Utera farming in India Importance of farming with a new and unique technique in India

The decreasing availability of arable land and the increasing pressure on traditional farming methods are compelling us to turn towards new agricultural technologies. In this context, precision farming can present a golden opportunity, especially in areas where agriculture is entirely dependent on rainfall, and there is a scarcity of irrigation resources. Precision farming is becoming the sole option to meet the growing population's food needs in many countries. Here are numerous regions in the country where agriculture is solely reliant on rainfall, and due to limited irrigation resources, fields remain fallow during the winter season. For such areas, precision farming, in the form of utera farming, can prove to be a significant alternative. The primary objective of utera farming is to utilize the moisture present in the soil for the germination and growth of the next crop. Besides the benefits of utera farming, there is a need for thorough research and proper implementation. From sowing to harvesting, utilizing scientific and technical knowledge in every step can enhance our productivity. The correct application of scientific and technical information throughout the entire process can improve our efficiency and productivity.

What is Utera farming and its selection?

The decreasing availability of arable land and the increasing pressure on traditional farming methods are compelling us to turn towards new agricultural technologies. In this context, precision farming can present a golden opportunity, especially in areas where agriculture is entirely dependent on rainfall, and there is a scarcity of irrigation resources. Precision farming is becoming the sole option to meet the growing population's food needs in many countries. There are numerous regions in the country where agriculture is solely reliant on rainfall, and due to limited irrigation resources, fields remain fallow during the winter season. For such areas, precision farming, in the form of utera farming, can prove to be a significant alternative. The primary objective of utera farming is to utilize the moisture present in the soil for the germination and growth of the next crop. Besides the benefits of utera farming, there is a need for thorough research and proper implementation. From sowing to harvesting, utilizing scientific and technical knowledge in every step can enhance our productivity. The correct application of scientific and technical information throughout the entire process can improve our efficiency and productivity.

Time and method of planting Utera: 

Utera farming is practiced in rice crops. Utera seeds are sown 15-20 days before the rice harvest, specifically when the grains are in the dough stage, roughly between mid-October and mid-November. Adequate moisture should be present in the field during the sowing time. The moisture should be sufficient for the seeds to adhere to the damp soil. It is important to note that there should not be excess water in the field; otherwise, the seeds may scatter. Any excess water should be drained to ensure the optimal conditions for sowing.

Manure and fertilizers in sowing of Utera crop: For sesame crops, there is a need for an additional dose of nitrogen. The application of an additional 20 kilograms of urea should be done 25-30 days after sowing. Since sesame crops require nitrogen, applying 20 kilograms of urea 25-30 days after sowing will strengthen your crop further. It is crucial to make the right decision regarding the composition during sowing time for sesame crops, such as using 5 kilograms of urea, 50 kilograms of DAP, and 15 kilograms of potash per hectare. Properly composted cow dung should also be well spread. For Utera crops, the recommended seed rate should be one and a half times more than the normal suggested quantity. For example, the recommended seed rate for sesame is 40-45 kilograms per hectare, while for Utera farming, an appropriate seed rate is 90 kilograms per hectare. The selection of advanced varieties is extremely necessary to increase the yield per hectare. Farmers, if they pay attention to Utera crop cultivation just like the main crop, such as rice, the yield per acre will undoubtedly increase.

Weed control in Utera crop: To control pests in sesame crops, it is advisable to spray a 2-liter solution of Azadirachtin (500 grams active ingredient) within 3 days of sowing, or a 2-liter solution of isoprothiolane 15 days after germination per hectare. For pulse crops like lentils, chickpeas, lentils, sesame, etc., Pendimethalin should be sprayed at a rate of 1 liter per hectare within 3 days of sowing for pest control. The main pests in crops are leaf-eating caterpillars or pod-boring caterpillars, mites, and thrips. For the control of caterpillars, a solution of Methiathane at 2 ml per liter of water should be prepared and sprayed at the rate of per hectare. For the control of mites and thrips, a solution of Rogor or Methyl Acephate at 2 ml per liter of water should be prepared and sprayed per hectare.

Benefits of Utera Farming:

• It results in higher yield at a lower cost compared to other intensive farming methods.
• The full utilization of moisture occurs, and it doesn't remain on the ground, allowing more time for additional crops.
• It maintains the proper level of nitrogen in the fields, reducing the need for fertilizer in other crops.
• Low-cost cultivation of summer and sesame crops leads to additional yield from intercropping, resulting in increased economic benefits.
• This method ensures the complete utilization of moisture in the field and prevents soil erosion, maximizing land productivity.
• Sesame crops not only yield oil but also contribute as organic manure in the form of husk.

How to take precautions in Utera farming: At the time of sowing seeds, there should not be stagnation of water in the field, so that the seeds rot. Therefore, proper arrangements for drainage should be made. Take care in selecting the best crop and use right fertilizers. The top bud part of gram and tinvada utera crop should be broken so that more branches and pods can grow.

Conclusion: Almost all farmers are already familiar with Utera farming, but due to lack of scientific aspects and modern information related to it, their yield is very low. Therefore, to increase production, knowledge and widespread use of advanced scientific methods and information is very important.