System of Rice Intensification (SRI) under ECRICC

The System of Rice Intensification (SRI) is a globally recognized climate-smart agricultural practice that enhances rice productivity while minimizing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and improving resource efficiency. Under the Enhancing Climate Resilience of India’s Coastal Communities (ECRICC) project, SRI is being implemented in Odisha to strengthen the resilience of rice farmers against climate change. The initiative covers 949 villages across four coastal districts , focusing on sustainable farming techniques to improve livelihoods and food security.

Why SRI?

The key objectives of promoting SRI under the ECRICC project include enhancing rice productivity, strengthening climate resilience, reducing GHG emissions, and ensuring efficient resource management. SRI has demonstrated a 20-50% increase in rice yield, offering better food security to vulnerable farming communities. The technique also enhances drought and flood resilience through deeper root growth and reduced water dependency. With 25-50% less water consumption, SRI significantly improves water-use efficiency while promoting soil health through organic practices.

Project Coverage

SRI was first piloted under the ECRICC project with 30 farmers in Dalibati village, Khalikote Block (Chilika-Ganjam landscapes) during the Rabi season of 2022-23. Following its success, the initiative expanded to 13 blocks in Kharif 2023 and Rabi 2024-25. Currently, the project has scaled up to 18 blocks, covering 481 farmers across seven project landscapes in four districts. Additionally, over 4,000 farmers have adopted SRI practices during Rabi 2024-25, and the project aims to scale up further, targeting 38,000 farmers by June 2027 across the project landscapes.