Sustainable Crop Production in Water‐Scarce Regions: Water Footprint and Economic Water Productivity in Indian Punjab

ABSTRACT This study assesses water footprints (WFs) and physical and economic water productivity (PWP and EWP) in Punjab, India, using farm‐level data from 240 farmers combined with the FAO‐CROPWAT model. Paddy had the highest WF (1308.2 m 3 t −1 ). Wheat, maize grain and fodder had 9.9%, 3.6% and 92.9% lower WFs, respectively, compared to paddy. WF blue was highest for wheat and paddy due to intensive flood irrigation. In contrast, maize fodder demonstrated the lowest WF and the highest PWP and EWP, followed by maize grain, indicating greater sustainability. WF grey was significant for wheat and maize grain, necessitating nutrient reforms. Stage‐wise analysis suggests that alternate wetting and drying, direct‐seeded rice and regulated deficit irrigation can reduce blue water use by 20%–30% without yield penalties. Crop diversification towards maize‐based systems, supported by improved irrigation and nutrient management and policy incentives, is crucial for groundwater sustainability in Punjab, aligning with SDGs 6 and 12.