10 Best Paddy Varieties That Give Higher Yield in Less Water

Key Highlights

• New paddy varieties offer more yield with less water.

• Some can tolerate drought, flood, and saline soil.

• Varieties like Pusa 1509 save up to 33% water.

• DRR Dhan 100 reduces methane emissions.

• Swarna-Sub1 survives underwater for 14 days.

In today’s changing climate, farmers are shifting towards modern and climate-smart agricultural practices. One such major shift is happening in paddy cultivation, where newer rice varieties are helping farmers get more yield with less water, and can also survive in extreme conditions like drought, floods, or saline soils.

Below are the 10 best high-yielding paddy varieties that are designed for better performance with minimum water and in challenging environments. These rice varieties are developed with the latest research and are highly beneficial for Indian farmers.

10 Improved Paddy Varieties for Profitable and Sustainable Farming

1. Pusa DST Rice 1

Developed by: IARI, New Delhi

This variety is made from MTU 1010 and is highly suitable for drought-prone and saline soil areas. It can provide up to 20% more yield even in tough conditions, helping farmers reduce losses.

2. Pusa Basmati 1509

This is a quick-maturing Basmati variety that is ready in just 120 days—15 days earlier than traditional Basmati. It also saves up to 33% water, which is crucial in water-scarce regions, and clears the field early for timely wheat sowing.

3. Pusa RH 60

This is a long-grain, aromatic hybrid rice variety that is in high demand in markets. It offers a better price for farmers and is especially popular in states like Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.

4. Pusa Narendra KN1 and CRD KN2

These are improved Kala Namak varieties with higher yield and resistance to pests and diseases. Farmers benefit from reduced pesticide use, making farming more affordable and eco-friendly.

5. Pusa-2090

This variety is ready in 120–125 days and gives around 34–35 quintals per acre. It is also environmentally friendly as it reduces the need to burn stubble after harvesting, helping in sustainable farming.

6. DRR Paddy 100 (Kamala)

Developed by: ICAR-IIRR, Hyderabad

This variety matures quickly and can yield up to 19% more than traditional rice. It also helps in reducing methane emissions, making it more environmentally friendly.

7. Swarna-Sub1

Ideal for flood-prone regions, especially in eastern India, this variety can survive underwater for 14 days. It is suitable for local consumption and is reliable for areas with frequent flooding.

8. CR Paddy 108

This variety is best for rain-fed agriculture and gets ready in 112 days. It performs well in states like Odisha and Bihar, where rainfall is unpredictable.

9. Samulai-1444

Known for its high quality and better shelf life, this variety matures in 140–145 days. It has a strong market and good export demand, making it profitable for farmers growing it on a commercial scale.

10. Arise Hybrid

This is a commercial rice hybrid that gives a higher yield than traditional varieties. It is popular in South Asia and is ideal for large-scale farming.

Benefits of Using Improved Rice Varieties

• Less water usage helps during the water crisis

• Higher yield even in drought or flood conditions

• Resistance to pests and diseases, reducing input costs

• Better market price and export potential

• Eco-friendly, helping reduce methane and pollution

Important Advice for Farmers

Farmers should select rice varieties based on their region, soil type, and climate. For better guidance, they should consult their nearest Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) or the local Agriculture Department to make the right choice.

Also Read: FADA Retail Tractor Sales Report April 2025: 71,992 Units Sold

CMV360 Says

These 10 paddy varieties can play a big role in increasing farmers' income and ensuring sustainable rice production in India. With less water use, better adaptability, and market demand, these varieties are the future of paddy farming in changing climate conditions.