Banned Pusa-44 finds its way to paddy fields in Punjab — with help from Haryana

Despite a ban by the Punjab government on Pusa-44, the longest-duration paddy variety, farmers in Punjab are readying its nursery after obtaining seeds from neighbouring Haryana.One such farmer from Patiala, Ranjit Singh, says, "We know it is not allowed, but our livelihood depends on it. The yield is 5-6 quintals higher than that of the short-duration varieties, and millers happily take this variety. What else can we do?".

- GNS News Agency

Ranjit said he procured the seeds from Karnal in Haryana through known contacts. "it is not banned in that state. If you know someone, you can get it. You just have to avoid getting caught while bringing it into Punjab."The Punjab government in April banned the sale of Pusa-44 and hybrid paddy varieties. Some farmers have challenged the ban on hybrid seeds. Ranjit said he used to grow hybrid seeds, but could not get them from Haryana because several dealers were selling full kits that included seed and multiple costly sprays. "The kits were expensive, so I decided to go with Pusa-44, which offers nearly the same yield. Its seed is much cheaper in comparison. I bought Pusa-44 seed at Rs 120 per kg, and for one acre, I need about Rs 480 worth of seed. My nursery is now 10 days old, and I plan to transplant it into the field by June 8 or 9."