Punjab Farmers Embrace Maize Revolution As Government Pushes Crop Diversification To Save Groundwater Future

Punjab News: For decades, Punjab farmers were stuck in the cycle of paddy and wheat. While paddy gave assured returns, it consumed huge amounts of water. Groundwater fell to dangerous levels, and income from traditional crops dropped. Farmers were stressed, with rising debts and limited choices. The only way out was crop diversification, a solution now embraced by the state government.

Maize Acreage Rises Sharply

This year, Punjab has reported a record increase of 16.27% in maize cultivation. The acreage has crossed 1,00,000 hectares compared to 86,000 hectares last year. This milestone shows that farmers are now ready to accept alternative crops. The move is not just economic but also emotional, proving that change is possible when farmers feel secure. The maize revolution has begun.

Government Support To Farmers

Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s government introduced schemes to push maize. In six districts, 12,000 hectares of land shifted from paddy to maize under a pilot project. Farmers adopting maize receive ₹17,500 per hectare, along with guidance from 185 trained field workers. Additionally, subsidies of ₹7,000 per acre help farmers adjust. Around 30,000 farmers will benefit directly from this support.

Districts Leading The Change

Districts like Pathankot, Sangrur, Bathinda, Jalandhar, Kapurthala and Gurdaspur are at the forefront. Pathankot recorded 4,100 acres, the highest under the new subsidy scheme. Other districts also showed encouraging numbers, with farmers responding positively to incentives. The government believes these results will set an example for the entire state. Punjab’s map of agriculture is visibly changing with maize replacing paddy fields.

Ensuring Smooth Procurement

Agriculture Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian ordered committees at the district level to ensure smooth maize procurement. Farmers were advised to bring dry maize to mandis to avoid losses. Officials emphasized that moisture content should not exceed 14% for better prices. The government is actively working to provide fair value in the market, building trust among farmers.

Long-Term Benefits Of Maize

Unlike paddy, maize consumes much less water, making it ideal for Punjab’s future. Farmers growing maize not only save groundwater but also secure higher profits. Experts say this switch is critical for sustainable farming. The movement shows farmers repaying their debt to Mother Earth by protecting water resources for future generations. Maize is emerging as Punjab’s crop of hope.

A New Green Wave Rising

The maize revolution is Punjab’s emotional and economic victory. When government policies assure MSP and support, farmers take bold steps. Punjab is moving towards a balanced and prosperous agricultural model. The change signals liberation from paddy dependence. Farmers and government together are proving that challenges can be defeated. A new green wave, truly reflecting ‘Rangla Punjab’, is strengthening across the land.