Climate adaptation strategies: optimizing farm-level water use and profitability in Punjab

Abstract

This study aims to develop optimal crop plans for farmers in Punjab who adopt climate-resilient technologies. In the macro perspective, the optimal crop plan envisages that 7.02 lakh hectares should be under paddy Punjab Rice Varieties (PR VAR) and 4.44 lakh hectares under paddy direct seeded rice. Raising the acreage of maize by 24% will save 3.42 billion cubic metre of water. Strengthening the linkages between research, extension, insurance, and institutional support would improve the capacity of farmers for adopting farm-level climate-smart practices and make the agriculture sector sustainable.