Crisis in Punjab: 'Dwarf Virus' cripples crops in 6 districts, farmers reeling
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, July 26, 2025: At a time when paddy fields should be lush and thriving, farmers in Punjab are staring at withering hopes and stunted crops. A silent invader—the ‘Dwarf Virus’—has once again struck, this time gripping six districts of Punjab in its third consecutive year of destruction.
The disease, caused by a viral infection known as Paddy Dwarf Disease, is hampering the growth of the most popular rice variety, PR 131, rendering plants yellow, half-grown, and barren.
The impact is so devastating that in some fields, entire sections are being flattened by tractors so they can be replanted—an act that symbolises both despair and determination.
In Patiala’s villages, contrasting sights are visible in the same field: some plants healthy, while others are pale, dwarfed, and lifeless.
Farmer Gurcharan Singh from Ropar shows his damaged crop and says, “The growth just stopped. Now there’s no point keeping it—it won’t bear grain. With a heavy heart, I’ll have to plough it down and start over.”
This is not an isolated story—hundreds of farmers now face the burden of repurchasing seeds, fertilizer, and fuel, with no guarantee of recovery.
What is the ‘Dwarf Virus’?
According to scientists, Paddy Dwarf Disease is spread by pests like the White-Backed Plant Hopper, which transmit the virus while feeding.
Key symptoms include:
- Yellowing of leaves
- Arrested root growth
- Dwarfed plant height and low tillering
- Up to 40–50% crop loss if left unchecked
Government Response & Scientific Action
Punjab Agriculture Minister Gurmeet Singh Khuddian has activated emergency response. The Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) has deployed expert teams to affected areas to assess damage and collect samples of soil, water, and plants.
PAU scientists suspect that early-season rain and humidity may have accelerated the virus’ spread by supporting pest breeding.
Farmer Advisory Issued
The Agriculture Department has issued a 4-point guideline:
- Closely monitor fields for symptoms.
- Avoid panic spraying—consult experts first.
- Contact local Krishi Vigyan Kendras or Agri Development Officers immediately.
- Use only recommended pesticides—indiscriminate use may worsen the situation.