Revolutionizing wheat production with raised bed method, agricultural officials conduct inspection

Agricultural officials inspected wheat cultivation using the raised bed method with DBW-377 foundation seeds in the fields. Sub-Divisional Agriculture Officer Dr. Indira Tripathi and Senior Agricultural Development Officer JP Tripathi, along with a large number of local farmers, were present during the inspection. Farmer Arjun Patel shared that the DBW-377 foundation seed was sourced from the Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Karnal, and sown at a rate of approximately 30 kilograms per acre. Patel has also registered the seed with the Breeder Seed Certification Institute. This foundation seed will be distributed to farmers for further cultivation.

What is the Raised Bed Method?

According to the Department of Agricultural Development, the raised bed method is utilized primarily for moisture conservation. The planting structure is created using a furrow-irrigated raised bed planter. Typically, after every two rows of crops, a furrow measuring 25–30 cm in width and 15–20 cm in depth is created, which elevates the crop rows on beds. During the rabi season, these furrows are used for irrigation, ensuring prolonged moisture retention in the beds. Additionally, the adequate spacing between beds allows better exposure to sunlight, enhancing canopy development and increasing yield.

Advantages of Raised Bed Method: Compared to traditional methods, the raised bed technique offers several advantages:

1. Seed Consumption: Only 30 kg of seeds per acre are required in the raised bed method, as opposed to 80–100 kg in traditional methods.
2. Number of Tillers: Each plant produces 15–16 tillers in the raised bed method, compared to only 3–4 tillers in the traditional method.
3. Yield: Wheat yield in the raised bed method ranges between 25–30 quintals per acre, whereas traditional methods yield 18–20 quintals per acre.
4. Crop Strength: Despite a higher number of tillers, crops grown with the raised bed method do not lodge (fall), unlike those grown using traditional techniques.

A Ray of Hope for Farmers: The raised bed method is proving to be a revolutionary technique in agriculture. It not only boosts productivity but also conserves resources like water and seeds. This method offers farmers an opportunity to achieve higher profits with lower costs, making it a promising innovation in sustainable farming.

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