Colloquium

Experts call for revisiting power subsidy, push crop diversification

Chandigarh, April 2
Experts at a colloquium on “Promoting Diversification for Higher Incomes and Sustainable Agriculture in Punjab and Haryana” emphasised the urgent need to shift away from the wheat–paddy monoculture and adopt sustainable, market-linked agricultural practices.
The colloquium was organised by the Chandigarh Citizens Foundation (CCF) in collaboration with CRRID and ICRIER at CRRID, Sector 19.
Dr Ramesh Chand, Member, NITI Aayog, highlighted concerns over excessive paddy production and its adverse impact on water resources. He stressed that “crop diversification is essential for long-term sustainability and improved farm incomes,” adding that repurposing power subsidies could incentivise more efficient resource use.
Dr Ashok Gulati, noted agricultural economist, observed that “free power has become the antithesis of crop diversification,” advocating a shift towards direct income support and market-oriented reforms.
Dr Sukhpal Singh, former Chairperson, CMA, IIM Ahmedabad, supported the adoption of contract farming, stating that “a robust policy framework can enable farmers to diversify towards high-value crops without increasing risk.”
The experts also called for a balanced approach between MSP-backed crops and market-driven agriculture, encouraging diversification into horticulture and other high-value segments.
The session included a policy dialogue on crop-neutral incentives and a technical roundtable on export pathways, with participation from policymakers, researchers and stakeholders.
The event was well attended and received coverage in leading regional dailies, including The Tribune and Hindustan Times.

Colloquium on Promoting Diversification for Higher Incomes & Sustainable Agriculture in Punjab and Haryana

The Chandigarh Citizens Foundation (CCF), in collaboration with CRRID and ICRIER, is organizing a one-day colloquium on April 2, 2026, at CRRID, Sector 19, Chandigarh.
The colloquium aims to address critical challenges and opportunities in agricultural transformation, with a focus on crop diversification, sustainability, and enhancing farmer incomes in Punjab and Haryana.
The event will be graced by Dr. Ramesh Chand, Member, NITI Aayog, as the Keynote Speaker. Distinguished speakers include Dr. Ashok Gulati (ICRIER) and Dr. Sukhpal Singh (IIM Ahmedabad).
Senior officials from Punjab and Haryana as also the academics from PAU and CCSHAU will participate in the discussion. The programme will include:
A pre-lunch policy dialogue on crop diversification and sustainability
A post-lunch roundtable on export pathways from Amritsar
This colloquium will serve as a vital platform for policymakers, experts, and stakeholders to deliberate on actionable strategies for shaping the future of agriculture in North India.