Small-scale Rice Research Articles

Methane Emission in a Small-Scale Rice Field under Two Different Water Management Strategies – An Insight for Landscape Level Adjustments

Methane Emission in a Small-Scale Rice Field under Two Different Water Management Strategies – An Insight for Landscape Level Adjustments

Farm Mechanization Innovation Capacity and Rice Productivity: Evidence from Small Scale Rice Farmers in Kwara State, Nigeria

Rice is a staple diet eaten by more than fifty percent of households in the whole world. There is a deficit currently in the demand- supply production of rice when carefully observed and this is traceable to the use of crude implements and traditional methods of farming. It is to this effect that this study addresses farm mechanization innovation and rice productivity using small scale rice farmers in Kwara State, Nigeria. A total of 261 rice farmers were used for this study out of which only 78 rice farmers adopted the farm mechanization innovation while 183 rice farmers did not. The focus group discussion (FGD) employed revealed that majority of the rice farmers do not have capacity for farm mechanization, hence the low adoption of the innovation. The FGD revealed that 65.90percent of the rice farmers had medium innovation capacity, 28.74percent had low innovation capacity and 5.36percent had high innovation capacity. Employing the Propensity Score Matching (PSM) method to evaluate the impact of farm mechanization on the productivity of rice farming households in Kwara State, Nigeria; the rice farmers that adopted the use of farm mechanization have a higher productivity of 12.68 kg/m2 as against the rice farmers who do not adopt the use of farm mechanization in their farming activities with their own productivity standing at 6.31kg/m2 . This outcome implies that farm mechanization has a positive impact on the productivity of the farmers. It is therefore recommended that quality extension services be put in place in the study area on the benefits of adopting farm mechanization. Also, the government should provide machineries for lease to the rice farmers so as to boost their productivity.

Process capacity improvement by equipment and operations control ratios in de-husking lines of small-scale rice processing factories

Process capacity improvement by equipment and operations control ratios in de-husking lines of small-scale rice processing factories

PREDICTING RICE SELF-SUFFICIENCY IN SIERRA LEONE USING ARIMA MODEL

Rice is the staple food in Sierra Leone, with the annual consumption increasing faster than the yearly production. As a result, the county is yet to be self-sufficient in rice production, resulting in a very high annual import bill. This paper aims to predict Sierra Leone's self-sufficiency in rice until 2030. The time series modeling approach (Box Jenkins' ARIMA model) was used to forecast rice production, consumption, and finally, rice self-sufficiency in Sierra Leone. The predicted results of the study showed that the self-sufficiency rate of rice will fluctuate between 63% and 65% in the forecasted period of 2021 and 2024 and will then remain stable (constant) at 63% until 2030. Therefore, as shown from the study results, Sierra Leone will continue to import about 37% of rice annually at the current production scenario until 2030. This study's findings showcased that although the country has formulated some viable policies to boost rice production, more effort is needed to ensure self-sufficiency. However, any policy to increase rice production should strive to improve small-scale rice producers in line with their agronomic practices.

Prospects of Small-Scale Rice Processing Enterprise among Beneficiaries of Microfinance Loan in Nigeria’s Jigawa State

The present study empirically determined the prospects of the rice value chain of paddy processors in Jigawa State of Nigeria. Despite the role of small-scale paddy rice processors as the main engine of growth of upstream rice value chain, and the growth and development of the rural economy in the study area, literature is undaunted with paucity of empirical information on the prospects of rice processing value chain in the study area. The study utilised cross-sectional data elicited through a well-structured questionnaire from a total of 200 processors (133 parboilers and 67 millers) selected through a multi-stage sampling technique. An easy cost-route approach was used for data collection during the 2022 processing period and the collected data were analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. Based on the empirical evidence, it is established that the rice processing potential has not been fully exploited in the study areas. In addition, it is evident that the rice processing enterprise is not only viable and profitable; it features good prospects in the supply value chain of rice in the study areas. However, to maintain the prospects in the supply value chain, the target actors must adopt a defensive mechanism, as inferred by the SPACE matrix.

Does Information Technology Matter in Adopting Covid-19 Preventive Measures? Evidence from Small-Scale Rice Farmers in Morogoro, Tanzania

Does Information Technology Matter in Adopting Covid-19 Preventive Measures? Evidence from Small-Scale Rice Farmers in Morogoro, Tanzania

Multiplex-genome-editing based rapid directional improvement of complex traits in rice.

Although thousands of genes have been identified or cloned in rice (Oryza sativa) in the last two decades, the majority of them have only been separately characterized in specific varieties or single-gene modified backgrounds, thus limiting their practical application. We developed an optimized multiplex genome editing (MGE) toolbox that can efficiently assemble and stably express up to twelve sgRNA targets in a single plant expression vector. In this study, we established the MGE-based Rapid Directional Improvement (MRDI) strategy for directional improvement of complex agronomic traits in one small-scale rice transformation. This approach provides a rapid and practical procedure, encompassing sgRNA assembly, transgene-free screening and the creation of promising germplasm, by combining the precision of gene editing with phenotype-based field breeding. The MRDI strategy was used to generate the full diversity of twelve main agronomic genes in rice cultivar FXZ for the directional improvement of its growth duration and plant architecture. After applying the MRDI to FXZ, ideal plants with the desired traits of early heading date reduced plant height, and more effective panicles were generated without compromising yield, blast resistance and grain quality. Furthermore, the results of whole-genome sequencing (WGS), including the analysis of structural variations (SVs) and single nucleotide variations (SNVs) in the MGE plants, confirmed the high specificity and low frequency of unwanted mutations associated with this strategy. The MRDI breeding strategy would be a robust approach for exploring and applying crucial agronomic genes, as well as for generating novel elite germplasm in the future.

ANALISIS KINERJA PENGGILINGAN PADI PADA BERBAGAI SKALA USAHA STUDI KASUS DI KECAMATAN BUAY MADANG TIMUR KABUPATEN OKU TIMUR PROVINSI SUMATERA SELATAN

This research aims to analyze the process of procuring raw materials and the performance of rice mills at different business scales in East Buay Madang District. This research used a case study method on rice mills with different business scales in East Buay Madang District, East OKU Regency, South Sumatra. The rice mill owner was the respondent in this research. Data collection was carried out from March to April 2021. The data analysis method used was descriptive qualitative and quantitative analysis. The results showed that the procurement of raw materials for rice mills at different business scales was not appropriate because there were several components that are not optimal. The performance of rice mills in East Buay Madang District is not yet optimum, because one the four production performance indicators, which is indicator of capacity at small scale rice mills, still needs to be enhanced to be more optimum. .Key words: business scale, performance, procurement, rice mill

Design, Fabrication and Analysis of Battery Operated Brush Cutter

Crop harvesting involves either removing the plants after they have been torn out or cutting the crops close to the earth. It entails cutting coral crop stems, such as tuar, Jawar, Bajra, and maize, close to the ground. In our nation, a sharp sickle is typically used to cut things. Mainly, small-scale rice farmers are using conventional methods or, we could say, traditional methods in farming. The reaping process of the rice crop is very time-consuming as well as it requires more human effort. The labour required for farming is also more compared to other crops. So, the development of mechanical operated reaper is come but the reapers are costly for the use for the farmers those farms are small in size. They cannot afford harvesters and other expensive machinery. So, we have developed a small and low-cost solar assisted rice reaper machine which runs on electricity by use of batteries.

Enhancing Paddy Rice Preservation in Small-Scale Barns: Comparative Analysis of Hot Air-Drying Techniques and Ventilation Impact on Quality and Energy Efficiency.

This investigation explores the effectiveness of hot air-drying and ambient ventilation techniques in enhancing the storage quality of Khao Dok Mali 105 paddy rice within small-scale barns in Northeast Thailand. Through comprehensive analysis of moisture and temperature dynamics, the research revealed that an optimized main air pipe system significantly reduces moisture content from 25% db to a desirable 16% db, outperforming alternative systems. Spatial assessments within the barn highlighted the importance of placement, showing that front sections achieved lower moisture levels. This underscores the need for uniform moisture distribution and temperature management to prevent quality degradation. Notably, after 84 h of drying, variations in moisture content across different barn locations emphasized the critical role of environmental control. These insights pave the way for advancing grain storage practices, focusing on strategic ventilation and environmental monitoring to ensure rice quality over time. This study not only challenges traditional methods but also offers significant practical implications for optimizing small-scale rice storage, providing a pathway towards sustainable post-harvest processing in resource-constrained environments.

Constraints militating against the use of adaptation strategies to climate change effects by small-scale rice farmers in Northeastern, Nigeria

This study ascertained the constraints militating against the use of adaptation strategies to climate change effects amongst rice farmers in Northeastern Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 300 rice farmers. The analytical tools used to analyze the data obtained were descriptive and inferential statistics. The result shows the used and unused adaptation strategies for drought resistant rice variety were 33.0% and 67.0%, heat resistant rice variety were 30.7% and 69.3%, short rice cycle seeds were 2.3% and 97.7%, early maturing rice variety were 32.7% and 67.3%, early planting were 32.0% and 68.0%, late planting were 33.0% and 67.0%, early harvesting were 32.7% and 67.3%, late harvesting were 31.7% and 68.3. The result on constraints militating against the use of adaptation strategies shows that the constraints with higher loading factors were low level of income (λ=0.799), low literacy level (λ=0.727), inadequate knowledge on how to cope with climate change related issues (λ=0.761), poor response to climate related issues (λ=0.782), poor financial support from NGOs (0.648), inadequate agricultural loans (0.655) and high administrative charges on loan (λ=0.555). Other constraints included inadequate extension workers (λ=0.583), inadequate extension contacts (λ=0.550), long bureaucracy in getting formal credit (λ=0.588), lack of reliable sources of information on climate change (λ=0.708), loans not readily available during farming season (λ=0.752), and inadequate financial support from government (0.428). Based on the findings of the study, it is concluded that low users of adaptation strategies were evident in the zone. Therefore, it is recommended that the government should encourage the use of adaptation strategies in the zone.

Exploring the Impact of Modern Rice Farming Technologies on Small-Scale Rice Farmers in Tanauan, Leyte, Philippines

The use of modern rice farming technologies in modern agriculture plays a big role in developing countries like the Philippines in terms of food security and farmers’ earnings. Hence, it has undoubtedly brought advantages to rice farmers. However, it also brought disadvantages to them. This phenomenological research aimed to understand the lived experiences of small-scale rice farmers using modern rice farming technologies. Fifteen (15) farmers from Brgy. Sta. Elena, Tanauan, Leyte were purposively selected as the study participants. The data were collected using open-ended questions and semi-structured interviews and were analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s method of data analysis. Based on the findings, the results of modern rice farming technologies were categorized into positive and negative impacts. Moreover, farmers have also experienced problems with new technologies, which they find financially challenging because new farming technologies are costly and require high maintenance. Farmers also encountered the ineffectiveness of Agri-systems and programs, such as inadequate government backing and the insufficient implementation of farm-to-market options, which the farmers are looking into to attain sustainability. The researcher implicates the collaboration of Civil Organizations, the partnership between private sectors and Local Government Unit (LGU), a continuous training session covering topics involving new methods from the Department of Agriculture (DA), and the increase and sustainable supply of hybrid seed varieties, fertilizers, and pesticides in order for the small-scale rice farmers to have a sustainable livelihood.

Evaluating the role of credit facilities as drivers to small scale rice farmers’ productivity in Wukari local government area, Taraba state, Nigeria

The role played by credit for sustainable agricultural activities cannot be overemphasized. The study evaluated the role of credit facilities as drivers to small scale rice farmers’ productivity in Wukari Local Government Area Taraba State, Nigeria. A multi stage sampling procedure was used to sample 250 respondents from the study area. The study found that seed (p = 0.03), fertilizer (p = 0.01), and farm size (p = 0.01) were the key determinants of productivity for the rice farmers who had access to credit facilities while labour (p = 0.056) and seed (p = 0.01) were the determinants of productivity for the non-access to credit facilities counterparts. The finding show that years in school, farm size and age are the factors that influenced access to credit facilities. Finally, interest rate (92.8%), lack of collateral security (89.6%), lending criteria (72%) and government regulations (70.8%) are the major problem associated with access to credit facilities. It was therefore recommended that Public and private partnerships should be encouraged to develop innovative financial products and services tailored farmer’s activities with a goal of offering competitive interest rates. Continuous review and policies adaptation related to interest rates in agricultural lending to ensure they remain effective and responsive to changing economic conditions and the needs of farmers.

Comparative Profitability and Technical Efficiency of Small-Scale Rice Farmers with and without Access to Improved Production Technology in North Central Nigeria

This study evaluated comparative profitability and technical efficiency of small-scale rice farmers with and without access to improved production technology in North Central Nigeria. A multistage sampling technique was adopted for this study. The data were collected through a well-structured questionnaire of 1500 small-scale rice farmers with access to technology and 1500 small-scale rice farmers without access to technology making a total of 3000 rice farmers in the study area. The results showed that the average age of the sampled rice farmers with access to technology was 36 years, while those without - 46 years. The results showed that the rice production was profitable for both farmers with and without access to technology. The statistically significant factors influencing the rice production for small-scale farmers with access to technology were the land size (p<0.01), labour (p<0.01), fertilizer (p<0.01) and agrochemical (p<0.01), while the statistically significant factors influencing the rice production for small-scale farmers without access to technology were land size (p<0.01), labour (p<0.01) and agrochemical (p<0.10). The major challenges faced by the small-scale rice farmers with access to technology were the poor credit facilities, shortage of farm input, inadequate rainfall season, high cost of labour and instability in the planting calendar. The F-Chow test showed that there was significant impact on the technical efficiency, productivity and profitability of rice farmers with access to improved technology. Therefore, the study recommends that inputs such as improved seed varieties, fertilizers and chemical inputs should be provided to farmers. Keywords: profitability, technical efficiency, rice farmers, small-scale, with and without access to technology

Mapping current and future habitat suitability of Azolla spp., a biofertilizer for small-scale rice farming in Africa.

How do we feed the expanding human population without excessive resource depletion or environmental degradation? Recycling and recapturing nutrients could alleviate these challenges, especially if these strategies are robust to climate change. Co-cultivating rice with Azolla spp. in Asia has demonstrated high yields with reduced fertilizer inputs because Azolla fixes atmospheric nitrogen, limits nitrogen volatilization, recaptures and releases other nutrients, and suppresses weeds. While Azolla is distributed in Africa, this approach has not been widely implemented in African rice-farming. Characterizing the suitability of Azolla is critical in evaluating the potential for Azolla-rice in Africa. To do so, we synthesized 189 field and greenhouse studies from around the world that quantified temperature-dependent growth of A. pinnata and A. filiculoides and developed present and future climate suitability maps at the continental scale using mean temperatures under two Representative Concentration Pathways. Currently, most of Africa is suitable for Azolla with slight differences in regional suitability for each species. We project little change in the continent-wide suitability for both species, but anticipate a regional decline, particularly for A. filiculoides in the Sahel. Collaborating with farmers to validate these projections, evaluate the costs and benefits of Azolla-rice, and facilitate adoption of viable strategies can facilitate equitable food systems that also empower African farmers.

Pathways and Interactions for Integrating Mechanisation into Sustainable Agricultural Production: The Case of Rice Production in Asutsuare, Ghana

Environmentally sustainable small-scale rice production mechanisation is a feasible intervention to help enhance yields and reduce food insecurity. Using machinery for rice production can help small farmers economically and promote sustainability through agroecological principles. The study analyses machinery ownership models and suggests stakeholder interactions for sustainable rice production. The study uses primary data from a field survey of 320 farmers within Asutsuare, a rice production hub in Southern Ghana, and secondary data from various sources. Four different ownership models have been proposed and evaluated. The cooperative-owned machinery (COM) model, with a sharing of the initial investment capital outlay for the machinery acquisition, and the individual ownership model, where the farmer owns and offers hiring services to other farmers (the FOHM-2B and FOHM-2T models) were the most economically viable models. The study also identifies necessary stakeholder engagement and pathways for affordable, sustainable, mechanised small-scale rice production. The models and interactions can promote machinery ownership and strengthen social connections in the community. This local knowledge base can help expand the use of machinery within the community. These models and interactions can be replicated easily in Sub-Saharan African farming communities with similar dynamics. This will improve mechanised farming throughout the continent.

RICE FARMER'S USING MOBILE IN MARKETING OPERATIONS: AN ANALYTICAL STUDY IN THE SPECIFIC REGION OF BANGLADESH

Rice is a major staple crop in Bangladesh, and its production has a profound effect on the country's agricultural sector. Large distribution networks in Bangladesh may drive up rice prices. The scarcity of marketing information prevents farmers from making decisions when planning their output and sales. This study aimed to analyze the variables that influence mobile usage and the effects of mobile use in rice marketing. 100 farmers were selected by two steps sampling procedure from the rural area of Upazilla, Bangladesh. 100 farmers in all, mostly small-scale rice farmers with an average plot size of 1.88 acres, were approached using a concise interview format & questionnaires. The data was evaluated using a variety of statistical methods, including correlation and regression analysis using a binary logistic regression model. The analysis was carried out utilizing the SPSS. Studies showed that 75% of mobile phone owners utilize it for paddy marketing. Income and education have a significant influence on cellphone usage, as shown in regression analysis. In the Likert scale study, there was a highly positive impact on having access to a broad variety of information, the accuracy of that information, negotiating power, and reducing market intermediaries' and transportation corporations' oppressiveness. Most farmers can save time and money by acquiring information themselves. It can be concluded that the adoption of mobile phones facilitates marketing activities and all potential consequences for rice farmers. Assuring mobile phone utilization could be essential in this area to improve the calibre of rice marketing.

Socio-economic factors affecting the adoption of farm chemicals by small-scale rice farmers in Abuja, Nigeria

This study examines the socio-economic factors influencing the adoption of farm chemicals among small-scale rice farmers in Abuja, Nigeria, with four specific objectives. Questionnaire was used to solicit for information from 200 rice farmers for the study. Descriptive statistics and logit regression model were employed to analyze the primary data. The study's findings revealed that approximately 27.5% of farm chemical adopters were female, while 53.5% were male. Moreover, 64.5% of the farm chemical adopters were married, contrasting with 14.5% of the non-adopters who were married. Additionally, around 47% of farm chemical adopters possessed fields measuring between 1 and 1.75 hectares. Furthermore, 39% of the adopters were affiliated with more than one farmer group or cooperative. Analyzing the data, the study determined that the Chi2 value was 3601.125, with a corresponding likelihood ratio statistic of p<0.0000. The results of the regression analysis indicated that out of the eight variables examined, only two exhibited statistically significant and positive influences on the adoption of farm chemicals. These two factors were farm size (p<0.01) and membership in a cooperative society or farmer-group (p<0.05). The study also observed diversified sources for farmers obtaining farm chemicals, such as Agricultural Development Programme (17.4%), marketplaces (78.3%), cooperative societies (3.1%), and Non-Governmental Organizations (1.2%). The research identified several constraints faced by the farmers, including the high cost of improved rice varieties for planting (10%), inadequate extension services (25%), scarcity of improved rice varieties for planting (5%), insufficient funds for investing in rice production (20%), damages caused by grazing livestock and conflicts with herdsmen (7.5%), inadequate processing facilities (2.5%), limited access to tractors (1.5%), restricted access to markets (12.5%), inadequate land access (15%), and instances of theft on the farm (1.0%). To enhance the livelihoods of small-scale farmers, the study recommends that Government should provide subsidies or grants for small-scale rice farmers who cannot afford improved varieties of rice seeds and farm chemicals such as fertilizers and herbicides.

The Efficacy of Three Botanical Leaf Powders (Ocimum gratissimum, Azadirachta indica, and Carica papaya) in the Control of Rice Weevil (Sitophilus oryzae)

Rice is an economically important crop and the most important staple food for the world’s population. The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of three botanical leaf powders, scent leaf, neem and paw-paw in the control of rice weevil Sitophilus oryzae on stored rice grain. The leaf powders were mixed with the rice grain at the quantities of 3g, 6g, 9g and 12g per 20g of rice. In the control, no treatment was used. The plant leaves were dried under room temperature and ground into fine powders. The experimental design adopted for the experiment was Complete Randomized Design (CRD) and each treatment was replicated four times for each experiment. Ten (10) adult S. oryzae unsexed were introduced into each vial including the control and were subsequently covered with muslin cloth held tightly in place by a rubber band to avoid their escaping. The experiments were monitored for 96 hours. The results showed that all the plant leaf powders were good grain protectants. Scent leaf recorded its highest percentage mortality of 40% in 6g, 9g, and 12g after 48 hours, whereas neem had its highest percentage mortality of 40% in 6g and 12g at 48 hours, while paw-paw recorded its highest mortality of 40% in 9g and 12g at 48 hours. No mortality was recorded in the control experiment. These botanical leaves powders especially scent leaf should be incorporated into grain protection practice of resource poor farmers and small scale rice dealers.

Design of a Mini Rice Harvester for Rural and Small Scale Rice Farmers in Tropical and Developing Countries

Food insecurity, price volatility and under-employment of rice farmers in Liberia are key drivers for the development of rice farming machines locally. This project work aims to design and fabricate a simple, low-cost, efficient mini rice harvester powered by a solar panel by translating learnt concepts and principles of engineering into a physical and workable rice harvester. A circular blade cutter, DC motor, DC battery and solar cells are the main components deployed on a rod-plate setup. The solar cell taps solar irradiance from the sun and, with the help of a charge controller, recharges a 12V, 35Amp.hour battery. The battery supplies DC current to a DC motor that drives a circular blade cutter during harvesting. The fabricated harvester fulfilled all design objectives and was justifiable on overall financial cost (USD 194.00), ease of use, and ease of reproduction. The performance of the harvester, in terms of smoothness of cut and completion of cut area, was found to be near 100%. However, the harvester field efficiency performance was found to be 30.75% with an aggregated efficiency of % and a payback period of only 71 hours of operation, equivalent to 60,696 sq.m of harvested rice farm. Incessant clogged cutter's surface and harvested stem removal delays, slowdowns as the operator makes turns, switch failures and re-fix delays during field tests are the primary causes of the low field efficiency. With an improved spacing between the blade cutter and the secondary guard, the performance of the harvester is expected to improve significantly. An average noise level of 88.8 decibels was detected during the harvester's operation; advisably, hearing protection earmuffs may be necessary to safely operate the mini harvester on the dailies for 6 hours. Notwithstanding that the effect of moisture content of the rice stalks, as an input parameter, was not considered in the development of the power requirement for the rice cutter, the harvester can be optimized with minimal effort for commercialization and adopted as a Made-In-Liberia invention.