Direct-Seeding Method:
Farmers in leading rice-growing states are adopting the direct-seeding method as a solution to delayed rains and labor shortages.
- Direct Seeded Rice (DSR), also known as the ‘broadcasting seed technique,’ is a water-saving method of sowing paddy.
- In this method, seeds are directly drilled into the fields, eliminating the need for nursery preparation and transplantation.
- With the use of drum seeders, only two laborers are required to sow seeds on one acre, compared to 25-30 laborers needed in traditional methods.
- This significantly reduces labor costs and eases the burden on farmers.
- By eliminating the need for nursery cultivation, farmers save approximately 30 days in the crop cycle.
- This allows them to start the rabi season early and avoid untimely rains during the harvesting phase.
- The direct-seeding method reduces water requirements by around 15% as water logging occurs only after a month. This is especially beneficial in areas where rainfall is delayed.
- According to the results from research trials and farmers’ field survey, after this technique the yield is one to two quintals per acre higher than puddled transplanted rice.
