System of Rice Intensification (SRI)

The System of Rice Intensification (SRI) has been promoted as an improved approach to paddy cultivation because of its potential to enhance productivity while reducing the requirement for seed, water and certain external inputs. The method emphasizes careful crop establishment, wider spacing, appropriate nutrient management and efficient water use.

The SRI approach promoted by the Foundation involves the use of a lower seed rate, reduced dependence on chemical fertilizers and plant-protection chemicals, and careful management of irrigation. These practices are intended to create favorable growing conditions for the crop while reducing unnecessary input costs.

With the support of the Farm Information Advisory Committee (FIAC), Banarpal, and Bansidhar & Ila Panda Foundation, Angul, the Foundation successfully implemented SRI cultivation in villages of Banarpal, Chhendipada, Angul, Talcher and Pallahara Blocks of Angul District, as well as in Loisingha Block of Balangir District.

More than 1,000 farmers adopted paddy cultivation through the SRI approach. Following initial interactions and meetings with farmers, training and technical guidance were provided on various aspects of improved cultivation, including the use of bio-fertilizers, indigenous pest-management practices and appropriate water management.

Regular interaction with farmers was maintained throughout the intervention. Farmers were consulted at different stages of crop production so that field-level problems could be identified and addressed in a timely manner. The programme was implemented with the support of FIAC, Angul, and through the Foundation's field-level interventions.

The major objectives of promoting SRI were to create awareness among farmers regarding improved paddy-production practices and to encourage the efficient use of natural and agricultural resources. The important practices promoted under SRI included:

• 1Preparing the land properly to create favorable conditions for crop establishment.
• 2Giving preference to compost or farmyard manure over excessive dependence on synthetic fertilizers.
• 3Developing nutrient-rich and non-flooded nursery beds.
• 4Using young seedlings for early transplantation.
• 5Maintaining wider spacing between individual seedlings.
• 6Transplanting seedlings individually rather than in clusters.
• 7Managing irrigation carefully so that the root zone remains adequately moist without keeping the crop continuously submerged.

These practices are designed to encourage healthy root development, reduce unnecessary competition among plants and promote efficient utilization of water and nutrients.