CM Mann pitches ‘AI Kranti’ to revive Punjab agriculture, boost farmers’ income
March 20, 2026
ETT News / Ludhiana
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Friday announced a major push to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into agriculture, stating that the move aims to increase farmers’ income, reduce pressure on natural resources, and secure the future of farming in the state.
Addressing a state-level Kisan Mela at Punjab Agricultural University, Mann said agriculture has reached a saturation point in terms of productivity and profitability, making technological intervention necessary. He asserted that AI will help farmers decide what crops to sow and when, enabling better yields and higher profits while checking over-exploitation of soil and water.
He recalled Punjab’s historic contribution during the Green Revolution, noting that while the state made India self-reliant in food production, it came at the cost of depleting natural resources. He said declining profit margins have made farming unsustainable for many, and AI-driven solutions are now essential to reverse the trend.
Highlighting government initiatives, the Chief Minister said farmers received over eight hours of uninterrupted power supply during the paddy season and are now getting daytime electricity for irrigation. He added that Punjab offers the highest sugarcane price in the country at ₹416 per quintal and ensures direct payment for wheat and paddy procurement within 24 hours.
Mann said the government has significantly expanded irrigation infrastructure, with canal water now reaching villages that had not seen it for decades. He noted that canal irrigation has increased sharply since 2022 due to large-scale cleaning, restoration, and upgrading of canals, including key projects like the Sirhind and Bhakra canals.
He also announced a ₹1,300 crore horticulture expansion project supported by JICA, aiming to increase the area under horticulture by 300% by 2036. He added that Punjab is likely to host the Asia Cup Hockey in the future, reflecting broader development efforts.
On welfare measures, Mann highlighted the Maavan Dhian Satkar Yojana, under which women will receive ₹1,000 per month, with higher assistance for Scheduled Caste women. He said the scheme will benefit nearly 97% of women in the state, with registration starting from April 13.
Targeting opposition parties, the Chief Minister accused previous governments of pushing Punjab into crisis through corruption, drugs, and misgovernance. He urged people to remain vigilant against such forces and reiterated that his government remains committed to public welfare and development.
Cabinet Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.
AI Kranti Bhagwant Singh Mann Punjab Agriculture Farmers Income Artificial Intelligence In Farming PAU Kisan Mela Green Revolution
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