Jammu is witnessing a boost in rice cultivation amidst heavy rainfall caused by monsoon winds and western disturbances. Farmers are hopeful for better rice yields compared to last year. Rice cultivation, especially for the globally renowned Basmati rice, is the primary source of income for most farmers in the R.S. Pura, Madh, Samba, and Kathua districts of the Jammu region.
According to A.S. Raina, Joint Director of the Agriculture Department, "Rice and maize are the main crops in the Jammu region, which depend on rainwater. The pre-monsoon rainfall was good, and the monsoon arrived on time, which is favorable. The sowing of maize in the predominantly rain-fed hilly areas was completed some time ago, and the continuous rainfall in the past week is a blessing for this crop."
Currently, rice cultivation is underway in some parts of the plains and hilly regions of Jammu. It takes around 160-170 days for the Basmati crop to reach the harvesting stage, during which it requires a substantial amount of water.
According to Raina, Jammu produces approximately 400,000 quintals of rice, while the local demand is met by purchasing 200,000 quintals of rice through the Food Corporation of India.
Maize production is approximately 400,000 quintals, and the department provides farmers with the facility to sell their surplus produce.
He stated that the production of rice and maize can increase by 25 to 30 percent based on various factors such as high-quality seeds, appropriate fertilizers, and rainfall. In essence, rainfall is beneficial for rice cultivation. The success of the crop depends on the availability of water during the next month, and with favourable monsoon conditions, there is hope for a good yield this year.
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