Jharkhand farmers sow new variety of paddy

Ranchi, Sep 5 (ANI): Scanty rainfalls and acute shortage of water have forced the farmers to sow new varieties of paddy, which consume less water in Jharkhand.

The three varieties are called 'Karaini', 'Sonpia' and 'Seeta saal', which mature in just 75-90 days and require little water support.

Besides, these varieties are also known for better yield of straw, which is useful for the cattle.

"There are three varieties of paddy which need less water and can be sowed by the farmers. It is very popular among the village farmers. They also possess a lot of medicinal qualities these are known as 'Karaini', 'Sonpia' and 'Seeta saal'. This gets ready in just 75-90 days. It gives high yield in less water," said Yogesh Oraon, a farmer.

The farmers use alternate methods like wells and water pump to irrigate their fields. Furthermore, the scarcity of fodder at present and in the coming season ahead is a cause of concern for the farmers.

"Due to shortage of water we are forced to sow this variety of paddy. Even a five per cent food out of the yield will be enough for our animals and us. We can manage without food for some days but how will our animals cope up with this situation, so we had to resort to this solution," said Soyab Khan, a farmer.

Some good rain in the late season has brought some hope for the farmers as they are already too late by two months.

Timely monsoon is vital to the health of India's trillion-dollar economy as it determines farm outputs and subsequent rural demand for a range of products. (ANI)