More farmers opt for cotton in Punjab

CHANDIGARH:THE Punjab government on Tuesday said its crop diversification programme has received a massive response from farmers with the state nearly accomplishing its goal to bring 12.5 lakh acres of land under cotton cultivation.

Additional chief secretary (ACS), development, Viswajeet Khanna said the diversification of the cropping pattern away from paddy helps save water improve soil fertility and avoid winter stubble burning, thus preserving and improving the environment substantially. The state had recorded sowing of cotton over an area of 10 lakh acres so far and the set target would be achieved very soon, he said in a statement. Last year, cotton was sown over 9.7 lakh acres of land.

“Bathinda district has recorded maximum sowing of 3.39 lakh acres followed by Fazilka with 2.38 lakh acres and 2.1 lakh acres in Mansa,” he said, adding that the department had also started a vigorous campaign to remove weeds (host plants of white fly) from open spaces.htc