‘Level fields to save water, increase yield’

Tribune News service

Amritsar, June 16

The Agriculture Department has advised farmers to get their fields levelled with laser technology before transplanting paddy to save water.

Agriculture Engineer Ranbir Singh Randhawa said water consumption reduces by almost half if the fields are levelled properly. “During paddy season, farmers face shortage of water. If fields are levelled, they need less water,” he said.

He said once a farmer gets his fields leveled, there would be no need to get it done for the next two to three seasons.

He added that the department has provided machines to cooperative groups and individuals who can provide service to those who do not own the machines.

Chief Agriculture Officer Vinay Kumar said the department has recommended levelling of fields to save water and increase yield. “It has been proven that crop yield is more in levelled fields. Chances of paddy saplings getting submerged in water at lower spots are negligible,” he said.