Scientist suggests farmers to prepare early for Rabi crops

Saying that there is very little chance to retrieve the kharif paddy after the destruction of fields by cyclone and floods, an agricultural scientist has suggested early preparation for Rabi crops.
All varieties of pulses and oil crops like groundnut and mustard with vegetables like potato could be grown in cyclone and flood affected areas from early November after water drains out, Director of Central Rice Research Institute Dr T Mohapatra said.
Five teams of scientists from the institute will extensively tour affected areas to study the exact nature of damage and suggest requirements after assessing the situation locally, Mohapatra said.

He said each team would consist of a plant breeder, a plant physiologist and a member of the crop production unit of the institute.
"The teams visiting the cyclone affected areas would submit their findings within seven days with reports from those in flood affected areas are expected within a fortnight," Mohapatra said.
When asked whether there was any chance to revive the paddy crop, Mohapatra appeared uncertain.

He said there is less chance to retrieve long-duration varieties as the crops might have not reached the flowering stage.
"But there are certain long duration varieties (more than 150 days) which have kneeling abilities and despite being lodged on the ground, can take a turn and grow upward," Mohapatra said.

"In mid-maturity varieties (120 to 125 days) where the physiological maturity has taken place, the crop can be harvested and stored after putting it in five per cent sodium chloride, so that there will be no germination, no discolouration or fungus," Mohapatra added.