SRI Method in Paddy Cultivation: Earn More with Less Water and Seeds

Key Highlights:

• The SRI method originated in Madagascar and increases yield significantly.

• Requires only 5–8 kg of seeds per hectare; saves up to 90% seeds.

• Saves 25–50% water through the Alternate Wetting and Drying technique.

• Yield can increase from 20–25 quintals to 35–50 quintals per hectare.

• Methane emissions reduced by up to 70%, improving environmental health.

Paddy cultivation in India is a major part of Kharif season farming, especially in states like West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Tamil Nadu. With the continuous rise in input costs and climate-related challenges, farmers are looking for better methods to improve their yield and profits. One such innovative technique, known as the Madagascar or SRI (System of Rice Intensification) method, is now gaining popularity due to its low-cost, high-yield benefits.

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What is the Madagascar or SRI Method?

The SRI method was first developed in the 1980s in Madagascar. Over time, it has emerged as a revolutionary technique in rice cultivation, helping farmers get higher yields using fewer resources. In India, agricultural departments and scientists are actively promoting this method due to its successful trial results.

How to Cultivate Paddy Using the SRI Method?

Here's how farmers can follow the SRI method for better yield:

• Nursery Preparation: Create a nursery bed 10 meters long and 5 cm high. Add 50 kg of cow dung or Nadep compost to enrich the soil.
  Sow treated seeds (about 120 grams per bed).
  In 15–21 days, the seedlings will be ready.

• Transplanting: Transplant 8–12-day-old seedlings with 2 cm depth and ensure straight roots. Maintain a 20x20 cm distance between each plant for better growth and aeration.

• Watering Technique: Follow the Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) technique – irrigate and allow the field to dry for 2–3 days before watering again. This keeps soil healthy and saves water.

• Use of Organic Fertilizers:

• Use cow dung, vermicompost, and minimal urea.

• Avoid excess chemical fertilizers.

• Balance nutrients using the soil health card.

• Weed Management:

• After 15 days of transplanting, use a cono weeder to remove weeds.

• Use uprooted weeds as green manure for the field.

Benefits of the SRI Method in Paddy Cultivation

• Saves Water: Reduces water use by 25–50% due to the AWD method.

• Lowers Seed Requirement: Only 5–8 kg seeds per hectare are needed – saving 80–90% seed cost.

• Enhances Soil Health: Promotes use of organic inputs, improving fertility and structure.

• Improves Plant Strength: Plants develop strong roots, making them drought-tolerant.

• Reduces Methane Emission: Water-saving practices help reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 30–70%.

Higher Yield and Profit with SRI

Field trials and expert observations have shown impressive results using SRI:

• Traditional methods usually produce 20–25 quintals per hectare.

• SRI method increases this to 35–50 quintals per hectare, with some trials reporting 12–14 tonnes per hectare.

• In Nepal, yields reached 7–12 tonnes per hectare, and net income was ₹39,500 per hectare, after reducing seed, water, and fertilizer costs.

Expert Opinion

According to U.P. Bagri, Deputy Director of Agriculture (Rewa), SRI is a better option than traditional transplanting. It uses fewer resources while giving more output. The method is easy to adopt and ensures better income for farmers.

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CMV360 Says

The SRI or Madagascar Method is proving to be a game-changer for paddy farmers across India. With a reduced need for water, seeds, and chemicals, farmers can lower their cultivation costs and increase productivity and profits. It’s not just beneficial for farmers, but also for the environment.