PAGRI (Punjab Agricultural Rejuvenation Initiative) is an organization that is dedicated to transforming the agricultural scene in Punjab especially by increasing the incomes of small farmers and through food processing. Registered in the State of Illinois early in 2021, PAGRI has developed a very good network of people in Punjab who are very knowledgeable about the real conditions on the ground, and are supported by a dedicated and motivated band of people in the US and Canada that is managing the organization. We intend to maintain a high level of integrity and honesty, be respectful of culture and help build a cooperative spirit of helping others among those we work with and help in Punjab.
The main focus of Pagri
Pagri has started activities in Punjab by supporting farmer’s markets and educating farmers on organic farming. We are initiating new activities in developing a platform to directly link farmers and customers, food processing, and marketing of processed products.
We have transformed and enhanced two projects that can be seen on the right – answering the desperate need for Extension work that gives direct advice to farmers about better agricultural practices, and educating and helping farmers to methodically adopt organic farming. Both in order to solve some of the urgent environmental, health and water shortage problems of Punjab.
Thoughts on future activities
PAGRI is planning to expand activities in a big way in the area of developing an Integrated Farming Model and demonstration that includes dairy and poultry farming for small farmers. Future project activity will also focus on food processing, using the expertise of knowledgeable people in Punjab, so that small farmers are not at the mercy of big corporations. Also in the planning stages is the modernization of agricultural trade in Punjab by developing a Portal that will connect farmers with various people that are active in the agrarian economy and in food production organizations.
The Leadership
Currently, the main leadership consists of Lal Singh as president, Kuldeep Singh Sra as Treasurer and Harinder Singh Lamba as Secretary. Lal Singhji is a retied electrical engineer with very good contacts with people who are active in Punjab’s agriculture. Kuldeepji operates another organization called “Dheean Pukardian” that supports the education of girls in Punjab, and Harinderji is a retired engineer that designed railway locomotives, who is very active in climate change issues, has written books and has much experience in organic gardening in the USA. The leadership will be expanded as the needs of Pagri grow. We will be adding photos of the leadership.
Below is a photo from one of our projects, showing Gurbinder Bajwa (third from right) engaging in dialogues and education relating to agriculture.
Dear Pagri Supporters and well wishers, Our Secretary Harinder Lamba visited Faridkot March 7-8, 2023 and was hosted by Balwinder Singh. Gurlal Singhji drove us around – thanks! Here are the action items and description of the visit. Faridkot – Action Items 1. Help 2-5 farmers with Desi chickens for..Read More