DSR technique gains momentum in Punjab

In an effort to address the twin challenges of rising labour costs and depleting groundwater levels, the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare has intensified its push for Direct Seeding of Rice (DSR) technique in the district. Recently, demonstrations of the DSR technique were held in several villages of the various blocks.

Chief Agriculture Officer Dr Baljinder Singh Bhullar highlighted the support being extended to farmers adopting this eco-friendly technique.

“The Punjab Government is offering financial assistance of Rs 1,500 per acre to DSR technique adopters. Farmers can register themselves on the official portal to avail of this benefit,” he said.

Dr Bhullar also shared that during the 2024-25 season, about 17,000 acres in the district were cultivated using the DSR technique. This year, the target is to increase the area under the DSR technique to 30,000 acres. “To meet this goal, awareness campaigns, farmer education camps and the distribution of technical resources through WhatsApp groups are being actively pursued,” he added.

Mandeep Singh, Agriculture Extension Officer, Circle Mudhal, said the DSR technique is the need of the hour given the alarming rate at which groundwater levels are falling. “We strongly urge farmers to adopt direct seeding methods, which can result in savings of 20–25 per cent in labour and 15–20 cent in water use,” he explained.

Amritsar