Paddy transplantation has begun on a slow note across several parts of the district as farmers grapple with a shortage of labour and inadequate availability of water for puddling fields ahead of transplantation. While the state government has permitted paddy transplantation from June 1, many farmers said they had been unable to start operations on a large scale due to difficulties in arranging labour and ensuring sufficient water for irrigation.
Farmers said the shortage of migrant labour had pushed up labour charges and delayed field operations. “Many labourers have either arrived late, or are yet to reach Punjab. Those available are demanding higher wages because of increased demand,” said farmer Balkar Singh.
Apart from labour issues, farmers are also facing challenges in preparing fields. Several areas are reporting inadequate water supply for puddling, a process in which fields are flooded and tilled before transplantation.
Farmers said irregular canal water supply and dependence on tubewells had added to their concerns, particularly amid the shortage of electricity, and high diesel costs.
Over the past few years, the adoption of mechanical transplantation and direct seeding of rice (DSR) has helped reduce dependence on manual labour. Agricultural experts said these technologies had provided relief to farmers facing recurring labour shortages and escalating cultivation costs. However, benefits remain limited due to the shortage of machines during the peak sowing season.
Farmers pointed out that the demand for paddy transplanters often exceeded availability, forcing many to wait for their turn.
In the case of DSR, inadequate technical knowledge and concerns over weed management continue to discourage widespread adoption.
Agriculture Department officials said they were encouraging farmers to adopt water saving technologies and modern cultivation methods. They added that awareness programmes and technical support were being provided to help farmers shift towards mechanised farming practices.
With transplantation season having just begun, farmers say rain and improved labour availability in the coming days can help accelerate the pace of operations.
