India's agricultural landscape, particularly in Punjab, Haryana, and Western Uttar Pradesh, has long been a cornerstone of the nation's Green Revolution. However, the intensive cultivation of high-yielding rice and wheat varieties in these regions has led to a significant buildup of crop residues, especially paddy straw. Traditionally, farmers have burned this straw, causing severe environmental, health, and economic consequences.
There is an urgent need for affordable, sustainable residue management solutions to address these challenges, with surface seeding-cum-mulching of wheat offering a promising, eco-friendly alternative.
Surface Seeding-Cum-Mulching Technique: A Game Changer
The surface seeding-cum-mulching technique, developed by Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), offers a sustainable solution to these challenges. In this method, paddy is harvested, and wheat is sown simultaneously. A specially designed attachment for the combine harvester broadcasts wheat seeds and basal fertilizer. Afterward, a manual operation using a cutter-cum-spreader ensures uniform mulching, followed by light irrigation.
Methodology
In this method, paddy stubbles are cut 3-4 inches above the soil. The recommended application involves sowing 45 kg of wheat seed and 65 kg of DAP fertilizer per acre. Seeds and fertilizers can be broadcast manually to the farmer without access to the specific machinery. The stubble cutting and irrigation can be performed after. PAU's 'Surface Seeder' machine helps to make it easy, to cut and spread the entire straw, and distribute seeds, and fertilizers evenly.
Benefits of Surface Seeding-Cum-Mulching Technique
Economic Benefits:
The surface seeding-cum-mulching technique is cost-effective, with an estimated cost of Rs 650-700 per acre, compared to the Rs 2000-2500 per acre for conventional methods. This approach saves on expensive machinery, high-power tractors, and labor costs.
Agronomic Benefits:
The technique enhances soil health by maintaining moisture in the soil profile. It shields crops from terminal heat stress, encourages the development of a fibrous root system, and stabilizes the plant. This root structure helps the plant withstand extreme weather events like heavy rain and hailstorms. Full soil mulching also minimizes weed growth, reducing the need for herbicides.
Environmental Impact:
This method promotes environmental sustainability by offering an alternative to the open burning of paddy straw, a common practice that contributes to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. The technique conserves soil nutrients and helps achieve goals like zero residue burning and resource conservation.
Adoption and Future Prospects
The adoption of this technique has shown promising results, particularly in Northern India. During the 2022-23 season, farmers reported reduced crop damage during adverse weather events. However, as a relatively new technology, further validation is required to address concerns related to seed rates, fertilizer application, soil suitability, and irrigation practices.
Efforts to promote this technology through awareness programs, training, and field demonstrations are essential for its widespread adoption. With continued research and farmer engagement, surface seeding-cum-mulching could become a game-changer for residue management, wheat production, and environmental conservation.
