The Future of Rice Farming: A Review of Natural and Eco-Friendly Practices
Madhu Mali
Department of Agronomy, IGKV, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, India.
Kammara Meghalatha *
Department of Entomology, SHUATS, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Kadapala Anuradha
Department of Plant Pathology, SHUATS, Prayagraj, UP, India.
Vikky kumar
Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, IGKV, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, India.
P. Hema Prasanthi Lakshmi
Department of Plant Pathology, KLEF, Vijayawada, India.
Sumit Karmakar
Department of Agricultural Economics, IGKV, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, India.
Divya Shalini Lakra
Department of Agronomy, IGKV, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, India.
Sai Kiran Rudraboyina
Department of Entomology, SHUATS, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Akanand
Department of Entomology, IGKV, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, India.
Gajendra Chandrakar
Department of Entomology, IGKV, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Recognizing rice as a staple for a significant global population, the review underscores the environmental challenges posed by traditional and conventional rice farming methods. It emphasizes the promise of sustainable rice cultivation, focusing on innovations like the System of Rice Intensification (SRI) and climate-friendly techniques that mitigate environmental impacts. Furthermore, it delves into the benefits of crop rotation, sustainable water management, soil health preservation through mycorrhizal associations, companion planting, and the role of precision agriculture empowered by artificial intelligence. The abstract discusses the challenges, including climate change, water scarcity, soil health, and labor shortages, and proposes prospects involving innovation, sustainable practices, policy support, and collaborative partnerships. It highlights real-world successes in eco-friendly rice farming, such as initiatives, and emphasizes the importance of empowering farmers through education and training in eco-friendly methods. Ultimately, role of eco-friendly practices in ensuring the sustainability, productivity, and food security of global rice farming.
Keywords: Natural farming, sustainable, conservation, policy, pest