Paddy Nursery Preparation and Seed Treatment Recommended by IARI for Basmati Cultivation in India
22 June 2025, New Delhi: As the monsoon season approaches, the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) has advised farmers to initiate the preparation of paddy nurseries to ensure a healthy transplantation phase. For one hectare of paddy cultivation, farmers should prepare a nursery area of approximately 800 to 1000 square meters. This allows for adequate space for seedling growth and ensures proper management of resources.
Prior to sowing, seed treatment is strongly recommended to prevent fungal infections that commonly affect young paddy plants. According to IARI, seeds should be treated with Captan fungicide at a dose of 2 grams per kilogram of seed. This simple preventive step can significantly reduce early-stage crop loss due to fungal diseases, which often thrive in humid nursery conditions.
IARI has also emphasized the importance of selecting high-yielding paddy varieties to maximize returns. Some of the top-performing basmati varieties recommended include Pusa Basmati 1509, Pusa Basmati 1985, Pusa Basmati 1979, Pusa Basmati 1692, Pusa Basmati 1885, Pusa Basmati 1847, Pusa 44, Pusa Basmati 1718, Pusa Basmati 1637, Pusa Sugandha 5, Pusa Sugandha 4 (Pusa 1121), Pant Dhan 4, and Pant Dhan 10. These varieties have shown excellent performance in terms of yield, grain quality, and market value.
In addition to selecting the right varieties, IARI stresses the importance of procuring seeds from certified agencies. Certified seeds ensure genetic purity, higher germination rates, and resistance to major diseases, which are essential for securing a successful paddy crop. Following these detailed guidelines by IARI can help farmers achieve robust paddy yields while minimizing the risks of early-stage crop failures.
Also Read: India’s Agricultural Sector on Track to Triple: McKinsey Highlights $3.1 Trillion Potential by 2047
📢 If You’re in Agriculture, Make Sure the Right People Hear Your Story.
Have a story the global agriculture industry should hear? From product launches to strategic announcements, Global Agriculture offers unmatched visibility across international agri-business markets. Connect with us at pr@global-agriculture.com to explore editorial and advertising opportunities that reach the right audience, worldwide.
