Cropping Pattern of Farm Families in Five Agro-Climatic Zones of Punjab

Abstract

In Punjab, majority of the population lives in villages where main occupation is agriculture or its allied occupation. The present study was conducted in Punjab state to analyse the cropping pattern of 200 farm families representing five agro climatic zones of Punjab namely zone I (sub - mountain undulating zone), zone II (undulating plain zone). Zone III (central plain zone), Zone IV (western plain zone) and zone V (western zone) through structured interview schedule. Crops ranged between one to six crops with majority (65.5%) of farmers cultivating one to two crops. Prevalence of monocropping pattern was observed with vast majority growing wheat and paddy. All crops except fruits, sugarcane and trees (agro-forestry) were sold in the nearest Mandi (market.) Sugarcane was directly sold to the nearest sugar mill. Agroforestry mainly comprised of poplar trees which were auctioned in the fields to contractors/ commission agents. Produce was mostly sold in raw form without processing with the negligible percentage of those processing mustard. Farming families should be motivated to work together in small groups for some time and then move them to form FPO’s. Extension workers should guide and facilitate farmers in producing and marketing high value crop.