Punjab has witnessed remarkable progress in its agricultural sector under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and Agriculture Minister Gurmeet Khuddian. Key initiatives and reforms have propelled the state towards sustainable and diversified farming practices.
Record Sugarcane Prices and Expanded Cultivation
Punjab farmers are receiving the highest sugarcane price in India at ₹401 per quintal, with the area under sugarcane cultivation increasing by over 5,000 hectares. This move has boosted farmer incomes and strengthened the state’s position in sugar production.
Boost in Water-Saving Practices and Direct Seeding of Rice (DSR)
The adoption of Direct Seeding of Rice (DSR) has surged by 48.8%, reflecting the government’s success in promoting water-saving technologies. Farmers adopting DSR have received financial aid of ₹1,500 per acre, encouraging sustainable agricultural practices in a water-stressed region.
Basmati Cultivation and Export Promotion
The area under Basmati cultivation has increased by 14%, supported by measures to enhance crop quality and promote exports. This focus on premium varieties has bolstered Punjab’s reputation in global markets.
Hybrid maize cultivation has expanded to 0.98 lakh hectares, with farmers benefiting from subsidies on high-quality seeds. This diversification strategy aligns with the state’s goal of reducing dependence on traditional water-intensive crops.
Efforts to curb stubble burning have led to a 70% reduction in incidents, with 36,663 fewer fire cases reported. The government has distributed 16,000 crop residue management (CRM) machines, enabling farmers to manage stubble sustainably and reduce environmental pollution.
Commitment to Sustainable Agriculture
These milestones underscore Punjab's commitment to modern, diversified, and environmentally friendly farming practices. The government’s focus on farmer welfare, technological advancements, and ecological sustainability is setting new benchmarks for agricultural development in India.
Punjab continues to lead the way in revolutionizing agriculture, ensuring prosperity for farmers while safeguarding the environment.