Paddy plantation in Punjab delayed due to insufficient rains and power crisis

Punjab which is popularly known as the ‘rice bowl of the country’ has been severely affected on account of sowing of paddy. This can be attributed due to lack of rain and shortage of power. In the current season so far due to scarcity of water paddy has been planted in 55% of the total area only. So far paddy has been sown in only 14.5 lakh hectares.

In Punjab, paddy sowing normally starts after June 10 but plantation has been delayed due to lack of monsoon rains. To add to the woes of the farmer, the problem is compounded by power crisis. The power crisis is due to intense heat wave condition which has ultimately invited protest from cultivators. This delay in sowing of paddy will also affect plantation for the next season.

Last year, Punjab state has been able to complete plantation of paddy on time at a greater pace. The state has achieved this task despite facing shortage of migrant labourers.  However, this season the situation has turned dreadful not only due to shortage of migrant labourers but also due to lack of rains.

In 2011-12 (July-June) Punjab produced about 10.5 million tonnes of rice. The state also contributes almost 30% of country's rice procurement.