Prospects for Adopting System of Rice Intensification in Sri Lanka: A Socioeconomic Assessment

Abstract

"These days the demand for water resources is becoming intense as a result of population pressure, competitions among different uses and users, and the inefficiencies of the developed water infrastructures. As agriculture currently consumes the bulk of the available water resources, the efficiency and productivity of water use in this sector may contribute to the relaxation of the demand for water. The System of Rice Intensification SRI)first developed in Madagascar and now being tested in many countries, is an example of an on-farm water productivity enhancing approach. The system is based largely on organic farming principles and additional requirements for the timing of transplanting and spacing of seedlings, and irrigation scheduling. The SRI recently generated interest and discussions among researchers, development practitioners and policymakers in Sri Lanka. This has often resulted in polarized views. Some proponents claim that SRI will revolutionize the method of rice production, while others see it as a fad. Studies in Africa, Asia and Latin America provide mixed results. But most of these studies are anecdotal in nature or are limited to experimental and demonstration activities. Only one other study that we are aware of (conducted in Madagascar) applies an appropriate methodology that would assess the farmer experience. This study contributes to filling this research gap based on Sri Lankan farmers experience. The study specifically assesses the adoption pattern, economics and the poverty outreach of the SRI, and draws research, extension and policy implications."