New Delhi, Nov 24 : Displays of alternative sources of energy at the Punjab pavilion in the ongoing India International Trade Fair being organised here have attracted hundreds of onlookers.

The State has highlighted the development in the field of alternative and non-conventional sources of energy, besides showcasing the stride made by the State in the agro-processing industry.

The Punjab Energy Development Agency (PEDA) that came into existence in 1991 has displayed solar cookers and solar lights in the pavilion.

Given the task to give direction and shape the future energy scenario in the State, the PEDA has been successful in bringing to light the implementation of a comprehensive energy conservation program in the industrial, agricultural, commercial and household sectors.

"We are well aware that the ever growing demand for fuel, fast depleting conventional sources of energy and the resultant increase in environmental pollution has left us with no option but to go in for adoption of alternative and non-conventional sources of energy," Makhan Lal, official of the PEDA said.

The visitors are also taking keen interest in the organic food section of the pavilion being set up by the Organic Farming Council of Punjab. The council, which is only one year old, encourages diversification in agriculture through organic farming.

"We have our own model farm on 577 acres where we provide training in agriculture, raw material production and other purposes and this we are propagating in the state of Punjab. The response is excellent because in one year's time we have been able to register 900 farmers in 5,550 acres of land," said Dr. Madhu Gill of the council.

There is a separate section for ethnic cuisines and handicrafts from the State.

The state's rich embroidery on dress materials known as Phulkari is a big hit among visitors, and people were found purchasing Amritsar's Pappad wadiyan and famous Patiala juttis. (ANI)