Ludhiana, May 20 -- Amid the paddy sowing season, experts at Punjab Agricultural University's (PAU) have flagged the popularity and acceptance of rice variety PR 126 among Punjab farmers.

PAU experts noted that 43% of the state's rice area was covered with cultivation of PR 126 in 2024. Developed by PAU and released in 2017, PR 126 addresses major challenges like falling water tables, pest management, and milling quality demands.

This variety requires significantly less water and produces lower straw load compared to traditional varieties. Its short duration-maturing in 93 days-enables farmers to save 3-4 weeks in the crop cycle, providing a wider window for wheat sowing. The variety's early maturity also helps it avoid major pest and d...