Traditional Farming and Indigenous rice varieties

• Context (DTE): Cauvery Delta farmers revert to traditional farming of Indigenous rice varieties amidst rising challenges of growing conventional crops.

Traditional farming

• Centuries-old agricultural methods, usually practised with minimal use of modern technology or inputs. Relies on the use of local seeds and breeds, manual labour, Indigenous knowledge, etc.
• Also focuses on natural resource utilisation and maintaining ecological balance.

Traditional Farming v/s Conventional Farming

Traditional farming	Conventional Farming
Uses natural inputs like organic fertilisers, crop rotation, and local varieties.	Relies on external inputs such as chemical fertilisers, pesticides & high-yielding crop varieties.
Typically more sustainable and ecologically balanced.	Often leads to environmental degradation due to excessive use of chemicals.
Small-scale, often practised by family farmers.	Often in large-scale industrial agriculture.
Have deep cultural and social significance.	Focuses on economic efficiency and production.
More resilient to economic shocks & can provide long-term benefits to farmers and communities.	More profitable in the short term.
It can help maintain soil fertility, conserve water, and preserve biodiversity.	It can lead to soil erosion, water pollution, loss of biodiversity, and greenhouse gas emissions.
Less productive than conventional methods.	Increased productivity and efficiency.
Vulnerable to environmental challenges.	Technologically advanced and have better crop and pest-resistant capabilities.

Indigenous rice varieties

• Traditional rice varieties that have evolved in a particular geographic region over centuries, adapting to local climate, soil, and farming practices.
• It can be distinguished by its physical characteristics, such as grain shape, colour, and flavour, as well as its ecological adaptability and resistance to pests and diseases.
• Examples of Indigenous rice varieties: Mappillai Samba, Karrupu Kavuni, Thooya Malli, Thanga Samba, Kichadi Samba, Kala Jeevan, Kullakaar, Thooyamalli, Karunkuruvai.

Advantages

• Lesser water and fertilisers are needed, unlike modern varieties, which are very water intensive.
• Ecological adaptation to the climatic and natural challenges of the region.
• Preserve genetic diversity, which is important for the long-term resilience of agriculture.
• Ensures a robust gene pool for future plant breeding.
• Often have higher nutrient levels, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Challenges

• Low yield initially compared to other varieties.
• Susceptible to diseases.
• Lack from the government and other organisations.
• Market challenges arise as crops may not be in high demand.
• Vulnerable to climate changes.
• Continued cultivation leads to reduced genetic diversity.