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Organic Basmati Crop Guide 1

Inner Title

Organic Basmati Crop Guide2

Organic production and Fairtrade of basmati rice enables Indian farmers toimprove their livelihoods while safeguarding the environment.

This manual for extension staff is designed to support organic basmati farmersto increase profitability, diversify farming systems and reduce waterconsumption and greenhouse gas emissions, but also to provide informationon farm economy and certification.

Publisher:Intercooperation Social Development Indiawww.intercooperation.org.in

In cooperation with:

� HELVETAS Swiss Intercooperationwww.helvetas.org

� Nature Bio-Foods Ltdhttp://naturebiofoods.com/

� G. B. Pant University of Agriculture & Technologyhttp://www.gbpuat.ac.in/

� Coop Sustainability Fundwww.coop.ch

� Reis MühleBrunnenhttp://www.reismuehle.ch

Authors:

Ashish Srivastava and Mustak Khan(Intercooperation Social Development India)

Frank Eyhorn, Raphael Dischl and Tina Roner(HELVETAS Swiss Intercooperation)

D.K. Singh(G. B. Pant University of Agriculture & Technology)

© Intercooperation Social Development India 2014


Acknowledgements


2.6.5. Biopreparations 18

2.7. Harvest and post-harvest 19

3. System of Rice Intensification (SRI) 20

4. Diversifying farming systems 21

4.1. Organic soybean farming 22

4.1.1. Varieties and seeds 22

4.1.2. Land preparation 22

4.1.3. Sowing 22

4.1.4. Irrigation 22

4.1.5. Weed management 22

4.1.6. Pests and diseases 22

4.1.7. Harvesting and post-harvest 22

4.2. Organic wheat farming 23



4.2.3. Sowing 23

4.2.4. Irrigation 23

4.2.5. Weed management 23

4.2.6. Pests and diseases 23

4.2.7. Harvesting and post-harvest 23

5. Farm economy 24

5.1. Improving farmer’s income 24

5.2. Record keeping 25

5.3. Profitability of organic basmati 25

6. Certification 26

6.1. Organic 26

6.2. Internal Control System 27

6.3. Fairtrade 28

7. Role of women 29

8. References 30

9. Annex 31

9.1. Work Calendar 31

9.2. Record keeping 32

1. Introduction 3

1.1. Why organic basmati? 3

1.2. Organic farming 4

2. Organic basmati farming 5

2.1. Soil Management 6

2.1.1. Climate and soil type 6

2.1.2. Crop rotation 6

2.1.3. Green manure 6


2.1.5. Intercropping 7

2.2. Basmati nursery 8


2.2.2. Nursery preparation 8

2.2.3. Seed treatment and sowing 8

2.2.4. Nursery management 9

2.2.5. Transplanting 9

2.2.6. Seed production 10

2.3. Water management 11

2.3.1. Sustainable irrigation 11

2.3.2. Alternate wetting and drying 11

2.4. Organic fertilisers 12

2.4.1. Farmyard manure 12

2.4.2. Compost 12

2.4.3. Biogas slurry 14

2.4.4. Natural mineral fertilisers 15

2.4.5. Biofertilisers 15

2.5. Intercultural operations 15

2.5.1. Weeding 15

2.5.2. Clipping 15

2.6. Pest and disease management 16

2.6.1. Prevention and control 16

2.6.2. Important pests 17

2.6.3. Important diseases 17

2.6.4. Biopesticides 18

Table of Contents


conditions rather than the use of externalinputs with adverse effects. The benefits oforganic basmati production are summarisedin Table 1.

Global paddy rice production dependson high water input as well as it isresponsible for substantial emissions ofgreenhouse gases, which contributeconsiderably to climate change (see Ricefacts below). Towards a more eco-friendlyproduction water demand and greenhousegas emissions need to be reduced - also inorganic basmati production.

1.1. Why organic basmati?There is a growing demand for

organically produced food – includingbasmati rice – worldwide and organicfarming is continuously gaining importance.

The negative impacts of conventionalagriculture and the increasing use ofchemical fertilisers and pesticides lead toseveral harmful effects to the environment.The indiscriminate use of pesticides killsmany beneficial insects and other animals,and chemicals heavily pollute waterresources. Soil fertility reduces due tomonocropping and the overuse of chemicalfertilisers. Moreover, major healthimplications for farmers and farm workersdue to thespraying of pesticides and thedrinking of polluted water are additional severeconsequences of conventional farming.

In contrast, organic agriculturesustains the health of ecosystems, soils andpeople by relying on ecological processes,biodiversity and cycles adapted to local

Rice facts

� Staple food for 4bn people worldwide

� Income source for 140m households

� Grown on 12% of arable land

� Uses 34-43% of total irrigation water

� Emits 10% of greenhouse gases fromagriculture

� Consumes large amounts of chemicalfertilisers, pesticides, herbicides

Table 1: Advantages of organic basmati production

1. Introduction


Organic farmingAs per the International Federation of

Organic Agriculture Movements (IFOAM)organic farming roots in four principles:

� Principle of health: sustains andenhances the health of soil, plant,animal, human and plant as one andindivisible.

� Principle of ecology: bases on livingecological systems and cycles andworks with them, emulates them andhelps sustain them.

� Principle of fairness: builds onrelationships that ensure fairness withregard to common environment andlife opportunities.

� Principle of care: manages inprecautionary and responsible mannerto protect the health and well-being ofcurrent and future generations and theenvironment.

Organic Agriculture combines tradition,innovation and science and asks to strictlyfollow the national regulations and organicstandards of the respective country (see 6.Certification).

In general, no chemical fertilisers,pesticides, genetically-modified organisms

Figure 1 : Multiple benefits of organic agriculture (Source: IFOAM)

Do’s and Don’ts in Organic Farming

Do’s� Enhance soil fertility with organic

manure and compost� Diversify farming systems by crop

rotation and inter cropping� Prevent the build up of pests and

diseases with natural methods� Use locally available resources and

recycle organic material on-farm� Prevent contamination from

neighbouring conventional fields

Don’ts� No chemical fertilisers, including urea,

NPK etc.� No chemical pesticides, including

herbicides, insecticides, fungicides� No genetically-modified organisms

(GMO) seeds� No hormones such as growth

promoters

and hormones are allowed in organicfarming. Organic agriculture focuses onenhancing soil fertility, diversifying farmingsystems, preventing the build-up of pests anddiseases and using locally available resourcesand recycle on-farm, see Box 1 above.

Box 1: Do’s and don’ts in organic farming


Successful organic basmati farming is bestpromoted through a systemic approachthatcombines different activities:improvingsoil fertility, crop rotation and diversification,organic fertilisation, appropriate irrigation,weeding, pest and disease management aswell as timely and proper harvesting, seeFigure 2. This chapter highlights bestorganic basmati production practices thatwere developed and tested in the foothillsof the Indian Himalaya (Nainital District inUttarakhand).

2.1. Soil Management2.1.1. Climate and soil type

Basmati is a rainy season (Kharif: June –October) crop and optimum growingtemperatures range between 20°C and35°C. Cooler temperatures (e.g. in higheraltitudes) affect crop development and riskthat the crop is not maturing well. Basmatiis harvested at the beginning of the winterseason (Rabi: November – March) thusmaking space for a second crop.

Figure 2: Successfulorganic basmati farming

2. Organic Basmati Farming


The crop prefers heavy soils – clay, clayloam and loamy soils – which can hold waterfor a long period. Stagnant water is howeverharmful for the crop. The soil should beneutral, with a pH ranging between 5.0 and8.0.Saline and alkaline soils adversely affectbasmati growth.

2.1.2. Crop rotation

It is important that organic basmati is grownin a locally suited crop rotation, see Figure3. Crop rotation improves and maintains soilfertility and ensures balanced nutrientcontents in the soil. A proper crop rotationalso prevents the build-up of pests, diseases

Green manure is a crop grown with thepurpose to improve soil fertility.Ideally, alegume crop is used that can fix nitrogenfrom the atmosphere.

Dhaincha (Sesbaniaspp.) or Sanai(Crotolaria spp.) are well suited legumes togrow as green manures, others like mungor urad are good alternatives, too.

In crop rotation, after harvesting the Rabicrop green manuring(summer crop: March– May) can fill the gap until basmati istransplanted into the plot. Before flowering,the green manure crop is directlyincorporated into the soil to improve fertility,especially nitrogen contents in the soil.

Figure 3: Main principle of crop rotation (Source: FiBL, 2011)

and weeds. For more information refer to4. Diversifying farming systems.

2.1.3. Green manure How to grow green manures� Prepare the land

� Sow 2 kg seed per bigha (30 kg per ha)

� When plants reach 3 feet height orbefore flowering, cut the crop and mixit into the soil

2.1.4. Land preparationAround 3 weeks before transplantingbasmati, in June, the field is ploughed indry condition.


Sufficient organic manure needs to beapplied to the field, however, the amountdepends on the previous green manurecrop.

field is not permanently flooded, usually tworows basmati following one row soybean.

2.2. Basmati nursery2.2.1. Varieties and seedsOnly varieties that are recommended for thearea and which have market demandshould be cultivated. Moreover, seeds needto be authorised for organic farming.

Use only seeds supplied by thebuying company or from own

seed production!

At the moment available and suitablebasmati varieties areDehradooni (Type -3)and Taraori (HBC-19). Dehradoonimaturesearlier and suited for higher altitudes, ascompared to Taraori, see Table 2.

Application of compost (fresh)

� 23 -26 quintals per bigha (35 - 40 tons/ha) or if green manure is applied

� 5.5 -6.5 quintals per bigha (8.5 - 10tons/ha) or if available, better usevermi-compost

� 12.5 - 13 quintals per bigha (19 - 20tons/ha)

Just 3 days before transplanting, aftersubmerging the field with 5–10 cm standingwater,the field is puddled 4 to 5 times tocreate mud and to level the field.

Bunds around the field border avoid waterinflow from conventional fields. In case ofchemical spraying in neighbouring fields,sugarcane, maize or Dhaincha (Sesbaniaspp.) can be planted as a boarder crop toavoid contamination with chemicals.

2.1.5. Intercropping

Basmati can be intercropped with fingermillet and soybean. Finger millet can begrown in rows between the basmati.Soybean is intercropped on ridges while the Table 2: Characteristics of basmati varieties


2.2.2. Nursery preparation

The nursery is prepared between first andsecond week of June. For one bighabasmati a nursery of 30 -35m2 (mud beds:3strips of 8m x 1.25m) is needed. For theSystem of Rice Intensification (SRI), only0.75- 1m2 (200-300g seed) of nursery isrequired. Best is to make bunds all aroundthe nursery.

After harvesting the Rabi crop the nurseryarea should be solarised by spreadingtransparent plastic sheets for 3 to 4 days toreduce soil-borne diseases and weeds.

In each nursery strip 25-30kg (2-3 baskets)properly decomposed organic manure and25g zinc sulphate is best applied.

2.2.3. Seed treatment and sowing

1) Dip seeds in 15% saline solution (1.5kgsalt in 10 litres of water). Remove all floatingseeds. Rinse and soak the seeds in cleanwater for 24hours.

2) Treat the seeds with beneficial microbes.For 1kg of seed apply 5g Trichoderma and5g Pseudomonas or 10g Pant Biogent-3.

3) Make a thick layer of seeds and coverthem with wet gunny bags for 36-48 hoursfor germination. Sprinkle water to ensurethat seeds are moist all the time.

2.2.4. Nursery management

15 days after sowing a mixed solution of10%vermi-wash, 10% cow urine, 10g/litretrichoderma, 10g/litre pseudomonas and0.5% neem oil is sprayed in the nursery.After one week the spraying is repeated.

Yellowing of rice due to zinc deficiency(Khiara) is controlled by the application ofbiopreparation with zinc sulphate (seeFigure 10, page 19). The biopreparation issprayed in the nursery at 10 and 20 daysafter sowing.

System of Rice Intensification

Transplant the seedlingsearlier, at 10days after sowing, and at a much widerspace, at 25 x 25 cm spacing!

For one bigha basmati 1.5kg seeds areneeded. Thus, in each of the 3 mud beds/strips 500g germinated seeds are sown.

The most prominent pest during nurserystage is stem borer. Neem oil is sprayed tocontrol stem borer and pheromone traps areinstalled (1 trap per 100m2).

Clipping is done if plant height is exceeding1 feet. Moreover, clipping is recommendedbefore transplanting to remove eggs of stemborer and diseased parts of leaves.

These measures help to grow strong andhealthy seedlings.

2.2.5. Transplanting

The seedlings are transplanted 20 to 25days after sowing; 2-3 seedlings at 15 x 15cm after dipping their roots for 10 minutes


in a solution of 10g Trichoderma and 10gPseudomonas.

If Phosphorus Solubilising Bacteria (PSB)and Azotobactorare available use 10g eachto treat the roots.

2.2.6. Seed production

Rice is a self-pollinating crop and traditionalseed rice production involves normally 3steps. Firstly, seed selection or the selectionof rice panicles for recultivation in the nextseason. The selection of fully mature,uniform, healthy and disease free paniclesis essentialto obtain good quality seed.Secondly, the harvested panicles for seedproduction need to be dried properly, bestunder shade, before being stored. Properseed storage is key to maintain seed qualityto the time of recultivation. Seeds shouldbe stored in a cool, dry and airtightcontainer, e.g. a clay pot, see Figure 4.

What is hybrid seed?

Many rice varieties are hybrid seed, seedof the first generation (F1) from acontrolled cross-pollination between twodifferent inbred lines (selected for manygenerations). A hybrid shows high yieldpotential (heterosis effect), butperformance decreases drastically ifrecultivated.

Before sowing a germination test isappropriate:

1. Soaking: Count 100 seeds and soakthem in water for 24 hours.

2. Incubate: Wrap the seeds in a moistpaper or cloth and keep for 2 days.

3. Count germinated seeds: The numberof germinated seeds is the germinationrate.

Figure 4: Basmati seed production (Source: FiBL, 2011)


2.3. Water management2.3.1. Sustainable irrigationAfter transplanting a level of 3-5 cm wateris kept for 3 days, then drained to the pointof saturation (no flooding). Then, drying ofthe soil is allowed until the point when thesoil is drying up (no deep cracks yet!) beforeirrigated again.

During tillering, ear emergence, andflowering sufficient irrigation is of upmostimportance, whereas during the remainingcrop stages, life-saving irrigations, in caseof drought, suffice.

2.3.2. Alternate wetting and drying

Alternate wetting and drying (AWD) methodsaves water and reduces greenhouse gasemissions while maintaining yields. TheAWD practice involves periodic drying andre-flooding of the rice field.

Two weeks after transplanting the field isleft to dry out until the water level is at 15cmbelow the soil surface. Then the field isflooded again to a water depth of 3 -5 cmbefore drying again. This scheme isrepeated until flowering time. Duringflowering the field is maintained flooded ata water depth of 3 -5 cm, see Figure 5.

Benefits of AWD method

� Reduces water use by up to 30%

� Reduces methane emissions by anaverage of 48%

� Maintains yields and saves money onirrigation,thus increases net returns

Figure 5: Water level during basmati growthstages (Source: adapted from FAO)

The water level is monitored by a field watertube – a 30 cm length of 15 cm diameterpipe with drilled holes – which is sunk intothe rice field for 20cm, see picture below.

The alternate wetting and drying methodrequires however proper land levelling andweed management.

2.4. Organic fertilisersA fertile soil with sufficient nutrients isassured through the application of sufficientorganic fertilisers. The basmati croprequires the following nutrient quantities,see Table3.

Table 3:Nutrient requirements of basmatiandnutrient contents of different organic fertilisers


In organic farming nutrient requirements aresupplied through green manure and varioussources of organic fertilisers described inthe following.

2.4.1. Farm yard manure

Many basmati farmers keep livestock, thusfarm yard manure is a cheap and efficientorganic fertiliser. However, the handling ofmanure has enormous effects on its quality.The following measures contribute toimprovethe quality of farmyard manure:

� Livestock should be kept at night in astable or defined area with sufficientbedding material which enables toabsorb dung and urine.

� Manure should be collected and storedunder roof or plastic to protect it fromsun and rain.

� Manure is best used for composting,which reduces weeds, pest anddiseases in the manure.

� Manure should be incorporatedimmediately into the soil afterapplication to avoid nutrient losses.

An easy way to apply manure to a field isby grazing livestock directly in the field afterthe harvest of the crop.

Cow urine is a nitrogen rich fertiliser andshould be collected separately.

2.4.2. Compost

Compost is a high value organic fertiliserfrom a controlled decomposition of plantmaterial and organic manures. There arethree types of composting:

� Batch fed systems where all materialis set up at once, called NADEP-compost

� Continuously fed systems wherematerial is added again and again

� Vermi-compost, a continuously fedsystem that uses earthworms

Compost is set up in a heap or pit that varyin location, size and timing and depends onthe composting material available. This canbe crop residues, weeds, twigs, leaves,fodder residues, dung, biogas slurry, kitchenwaste and by-products from processing.However, important is to take care that noplastic gets into the compost.

Compost mixture

� 1/3 sturdy and bulky material;chopped twigs, roots etc.

� 1/3 medium to fine material rich incarbon; straw, dry leaves, dry weeds,fodder residues etc.

� 1/3 fine material rich in nitrogen; dung,green leaves, kitchen waste etc.

Steps in compost making

1. Chop coarse material

2. Put at the bottom of the heap or pittwigs and other coarse material

3. Pile up alternate layers of carbon richand nitrogen rich material

4. Spread in every alternate layer somerock phosphate or wood ash

5. Sprinkle the layers of coarse materialwith cow dung slurry or biogas slurry

6. Add thin layers of soil

7. Cover the heap or pit with a 10 cm thicklayer of straw or leaves in the initialstage and with sacks or plastic sheetin the final stage

8. Keep the compost moist. If the compostgets to dry sprinkle water over it.

9. Thoroughly mix the compost heap orpit by turning it after 2-3 weeks andafter 1-2 months.


The compost heap or pit produces lots ofheat through the decomposition of organicmaterial and manure by microorganisms.This heat helps to kill weed seeds, pestsand diseases.

A vermi-compost is continuously fed withplant material and organic manure which isdecomposed by earthworms into excellentmanure.

Vermi-wash is a liquid fertiliser or planttopic. Water is sprinkled over the compostheap or pit and excess water collected in acontainer beneath.

Figure 6: The process of making compost

2.4.3. Biogas slurry

Organic biogas production combinesorganic agriculture with renewable energyproduction to reduce greenhouse gasemissions.

A biogas plant produces from biomassand manurea gas rich in methane which canbe used for cooking and lighting. Biogasslurry is a valuable by-product of the biogasproduction. Biogas slurryused as fertilisersupplies essential nutrients, enhanceswater holding capacity and soil aeration,accelerates root growth and inhibits weedseed germination.

There are three types of biogas slurry,see Table 4.

Table 4: Types of biogas manure (slurry)

The output from the biogas plant, the biogasslurry is caught and stored in a collectiontank to the time of application to the field,see Figure 7.

Figure 7: Collection tankattached to a biogas plant

Steps in biogas slurry collection

1. The slurry tank is best of concrete toretain moisture and prevent leachingof nutrients.


2. The slurry tank should be closed toavoid direct sunlight.

3. The slurrycan be directly applied to thefield by using a bucket or a pale.

4. The slurry can be mixed with runningirrigation water or directly sprinkled tothe field.

5. If there is no standing crop, the slurryshould be directly incorporated in thesoil to avoid losses.

6. If slurry is sprayed or applied to astanding crop it should be diluted withwater (1:1).

7. Semidried or dried slurry can be usedfor top-dressing, but time of applicationneeds to be considered carefully.

8. The slurry can be mixed with compost(1:4) and be used for vermi-composting.

soil preparation. Gypsum can be applied insulphur deficient soils, whereas lime is usedin very acidic soils to improve pH.

2.4.5. BiofertilisersBiofertilisers contain beneficial micro-organisms that increase nutrient availabilityin the soil. However, organically managedsoils already contain most beneficial micro-organisms. Especially during the conversiontime from conventional to organic farmingbiofertilisers may help to revive the soil.

Biofertilisers include:

� Rhizobium bacteria, which allowleguminous crops to fix nitrogen.

� Azotobacter and Azospirillum bacteria,which fix nitrogen in the soil.

� Phosphorus Solubilising Bacteria(PSB), which help to make phosphorusbetter available in the soil.

� Mycorrhiza fungi, which associate withthe roots of many plants and help takeup water and nutrients.

2.4.4. Natural mineral fertilisers

A limited use of natural mineralfertilisers is allowed in organic farming.

Rock phosphate (15 - 30% P2O

5) and

wood ash can be added to the compostrather than directly to the soil for bestabsorption. Muriate of potash (ca. 60%K

2O), a natural salt, should only be applied

if there is deficiency of potassium in the soil(make a soil test). For zinc deficiency, zincsulphate (25kg/ha) can be applied during

2.5. Intercultural operations2.5.1. Weeding

Mainly weeding and harrowing areperformed as intercultural operations. Thesetwo operations happen simultaneously inthe field and are done at 20 - 25 days aftertransplanting, at 40-45 days after


transplanting and can be repeated a thirdtime if there is heavy weed infestation.However, weeds are also controlled throughproper land preparation and irrigationmanagement.

If available, apply 2 - 3 quintals vermi-compost per bigha after the firstweeding.

System of Rice Intensification

Use rotary hoe (cono-weeder) forweeding instead of manual weeding.

2.5.2. Clipping

Clipping is cutting the leaves from topto reduce the height of the rice plant.

First clipping is done at nursery stagebefore transplanting if the plant height is

getting more than 1 feet. Especially whentransplanting is late due to delayed rainsclipping is required. Clipping also helps toremove the eggs of stem borer anddiseased parts of leaves.

Second clipping is done when plantsreach a height of more than 3 - 3.5 feet. Byclipping the height is reduced to 2 -2.5 feet.Precautions need to be taken that theemerging tillers are not damaged and onlyleaves are cut. Clipping at this stage alsohelps to reduce stem borer and to preventlodging of the basmati crop at a later stage.

2.6. Pest & disease managementA healthy crop is key to avoid pests

and diseases. All activities presented belowin Figure 8 contribute substantially to keepthe basmati crop healthy.

Figure 8: Keeping your basmati healthy


2.6.1. Prevention and controlCrop rotation, intercropping and the

cultivation of trap crops helps to establish ahealthy eco-system and to avoid pests tobecome a nuisance. However, once pestpopulations or disease occurrence exceedsa healthy balance direct control measuresbecome necessary.

For pests this can be physical removalof the pest by solarisation or flooding, orbiological control by pathogens, naturalenemies or predators. Moreover,biopesticides also help to control pestpopulations.

For soil-borne diseases soilmanagement, such as deep ploughing,rouging and weeding helps to preventdiseases. For seed-borne diseases the useof resistant varieties or seed treatment by

bioagents is recommended. Moreover, foliarspraying of biopreparations or naturalextracts reduces the spread of diseases.

2.6.2. Important pests

The following five insects are importantpests in basmati production: stem borer,brown plant hopper, rice leaf folder,ricegundhi bug and rice hispa. Preventionand control measures for each of thesepests are presented in Table 5.

2.6.3. Important diseasesThe following five diseases are

important in organic basmati farming: neckblast, bacterial blight, sheath blight, rice leafblast and narrow brown spot, see Table 6.Crop rotation, field sanitation and the useof resistant, clean and healthy seeds helpsin disease prevention.

Table 5: Important pests and their prevention and control

Table 6: Important diseases


2.6.4. Biopesticides

Figure 9 presents the making of naturalbiopesticides which helps to control all fivebasmati pests; stem borer, brown planthopper, rice leaf folder, rice gundhi bug andrice hispa. Spraying of neem oil also helpsin preventing the first three pests; stemborer, brown plant hopper and rice leaffolder.

Spraying biopesticides and neem oilis best performed at 15 day intervals startingfrom tillering to flowering of basmati.Normally 1 - 1.5 tanks (=15 litres) of naturalbiopesticide suffice for the control of onebigha basmati.

Figure 9: How to make natural biopesticides

Figure 10: How to make biopreparation

2.6.5. Biopreparations

Biopreprations, as described in Figure10, help to control pests (stem borer, brownplant hopper, rice gundhi bug and ricehispa), diseases (rice neck blast, bacterialblight, sheath blight and rice leaf blast) aswell as Khaira – yellowing due to zincdeficiency. Biopreparatonis sprayed at timeof pest and disease occurrence, normally 1- 1.5 tanks per bigha.

2.7. Harvest and post-harvestHarvesting: As soon as grains are mature,but when stalks are still green - usually bymid to end of October - the basmati cropshould be harvested to avoid shattering andsun cracks. To test if the grains are matureone can use the Moisture Meter.Traditionally, farmers bite the grain betweenthe front teeth. If the grain is cut or chewedit is still not mature, whereas if it breaks withsound then it is considered ready for harvest.

Key points of harvesting

� Remove before the harvest off typesand plants to avoid mixing andcontamination.

� If plants have turned golden yellowharvesting can usually be done.

� Don’t wait for full maturity as it mayshatter the grains.

� Clean the harvesting tools and placesproperly to avoid mixing andcontamination.

Drying: Immediately after harvest the cropis spread in the field for drying, around 2 to3 days. This step is done to bring down themoisture content to 14%. Here again, the


moisture content is detected by a MoistureMeter or by the biting method. It is alsoimportant to protect the harvest from rainsor direct contact with moisture.

Threshing: The harvest is collected andthreshing can start. Threshing needs to be

done on a clean sheet or floor and is usuallyperformed by beating action. After threshingthe grain is winnowed, cleaned and graded.After threshing the crop may again be driedbefore being packed.

Storage: Basmati is stored in clean gunnybags.Use either new gunny bags or bagssupplied by the project. The bags are storedseparately in a dry cool area. At the bottomof stacks wooden planks protect the gunnybags from moisture. Moreover, never forgetto put tags on the bags for identification.

Once the project announces the date ofaggregation and procurement, the bags arebrought to the central collection centre. Payattention to check the weighing balance andcorrect calibration.


3. System of Rice Intensification (SRI)

Figure 11: The principles of System of Rice Intensification SRI (WWF-ICRISAT, 2010)

The System of Rice Intensification,known as SRI, is based on the principlegrowing more with less. SRI involves a setof farming practices which help to increaseproductivity and at the same time reduceinputs of seeds, water and labour.

1. Seedlings are transplanted at a muchyounger age -between 8 and 15 daysold - to enhance their potential for tilleringand rooting.

2. Single seedlings - instead of a handful– are planted very carefully and gently.

3. Plants are spaced wider apart, andin a square pattern-at least 20x20 cm

and in some cases even 50x50 cm.

4. Alternate wetting and drying methodis used instead of continuous floodirrigation.

5. Rotary weedingwith a cono-weeder isused to control weeds and promote soilaeration.

6. Increased use of organic fertilisers toenhance soil fertility.

If well done, SRI increases yields,improves rice quality, reduces the use ofwater for irrigation, reduces labour forweeding, and reduces production costs.


Diversifying farming systems by croprotation and intercropping is key in organicfarming. Crop rotation promotes biodiversity,improves soil fertility and contributes to ahealthy crop.

For planning crop rotation it dependswhich crops a farmer wishes to grow. Table7 suggests three crop rotations suited to thelocal conditions and farming practices withsoy bean, basmati, wheat and pulses/vegetables being the most important crops.The main principle of crop rotation is torotate between cereals (basmati, wheatetc.) and pulses. Pulse crops fix nitrogen tothe soil which benefits the following crop.Rotating crops also prevents the build-upof pests, diseases and weeds,and itmaintains balanced nutrient contents in thesoil.

Basmati is always grown in Kharifseason (June - October). In Rabi season(November - March), it is ideal to grow apulse with the ability to fix nitrogen. This

4. Diversifying farming systems

could be chickpea, lentil or green pea.Vegetables like chili, onion and potato arealso Rabi crops (basmati/pulse+vegetablerotation).

Table 7: Examples of three locally suited possible crop rotations over three years

Soybean can be grown with basmatiin a three years crop rotation with wheat inRabi season (basmati / wheat / pulse +vegetable rotation). As basmati and wheatare from the cereal family, it is of upmostimportant to include sufficient pulses orvegetables in crop rotation to support ahealthy soil.


4.1. Organic soybean farmingSoybean is the second main cash crop

for organic basmati farmers in India.Soybean is not only relevant for householdfood security but can also be sold asorganic. Soybean is a leguminous crop thatfixes nitrogen from the air, thus contributessubstantially to improve soil fertility.Soybean is like basmati a Kharif seasoncrop, grown from end of June to mid-October. Soybean can also be intercroppedin basmati (see 2.1.5 Intercropping).

4.1.1. Varieties and seeds

In the market bold seeded soybeanswith yellow headare demanded, thus PK-1042, VL Soya 47, VL Bhatt 65 are suitablevarieties.

Use only seeds supplied by the buyeror from own seed production!

Before sowing, the soybean seedisinoculated with beneficial microorganisms.For 5 kg soybean seed use 125g Rhizobium,125g PSB and 50g Trichoderma, mix all in0.5 litre water and add 50g jaggery (rawcane sugar). The seeds are dried in shadefor 1-1.5 hours before they are ready forsowing.

4.1.2. Land preparation

The field is ploughed in dry conditionat mid to end of June. Sufficient compostneeds to be applied, ideally 10 - 20 quintalsper bigha. The field is levelled and properfield boundaries are made if the field issurrounded by conventional fields.

4.1.3. Sowing

5kg soybean seeds are sown perbigha. Soybean is sown in 10cm distancein rows of 45cm distance and 3 – 4cm deepinto the soil.

4.1.4. Irrigation

The soil needs to be kept moist duringplant growth and irrigation is needed at thecritical stages of the crop or if long droughtoccurs. In order to avoid water logging,drainage needs to be ensured during heavyrains.

4.1.5. Weed management

Three weeks after sowing a firstmanual weeding is required and repeated2-3 times in three weeks intervals.

4.1.6. Pests and diseases

Major pests in soybean farming arewhite grub, bihar hairy caterpillar, pod borerand aphids.Major diseases are yellowmosaic, anthracnose, bacterial blight, rootrot and mildew disease.

To control pests and diseasesbiopesticides and biopreparations can beused (see Figure 9 and 10, page 19)whereas light traps help in controlling biharhairy caterpillar.

4.1.7. Harvesting and post-harvest

As soon as pods become brown andleaves yellow (usually by mid-October)soybean is harvested. The pods are driedunder shade on a clean concrete floor orplastic sheet.

The soybean harvest is put in cleangunny bags provided by the buyer or in newpolybags. It is advisable to keep driedwalnut leaves in the bag to protect thesoybean from pests.

If vermi-compost is available, 2-3quintals per bigha are applied in thestanding crop after first weeding.


4.2. Organic wheat farmingWheat is another important crop,

grown in Rabi season. For wheat cultivationthe soil needs to be well drained and its pHvalue is best between 6.5 and 7.8. Thereare two strategies in wheat cultivation,timely sowing in early November or latesowing in early December.

4.2.1. Varieties and seeds

Recommended wheat varieties fortimely sowing in November are VL-719, VL-738, HD-2380 and UP 2584, whereas HS295 and HS 420 are better suited for latesowing in December.

4.2.2. Land preparation

Immediately after harvesting the Kharifcrop, in early November, land preparationfor wheat cultivation starts. Best is to mix6.5 – 13 quintals compost (dry) (or13 - 26.5quintals fresh compost), 33kg neem cake,33kg rock phosphate and 0.3kg PSB andapply to one bigha.

4.2.3. SowingFor timely sowing in November it is

recommended to sow 6.5kg wheat seed perbigha (100kg per hectare). For late sowingin December more seed is needed,preferably 8 kg per bigha (125kg perhectare). The seed is sown 5 - 7.5cm deepand in rows of 22.5 cm distance.

Before sowing, seeds can be treatedwith Trichoderma, Pseudomonas,Azotobacter and PSB at a rate of 5g per1kg seed.

Mustard and chickpea can be grownalong with wheat. For mustard 33g seedsper bighacan be mixed and sown togetherwith wheat.

4.2.4. Irrigation

Normally wheat requires 4to5irrigations in 20 day intervals starting at 20-

25 days after sowing.If there is limitedavailability of water, 3 irrigations in intervalsof 40-45 days suffice.

4.2.5. Weed managementFirst weeding is done at 20 days after

sowing, a second weeding at 40 days aftersowing, either manually or by weedingmachinery.

If vermi-compost is available, 2-3quintals per bigha are applied in thestanding crop after first weeding.

4.2.6. Pests and diseases

For stem borer control pheromonetraps can be used, 1 pheromone trap perhectare at 45 days after sowing.Moreover,spraying a solution of 1 litre cow urine and1 litre neem oil mixed in 20 litres water alsohelps in pest control. To controlarmyworm(“sainikkeet”)use 50g Bacillusthuringiensis per bigha (750g per hectare)and apply when eggs start hatching.

For rust disease, spray 5 litres sourbutter milk diluted in 200 litreswater as soonas the disease is observed. For smutdisease, the infected plant (ears) need tobe covered with a paper bag before theentire plan is removed and burned. Tocontrol smut disease a solution of 5 litresmilk and 1 kg mustard power in 100 litreswater also helps, if sprayed when earsemerge.

4.2.7. Harvesting and post-harvest

Wheat is harvested when stalk andleaves become yellow and the plant is dried.Wheat is dried in the sun on clean plasticsheets before it is threshed manually or bya properly cleaned threshing machine. Thewheat is stored in clean gunny bags in adry and clean place.


5.1. Improving farmer’s incomeFarmer’s income from a crop depends

on the yield, the market price and the costsof production. In simple words, the netincome is the money received (yield x price)minus the money spent (production costs),see Figure 12.

There are 3 ways a farmer canincrease his or her income:

� By increasing crop yields throughimproved crop management.

5. Farm Economy

� By reducing costs of production,especially for external inputs.

� Or by getting a better price for theproductby enhancing its value, throughbetter market access, organicpremium and Fairtrade minimum price.Moreover, reducing the risk of

production, especially of crop failure helpsto sustain the income. The risk can bereduced by diversification of crops andincome, but also by reducing external inputsand thus production costs, see Figure 13.

Figure 12: Net income equation

Figure 13: Improving the long-term profitability of the farm (adapted from FiBL, 2011)


5.2. Record keepingProper record keeping helps to

calculatethe income and to improveprofitability. Farmers need to record for eachcrop the quantity of product sold, the priceobtained and the total money received, seeAnnex 9.2 Record keeping.

All expenditures made for externalinputs also need to be recorded properly,including the type of input, the amount andthe price. Every time a farmer buys aproduct on the market he or she must recordthe amount of money spend. The sum of allbought inputs gives the total money spent.Moreover, the costs for hired labour needalso to be included in the expenditures.

With these data from record keepingit is easy to calculate roughly farmer’s

income, see 5.1. Income equation. For moredetailed calculations, depreciation ofinvestments and farm own labour need tobe included.

5.3. Profitability of organic basmatiBasmati being a traditional fragrant

rice variety has lower yields than hybridpaddy but fetches a higher price in themarket. In a survey, organic basmaticultivation was in combination with a 20%organic premium and 50-70% lower inputscosts,50-130% more profitable for farmerscompared to conventional hybrid paddycultivation (based on surveys among 80organic and 80 conventional farms in 16villages), see Figure 14.

Figure 14: Economic performance of organic basmati andconventional paddy production in 2012 and 2013


This shows that organic basmatiproduction is not only less damaging to theecosystem but also economically viable.Comparing to other crops only tomatoproduction shows higher profitability thanorganic basmati production, see Figure 15.However, the investments needed and therisks involved in production and sales oftomato are much higher.

Figure 15: Profitability of crops in 2013


6.1. OrganicOrganic certification ensures that the

product is truly produced in compliance withorganic standards. Organic standards donot define a quality status, but the way howa product is produced. Moreover, theorganic standards define minimum criteriato be fulfilled, but not necessarily bestpractises.

Organic certification gives theproducers the opportunity to sell theirproduct at a higher price – the organicpremium price, see Figure 17.

The International Federation ofOrganic Agriculture Movements (IFOAM) isthe umbrella organisation for organicproduction, but most countries and privateorganisations developed own organicstandards. For India the standards aredefined under the National Program of OrganicProduction (http://www.apeda.gov.in).However, the organic standards of the targetcountry matter. The regulations in the mostimportant markets are the EU-Regulationsand the US-NOP Regulations. In the caseof basmati exported to Switzerland the BIOSUISSE standards define the basicrequirements to be fulfilled.

6. Certification

6.2. Internal Control SystemProducer organisations can be

certified based on an Internal ControlSystem (ICS). Each farmer signs a contractwith the organisation to declare his or hercommitment to follow specific standards.The organisation advises farmers on thespecific production practices and helpsthem in record-keeping, which is central forinspection and certification.

The organisation sets up an ICS andinspects the farm during crucial momentsin the production cycle. The ICS, specificallythe internal certification committee, alsodecides about sanctions against defaultingfarmers.

At least once a year, an externalcertifier inspects the functioning of the ICSand re-inspects a certain percentage of thefarms at random for controlling purposes. Ifthe external certifier finds defaulting farmersthe whole organisation risks to lose itscertification.

Therefore, an ICS can only functionby trust and cooperation among the involvedfarmers and between the farmers and theorganisation.

6.3. FairtradeFair trade is an alternative approach

to conventional trade based on apartnership between producers and traders,businesses and consumers. FairtradeInternational (FLO) defines the followingbasic principles of fair trade:

1. Social development: All members ofa producer organisation need to haveaccess to democratic decision-makingprocesses and as far as possibleparticipate in the activities of theorganisation. The organisation needs


Figure 16: Internal Control Systems and the external certifier (Source: Elzakker & Eyhorn, 2010)

Figure 17: The Fairtrade organic price (Source: Elzakker & Eyhorn, 2010)

to be set up in a transparent way andmust not discriminate any particularmember or social group.

2. Economic development: Buyers paya Fairtrade minimum price and aFairtrade premium to the producers.The producer organisation decides onthe use of the Fairtrade premium forcommunity development.

3. Environmental development:Fairtrade also includes requirementsfor environmentally sound agriculturalpractices. The focus areas are:minimised and safe use ofagrochemicals, proper and safemanagement of waste, maintenanceof soil fertility and water resources and

no use of genetically modifiedorganisms. Fairtrade standardshowever do not require organiccertification.

4. Forced labour and child labour:Both are prohibited in the Fairtradestandards.

The Fairtrade standards for smallproducer organisations and Fairtrade canbe found on the FLO website.

Figure 17 presents the pricingaccording to organic and Fairtradecertification. Inspection and certification byan independent third-party ensures thatproducts labelled organic and Fairtradereally fulfil the requirements of thestandards.


Women play an important role inorganic farming in India. Women arepredominantly involved in the care of animalsand the management of manure. Moreover,theyplay key roles in many activities aroundbasmati production, such as sowing,transplanting, weeding and harvesting. Menare usually responsible for land preparation,intercultural operations and application oforganic fertilisers and pesticides.Unfortunately, they still take most decisionswith regards to farming.

7. Role of Women

Organisations working in organicfarming should ensure inclusiveness ofwomen and men and encourage women toparticipate in training activities, meetingsand decision making. Extension servicesneed to pay attention to gender aspects andalso reach out to women farmers. Femalestaff in the team, and female farmerrepresentatives may help to achieve theseaims.


This Organic Basmati Crop Guide bases strongly on following very usefulreferences:

� Africare, Oxfam America, WWF-ICRISAT Project, 2010: More Rice forPeople, More Water for the Planet.WWF-ICRISAT Project, Hyderabad,India.

� Bo van Elzakker, Frank Eyhorn, 2010: The Organic Business Guide.Developing sustainable value chains with smallholders. 1st edition.IFOAM.

� CCAFS, 2014: Info Note, Alternate wetting and drying in irrigated rice,Implementation guidance for policymakers and investors, by MerylRichards, B. Ole Sander, April 2014

� Chandra K, 2005: OrganicManures, Regional Centre of OrganicFarming, India

� Farming matters, 2013: SRI much mor than more rice, small-scaleagriculture for a sustainable society 03/2013 -29.1

� D. K. Singh and K. P. Raverkar (2009): JaivikFasalotpadanTakneeki(Organic Production Technology) (Edited). GB Pant University ofAgriculture and Technology

� FiBL, 2011: African Organic Agriculture Training Manual, Module 9: CropManagement, Chapter Rice

� Frank Eyhorn, Sari G. Ratter, Mahesh Ramakrishnan, 2005: OrganicCotton Crop Guide. 1st edition. Research Institute of Organic AgricultureFiBL, Switzerland.

� Worldbank, SRI Achieving More with Less, A new way of rice cultivation,Multimedia Toolkit

Useful links:� International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements (IFOAM)

http://www.ifoam.org/

� BIO SUISSE http://www.bio-suisse.ch/

� Fairtrade International (FLO) http://www.fairtrade.net/

� SustainabilityXchange - your community in sustainable tradehttp://www.sustainabilityxchange.info/

8. References


9. Annex

9.1. Work Calendar


9.2. Record Keeping

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