A high-level colloquium at the Centre for Research in Rural and Industrial Development (CRRID) in Chandigarh, India, highlighted the urgent need for agricultural transformation in Punjab and Haryana. Experts, including NITI Aayog member Ramesh Chand, advocated for a shift towards diversification and sustainability to enhance farmer incomes. Chand noted that while diversification is essential, it must be tailored to regional conditions and accompanied by improvements in traditional crops like rice and wheat. Agricultural economist Ashok Gulati emphasized the need for close cooperation between the Centre and state governments to ensure long-term sustainability and boost farmers' incomes. He pointed out the ecological stress from the rice-wheat cycle, advocating for a shift to pulses and oilseeds, supported by assured payments over five years. Additionally, he called for a market-first approach to link production with demand and improve agricultural value chains. The colloquium also addressed systemic gaps in policy implementation and the importance of including small farmers in decision-making processes. Overall, experts agreed that while Punjab and Haryana have fertile soils and robust irrigation, transitioning to a sustainable agricultural model requires coordinated efforts and investment in infrastructure.