Punjab Expands Kharif Maize Cultivation Program to Combat Water Scarcity

The Punjab government is expanding its Kharif maize cultivation scheme from six to 16 districts for the 2026-27 season, incentivizing farmers with Rs 17,500 per hectare. This expansion aims to combat groundwater depletion by encouraging a shift from paddy to maize. Farmers can register via a designated portal, with subsidies released after geo-tagged verification.

The Punjab government has announced a significant expansion of its Kharif maize cultivation scheme in a bid to address the pressing issue of groundwater depletion. Starting from the 2026-27 season, the scheme will span 16 districts, an increase from its initial six districts.

Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian revealed that the scheme received a positive response during its pilot phase last year. Incentives of Rs 17,500 per hectare will be offered to farmers who switch from the traditional water-intensive paddy crops to maize, with a detailed subsidy disbursal plan implemented for transparency.

The state government has digitized the registration and verification process to streamline operations and ensure timely subsidy payments. This move is part of a broader initiative to transition to sustainable cropping patterns, protecting Punjab's water resources and ensuring farmer profitability.