The Punjab government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has significantly expanded its flagship agricultural reform by extending the kharif maize scheme to 16 districts for the 2026–27 season. The initiative is aimed at reducing dependence on water-intensive paddy cultivation and promoting sustainable crop diversification across the state.
Agriculture Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian announced that under the expanded kharif maize scheme, farmers will receive a subsidy of ₹17,500 per hectare for shifting from paddy to maize cultivation. The government expects this financial support to encourage large-scale adoption of maize farming and improve farmer income stability.
The state has set a target of bringing around 20,000 hectares of land under maize cultivation through the kharif maize scheme. Officials stated that the programme is a key step toward addressing Punjab’s worsening groundwater depletion crisis, which has been largely driven by excessive paddy cultivation over the years.
Mann govt expands maize scheme to 16 districts, pushes crop diversification
🔸Agriculture Minister @GurmeetKhudian announced expansion of kharif maize scheme to 16 districts for 2026-27
🔸Farmers to receive ₹17,500 per hectare subsidy to shift from water-intensive paddy to… pic.twitter.com/kIQPtULahf
— AAP Punjab (@AAPPunjab) May 4, 2026
Kharif Maize Scheme Ensures Transparent Digitised Implementation with Geo-Tagging and Phased Subsidy Payments
Under the kharif maize scheme, the entire implementation process will be digitised to ensure transparency and efficiency. The use of geo-tagging technology for farmland verification, along with phased subsidy payments, will help ensure that benefits directly reach eligible farmers without delays or leakages.
Experts have welcomed the expansion of the kharif maize scheme, noting that maize requires significantly less water compared to paddy and is better suited for Punjab’s changing environmental conditions. The initiative is also expected to improve soil health and support long-term agricultural sustainability.
Also read : Bhagwant Mann Pays Tribute to Sri Muktsar Sahib Martyrs, Calls Their Sacrifice Timeless Inspiration
The Mann government has consistently pushed for crop diversification, and the expansion of the kharif maize scheme reflects its continued commitment to transforming Punjab’s farming model. By encouraging farmers to adopt maize, the government aims to create a more balanced, eco-friendly, and economically viable agricultural system.
Overall, the expanded kharif maize scheme is seen as a major policy step toward conserving groundwater resources while ensuring better income opportunities for farmers across Punjab.