Abstract

To evaluate the feasibility of aerobic rice system during boro season, an observational field experiment was conducted at Rice Research Station, Bankura, West Bengal, India. Highest grain yield (4.15 and 4.36 t/ha) was recorded from Puspa (IET-17509) and satisfactory grain yield (2.98 and 3.23 t/ha) from Annada variety in aerobic rice system under unpuddled situation during boro season. Lowest grain yield (2.01 and 2.18 t/ha) was observed with Lalat. 10th February was the optimum time for direct sowing in aerobic situation for obtaining good crop stand with higher grain yield during boro season. It needs further study in depth. There is no need for raising nursery and dry direct sowing is done in non-puddled, non-flooded fields. It is the most promising approach for saving water and labour. This aerobic rice system will be sustainable rice production and productivity for the farmers under red and laterite zone of West Bengal and for the whole state in future.