Photo Source: Babushahi Bureau
Punjab Agriculture Minister Khudian visits virus-hit paddy fields; Assures timely action, farmer support
Babushahi Bureau
Morinda (Punjab), July 25: Punjab Agriculture Minister S. Gurmeet Singh Khuddian today visited the villages of Marolikalan, Kakrali, and Paprali, which have been affected by Southern Rice Black-Streaked Dwarf Virus (SRBSDV) in paddy crops, and interacted with farmers to understand their concerns.
Addressing the media, the Cabinet Minister said that in recent days, symptoms of stunted growth in paddy fields were reported by farmers in Rupnagar district. Upon receiving this information, experts from the Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) and the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Rupnagar, jointly conducted field inspections in several villages, including the farms of Mr. Gurmeet Singh and Mr. Avtar Singh in village Asmanpur, block Ropar.
He stated that Rupnagar is currently the most affected district by this disease. After on-ground assessment and expert consultations, special measures are being undertaken to control the spread of the suspected virus.
Minister emphasized that the situation is under control and the agriculture department has issued directives for field visits and timely arrangements for appropriate insecticides to spread awareness among farmers.
During the review, it was observed that paddy varieties PR-128 and PR-131 showed signs of irregular growth post-transplantation. Some plants were found infected with Southern Rice Black-Streaked Dwarf Virus (SRBSDV).
Experts noted that the root systems of the affected plants were poorly developed compared to healthy plants. The leaves were narrow and pointed like needles, and escape roots (auxiliary root systems) were seen on the stems—symptoms consistent with viral attack.
Minister confirmed that plant samples from affected fields were sent to Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana, for confirmation. Farmers have been advised to inspect their fields regularly, including nurseries, as healthy nursery plants are crucial for robust crop growth.
Director of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Department said that field teams are continuously visiting farms, and farmers are being advised to apply recommended insecticides—particularly targeting white-backed planthoppers—to prevent further spread of the virus.
Joint Director Mr. Narinder Singh Benipal said that special awareness camps on pest management are being organized in villages of Morinda and Sri Chamkaur Sahib blocks under the ATMA scheme.
Chief Agriculture Officer Mr. Rakesh Kumar stated that the university is closely monitoring the virus, and there is no need for panic. If the damage is limited to 5–10%, the disease can still be controlled effectively.
On this occasion, SDM Morinda Mr. Sukhpal Singh, Agriculture Officer Gurkripal Singh Bala, Agriculture Development Officers Lovepreet Singh and Sukh Sagar Singh, village Sarpanch Gurmeet Singh, Numberdar Avtar Singh, Panch members Malagar Singh, Kashvinder Singh, former Panch Bikram Singh, trader Jarnail Singh, landowner Rupinder Singh, and villagers Sukhdev Singh, Sukhwinder Singh, along with local farmers and department field staff were present.