Direct-Seeded Rice and Zero-Tillage Wheat

Context

The agricultural landscape in India is undergoing significant changes, particularly in the cultivation of rice and wheat. The introduction of innovative technologies is critical to addressing the challenges posed by climate change, labour shortages, and the need for sustainable farming practices. A recent development in this context is the formation of a joint venture between Mahyco, a prominent Indian seed company, and RiceTec, a U.S.-based agricultural biotechnology firm. This collaboration, named “Paryan,” aims to promote herbicide-tolerant (HT) rice and wheat varieties suited for direct seeding and zero-tillage cultivation methods.

Overview of the Joint Venture

Formation of Paryan

Mahyco and RiceTec have established a 50:50 joint venture called Paryan to develop and market sustainable, herbicide-tolerant varieties of rice and wheat. This collaboration is part of Mahyco’s strategy to partner with global seed companies, following its successful alliance with Monsanto. Paryan will leverage RiceTec’s proprietary technologies to introduce climate-smart agricultural practices in India, particularly focusing on Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) and zero-tillage wheat.

Objectives of Paryan

The primary objectives of Paryan include:

• Development of Herbicide-Tolerant Varieties: Paryan aims to introduce non-GMO HT rice and wheat varieties that can withstand the herbicide imazethapyr, allowing farmers to manage weeds effectively without damaging the crops.
• Promotion of Sustainable Farming Practices: The joint venture seeks to encourage environmentally friendly farming methods, reducing the need for traditional tillage and minimizing greenhouse gas emissions.
• Support for Farmers: Paryan intends to provide comprehensive support to farmers, including training on the new technologies and assistance in the transition to DSR and zero-tillage practices.

Technological Innovations

Direct Seeded Rice (DSR)

The DSR method involves sowing rice seeds directly into the field rather than transplanting seedlings. This approach has several advantages, including:

• Reduced Water Usage: DSR requires significantly less water compared to traditional transplanting methods. While conventional puddling methods necessitate around 15 irrigations, DSR can reduce this to about 10 irrigations, leading to water conservation.
• Lower Labor Costs: The DSR method reduces labor requirements associated with transplanting, making it a more cost-effective option for farmers.
• Mitigation of Greenhouse Gas Emissions: By minimizing the need for puddling, DSR helps lower methane emissions, contributing to a more sustainable agricultural practice.

Zero-Tillage Wheat

Zero-tillage (ZT) cultivation involves sowing wheat directly into the stubble of the previous crop without plowing the field. This method offers several benefits:

• Soil Health Preservation: ZT helps maintain soil structure and reduces erosion, promoting long-term soil health.
• Time and Cost Efficiency: Farmers can save time and costs associated with land preparation, as ZT eliminates the need for plowing and reduces fuel consumption.
• Stubble Management: The approach addresses the issue of stubble burning, a prevalent practice that contributes to air pollution. By incorporating stubble into the soil, ZT promotes nutrient cycling and enhances soil fertility.

Economic Implications

• Cost Analysis: The cost of adopting the new technologies through Paryan is competitive compared to traditional methods. For instance, the cost of using hybrid rice seeds with the herbicide imazethapyr is estimated to be around ₹5,150 per acre. In contrast, conventional methods, which involve a complex mix of herbicides and additional labor for transplanting, can cost approximately ₹4,000 per acre. However, this does not account for the additional expenses associated with tractor rentals and labor, which can range from ₹6,500 to ₹7,000 per acre.
• Potential Savings: Farmers adopting DSR and zero-tillage wheat can expect significant savings in terms of water and labor costs. Moreover, the reduction in methane emissions associated with DSR can lead to potential carbon credits, providing an additional revenue stream for farmers.

Market Potential

• Current Agricultural Landscape: Rice and wheat are staple crops in India, with rice cultivated across approximately 44 million hectares and wheat on about 30 million hectares. Despite the extensive area under cultivation, the adoption of hybrid varieties remains low, with hybrids accounting for only 9% of rice and an even smaller percentage in wheat.
• Future Prospects: The introduction of Paryan’s technologies is expected to enhance the adoption of hybrid varieties in rice and wheat cultivation. The successful implementation of DSR and zero-tillage practices could lead to increased yields and improved profitability for farmers, particularly in states like Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar, where these crops are predominantly grown.

Challenges and Considerations

Adoption Barriers

Despite the advantages of DSR and zero-tillage practices, several challenges may hinder widespread adoption:

• Knowledge Gaps: Farmers may lack awareness and understanding of the new technologies, necessitating comprehensive training and support from Paryan.
• Infrastructure Limitations: The availability of necessary equipment, such as seed-cum-fertilizer drills for zero-tillage, may be limited in some regions.
• Regulatory Approvals: The joint venture has applied for government regulatory approval for the use of FreeHit zero-tillage technology, which is crucial for its implementation in the upcoming Rabi season.

Environmental Considerations

While the technologies promote sustainability, it is essential to monitor their long-term environmental impacts. Ongoing research and field studies will be vital to assess the effectiveness of DSR and zero-tillage practices in improving soil health and ecosystem balance.

Conclusion

The joint venture between Mahyco and RiceTec, through Paryan, represents a significant step towards modernizing rice and wheat cultivation in India. By promoting herbicide-tolerant varieties and sustainable farming practices, Paryan aims to enhance agricultural productivity while addressing pressing environmental concerns. As the agricultural landscape continues to evolve, the success of this venture could serve as a model for future collaborations in the agricultural sector, ultimately benefiting farmers and the environment alike.

Source: The Indian Express

UPSC Prelims Practice Question

Q. Which of the following is a key benefit of adopting Direct-Seeded Rice (DSR) and Zero-Tillage Wheat practices in agriculture?

a) Increased use of chemical fertilizers
b) Higher water consumption
c) Reduced labor costs and improved soil health
d) Increased dependence on manual weeding

Ans: “c”