Punjab’s Kharif crops are expected to deliver a strong harvest this year despite recent floods. Official figures show that only 8 to 10 percent of maize, paddy, and cotton production in the province has been affected. Experts say the timing of the floods helped reduce damage.
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) reported that 1.8 million acres out of 20 million acres of farmland in Punjab were flooded. A total of 27 districts were impacted. However, agriculture experts note that Punjab’s cropping system has shown resilience.
Dr. Anjum Ali Buttar, Consultant at the Punjab Agriculture Department, explained that by September most of Punjab’s Kharif crops had reached maturity. This maturity allowed maize, rice, and cotton to withstand floodwaters with limited yield loss. He added that high market prices of maize and paddy are likely to offset reduced production, protecting farmers from major financial setbacks.
The Punjab government has announced a compensation package for affected farmers. A detailed survey is being carried out to assess damages. Experts believe the sowing of the next Rabi crop, particularly wheat, will remain on schedule. Wheat is vital for ensuring food security across the country.
Official data from the Pakistan Cotton Ginners Association (PCGA) shows a 40 percent rise in cotton output compared to last year. By late September, ginning factories in Punjab received 690,000 bales, up 28 percent from 2024. This indicates Punjab’s cotton belt remains strong despite localized flood damage.
Punjab’s rice crop has also shown resilience. According to Dr. Muhammad Akhtar, former Director of the Rice Research Institute, harvesting of coarse rice is already underway, while Basmati harvesting will start in mid-October. He noted that overall rice output in Punjab is likely to match or exceed last year. Strong production could push Pakistan’s rice exports above $3 billion in 2025.
Farmers’ representatives, however, stressed the need for long-term solutions. Pakistan Kissan Ittehad Chairman Khalid Mahmood Khokhar said farmers face unbearable losses due to floods. He urged political unity, reduction in input costs, and improved marketing systems to secure the future of agriculture.
Despite challenges, Punjab’s Kharif season reflects resilience, with strong signs of recovery in cotton and rice production. Experts remain hopeful that the province will sustain both domestic food security and export growth.
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