SRI INTRODUCED IN WALVANDA

WALAVANDA JULY 14, 2012  : Bosco Samajik Vikas Sanstha (BSVS) agriculturists along with community animators conducted series of trainings on system of rice intensification (SRI) to the farmers of Jawhar and Mokhada Talukas.  These trainings helped generate awareness among the farmers about SRI method.  Several farmers are motivated from the area to go for SRI method of cultivating rice.  BSVS procured rice seed called ‘Poonam razzi’ and distributed to the farmers for nursery rising.  Farmers were helped by the agriculturists and community animators of the organization in setting up of nurseries for SRI method of cultivating rice.  In total, 708 kilos of rice was distributed in Jawhar and Mokhada Talukas.  To cultivate one acre of land under SRI method, only two kilos of seed is required.  So, 354 acres/ 142 hectares of land can be cultivated with the seed distributed by the organization.

Since the onset of agricultural season in Jawhar and Mokhada Talukas BSVS team members are busy in giving demonstration on planting rice seedlings in SRI method.   Fr. Anaclete D’Mello and Br. Alex Gonsalves visit the villages and participate in the plantation of the rice seedlings.  Farmers are taught to plant single seedlings, not in clumps, and in a square pattern 25cm X 25 cm apart or wider by the BSVS team.  Ropes with mark on appropriate distances are used to plant the rice in a square pattern. Instructed them not to plant in a row (more root growth potential)

In SRI cultivation, 8-10 days old seedlings are planted. So root system grows well and gives 30-50 tillers. If managed well, then 50-100 tillers are produced and high yields can be realized.   Maximum tilling occurs concurrently with panicle initiation.   More field grain per panicle and no lodging of crops. SRI cultivation requires less water and less expenditure and gives more yields.  SRI method is beneficial for small and marginal farmers for food security.  Even first season yield are usually higher than before and improve increase yield over time.  The lower capital cost of using SRI means that it’s economic and other benefits are not limited by access to capital, nor does it require loans and indebtedness.  Thus contribute rapidly to greater food security for the poor.