1Ph.D. Scholar, Department of Agricultural Extension Education, College of Agriculture Vellayani, Kerala Agricultural University, Thiruvananthapuram, India
2Professor, Department of Agricultural Extension, Palli Siksha Bhavana (Institute of Agriculture), Visva-Bharati (A Central University), Sriniketan, West Bengal, India
3Assistant Professor, Department of Agricultural Extension Education, College of Agriculture Vellayani, Kerala Agricultural University, Thiruvananthapuram, India
4Ph.D. Scholar, Department of Agriculture Extension Education, MSSSOA, Centurian University of Technology and Management, Paralakhemudi, Odisha, India
5Ph.D. Scholar, School of Social Science, College of Post Graduate studies in Agricultural Sciences, CAU (Imphal), Umiam, Meghalaya, India
*Corresponding author: E-mail: soumyaranjan2296@gmail.com
Online published on 24 February, 2026.
This study examines the adoption of System of Rice Intensification (SRI) practices among smallholder rice farmers in Odisha’s Ganjam district, where rice is a predominant crop. SRI, a resource-efficient cultivation method, has demonstrated increased yields with lower input costs, making it particularly suitable for resource-poor farmers. Despite SRI’s benefits, its adoption remains limited due to socioeconomic challenges, particularly for small and marginal farmers. The study utilized an ex-post facto research design, involving a sample of 80 farmers across four villages in Digapahandi and Sanakhemundi blocks. Data were collected through personal interviews and analysed using statistical tools like correlation and multiple regression. Results reveal that SRI adoption is highest in land preparation and irrigation practices, yet lower in areas like weed management and the use of traditional bio-fertilizers, largely due to labour and resource constraints. Regression analysis indicates that factors such as annual income, total irrigated land, and social participation significantly influence SRI adoption, while farming experience negatively correlates with adoption, suggesting reluctance among experienced farmers to adopt new practices. The findings highlight a need for targeted extension services and resource support to encourage broader SRI adoption. Enhancing access to resources and improving knowledge dissemination are crucial for advancing sustainable rice cultivation in the region, ultimately benefiting smallholder farmers and improving regional food security.
⓿ Odisha, a leading rice producer explores SRI in Ganjam district to boost yields.
⓿ Socio-economic factors-income, experience, irrigation, and social participation significantly influence adoption.
System of Rice Intensification, Smallholder Farmers, Adoption Constraints, Socio-economic Factors, Sustainable Rice Cultivation
