How to do Rice Cultivation in india Tips

Rice cultivation holds great importance in India, with extensive growth seen across various regions. Historians suggest that while the indica variety of rice was initially cultivated in the areas around the foothills of the northeastern Himalayas, spanning from Burma, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, to southern China, the japonica variety originated from wild rice in southern China and later found its way to India. Even today, wild rice continues to thrive in regions like Assam and Nepal. The cultivation of rice traces back to around 1400 BCE in southern India following the domestication of its varieties in the northern plains. Subsequently, it spread to all fertile alluvial plains nourished by rivers. Some scholars propose that the term "rice" finds its roots in the Tamil word "arisi." Rice is often symbolically associated with prosperity and fertility, evident in the tradition of tossing rice at newlyweds, reflecting its deep-seated connection with abundance and fecundity.

The Nutritional Importance of Rice:

Rice stands as a nutritionally vital staple food, offering immediate energy due to its primary carbohydrate content. Conversely, rice contains low levels of nitrogenous substances. Its starch-rich flour is employed in crafting various food products. Additionally, when combined with other materials, rice straw contributes to the production of porcelain, glass, and pottery. The diversity and attributes of rice are vast, influenced by the species and environmental conditions in which it is grown. Polished rice typically contains protein levels ranging from 7% to 12%. The application of nitrogen fertilizers enhances the presence of certain amino acids.

Rice has profoundly influenced the culture, cuisine, and economic landscape of millions worldwide. For a significant portion of humanity, "rice is life." Recognizing its pivotal role, the United Nations designated 2004 as the "International Year of Rice." Rice serves as a critical primary food source for over 70% of the global population. Rice straw is utilized as animal feed, raw material for paper-making, and a fuel source. Rice bran is utilized in the soap industry, while pure rice oil can function as a cooling agent akin to cottonseed or maize oil. Rice bran wax, a byproduct of rice bran oil, finds application across various industries.

Climate and Temperature Requirements for Rice Farming:

Rice cultivation in India takes place across diverse altitudes and climatic regions, ranging from 8 to 35 degrees north latitude and from sea level up to 3000 meters in altitude. Rice crops thrive in warm and humid climates, making regions with high humidity, abundant sunlight, and reliable water supply most conducive to cultivation. The ideal average temperature during the crop's growth period ranges from 21 to 37 degrees Celsius, while the crop can tolerate maximum temperatures ranging from 40°C to 42°C.

Preparing Water and Land for Rice Cultivation:

Rice cultivation requires more water than any other crop during the same period. It is a monsoon season (kharif) crop, relying on rainfall. Increased water is necessary for its cultivation. Water demand is typically higher during the germination phase. Soil moisture should be maintained during rice flowering. Sufficient water supply should be ensured until flowering. Before harvest, water should be drained to promote rapid and uniform ripening. Deep plowing of the soil with a tractor or plow before the rains or using a rotavator is advantageous in waterlogged areas and where drainage is insufficient during sowing. The use of a rotavator after plowing helps level the field.

Major Varieties of Rice:

1. CSR 10 This variety matures in 115-120 days and is suitable for soils with higher pH levels.
2. IR-64 This variety matures in 125-130 days with an estimated yield of 50-55 quintals per hectare.
3. IR-36 This variety matures in 120-125 days with an estimated yield of 45-50 quintals per hectare.
4. Basmati 370 This variety matures in 135 days with an estimated yield of 22-25 quintals per hectare. It is suitable for the entire Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Haryana regions.
5. Pusa Basmati Varieties These varieties mature in 135-140 days with a fragrant aroma and an estimated yield of 30-40 quintals per hectare.
6. Danteshwari  This variety matures in 90-95 days with an estimated yield of 40-50 quintals per hectare. It is suitable for flat and gently sloping rainfed areas.
7. Saket-4 This variety matures in 110-115 days with an estimated yield of 40-42 quintals per hectare. It can also be grown in soils with higher pH levels.

Major Rice Diseases and Their Management:

1. Blast Disease: Primarily targeting the leaves, nodes, and panicles, this disease causes nodes or panicles to break easily. To mitigate its impact, prepare a solution by mixing Tricyclazole, Carbendazim, or Bonomeal-2 at a rate of 3 grams per kilogram of seed. Soak the seeds in the solution for 6 to 12 hours, followed by drying them in shade before sowing.
2. Thrips Disease: Predominantly affecting nurseries and rice fields, this disease presents as yellow and white spots on the leaves during the early stages of growth. For effective management, spray a solution containing 375 grams of Emamectin Benzoate per 500 liters of water per hectare.
3. Sheath Blight Disease: This disease affects the plant roots, hindering their growth. Infected plants exhibit yellowing, with branches gradually dropping off. Managing this disease involves using dried cow dung or dried ash.