| Context |
| Recently two private sector seed majors RiceTec Inc. and Mahyco Pvt. Ltd have come together to form a joint venture (JV) for making the rice-wheat cropping system “more climate-smart and sustainable”.The joint venture (JV) will focus on technologies for farmers to grow rice by direct seeding (instead of transplanting and flooding of field) and wheat through zero tillage (without burning the leftover stubble from the paddy crop and ploughing the field before sowing). |
Direct Seeding of Rice (DSR) is a modern approach to rice cultivation in which the rice seeds are sown directly into the field, eliminating the labour-intensive and water-guzzling process of raising seedlings in a separate nursery.
Types of DSR:
- Dry DSR: Seeds are sown into dry, well-prepared soil, often using a seed drill.
- Wet DSR: Seeds are pre-germinated and broadcast onto puddled soil or into standing water.
- Water DSR: Seeds are broadcast into flooded fields.
Requirements:
- Texture of Soil: DSR is not suitable in light-textured soils such as loamy soil. It is more suitable for heavy or medium-to-heavy-textured soils.
- Iron content: DSR is not suitable in soil with severe iron deficiency, and weed problems.
Benefits of DSR:
- Average increase in yield by 5-10% under optimal conditions.
- Water Conservation: DSR can reduce water usage by 15-20% compared to the puddling method used in traditional transplanting.
- Reduced Labour: DSR eliminates the need for transplanting seedlings, leading to lower labour costs and freeing up time for farmers.
- Faster Establishment: DSR can lead to faster crop establishment and potentially earlier harvesting.
- Improved Soil Health: DSR can minimise soil disturbance and promote better soil health in the long run.
- Reduced Methane Emissions: DSR has the potential to decrease methane emissions associated with flooded rice paddies.
Challenges of DSR:
- Weed Management: Weed control can be more challenging in DSR compared to transplanting.
- Seed Quality: High-quality seeds with good germination rates are crucial for successful DSR.
- Increase N2O emissions: While DSR can help to reduce CH4 emissions, aerobic soil conditions can also increase N2O emissions. Nitrous oxide generation increases with redox potential.
- Farmer Knowledge and Training: Farmers need training on DSR techniques and best practices.
What is Zero Tillage?
- Zero tillage, also known as no-till farming, is an agricultural practice that involves growing crops without disturbing the soil through tillage.
Benefits of Zero Tillage
Environmental Benefits
- Soil Conservation: Prevents soil erosion by maintaining soil structure and organic matter.
- Water Retention: Enhances soil’s ability to retain moisture, reducing the need for irrigation.
- Carbon Sequestration: Increases carbon storage in soil, helping mitigate climate change.
- Biodiversity: Promotes a healthy ecosystem by supporting diverse soil microorganisms and wildlife.
Economic Benefits
- Cost Savings: Reduces fuel and labour costs associated with tillage.
- Yield Stability: Provides stable crop yields even under adverse weather conditions.
- Equipment Longevity: Decreases wear and tear on farming equipment due to reduced use.
Agronomic Benefits
- Soil Health: Improves soil structure and fertility over time.
- Weed Control: Minimises weed growth by maintaining ground cover with crop residues.
- Pest Management: Enhances natural pest control by supporting beneficial insects and microorganisms.
