08 August 2024, Ludhiana: As water scarcity becomes an ever-growing concern in Central India, local farmers have much to learn from the experiences of their counterparts in Punjab. For years, Punjab’s heavy reliance on water-intensive paddy cultivation led to a troubling drop in groundwater levels, with water tables falling below 400 feet. However, recent developments in Punjab provide a beacon of hope and a model for effective water management.
Punjab’s shift to Direct-Seeding Rice (DSR) has been both rapid and successful. This innovative approach has seen the area under DSR increase by 44 percent, reaching 2.48 lakh acres in the current Kharif season, up from 1.72 lakh acres last year. This dramatic adoption rate highlights the effectiveness of DSR in addressing water scarcity issues.
Why DSR Matters
Direct-Seeding Rice offers several key benefits that are crucial for water conservation. Unlike traditional paddy cultivation, which involves transplanting seedlings into flooded fields, DSR involves sowing seeds directly into the soil. This method significantly reduces water usage, as it eliminates the need for continuous flooding. It also helps in cutting methane emissions, minimizing soil erosion, and reducing manual labor, all of which contribute to more sustainable rice farming.
Dr. Makhan Singh Bhullar, Director of Extension at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), praised the increase in DSR adoption, noting its positive impact on water conservation and sustainability. Dr. Bhullar emphasized that this method not only conserves groundwater but also improves overall crop management.
Addressing Depleting Groundwater Levels
Rice, a staple food for India’s 1.4 billion people, is cultivated across various agro-climatic zones. Yet, it accounts for approximately 40 percent of agricultural water use and contributes to 50 percent of crop-related methane emissions. The excessive water demand has led to depleting groundwater levels, soil degradation from runoff, and increased manual labor in traditional methods.
In response, Punjab has focused on raising awareness about water-saving technologies and methods through various training programs. These initiatives have helped farmers adopt more efficient practices and highlighted the importance of timely interventions and agro-advisories.
Innovations and Best Practices
In addition to promoting DSR, Punjab has introduced other strategic cultivation practices. These include the replacement of spring maize with spring groundnut, the use of Surface Seedling Technology for Gobhi Sarson, and the cultivation of French beans. The success of these practices is evident in the increased adoption rates and positive feedback from farmers.
Dr. Bhullar also highlighted the importance of extending these innovations to other regions. He stressed the need for continued efforts in managing pests, controlling diseases like the southern rice black-streaked dwarf virus, and evaluating weedicide performance through On-Farm Trials (OFTs). Furthermore, he advocated for the use of herbicide management in maize crops and direct-seeding methods without preparatory tillage.
Moving Forward
Central Indian farmers have a valuable opportunity to learn from Punjab’s experiences with DSR and other water-saving technologies. By adopting similar practices and embracing innovative methods, they can combat water scarcity more effectively and promote sustainable agricultural practices.
Punjab’s progress in water conservation through Direct-Seeding Rice serves as an inspiring example for Central India. As water resources continue to dwindle, it is crucial for farmers across the country to embrace these solutions to ensure the sustainability of their agricultural practices and the health of their communities.
(For Latest Agriculture News & Updates, follow Krishak Jagat on Google News) (+80 Million Farming Audience Visits Krishak Jagat’s Hindi Website – Click Here for Website)
