Farmers’ Trait Preferences for Varietal Replacement: A study to boost rice productivity in Odisha, India

Abstract

The average age of the popular rice varieties being grown in the state of Odisha is higher than the stipulated 10-year timeframe. This is an obstacle to productivity enhancement through varietal replacement. Farmers in Odisha growing these varieties have expressed their desired traits for replacement of these long-grown varieties. The desired characters of an ideal variety have been mapped for major older varieties. Since varietal fitment and farmer’s choice vary widely between rice eco logies, the research outcomes were compartmentalized between medium and lowland. Thus, these research outcomes will be crucially helpful for breeding program to develop varieties that match evinced expectation of the farmers. The ranking of trait preferences will also augment the varietal research program to the exact needs of the rice growers in the state. Rice productivity in Odisha is one of the least in the country. Replacement of existing older varieties with a high yielder as per farmers’ choice is a strategic way to boost the productivity. The findings with regard to current varietal landscape, farmers’ trait preferences are crucially important for augmenting rice productivity and strengthening food security in the state.