Varietal Diversification and Seed Choice Behaviour Among Wheat Farmers in Punjab's Agro-Climatic Zones

Managing seed portfolios is a key strategy for farmers to improve yields and mitigate production risks in wheat cultivation. This study investigates farmers’ wheat seed choice behaviour across five agro-climatic zones of Punjab and identifies factors influencing adoption of new wheat varieties. Two hundred farmers were personally interviewed and four measurements were used to represent the farmers’ decision on variety choice behaviour. Results revealed that 44 per cent did not adopt any new variety, while 38.5 per cent adopted one. Non-adoption was highest in undulating plain zone (60%), while higher varietal diversification (1-3 varieties) was prominent in sub-mountain undulating (75%) and 51 per cent of farmers falling in medium diversification index category (0.3-0.6). Variety PBW 826 was the most preferred new variety, although traditional varieties like DBW 222 and HD 3086 remained dominant. Key determinants of adoption included income, landholding size, extension participation, mass media exposure and psychological traits. Strengthening extension networks, enhancing seed availability through certified sources and promoting farmer-led trials are essential for encouraging adoption of newly released recommended wheat varieties.