Less labour, Ambala Agri Dept to opt for direct seeding of rice

April 28 2020

Though paddy transplantation is scheduled to start from June 15, the Agriculture Department has raised a demand for 250 DSR (direct seeder rice) machines for Ambala district to prepare for labour crunch due to Covid. At present, two-three DSR machines in the district sees planting of paddy over nearly 86,000-hectare every year.

The DSR technique involves direct seeding of rice than the conservative transplantation method. It requires lesser water, labour and power and is considered a better technique in view of the depleting water table as well.

Pardeep Chauhan, a farmer from Sambhalkha village, said he grew paddy (Pusa-1121) over 26 acres, of which DSR technique was adopted on three acres. “Undoubtedly, the DSR technique works out cheaper, but I failed to get better returns due to excessive weeds. I have been using this technique for the last few years, but have not increased area under it due to issue of excessive weeds. This year, however, it seems there will be an increase in area under the DSR technique due to labour crunch.”

He said the labour crunch would be severe across the state. “Last year, labourers here sought Rs2,000 to Rs2,200 per acre for sowing but this year the prices are going to increase,” he said.

Deputy Director Agriculture Girish Nagpal said, “Seeing the current situation we have sought 250 DSR machines for Ambala. This technique saves labour and resources and reduces cultivation cost. We have also recommended a package, including hybrid seeds along with weedicides, for farmers so they could have higher yield.” — TNS


This news has not been edited by Apni Kheti staff but has been published by various news feeds

Source: The Tribune