Sirsa varsity hosts lecture on biochar in agriculture

The Zoology Department of Chaudhary Devi Lal University (CDLU), Sirsa, organised a special lecture on Saturday, featuring Prof Dilfuza Jabborova from the Academy of Sciences, Uzbekistan, as the keynote speaker. The event was inaugurated by Prof Joginder Singh Duhan, the department chairperson, who said such lectures were important to promote academic growth and research. The lecture took place at the Tagore Extension Lecture Theatre, with over 80 students from the Zoology Department and other disciplines in attendance.

In her presentation, Prof Dilfuza highlighted the important role of biochar in agriculture. She explained that biochar, a form of charcoal derived from organic materials like wood, crop residues and manure, not only improved soil fertility but also boosted plant growth. She further explained how biochar reduced reliance on chemical fertilisers and encouraged the growth of nitrogen-fixing bacteria in the soil. According to her research, fields treated with biochar showed healthier, more resilient plants, offering farmers a valuable advantage.

Prof Dilfuza also addressed how biochar could mitigate the negative effects of chemical fertilisers, positioning it as an eco-friendly and sustainable alternative to modern farming. The event concluded with a formal vote of thanks delivered by Assistant Professor Dr Harkrishan, who expressed gratitude to the keynote speaker and the students.