Punjab, long hailed as India’s breadbasket, is on the brink of an environmental crisis. The state’s groundwater levels are plunging at an alarming rate, with experts warning that it could drop below 1,000 feet by 2039. As the region continues to rely on traditional water-intensive farming methods, the depletion of groundwater poses a serious threat to agriculture, livelihoods, and food security. However, a pioneering farming technique could offer a sustainable solution.
A Revolutionary Approach to Paddy Farming
Kahan Singh Pannu, a retired IAS officer, has developed an innovative method for cultivating paddy that dramatically reduces water consumption. Known as the Seeding of Rice on Beds (SRB) technique, this method slashes water usage by 75% compared to traditional methods. Instead of flooding entire fields, farmers using SRB prepare raised beds and plant paddy seeds simultaneously, irrigating only the furrows between the beds. This reduces evaporation and prevents excess runoff, conserving precious groundwater.
Promising Results in Trial Sites
The SRB technique has been implemented at 12 trial sites across Punjab, yielding impressive results. Farmers using this method have reported crop yields on par with conventional practices while significantly cutting down on water and labor costs. One farmer reported savings of Rs 8,000 per acre, highlighting the economic benefits of this innovative approach.
A Path to Sustainable Agriculture
With Punjab’s water crisis worsening, the SRB technique could revolutionize paddy farming in the region. It not only ensures water conservation but also promotes regenerative and conservation-oriented agriculture. As more farmers adopt sustainable methods, Punjab’s agricultural landscape could undergo a transformative shift, securing the state’s productivity for future generations.
Kahan Singh Pannu envisions a future where Punjab’s farmers embrace eco-friendly techniques and adapt to the changing environmental realities. His initiative is not just about conserving water—it’s about reshaping the mindset of farmers, ensuring that Punjab’s fields remain fertile and its farming community thrives for years to come.
