Intense heat, dry weather, and a shortage of labour have delayed the transplantation of paddy in the Fatehgarh Sahib district. Farmers reported that the absence of rainfall has left fields completely dry, while high temperatures and hot winds are causing rapid evaporation, making irrigation difficult.
Challenges Faced by Farmers
Baldeep Singh, a farmer from Sirhind, stated that irrigating fields under the prevailing weather conditions serves little purpose as water soon dries up. For paddy transplantation, stagnant water is a prerequisite. He added that paddy nurseries in several areas are not fully ready for transplantation. Farmers expect transplantation work to pick up only after the onset of rainfall.
Labour shortage has also emerged as a concern in some villages, though farmers noted that workers from other states have started arriving. The expenditure on paddy transplantation is expected to rise this season. Last year, labourers charged around Rs. 4,000 per acre, excluding food expenses.
Adoption of Recommended Varieties
Most farmers have opted for Punjab Agricultural University-recommended varieties, including PR-126, PR-128, and PR-131, owing to their lower water requirement, reduced stubble generation, and shorter maturity period. Some growers are also planning to cultivate basmati rice in view of its comparatively higher market returns.
Crop Diversification Efforts
Meanwhile, the Agriculture Department’s crop diversification campaign has led to an increase in maize cultivation in the district. District Agriculture Officer Jagdev Singh said the department expects paddy transplantation over nearly 85,000 hectares during the current season. He added that a target has also been set for direct seeding of paddy, and farmers are being encouraged to adopt this water-saving technique.
