“System of Rice Intensification” of Cultivation, in which alternate wetting and drying of rice fields is practiced, results in:

1. Reduced seed requirement
2. Reduced methane production
3. Reduced electricity consumption

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

1. 1 and 2 only
2. 2 and 3 only
3. 1 and 3 only
4. 1, 2 and 3

Explanation

All statements are correct

• The System of Rice Intensification (SRI) incorporates a water-management technique known as Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD), which involves controlled irrigation of rice fields instead of continuous flooding. This approach offers multiple benefits: it reduces methane emissions by limiting anaerobic conditions, lowers water usage and irrigation demand, and decreases fuel and electricity consumption associated with pumping. SRI also requires fewer seeds for transplanting and reduces dependence on chemical fertilisers and other agrichemicals. At the same time, it enhances paddy yields, thereby lowering production costs. Overall, the combination of higher output and reduced input costs results in improved net income for farmers.

Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3; Difficulty Level: Medium