Agro-advisory and contingency crop planning issued for flood-affected Punjab farmers

In response to the widespread crop damage caused by recent floods across Punjab, agricultural scientists from Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) have issued a comprehensive advisory to help farmers manage waterlogged fields and plan alternative cropping strategies.

The dual approach includes immediate agro-advisory measures and contingency crop planning to mitigate losses and support recovery.

Urgent Drainage Measures

Experts emphasize the need to drain excess water from fields swiftly to prevent root suffocation and disease outbreaks. Farmers are advised to open bund ridges at strategic points and clean farm drain channels for smoother water movement. Surface drains and pumping sets can be used to evacuate stagnant water, said PAU VC, Dr SS Gosal. 

For technical guidance, Dr J P Singh (98728-83963) is available for consultation.

Crop-Specific Recommendations

Rice and Basmati: Yellowing of leaves due to nitrogen deficiency can be corrected with a foliar spray of 3% urea. To reduce sterility, farmers should apply 1.5% potassium nitrate at the boot stage. With the current weather favoring false smut, a two-step fungicide spray is recommended. Zinc deficiency should be addressed with 0.5% or 0.3% zinc sulphate sprays. For support, contact Dr J S Lore (62841-08737) or Dr Buta Singh (81461-00360).

Maize: Drainage channels must be created to prevent waterlogging. In case of damage, apply urea in two foliar sprays and broadcast additional nitrogen post-flooding. Stem rot risk is high, so infected plants should be removed immediately. Dr S K Sandhu (81462-38432) and Dr Jawala Jindal (99884-01521) are available for guidance.

Groundnut and Sesame: Standing water must be removed from root zones. Yellowing can be treated with a 2% urea spray. Contact Dr Gurpreet Kaur (98149-07951) or Dr Amanpreet Kaur (81469-00557).

Sorghum and Bajra: No major disease threats are reported, but yellowing can be managed with a 3% urea spray. Dr R S Sohu (98767-43898) and Dr Devinder Pal (98763-75167) are monitoring the situation.

Cotton: Immediate drainage is crucial. To minimise flower drop, four sprays of 2% potassium nitrate are advised. Leaf reddening can be managed with magnesium sulphate, and pest monitoring is essential for pink bollworm, whitefly, and jassid. Avoid synthetic pyrethroids before September 15. For disease management, use Amistar Top and cobalt chloride as needed. Reach out to Dr Kulbir Singh (94177-83052), Dr Vijay Kumar (97794-51214), or Dr Satnam Singh (98769-62774).

Sugarcane: Nitrogen application is recommended post-flooding if red disease symptoms are absent. Dr Gulzar Singh (98722-04523) is available for advice.

Vegetables and Orchards: Drain excess water and apply necessary sprays to manage pests. In cucurbits, assisted hand pollination may improve fruit set. Fruit trees require careful pruning, drainage restoration and nutrient replenishment. Monitor for fungal diseases and insect infestations. Experts like Dr. H.S. Rattanpal (79997-77773) and crop-specific specialists are available for support.

Nutrient Management Post-Flood

Floods often lead to nitrogen and zinc deficiencies. Weekly foliar sprays of 2% urea and zinc sulphate are recommended. Soil inversion and organic fertilisers can help restore aeration and soil health. For guidance, contact Dr Gobinder Singh (95011-92500) or Dr Vicky Singh (98141-00244).

Contingency Crop Planning for Damaged Fields

For areas where Kharif crops are completely lost, scientists suggest sowing Toria (TL 17) in early September, yielding 4–5 quintals per acre. Maize, bajra, and sorghum can be grown as fodder, while Berseem and Ryegrass may be sown slightly earlier than usual.

In vegetable-growing regions, farmers are encouraged to begin early planting of winter crops.

Recommended varieties include:

Potato: Kufri Surya, Pb. Potato-101, Kufri Pukhraj

Peas: Matar Ageta-7

Cauliflower: Punjab Maghri

Broccoli: Punjab Broccoli 1, Palam Samridhi

Root Vegetables: Carrot (PC-161), Radish (Punjab Safed Mooli – 2), Turnip (L-1)

Leafy Greens: Palak

Experts like Dr Navjot Singh Brar (94666-13412), Dr Rajinder Kumar Dhall (82838-40078) and Dr Ruma Devi (98783-99555) are available for crop-specific advice.