Sunflower fits seamlessly into multiple crop rotations, helping farmers optimise land and irrigation while reducing pest pressure, says expert
03 January, 2026 – Ludhiana : “In a world of roses, be a sunflower.” The quote captures the spirit of Punjab Agricultural University’s renewed push for sunflower cultivation, an initiative that promises farmers both sustainability and profitability.
Sunflower oil, prized for its light texture and health benefits, is increasingly sought after in premium blends. With its short growing season, adaptability to diverse cropping systems and high oil yield, sunflower offers farmers a reliable option for diversification in the state’s changing agricultural landscape.
Dr Vineeta Kaila and Dr Shelley Nayyar Dhaliwal, from the PAU’s Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, emphasised the scientific edge of university’s hybrids. “Our improved hybrids such as PSH 2080 and PSH 1962 are designed for higher oil content and flexibility in sowing windows. They give farmers both resilience and returns,” Dr Kaila said.
Dr Dhaliwal said: “Sunflower fits seamlessly into multiple crop rotations, helping farmers optimise land and irrigation while reducing pest pressure.”
PAU Vice-Chancellor Dr SS Gosal underscored the institutional commitment: “Diversification is the need of the hour. Sunflower not only enriches farm income but also strengthens sustainability. The university is proud to provide farmers with the best hybrids and practices to make the crop a success.”
Farmers, too, are finding hope in the golden blooms. Gurpreet Singh, a farmer from Kapurthala while sharing his experience said: “I tried sunflower after wheat, and results were encouraging. The crop matured quickly, required less water and the oil yield was excellent. It feels like a new opportunity for us.”
Improved hybrids for higher returns
The Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics at the PAU has developed high-performing sunflower hybrids tailored to local conditions.
The PAU suggests integrating sunflower into multiple rotations to optimise land use and irrigation such as -rice/maize–potato–sunflower, rice–toria–sunflower, basmati –sunflower and cotton–sunflower.
The Tribune