Bumper Rice Yield in Punjab Despite Floods Thanks to Short-duration Varieties
Published on: January 21, 2024.
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Punjab Records Bumper Rice Output Despite Floods
Punjab has achieved a bumper output of paddy and basmati crops in the kharif season 2023-24, despite facing floods in July and August of the previous year. According to data from the Punjab Mandi Board, the production of both types of rice has reached 212.31 lakh tonnes, which is a 3% increase compared to the previous year.
Increased Production Despite Challenges
Despite the floods, Punjab has successfully increased its rice production. The total production of basmati and non-basmati crops in the kharif season 2022-23 was pegged at 206.28 lakh tonnes. This year, the procurement of non-basmati rice by government agencies for free distribution has already ended in November, while aromatic varieties of basmati are being purchased by private players.
Factors Contributing to Higher Production
Officials of the state agriculture department and farm experts attribute the higher production to the use of short-duration rice varieties and an increased area under basmati cultivation. The adoption of PR 126, a short-duration paddy variety, and PUSA Basmati 1509 has been beneficial for farmers. These varieties take less time to mature, enabling farmers to switch crops more quickly. In the 2023-24 season, the area under basmati cultivation was expanded to 6 lakh hectares, which is a 1 lakh-hectare increase compared to the previous season.
Positive Impact on Farmers and the Economy
The cultivation of short-duration rice varieties has saved farmers from economic devastation caused by the floods. It has also helped Punjab fulfill its commitment to supply the targeted quantity of paddy to the central pool and generate revenue despite the challenges posed by the natural disaster.
Rice Arrival and Production Statistics
Till January 19, mandis across Punjab have registered the arrival of 26.45 lakh tonnes of basmati rice. This indicates a 13% increase compared to the 2022-23 season, which saw a total arrival of 23.32 lakh tonnes. In the same period, non-basmati production increased from 182.96 lakh tonnes in 2022-23 to 185.86 lakh tonnes in 2023-24.
Conclusion
Punjab’s rice industry has demonstrated resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges posed by floods. The use of short-duration varieties and the expansion of basmati cultivation have led to a bumper rice output in the kharif season 2023-24. These achievements contribute to the state’s food security and economic stability.
Source: Hindustan Times
