Despite being banned in several Indian states, the cultivation of Satha paddy—a rice variety that matures in just 60 days continues clandestinely in various regions. While the crop promises quick profits to farmers, it poses a serious threat to the groundwater table.
States like Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Bihar, Punjab, and most recently Uttar Pradesh have officially prohibited the cultivation of Satha paddy. Yet, farmers in the Terai belt are still growing it illegally. To counter this, the government has formed task forces that monitor sensitive regions closely. There are also provisions for penalties and legal action against those who violate the ban.
Several state governments sought expert opinion through the central government to assess the harmful effects of this crop. Agricultural labs tested Satha paddy samples, revealing that the crop absorbs an excessive amount of soil moisture and groundwater. These findings led many states to take swift and strict action against its cultivation.
Satha paddy farming is not only depleting groundwater levels but is also rendering fertile lands barren in some areas. Environmentalists have welcomed the government’s move to ban the crop, stating that they had been demanding such action for years. The Terai region, once known as the “Rice Bowl” due to its fertile lands, is now under ecological threat. The crop also undermines the effectiveness of various central water conservation initiatives.
Greed Fueling a Water Crisis: Farmers are lured by the fact that Satha paddy yields double the income compared to traditional crops. However, the unchecked exploitation of water resources is becoming a long-term risk. The crop, previously grown in countries like Canada, is now completely banned there due to similar environmental concerns.
The Terai region, which spans thousands of hectares across parts of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand and borders Nepal, has a high groundwater table—often just 15 feet below the surface. This makes it attractive for Satha cultivation, but overuse is rapidly draining this valuable resource. According to reports from the Central Ground Water Board, the water level in these areas has dropped significantly. The cultivation of water-intensive varieties like Satha and Chainee paddy has disrupted both soil and water balance in the region.
Unknowingly or otherwise, the over-extraction of groundwater for short-term gains is pushing the country toward a long-term crisis. Immediate and strict action is essential to curb this growing threat.
