Upgrading local rice yields

Description

Upgrading local rice yields involves implementing improved cultivation techniques, high-yield seed varieties, efficient water management, and integrated pest control to boost productivity on existing farmland. This strategy directly addresses food insecurity, low farmer incomes, and resource inefficiency by increasing output per hectare. Practical actions include farmer training, access to quality inputs, and dissemination of best practices, thereby enhancing food supply, supporting rural livelihoods, and reducing pressure to convert additional land for agriculture.

Implementation

With assistance from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) that has resulted in improved crop yields, Asian rice farmers have saved US$ 12 million on pesticides and governments over US$ 150 million a year in pesticide subsidies.