PUNJAB'S WHEAT PROCUREMENT 2011-12

Punjab has broken all previous wheat procurement records. Not only has the state achieved the highest-ever productivity figure of 163.34 lakh metric tonnes, but also equalled the highest-ever average production of 46.51 quintals per hectare. 
Not only this, the state is set to achieve a record procurement of 110 lakh MT of wheat during the ongoing procurement season.
These stellar figures have been achieved on account of a prolonged winter which resulted in ideal maturity of the crop after years. The provision of quality seed and timely supply of DAP by the State Agriculture department helped the farmers too.
Wheat production in Punjab has overshot the figure of 160 lakh MT for the first time ever. It is estimated to be 163.34 lakh MT this season. The previous high was 159 lakh MT in 1999-2000. 
Last year’s production was 151.69 lakh MT. As far as the average yield is concerned, the state has equalled the 1999-2000 figures of 46.5 quintals per hectare.
The state agencies are set to purchase 110 lakh MT of wheat for the first time. They have already purchased 109.19 lakh MT as of now. Despite market arrivals getting slow, the 110-lakh MT tonne figure will be achieved in a few days.
The area under wheat cultivation has also gone up to 35.22 lakh hectares this season. It was 34 lakh hectares in 1999-2000 when Punjab had its last bumper crop.
Agriculture Department Director Dr Balwinder Singh Sidhu told TNS today that Sangrur district had recorded the highest wheat productivity of 51.25 quintals per hectare closely followed by 50 quintals per hectare in Moga district. Ropar and Jalandhar had the lowest productivity of 39 quintals per hectare. He said wheat productivity was comparatively less than last year in Mohali, Fatehgarh Sahib and Gurdaspur districts. Experts say intense cold wave conditions during December and January had led to multiplication of crop shoots. This had led to development of more ears and finally more grain per plant. Sources said the cold wave had also saved the crop from any pest attack. The crop got a further boost with winter rains and clearing up of the weather in March.
Warm weather during the winter months has led to a decline in the average yield in the state in the past few years.
* The highest-ever productivity figure of 163.34 lakh metric tonnes* Equals the highest-ever average production of 46.51 quintals per hectare
Highest productivity
Sangrur district records the highest wheat productivity of 51.25 quintals per hectare followed by 50 quintals per hectare in Moga district
Lowest yield
Ropar and Jalandhar had the lowest productivity of 39 quintals per hectare.
Productivity was comparatively less than last year in Mohali, Fatehgarh Sahib and Gurdaspur districts