Amidst the ongoing farmer protests ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Friday lauded the significant impact of crop diversification in conserving vital resources. Mann expressed gratitude to Punjabs farmers for embracing crop diversification and shunning PUSA-44 type of paddy, which has resulted in substantial savings of Rs 477 crore in electricity costs and preserved five billion cusecs of groundwater.   Mann, in a video message, underscored his commitment to revitalizing the agricultural sector and ensuring its profitability. He commended the farmers for their cooperation and emphasized the governments efforts in facilitating agricultural activities, including the provision of daytime electricity and efficient preparations in mandis for procurement, lifting, and transportation.   Highlighting the impact of the farmers decision to shift away from PUSA-44, Mann revealed that the reduced cultivation of this variety resulted in significant savings. By opting for shorter-duration varieties like PR-126 to PR-130, which take only 90 days to mature compared to PUSA-44s 150-plus days, farmers contributed to saving Rs 477 crore in electricity costs and conserving five billion cusecs of groundwater.   Mann reiterated his commitment to the principles of sustainable agriculture, citing the adage pawan guru paani pita (air is the teacher, water is the father) from Sikh teachings. He expressed satisfaction in the farmers response to his advice and pledged to continue making decisions in the best interest of Punjab and its resources.   Ahead of the upcoming paddy season, Mann renewed his plea to farmers to refrain from cultivating PUSA-44, urging them instead to opt for PR-126 to PR-130 and basmati varieties. He emphasized the financial benefits of cultivating basmati rice, which often fetches higher prices than the Minimum Support Price (MSP). Additionally, Mann highlighted the environmental benefits of avoiding PUSA-44, which produces more stubble and contributes to air and water pollution.   Asserting that the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Government prioritizes the welfare of common people and farmers, Mann assured that all decisions are made with the peoples interests in mind. He announced plans to organize more meetings with farmers to address their concerns and solicit their input on agricultural policies.

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