Punjab Calls for Swift Approval of BG-3 Cotton Seeds to Tackle Pest Menace

Punjab Agriculture Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian met Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Thursday. He sought Chouhan's personal intervention to expedite research and approval for the next generation BG-3 cotton seeds. Khudian expressed concern over pest attacks, particularly pink bollworm and whitefly, affecting the cotton crop.

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Khudian highlighted the need to replace current BG-2 cotton seeds with advanced ones to resist pest attacks. He thanked Chouhan for approving the state agricultural statistics authority SASA, which will enhance planning, monitoring, evaluation, research, and development in Punjab's agriculture sector.

Funding Changes in Crop Residue Management Scheme

The Punjab minister raised concerns about the Crop Residue Management (CRM) scheme. He noted that the central government altered the funding pattern to a 60:40 Centre: State ratio in 2023-24 from the previous 100 per cent central sponsorship. Khudian urged Chouhan to restore the 100 per cent central funding due to Punjab's significant contribution to national food security.

Khudian also requested incentives on a per-acre basis as compensation for farmers managing paddy straw. He emphasised that this additional cost needs to be addressed to support farmers effectively.

Continuous Supply of Fertilisers

Khudian brought up the issue of phosphatic fertiliser shortages during the Rabi season. He appealed to Chouhan to ensure a continuous supply of these fertilisers during this critical period. This step is crucial for maintaining crop health and productivity.

The Punjab minister also discussed the National Food Security Mission (NFSM) and Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) schemes. He mentioned that approximately Rs 20 crore is invested annually under these schemes as per Indian Council of Agricultural Research guidelines to replace 33 per cent of seeds each year.

However, Khudian pointed out that the Indian government has ceased assistance for wheat seed replacement under these schemes. He stressed the need for this support to continue, highlighting its importance for maintaining seed quality and crop yields.

Khudian's meeting with Chouhan covered various agrarian concerns of Punjab. These included crop residue management, fertiliser supply, and seed replacement schemes. The discussions aimed at securing better support and resources for Punjab's agriculture sector.

The meeting underscored the need for advanced cotton seeds and continuous fertiliser supply. It also highlighted funding issues in crop residue management and seed replacement schemes. These steps are vital for enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability in Punjab.