Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana, along with the Punjab Agriculture Department, has rolled out guidelines for the upcoming Rabi wheat sowing season, providing direct financial subsidies of 50% for individual farmers and up to 80% for Custom Hiring Centres (CHCs) and Cooperatives on Super Seeders and Happy Seeders.
Key Recommendations for Punjab Farmers:
- 1Seed Variety: Sow HD-3385 or PBW-826 in the fourth week of October to capitalize on the extended grain-filling window.
- 2In-Situ Straw Management: Incorporate paddy straw directly using Smart Seeder or Happy Seeder without burning residue, preserving soil organic carbon and vital earthworms.
- 3Weed Control: Apply Pre-emergence herbicide Pendimethalin 30 EC @ 1.5 litres/acre within 48 hours of sowing.
Punjab farmers can register on the state CRM machinery portal or contact their district Chief Agriculture Officer (CAO).