Punjab aims to bring 5 lakh acres under DSR method this paddy sowing season

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Last Updated12/06/2023

The Punjab Government has set a target of five lakh acres to be sown under the direct seeded rice (DSR) method of paddy cultivation this kharif season.

DSR, also called the ‘broadcasting seed technique’, is a water-saving method of sowing paddy.
Seeds are directly drilled into the fields in this method.
This saves groundwater, as opposed to the traditional water-intensive method, under which rice seedlings are transplanted from a nursery to waterlogged fields.
With DSR technique, farmers must sow paddy only after pre-sowing (rauni) irrigation and not in dry fields. Further, the field should be laser levelled.

No significant reduction of yield under optimal conditions;
Savings on irrigation water by 12-35% under efficient water management practices;
Reduces labour and drudgery by eliminating seedling uprooting and transplanting;
Reduces cultivation time, energy, and cost;
No plant stress from transplanting;
Faster maturation of crops;
Lower GHG emissions;
Mechanised DSR provides employment opportunities;
Increases total income by reducing the cost of cultivation;