Shaping the Fields: Punjab’s Agricultural Policies from Independence to the Contemporary Perspective

Abstract

This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the evolution of agricultural policies in Punjab from India’s independence to the present day. It traces the major policy shifts in chronological order, beginning with the traditional farming methods prevalent at the time of independence, moving through the transformative Green Revolution of the 1960s, and progressing to the eras of economic liberalization. The analysis examines the socio-economic impacts of these policies, highlighting how they have shaped Punjab’s agricultural landscape, productivity, and sustainability. It also underscores the environmental challenges arising from intensive farming practices, such as soil degradation and groundwater depletion, and evaluates the state’s policy responses aimed at promoting sustainability and crop diversification. Furthermore, the study explores contemporary issues facing Punjab’s agriculture, including labor shortages, rising production costs, and the pressures of global competition. The paper concludes by assessing future prospects, advocating a balanced approach that integrates technological innovation with environmental stewardship to ensure the sector’s long-term viability. Beyond documenting policy evolution, this overview offers insights into the broader implications for food security and economic development in the region.