The recent floods in Punjab have heavily damaged rice crop, however notwithstanding the loss to the paddy crop in Punjab, analysts say that rice production are likely to decline in Punjab. In this context, Punjab agriculture officials are speculating and showed optimistic side that due to the floods, the standing crops in 2 lakh hectares in the state have been completely destroyed, but there is a possibility of better yield in the areas not affected by the floods.
Rice Crop & it’s Production in Punjab is Directly Related to the Purchase of Paddy Crop Across the Nation
Analysis by the experts have further intensified the ongoing debate about the effect of loss caused to rice crop due to flood in Punjab and its consequences and how it will impact Punjab’s rice production. Discussion on Punjab’s rice crop is also important because Punjab accounts for the largest share of rice procurement. Last year, Punjab produced 14.36 million tons of rice, including basmati. This year, the rice acreage in Punjab is reported to have been 32.49 lakh hectares. Reportedly, 2 lakh hectares have been destroyed due to floods.
This year the central government has set a target of purchasing 46.35 metric tons of rice from Punjab, compared to 51.16 million tons last year. Last year, 47.4 metric tons of rice were procured from Punjab, compared to the target of 51.16. With the current year rice procurement figure by Punjab is yet to be cleared, all eyes are now on Punjab as heavy rains and flood have already destroyed rice crop in Punjab. However, analysts say that rice production are likely to decline in Punjab.