Chandigarh, February 22
The Punjab government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, is making significant strides in increasing farmers’ income through crop diversification. Horticulture Minister Mohinder Bhagat stated that the initiative is enhancing agricultural productivity and providing better financial returns for farmers.
Highlighting a success story from Mansa district, the minister said that Sukhpal Singh, a progressive farmer from Maujo Khurd village, has adopted crop diversification on his 11-acre farm. While continuing traditional farming on 4 acres, he has shifted to high-value vegetable cultivation on the remaining 7 acres, significantly increasing his earnings.
Farmer Sukhpal Singh begins sowing vegetables every November using advanced techniques supported by the horticulture department. By late January, his produce reaches the market at premium prices, yielding higher profits than conventional crops.
Sukhpal Singh has recently started mushroom cultivation on his farm. He is earning a good income from mushroom sales and many other farmers are seeking his advice and learning new techniques from him.
The minister emphasized that the Punjab government is actively supporting farmers in adopting diversified farming. “We are providing high-quality seeds, modern irrigation facilities and financial incentives to encourage sustainable agricultural practices. These initiatives are improving farmers’ livelihoods and contributing to Punjab’s economic growth,” he said.
The minister urged other farmers to embrace crop diversification to maximize their income and ensure long-term agricultural sustainability.
