Pilot project to promote maize cultivation begins in Punjab

The state has launched a pilot project to bring 10,000 hectares under maize cultivation in Sangrur, Bathinda, Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Jalandhar and Kapurthala districts. The move aims at encouraging farmers to shift from paddy to maize cultivation.

Under the pilot project, Sangrur and Gurdaspur districts will cover 2,000 hectares each, while Pathankot, Jalandhar, Bathinda and Kapurthala districts will cover 1,500 hectares each for maize cultivation.

The farmers will be provided an incentive of Rs17,500 per hectare, while maize procurement will be ensured at Rs 2,400 per quintal. By promoting maize cultivation in the state, the government aims to not only promote crop diversification, but also conserve groundwater and increase farmers’ income. The project is also a result of the increasing demand for ethanol, which can be produced from maize.

According to a spokesman of the administration, the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare will provide technical support and guidance to the farmers.

Trained “Kisan Mitras” will be appointed in each village to assist farmers. Subsidy will also be provided on machinery needed for maize cultivation.

Sangrur Deputy Commissioner Sandeep Rishi on Wednesday urged the farmers to take advantage of the opportunity and shift to the maize cultivation.

Chief Agriculture Officer Dharminderjit Singh said the maize cultivation could be done till the end of June.