- Integrated use of row seeding, moisture conservation and Nano DAP
According to the updated long-range forecast of the Indian Meteorological Department, rainfall during the southwest monsoon in 2026 is expected to be approximately 90 percent of the long-term average in the country. Meteorologists have predicted a weaker-than-normal monsoon this year due to the impact of El Niño, with less rainfall in June. In view of this potential challenge, the Chhattisgarh Agriculture Department has specifically advised farmers to adopt water conservation-based scientific farming.
Why is row sowing effective?
According to agricultural scientists, row sowing of paddy using a seed drill can prove to be a safety net for farmers in times of low rainfall or long intervals between two rainy seasons. In this method, seeds are sown at a prescribed depth and equal spacing, allowing the plant roots to develop deeply and making optimal use of the limited soil moisture. Compared to traditional broadcast sowing, row sowing eliminates competition between plants for water, sunlight, and nutrients. Weeding between rows allows for easier weed control, preserving soil moisture for longer, and preventing fertilizer wastage.
Nano DAP: Perfect nutrition even in low humidity.
The Department of Agriculture is specifically encouraging farmers to use Nano DAP this Kharif season. Nano DAP contains ultra-fine phosphorus particles, which are easily absorbed by plants. It promotes rapid root development even in low humidity conditions, improving early crop growth. It also increases plant nutrient use efficiency, thereby mitigating the effects of drought.
Important advice from the Department of Agriculture to farmers:
Farmers must sow paddy in rows using seed drills. Make strong ridges in the fields to prevent rainwater from flowing away. Use Nano DAP, Nano Urea, and biofertilizers in a coordinated manner in recommended quantities. Senior officials of the Agriculture Department have appealed to the farmers to adopt these scientific techniques to deal with the weather-related challenges of Kharif 2026 so that along with crop protection, their production and profits are also protected.