Punjab’s groundwater extraction was assessed at 152.22% of its annually extractable resource in 2025-26. Large-scale paddy cultivation, free electricity for farm tubewells and assured minimum support price (MSP) procurement are linked to heavy pumping. The state regulates paddy planting dates and promotes water-saving methods. Direct Seeded Rice carries an incentive, with a target of 5 lakh acres in 2026-27. The challenge is to conserve water while protecting farm incomes.
Timeline: from farm growth to water stress
- 1960sGreen RevolutionFarm growth
The Green Revolution promoted high-yield farming in Punjab.
- 2009State lawPlanting dates
The Punjab Preservation of Subsoil Water Act regulated paddy nursery sowing and transplanting dates.
- 2025-26AssessmentWater stress
Groundwater extraction was assessed at 152.22% of the annually extractable resource.
- 2026-27TargetDirect seeding
Direct Seeded Rice has a target of 5 lakh acres.
Why is Punjab’s groundwater under pressure?
Groundwater supports irrigation through tubewells. Large-scale paddy cultivation requires substantial water, while free farm electricity and assured procurement support the existing cropping pattern.
The Punjab Preservation of Subsoil Water Act, 2009 bars paddy nursery sowing and transplanting before notified dates. The aim is to align transplanting with the monsoon and reduce reliance on groundwater.
The two sides
The conservation case
- Extraction above the annually extractable resource points to pressure on groundwater.
- Direct seeding, shorter-duration varieties and crop diversification can reduce irrigation demand.
- Canal supply to tail ends and recharge measures can support water management.
The farm livelihood perspective
- Assured MSP procurement gives farmers a market for paddy.
- Free electricity helps meet irrigation costs for agricultural tubewells.
- Changing crops or cultivation methods requires workable income and market support.
Key data
| Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Extraction assessment | 152.22% of annually extractable groundwater in 2025-26. |
| Planting law | Punjab Preservation of Subsoil Water Act, 2009; dates are notified for nursery sowing and transplanting. |
| Direct Seeded Rice incentive | Rs 1,500 per acre. |
| Direct Seeded Rice target | 5 lakh acres in 2026-27. |
| Other measures | Maize incentive, short-duration varieties, canal water to tail ends, rooftop and check-dam recharge. |
Way forward
- Support diversification: Pair alternative crops with reliable markets and practical income support.
- Improve irrigation: Extend dependable canal water to tail ends and promote efficient field practices.
- Enable direct seeding: Combine incentives with farmer training and locally suitable advice.
- Recharge responsibly: Maintain rooftop and check-dam recharge structures where suitable.
- Monitor and engage: Share local groundwater information and involve farmers in water planning.
Likely interview questions
What does Punjab’s 152.22% groundwater extraction assessment mean?
Answer pointers:
- It compares extraction with the annually extractable groundwater resource.
- Extraction exceeds that resource, indicating pressure on groundwater.
- Use the assessment to guide local conservation and monitoring.
Do you think free farm electricity should be withdrawn to conserve groundwater?
Answer pointers:
- Free power supports irrigation and reduces farm costs.
- It can also encourage pumping when groundwater is stressed.
- Consider calibrated reforms alongside income protection and farmer consultation.
Do you think crop diversification is a sufficient solution?
Answer pointers:
- Less water-intensive crops can reduce pressure on groundwater.
- Farmers also need dependable markets and viable incomes.
- Combine diversification with irrigation management, recharge and monitoring.
As Sub-Divisional Magistrate in Sangrur, how would you encourage groundwater conservation?
Answer pointers:
- Consult farmers and review local water and irrigation information.
- Coordinate training and access to relevant incentives with agriculture officials.
- Monitor outcomes and address practical barriers through follow-up meetings.
How does groundwater depletion relate to the Sutlej-Yamuna Link canal issue?
Answer pointers:
- Punjab cites water scarcity when arguing that it has no surplus water.
- The canal issue also involves inter-state water sharing and legal questions.
- Separate groundwater management from the dispute while encouraging cooperative solutions.
Use the extraction figure accurately and acknowledge both water stress and farm livelihoods. Avoid blaming farmers or presenting one measure as a complete solution.
Prelims Practice Corner
Q1. What was Punjab’s assessed groundwater extraction in 2025-26?
(a) 52.22% (b) 100% (c) 152.22% (d) 200%
Show answer
Answer: (c) because extraction was assessed at 152.22% of the annually extractable resource.
Q2. Which law regulates the timing of paddy nursery sowing and transplanting in Punjab?
(a) Punjab Preservation of Subsoil Water Act, 2009 (b) Forest Conservation Act, 1980 (c) Water Act, 1974 (d) Environment Protection Act, 1986
Show answer
Answer: (a) because the 2009 Punjab Act bars these activities before notified dates.
Q3. What is the Direct Seeded Rice target for 2026-27?
(a) 1 lakh acres (b) 2 lakh acres (c) 5 lakh acres (d) 10 lakh acres
Show answer
Answer: (c) because the target is 5 lakh acres.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is groundwater depleting in Punjab?
Heavy groundwater pumping for large-scale paddy cultivation is a major driver. Free electricity for farm tubewells and assured procurement are linked to the prevailing cropping pattern.
What does the Punjab subsoil water law do?
It bars paddy nursery sowing and transplanting before notified dates. The timing aims to align transplanting with the monsoon.
What is the incentive for Direct Seeded Rice in Punjab?
The incentive is Rs 1,500 per acre. The target is 5 lakh acres in 2026-27.
Sources: Drishti IAS, Babushahi, ICRIER
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