The PR-126 paddy variety, introduced in Punjab in 2016, has become embroiled in controversy in 2024 due to claims of lower milling yields. As rice shellers refuse to accept this variety and its hybrids, the political landscape has heated up, with opposition leaders criticising the AAP government for its handling of paddy procurement. Farmers are left stranded in mandis, and the situation has sparked a debate over agricultural practices and water resource management in a state already grappling with a groundwater crisis.
About PR-126
PR-126 was developed by the Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) to address the need for a high-yield, short-duration paddy variety. Its introduction was timely, given Punjab’s extensive paddy cultivation, which occupies around 32 lakh hectares. This variety is celebrated for its ability to yield over 30 quintals per acre while requiring less water and pesticide than traditional varieties. As of 2023, PR-126 accounted for 33% of non-Basmati paddy cultivation in Punjab, and this figure is expected to rise to 44% in the coming season.
Water Crisis and Agricultural Practices
Punjab faces a severe groundwater crisis, exacerbated by the water-intensive nature of paddy cultivation. Shifting to shorter-duration varieties like PR-126 is seen as a potential solution, saving both water and time for farmers to manage stubble, which can reduce the practice of burning. This change aligns with sustainable agricultural practices, yet it raises questions about the long-term viability of such crops in a region where water scarcity is a pressing concern.
The Milling Out-Turn Ratio (OTR) Debate
The milling out-turn ratio (OTR) is a critical metric for rice shellers, determining the yield of rice after milling. Recent claims suggest that the OTR for PR-126 has dropped, leading to a refusal by shellers to accept the crop. However, PAU officials argue that PR-126 has consistently demonstrated high OTR levels and that the issues stem from hybrids mislabelled as PR-126. This confusion has led to calls for DNA testing of the seeds to verify their authenticity and ensure farmers are not misled.
Role of Hybrid Varieties
The emergence of hybrid paddy varieties has complicated the situation. Farmers, often unaware of the differences, have purchased these hybrids from local dealers, believing them to be PR-126. The hybrid varieties reportedly offer lower OTRs, causing rice millers to reject them. The PAU has not endorsed these hybrids, citing their inconsistent performance and higher costs. This marks the need for stricter regulations on seed sales to protect farmers and maintain the integrity of the agricultural supply chain.
Political Ramifications
The controversy has political implications, with opposition leaders using the situation to question the efficacy of the current government. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s rebuttal to the criticisms reflects the tensions between political parties in Punjab. The situation underscores the broader issues of agricultural policy, farmer welfare, and resource management in a state where agriculture forms the backbone of the economy.
Future Directions
To mitigate the ongoing issues, the Punjab government has mandated that PR-126 and hybrid varieties be stored separately in rice mills, allowing for accurate OTR testing. This step is crucial for restoring trust in the procurement process and ensuring that farmers are not left vulnerable to exploitation. Additionally, PAU’s call for stricter regulations on seed sales is essential for safeguarding the agricultural sector’s future.
