(a) whether the Government discourages the sowing of crops like Paddy as it absorbs excess
water causing depletion of underground water;
(b) if so, whether this fact is borne out by scientific research;
(c) if so, the details thereof; and
(d) the steps taken by the Government to encourage the production of Paddy in the country?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI KANTI LAL BHURIA)
(a) to (c): Paddy crop requires more water than several other crops like oilseeds, coarse
cereals, pulses etc. Cultivation of paddy by utilizing underground water is causing groundwater
depletion in certain areas. Government of India has been advising State Governments to
promote crop diversification in such areas to high value crops like oilseeds, pulses, horticulture
etc., in place of paddy for sustainable growth of agriculture.
(d): For increasing the production and productivity of rice in the country, Central Government
has been implementing Integrated Cereals Development Programme – Rice (ICDP-Rice). The
Scheme has been subsumed under Macro Management Mode of Agriculture with effect from
October 2000 to provide more flexibility to States based on local needs. Under the Scheme
assistance is provided for propagation of improved production technology; hybrid rice
production technology, integrated pest management through field demonstrations; training of
farmers including women; transfer of technology through electronic media and published
literature; farm implements; installation of sprinkler irrigation system; varietal replacement;
production of certified seeds etc., as per the Work Plan of the State Governments. Besides,
Frontline Demonstrations are also organized by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research
(ICAR) on farmers` fields.