A committee examining the excessive use of chemicals, fertilisers and pesticides in agriculture has recommended the setting up of a state-level secretariat to promote eco-friendly farming in Punjab.  The six-member committee, headed by Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) Vice-Chancellor and set up by the Punjab and Haryana High Court in February, has proposed that the secretariat may be set up in PAU campus, Ludhiana. The High court had directed the committee to suggest measures, including the strategy to promote safe use of fertilisers and pesticides in agriculture. The committee has proposed that representatives of all the developmental departments, civil society organisations and progressive farmers be included in the secretariat.