Asian Journal of Agricultural Extension, Economics & Sociology

Background: Historically, transplanting has been the dominant method of rice cultivation in many Asian countries, but it is labour-intensive, water-intensive, and contributes to environmental degradation. In India for ages, rice has been traditionally grown by transplanting seedlings in the puddled field, which requires raising of nursery about one month earlier than transplanting time, directly increasing the cost of cultivation. In conservation agriculture, Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) technology has emerged as a potential alternative to transplanting.

Aims: The study aimed to assess the impact of large-scale demonstrations and awareness programmes on the adoption of DSR technology in Haryana’s Fatehabad district. The primary goal was to evaluate changes in agronomic performance, economic viability, and area under DSR cultivation across a three-year period (2022–2024).

Methodology: This was a multi-year, field-based extension and demonstration study involving comparative evaluations between traditional Transplanted Rice (TR) and Direct Seeded Rice (DSR). The design incorporated agronomic trials, farmer participation, and dissemination activities to analyse both yield and economic outcomes. The study was conducted in Fatehabad district, Haryana, India, over a period of three years (2022 to 2024). Demonstrations were implemented across multiple villages and blocks within the district.

A total of 95 farmers participated over the study period, covering 38 hectares. DSR plots utilised standardised agronomic practices recommended by CCS HAU, Hisar, with varieties PB-1121 and PB-1509. Field demonstrations employed DSR-specific sowing equipment, dry seedbed methods, and structured weed, water, and nutrient management. Yield parameters, input costs, net income, and benefit-cost ratios were recorded. Extension activities—including field days, village-level meetings, and training programs—were also organised.

Results: While DSR yields were marginally lower than TR (by 2.05–2.43%), they were not statistically significant and showed improvement over time. DSR offered higher net incomes and superior benefit-cost ratios each year, largely due to reduced labour and input costs. Technology index declined from 18.18% (2023) to 12.0% (2024), indicating improved adoption. Awareness efforts facilitated a 93.7% increase in DSR cultivation area from 13,279 acres (2022) to 25,713 acres (2024). Farmer feedback and demonstration results highlighted the viability and economic attractiveness of DSR when supported by training and adaptive extension support.

Conclusion: Large-scale demonstrations and awareness programs significantly enhanced farmer adoption of Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) in Haryana’s Fatehabad district. Despite marginal yield reductions, DSR proved more profitable due to lower input costs and higher benefit-cost ratios. Continued training and localised support are essential for scaling DSR as a sustainable alternative to traditional rice transplanting.