Fiji : Chance to boost rice yield
The Sugar Research Institute of Fiji (SRIF) introduced sustainable farming practices to enhance rice yields, focusing on crop rotation, fallow periods, and upland rice farming. The initiative promotes multi-cropping with maize and offers a guaranteed paddy price, aiming to boost farmer incomes. SRIF’s recent field day showcased the benefits of these practices for sustainable agriculture and land use.
The Sugar Research Institute of Fiji (SRIF) has given farmers in the rice industry a chance to boost their yield by introducing better farming practices for their farms.
Ba Rice Farmers Cooperative Ltd president Thakur Rajesh Singh said the new improved farming practices which included crop and soil management would ensure that farmers were able to sustain their production.
“We highlighted the importance of crop rotation and fallow periods for soil regeneration, introduced upland rice farming as a more efficient way to grow rice, and experimented with crops like maize to improve yields,” said Mr Singh.
Dr Vinesh Kumar, chief executive officer of SRIF, said sustainable farming was the way to go to ensure the long-term growth of the industry.
“Our efforts aim to support food security by promoting rice planting and providing small mills for on-site milling,” he said.
“With a guaranteed paddy price of $1000 per tonne, we’re helping farmers increase their income and diversify their crops.”
The institute held a field day recently at its farm in Lautoka where farmers witnessed firsthand the opportunities that multi-cropping with rice can bring to their agricultural practices.
“We aim to enhance productivity, diversify incomes, and promote sustainable land use,” said Dr Vinesh.
“This event demonstrates the benefits of multi-cropping with rice and the potential of effectively utilising barren land.”
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Source : Fiji Times
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