Alternate wetting and drying (AWD) a promising water saving technology in rice production system for farmers of Telangana, India
JS Sudharani, N Praveen, K Avil Kumar and Lokesh C
Farmers can employ the water-saving technique known as alternate wetting and drying (AWD) to reduce the irrigation water used in rice fields while maintaining crop yields. This irrigation method decreases water usage in rice cultivation by allowing periods of unsaturated soil during the growing season without compromising productivity. During the Kharif seasons of 2018 and 2019, 15 frontline demonstrations were conducted on farmers' fields. This advanced technique resulted in grain yields averaging 4.5% higher (6031 kg/ha) compared to traditional methods (5772 kg/ha). It also led to increased net returns (Rs. 55,552/-) and gross returns (Rs. 102,819/-). Using the AWD method, a B:C ratio of 2.2 was achieved, saving Rs. 1,900/- per hectare compared to traditional practices (GR: 98,585/-, NR: 49,437/-, B:C 1.9).
JS Sudharani, N Praveen, K Avil Kumar, Lokesh C. Alternate wetting and drying (AWD) a promising water saving technology in rice production system for farmers of Telangana, India. Int J Res Agron 2024;7(6S):506-509. DOI: 10.33545/2618060X.2024.v7.i6Sg.935
