Transforming rice cultivation through organic direct-seeded rice

Abstract

Organic direct-seeded rice (DSR) is an emerging practice that integrates the principles of organic farming with the advantages of direct seeding, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional transplanting methods. Organic DSR eliminates the need for puddling and nursery transplantation, thereby reducing labour, water usage, and greenhouse gas emissions. In organic DSR, chemical inputs are replaced with organic amendments like compost, green-manure, and biofertilizers, enhancing soil health and biodiversity. The practice improves soil structure and microbial activity, leading to better nutrient cycling and carbon sequestration. Organic DSR is
particularly relevant in water-scarce regions, as it significantly reduces irrigation needs compared to conventional transplanting systems. However, challenges, such as weed management, nutrient supply, and ensuring adequate plant establishment without synthetic inputs, need to be addressed for its broader adoption. Future research should focus on optimizing organic inputs and developing integrated weed management strategies to enhance productivity and ensure sustainability. Organic DSR holds the potential to contribute significantly to climate-resilient agriculture by reducing water usage, improving soil fertility, and enhancing ecosystem services while promoting healthier and more sustainable rice production systems.