Chandigarh, October 29: A growing number of young people in Punjab are turning towards farming, encouraged by government initiatives promoting modern agricultural practices. According to officials, more than 1,200 youth have adopted agri-business as a full-time profession in the past two years, with many reporting profits of ₹12–14 lakh annually through polyhouse cultivation supported by a 50% subsidy.
Under Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s direction, the Department of Horticulture has expanded access to training and subsidies for farmers adopting protected cultivation and crop diversification. The department said the policy focus has shifted from traditional crops to high-value vegetables and fruits.
Director of Horticulture, Shailender Kaur, said the aim is to build a sustainable model that helps farmers increase income while using less land and water. “Our officers provide hands-on guidance on seed selection, pest management, and market linkage,” she said.
Officials said that farmers participating in these schemes have benefited through direct market access and reduced dependency on middlemen. The department also noted an increase in applications for the upcoming season’s subsidy, particularly from young farmers with technical or engineering backgrounds.
