An economic outlook of institutional interventions and the revival of rice economy in J&K

Despite the fact that rice forms a staple food crop in J&K, a good proportion of area under this crop is under land races or obsolete varieties. Considering a crucial role of sharp edge technologies, SKUAST-Kashmir has been developing elite rice varieties and have scaled up their seed production. In this backdrop, this study analysed the impact of institutional interventions in the revival of rice economy in Kashmir valley. The findings revealed that participatory seed production programme has played a vital role in the dissemination of improved varieties, enhancement of seed replacement rate and strengthened of the rice economy. The participating farmers in seed production not only adopt improved varieties at their farms but also helped their dissemination. The adoption of technologies lowered the cost of production. Adoption of frontier technologies increased farm incomes. The study also deliberated upon a ‘seed plan’ and a ‘road map’ drawn by SKUAST-Kashmir for increasing farm income. The study emphasized on institutional mechanisms for prompt Seed Replacement Rates, participatory crop improvement programme, and seed village scheme.