Crop Pattern and Share of Agriculture in National Income: An Analysis of Punjab

Abstract

Punjab, often referred to as the "Granary of India," witnessed a remarkable transformation in agriculture following the Green Revolution. The wheat–paddy cropping cycle significantly enhanced food production and strengthened national food security. However, the dominance of this monoculture system has led to serious challenges, including declining soil fertility, depletion of groundwater, soil degradation, environmental pollution, and increased financial vulnerability of farmers. In the current context, crop diversification emerges as a vital strategy for achieving sustainable agriculture and enhancing farmer incomes in Punjab. This paper evaluates the extent of crop diversification among farmers in the region and highlights how coordinated efforts by the government, agricultural universities, and farming communities can make agriculture both economically viable and environmentally sustainable.