Syllabus
GS Paper III – Major Crops – Cropping Patterns in various parts of the country, – Different Types of Irrigation and Irrigation Systems
Context
Punjab struggles to meet target of direct seeded rice cultivation as farmers remain apprehensive.
Direct Seeded Rice (DSR)
Introduction
Amid rising global demand for rice, direct-seeded rice (DSR) cultivation emerges as a promising approach for small farmers. A large-scale study revealed that over 47% of small and marginal farmers achieved higher yields using DSR compared to conventional puddling methods. DSR offers benefits like early harvesting, timely seed sowing, and improved yields for subsequent crops. As rice production becomes central to the livelihoods of millions, sustainable practices like DSR play a crucial role in meeting future demands while supporting smallholders and ensuring food security.
Direct-Seeded Rice (DSR)
- Direct Seeded Rice (DSR): A modern agricultural technique where rice seeds are sown directly into the field without transplanting seedlings.
- Efficiency: DSR is more efficient than traditional methods that involve nursery preparation and transplanting. It conserves water, reduces labor, and boosts crop productivity.
- Challenges Addressed: DSR offers a solution to challenges faced by traditional methods, including labor shortages, high methane emissions, and decreasing arable land cultivation.
Variants of Direct Seeded Rice (DSR)
- Wet Direct Seeding:
- In this method, pre-germinated seeds are broadcast or sown using a drum seeder.
- The sowing process occurs under wet, puddled conditions.
- Dry Direct Seeding:
- Dry seeds are sown directly into dry soil conditions using a seed drill.
- Intermittent irrigation is provided until the seedlings fully emerge.
Traditional rice cultivation methods
- Irrigation Water Usage: Approximately 40% of the world’s irrigation water is dedicated to rice production.
- Water Scarcity Challenges: Climate change and urbanization are exacerbating water scarcity, rendering traditional rice cultivation unsustainable in the long term.
- Addressing Challenges: Given labor shortages and diminishing arable land, innovative approaches are essential to meet increasing demand and ensure global food security
Advantages of direct seeding of rice (DSR)
- Faster Planting and Maturing: DSR enables quicker establishment of rice plants, leading to shorter crop cycles and earlier harvests.
- Resource Conservation: By eliminating continuous flooding, DSR significantly reduces water usage.
- Reduced Labor Requirements: DSR eliminates the need for nursery raising and transplanting, resulting in less labor-intensive farming.
- Empowerment of Women: Increased technology adoption in DSR can encourage more women to participate in agriculture, promoting gender equality.
- Mechanization Suitability: DSR allows easier use of machines for planting and crop management, reducing reliance on manual labor.
- Improved Soil Conditions: DSR positively impacts soil quality for subsequent crops.
- Lower Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions: DSR contributes to decreased methane emissions.
- Versatility in Cropping Systems: DSR adapts well to various cropping systems.
Challenges associated with direct-seeded rice (DSR)
- Weed Management: DSR faces increased weed problems due to simultaneous weed-crop competition. Effective weed control strategies are crucial.
- Soil Type: Optimal direct seeding occurs on medium to heavy textured soils. Light soils can lead to iron deficiency, significantly reducing yield.
- Nutrient Management: DSR may have distinct nutrient requirements and uptake patterns compared to transplanted rice, necessitating adjustments in fertilization practices.
- Farmers’ Unawareness: Many Indian farmers remain unaware of the potential benefits of direct-seeded rice.
Way forward
- Comprehensive Education: Educate farmers thoroughly about DSR to instill confidence in the technique.
- Training Programs: Implement extensive training covering all DSR stages, from pre-sowing to harvesting.
- Compensation for Losses: Offer compensation for initial adoption losses, encouraging farmers to persist with DSR.
- Addressing Awareness and Understanding: Address farmers’ lack of awareness or understanding about DSR. Unsuitable soil and unexpected yields often lead them back to traditional methods.
Conclusion
In summary, direct-seeded rice (DSR) transcends mere agricultural innovation; it embodies a transformative approach. By embracing DSR, we enhance sustainability, bolster economic viability, and promote social inclusivity in rice farming. As we educate farmers, implement training programs, and address awareness gaps, DSR emerges as a powerful solution to meet rising global demand while ensuring a resilient and equitable future for smallholders.
Source: Indian Express
Related PYQ
How has the emphasis on certain crops brought about changes in cropping patterns in recent past? Elaborate the emphasis on millets production and consumption. [UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2018 Mains]
Practice Question
What are the challenges in the widespread adoption of the Direct Seeding of Rice (DSR) technique in India, and what measures can increase its adoption among farmers? [150 words]