What measures can the government take to incentivize traditional crops for healthier air and water table in Punjab
The Supreme Court has asked the Centre to explore Punjab's suggestion to phase out paddy and promote traditional crops. Discuss the potential measures that the government can take to incentivize traditional crops for healthier air and water table in Punjab.
- Financial incentives: The government can provide monetary incentives such as subsidies, grants, low-interest loans, and price support to farmers who cultivate traditional crops. This would encourage farmers to shift away from paddy and adopt traditional crops that require fewer inputs and have a lesser impact on the environment.
- Research and development: Investing in research and development for traditional crops can help improve their yield, disease resistance, and market demand. This would not only make them more profitable for farmers but also promote their cultivation for a healthier environment.
- Education and awareness: The government can conduct awareness campaigns and training programs to educate farmers about the advantages of traditional crops. This would help change their mindset and encourage them to adopt alternative crops that are more sustainable and have lesser water and air pollution impacts.
- Market development: The government can work towards creating a market for traditional crops by establishing farmer producer organizations, strengthening agro-processing industries, and promoting local consumption through public procurement programs. This would provide farmers with a reliable market and steady income, making traditional crops more attractive.
- Policy support: The government can introduce supportive policies that facilitate the cultivation and marketing of traditional crops. This can include streamlining regulations, offering land lease agreements, and creating marketing infrastructure such as storage and transportation facilities.
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a year ago