In Punjab, the backbone of India’s agriculture, these services are particularly important as farmers face numerous challenges, such as climate change, outdated practices, monoculture and the overuse of chemicals. There is a pressing need to reach every farmer and provide them with the latest technical knowledge to improve farming practices and sustainability.

How do you reach farmers?

Amrik Singh: Besides physical visits to farmers’ fields and organising various camps, technology has revolutionised how we connect with them. I initiated the ‘Young Innovated Farmers Group’ on WhatsApp back in 2014, which now connects over 77,000 farmers. Through this platform, we share real-time updates on weather, pest outbreaks, and new farming practices. The idea is to make information more accessible, faster, and tailored to the needs of the farming community.

My YouTube channel, Uttam Kheti Punjab, also provides tutorials on modern farming techniques and success stories. With over 2.7 million views, it has become an invaluable resource for farmers. These tools are breaking barriers, especially in rural areas where traditional extension services may not always reach.

Through these platforms, we are also raising awareness about critical issues such as the menace of stubble burning. Over the years, I have directly trained over 3 lakh farmers through physical visits or social media platforms.

What other initiatives have you taken that have benefited the farmers and the environment?

Amrik Singh: One of our significant achievements was in Pathankot, where we tackled the issue of paddy straw burning, a major environmental concern. We successfully made the district pollution-free through awareness campaigns and by providing farmers with viable alternatives. This effort earned us two SKOCH Gold Awards in 2018.

Regarding soil health, we tested over 13,000 soil samples and distributed health cards to farmers. These cards help farmers use fertilisers more effectively and reduce waste. By understanding their soil’s specific needs, farmers can enhance crop yields while promoting sustainability.

We also launched direct marketing projects like ‘Farm to Home’ and ‘Kisan Bazaar,’ which generated Rs 1.5 lakh and Rs 14.5 lakh, respectively, by enabling farmers to sell their produce directly to consumers, bypassing intermediaries.

Setting up custom hiring centres for farm machinery were established to provide affordable access to equipment, significantly benefiting small and marginal farmers.

In addition, ridge and trench sowing methods for maise were promoted, which helped farmers reduce the incidence of stock rot disease.

To empower women, training programmes in agro-based entrepreneurship were conducted, equipping farm women with sustainable income-generating skills. Also, we managed to plant 1.30 lakh tree saplings to date in various parts of Punjab where he was posted.

Despite these successes, you have also spoken about the challenges that Punjab’s agricultural extension services face. Could you elaborate on the gaps that need urgent attention?

Amrik Singh: Yes, despite our best efforts, the agricultural extension system in Punjab is far from perfect. There is a significant manpower shortage, and many extension officers are overwhelmed with administrative duties instead of directly engaging with farmers. Additionally, outdated methodologies hinder the scaling of successful initiatives.

To truly empower farmers, we need a more robust and modern extension system—one that blends traditional knowledge with cutting-edge technology. Extension services need to be seen not as an add-on but as a critical, integral part of agricultural development.

You have worked with farmers directly for decades. What would you say to policymakers about investing in agricultural extension services?

Amrik Singh: Agriculture is not just a profession; it is a way of life. We need to understand that agriculture sustains millions of families in Punjab and beyond. Investing in agricultural extension services is investing in the future of our farmers and the environment.

Without proper guidance and resources, farmers may fall behind in adopting best practices or be forced to rely on outdated methods. If we want sustainable agriculture in Punjab, it’s essential to empower farmers with knowledge, technology, and the tools they need to succeed.

What drives you to continue your work in agricultural extension after over three decades of service?

Amrik Singh: The answer is simple—the farmers of Punjab and their resilience. When I see the impact of our work on their lives—whether is it through better yields, improved income, or environmental preservation—it is incredibly fulfilling. These awards are a reflection of all the farmers who have supported and trusted me throughout my career.

Every recognition motivates me to continue working toward a brighter, more sustainable future for Punjab’s farming community. The journey doesn’t end here, and I will continue to support Punjab’s farmers in every way I can.