Aligning Economic Growth with Environmental Sustainability: A Framework for Optimal Crop Planning in Punjab Agriculture

This study aimed to develop optimal crop plans considering increased output prices (10–50 per cent) and restricted water usage (90 per cent of current levels). A linear programming model was built using data collected under the comprehensive scheme to study the cost of cultivation of principal crops in Punjab. The analysis revealed that potatoes, among 14 other crops, were the most profitable crop, with existing returns of ?28.8 thousand and a competitive output price rise of ?77 thousand/ha, followed by cotton, maize, etc. with adopted optimal crop plans will increase returns (0.93–1.64 per cent), reduce paddy area, and increase area under basmati rice, cotton, moong, barley, sunflower, peas, and rapeseed and mustard. These plans would also achieve water savings (10 per cent), utilize more underutilized human labour, and potentially reduce chemical fertilizer use and cultivation costs.