Agricultural university pays homage toSurjit Patar, Dr Karam Singh Nandpuri

Ludhiana: Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) in Ludhiana on Wednesday to pay homage to noted poet Dr Surjit Patar and vegetable scientist Dr Karam Singh Nandpuri, who recently passed away.
The university hosted a condolence meeting for both former stalwarts of the institution. The meet was attended by PAU officers, faculty, and staff, including vice-chancellor Satbir Singh Gosal.
Gosal, addressing the gathering, expressed profound sorrow at the demise of Dr Surjit Patar, a towering figure in Punjabi literature whose words had not only enriched the academic discourse but had also adorned the cultural tapestry of Punjab.Dr Patar's humility and generosity had endeared him to all fortunate enough to have crossed paths with him, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of Punjabi literature, said Gosal.
Offering condolences to the family of Dr Nandpuri, Dr Gosal acknowledged the pivotal role played by the late vegetable scientist in revolutionising Punjab's agricultural sector. Dr Nandpuri's contributions to the green revolution and his relentless pursuit of innovation were lauded, underscoring his enduring legacy in agricultural science. Gosal emphasised that the legacies of both luminaries would serve as guiding lights for PAU, inspiring future generations to strive for excellence in academia and beyond.
Ajmer Singh Dhatt, director of research at PAU, paid tribute to Dr Nandpuri's groundbreaking work in vegetable science, highlighting his instrumental role in developing several high-yielding varieties that continue to impact agricultural practices even today. Dhatt said Dr Nandpuri's journey from humble beginnings in Tarn Taran to earning advanced degrees in agriculture from prestigious institutions exemplified his unwavering dedication to knowledge and innovation.
Nirmal Jaura, director of student welfare at PAU, provided insights into Dr Patar’s illustrious life journey, tracing his roots from the village of Pattar Kalan to his academic achievements culminating in a PhD in literature. Jaura said Dr Patar’s prolific literary output, spanning poetry, translations, and television scripts, earned him accolades both nationally and internationally, including the prestigious Padma Shri in 2012.
As a mark of respect, a one-minute silence was observed by all present, honouring the memory of the departed souls.