2025-02-21

A field visit was conducted on 21st February 2025 to evaluate the progress of paddy cultivation under the ongoing project, “Study on the Impact of Climate Change on Rice Cultivation in Kerala and the Development of Adaptation and Mitigation Strategies” in Thrissur. The team visited Vennippadam Vadakke Bhagam Nellulpadaka Karshaka Samithi and Ponmani Karshaka Sangham to assess crop health, weed infestations, and the challenges faced by farmers.

At Vennippadam Vadakke Bhagam, the crop was 55–60 days old, with active grain formation. However, the presence of Echinochloa weed was observed. Rainfall immediately after sowing had forced farmers to resow, delaying the cultivation period. Shri Balakrishnan highlighted the high cost of pesticide applications due to multiple pest outbreaks and expressed concerns over the lack of government price hikes for rice, adding financial strain on farmers. Despite these challenges, President Shri Janardhanan noted that the crop, though not exceptional, was reasonably satisfactory.

At Ponmani Karshaka Sangham, the crop was 60–70 days old, with grain formation just beginning. A weedy rice infestation was reported, requiring both chemical weedicide application and manual weeding, which significantly increased costs. Poor land leveling was identified as a contributing factor to the infestation. Pest attacks were also prevalent, necessitating chemical pesticide applications. Shri Davis noted that manual transplantation had resulted in an uneven crop stand, further encouraging weed growth and pest issues.

The visit provided valuable insights into the difficulties faced by paddy farmers, including weed infestations, pest management costs, and financial constraints. TIES remains committed to supporting farmers through research-driven solutions to enhance sustainable agricultural practices and improve crop resilience.

The visit was attended by Dr. Punnen Kurian (Secretary, TIES), Habi Sherin (Project Coordinator), and Aditya Sabu (Project Assistant). They were joined by Padashekhara Samithi President Shri Janardhanan, Samithi Secretary Shri Davis, and farmers including Shri Sunil, Shri Sasi, and Shri Balakrishnan. The project is funded by National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD)