Tar-wattar DSR: A solution to labour problem

摘要

Due to COVID-19 pandemic, labour shortage would be an issue during rice transplanting season. In this context, direct seeding of rice (DSR) with machine seems to be one of the possible solutions. Hence, farmers need to adopt this technique and bring rice area under direct seeding. The DSR offers avenue for groundwater recharge also, as it prevents the development of hard pan just beneath the plough layer. It matures 7-10 days earlier than puddle transplanted rice, hence, it gives more time for the management of paddy straw for the timely sowing of next wheat crop. Results from research trials and farmers’ field survey have also indicated that wheat grain yield after DSR is 1.0-1.2 q/acre hiqher than puddle transplanted rice.A new DSR technique called 'tar-wattar DSR' has been developed and successfully tested on a good scale at farmers' fields. It provides solution to problems associated with existing DSR technology.It saves irrigation water, lessens weed problem, reduces incidence of nutrient deficiency and has wider adaptability.