Direct seeded rice: Prospects, constraints and future research work

Abstract

The traditional method of cultivating rice involves transplanting after repeated puddling, which is not only time-consuming and labour-intensive but also consumes a lot of water. To maintain rice productivity and the sustainability of natural resources, it is necessary to implement alternate establishment methods due to issues such as declining water tables, workforce shortages during peak periods and worsening soil health. The oldest method of crop establishment, direct seeded rice (DSR), is becoming more and more popular because of its minimal input requirements. It provides a number of advantages, such as labour cost reductions, a decrease in the amount of water and manpower, early crop maturity, low production costs, improved soil conditions for succeeding crops, decrease in methane emissions, and more alternatives for being the best match in different cropping systems. Comparable yields in DSR may be achieved by putting different cultural practices, such as choosing the best cultivars, planting at the right time, using the appropriate quantity of seed, controlling weeds and always keeping the field moist.