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology. The initiative is intended to promote the adoption of modern technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotics, the Internet of Things (IoT) and data analytics in agriculture, enabling the development of smart and precision farming systems.
According to Manjeet Singh, Dean of the College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, digital innovation will be a key focus of the March 2026 Kisan Mela series. The event at the Ludhiana campus will provide farmers with an opportunity to explore cutting-edge agricultural technologies and understand their practical applications in the field.
PAU has also developed a Digital Technology Park for Futuristic Smart Farming, established with corporate social responsibility (CSR) support from Punjab and Sind Bank. The initiative is part of the project titled “Futuristic Farming: Demonstrating Cutting-Edge Agri-Techniques for Resource Conservation,” aimed at demonstrating modern technologies that help conserve water, energy and other agricultural resources.
Participation of Start-ups and Industry
Around 25–30 agri-tech start-ups are expected to participate in the exhibition with support from the Punjab Agri Business Incubator (PABI). These start-ups will present innovative agricultural machinery, smart devices and digital solutions designed to enhance farm efficiency.
In addition, industry partners will showcase precision farming technologies, AI-based plant monitoring systems and automated agricultural solutions. The exhibition will offer farmers direct exposure to emerging agri-tech products that can help optimise crop management and reduce production costs.
Focus on Water Conservation and Climate-Resilient Farming
Dr. Manjeet Singh noted that the 2026 Kisan Mela will also highlight water-efficient technologies, climate-resilient crop varieties and digital agricultural extension platforms. Given the declining groundwater levels in Punjab, these technologies are considered crucial for ensuring sustainable agricultural development in the state.
Demonstration of Digital Platforms
During the exhibition, PAU will also showcase its digital advisory platforms such as the PAU Farmer Portal and the PAU Kisan App. These platforms provide farmers with real-time information on weather conditions, crop management practices and modern farming techniques.
The university has invited agri-tech companies, drone and robotics manufacturers, and developers of smart irrigation systems to participate in the exhibition. PAU expects the event to serve as an important platform for promoting technological innovation in agriculture and strengthening collaboration between academic institutions and industry partners.
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