Determinants of system of root intensification (sri) method, in Bihar state, India

Abstract

Input-dependent strategies of 'modern agriculture' is less cost-effective and less sustainable, the benefits of system of root intensification (SRI) are considerable, especially in terms of resource conservation, production and addressing the challenges of climate change. Despite policy support that has been extended by nongovernmental organisations and some Governments, still the adoption of SRI has been restricted to some vicinity in India. This article is an attempt to explain principles, practices of SRI and reasons for the low adoption of SRI by farmers in Bihar and make policy suggestions, so that the discussion could be used for further research and policy support. The contents have been accumulated from literature and field visits and interaction with farmers in Bihar, state of India. This study finds that preference for SRI is higher among experienced farmers than younger farmers in Bihar. The analysis finds significant the role of literacy/theawareness programme in promoting farmers to use SRI in agriculture, in Bihar. Productivity of wheat and paddy has increased forty to sixty percentages, after using SRI practices. Limitations reported by the farmers are lack of awareness, labour intensive nature of SRI, shortage of skilled labour and absence of proper machines, useful for different types of soil. The findings of this study support that supply-side factors are playing major role in the adoption of SRI practise in Bihar. The adoption of SRI is still low in Bihar, because of the low role of demand side factors, Involvement of civil society with incentives may promote SRI practices in Bihar.