UPCAR to Host High-Level Dialogue on Advancing Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) under Samridhi Dhan 2.0

Lucknow, March 5,2025: The Uttar Pradesh Council of Agricultural Research (UPCAR) is set to host a high-level discussion on the Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) Scale-up Plan 2025 under the Samridhi Dhan 2.0 initiative. The event will take place on Thursday, March 6, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 1:45 PM at the UPCAR Office Auditorium, Govt Garden, Alambagh, Lucknow, bringing together key stakeholders, including representatives from the World Bank, academia, State Agricultural Universities (SAUs), Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), FPOs, Private companies and relevant institutes.

The discussion aims to review the successes and lessons from the Kharif 2024 DSR implementation and identify strategic interventions to scale up DSR adoption in the coming seasons. Participants will focus on defining the roles of SAUs, KVKs, extension networks, and private partners in ensuring a structured expansion of DSR across the state. Additionally, the event will explore forward-looking approaches such as micro-irrigation, carbon credits, insurance models, and regenerative farming practices through on-ground demonstrations. A key aspect of the discussion will be identifying mechanisms to increase the area under pulses post-paddy cultivation, promoting diversified and sustainable farming systems that enhance soil health and farmer incomes.

Emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts, Dr. Sanjay Singh, Director General, UPCAR, said, “UPCAR remains committed to promoting sustainable and climate-resilient agricultural practices in Uttar Pradesh. Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) technology is a crucial step toward efficient water management, reducing carbon emissions, and improving farm productivity. An integrated approach involving government agencies, research institutions, and private partners is essential to effectively scale this initiative through policy support, capacity building, and technological innovations. We invite all stakeholders, including policymakers and industry representatives, to actively participate in shaping the future of sustainable rice cultivation in the region.”