05/10/2020

Smallholder farmers meet with Research partner to resolve issues observed in Paddy in their farm

SAFBIN believes that Research partnership with regional, national and international actors will help the farmers to directly interact with researchers and research managers and help farmer friendly orientations. Through the multisectoral collaboration and more particularly with involvement of the government agencies, the programme promotes different partnerships, institutional mechanisms, platforms and events to facilitate dialogue and coordination with authorities.

As this is the peak season of grain filling of paddy (Grain filling is the final stage in rice growth at which the fertilized ovaries develop into caryopses. The filling rate and extent determine the final weight of the rice grain and these factors are vital to grain yield and quality),SAFBIN organised a one-day visit of Research partner (Agriculture and Forestry University) to visit program area in Nawalparasi, Nepal. Assistant Professor, Dr. TN Bhushal from Agriculture and Forestry University, Rampur, Chitwan, Nepal visited Pithauli and Dhaubadi of Nawalparasi district with the objective of field monitoring and onsite coaching to farmers on techniques of seed selection process and crop management focusing on insect pest as well as disease management of paddy.

During the field observation, severe crop damage due to Stem borer, smut and zinc deficiency was observed in different varieties of paddy such as Sabitri, Ramdhan, Sukha-3, Saba Mansuli, Bhale Mansuli. Viewing the problems faced by farmers seen in the field, the interaction with farmers was made. During interaction, there was discussion about nature, cause, intensity of damage and prevention and control of insect pest, diseases and nutrient deficiency observed in paddy. Moreover, techniques of seed selection process from the field was also delivered by Dr. TN Bhusal at the field.

It was remarkable visit from Research partner to program sites as it created a platform for the farmers to discuss the problem based solution measures on site and help to understand the process of seed selection process just before harvesting.