Improved Rice Production Technology for resource conservation and climate resilience

Abstract

Rice is the main staple food of the North Eastern Region of India and the region is still in deficit of about 0.95 million tons (triennial average) of rice. The situation in 2010-11 was much better with a deficiency of about 3 % only. For centuries, the farmers of the region depended on rice and rice based cropping system for their subsistence and livelihood. The farmers come across various hardships during their production practices. Flood, drought, frost, insect-pests and diseases are some of the common problems regularly posing challenge on rice production systems. In the absence of modern technologies, farmers of the region relied heavily on traditional knowledge systems for managing rice based systems for centuries. Considering the increase in population pressure and subsequent need for higher productivity, it is high time that farmers follow resource conservation and climate resilient technologies for sustainable rice production. Over exploitation of lands coupled with removal of residues and no or meager application of manure and fertilizer has caused degradation of soil health in rice ecosystems. Adoption of optimum production technology along with resource conservation practices will enhance rice productivity in the region. The authors of the present bulletin on “Improved rice production technology for resource conservation and climate resilience” believes that it will serve as resource book for the farmers and extension workers involved in promoting sustainable rice production in the region. The authors of the publication gracefully acknowledge the support and assistance received from the scientific, administrative, technical and field staffs in generating data produced in this publication