A joint survey has been conducted to assess the impact of recent floods on Kharif crops in Ludhiana district. The exercise was undertaken by the Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Ludhiana (Samrala), Department of Extension Education, Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana, and the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Punjab, under the guidance of Dr. V.K. Rampal, Associate Director (Trg.), KVK Ludhiana (Samrala). The assessment team included Dr. Amanpreet Singh, Assistant Professor (Agronomy), KVK Samrala; Dr. Dharminder Singh, Principal Extension Scientist, PAU; and agriculture officials, Sh. Harinder Sandhu, Block Agriculture Officer (Ludhiana-2), Sh. Sandeep Singh and Ms. Ritika Sharma, Agricultural Development Officers.
The multidisciplinary team visited flood-affected villages including Khaira Bet, Gorsian Hakamrai, Nurpur Bet, Bolewal Jadid, Majara Kalan, Bholewal Qadim, and Allowal. Farmers reported significant losses due to crop lodging, damage to poplar crops, and destruction of fodder crops, resulting in a shortage of feed for dairy animals. In low-lying areas, waterlogging has also delayed the sowing of upcoming rabi crops.
During interactions with farmers, the experts assessed the extent of crop damage, soil erosion, and water stagnation. Dr. Rampal stated that the survey will form the basis for a comprehensive report to guide remedial measures and future contingency planning. Dr. Amanpreet Singh emphasized the importance of adaptive agronomic practices to mitigate future risks, while Dr. Dharminder Singh highlighted the need for timely farmer advisories and disaster management training.
Block Agriculture Officer Harinder Sandhu and Ritika Sharma (ADO) assured that the Department will provide full support to affected farmers through technical guidance and government schemes for agricultural recovery. The survey findings will be compiled and shared with stakeholders to develop strategies for the rehabilitation of farming in the flood-hit regions of Ludhiana district.