Land Evaluation Framework for Aerobic Rice Cultivation in Dry and Intermediate Zone 

[Audio] Rice farming has long been a mainstay of human progress. However, the emergence of aerobic rice cultivation has the potential to revolutionize the industry. By cultivating rice in dryer, more effective fields, it can help save water, reduce the emission of greenhouse gases, and enhance production efficiency. This modern approach could be of tremendous benefit to the environment, and allow humanity to effectively sustain its food supply..

[Audio] A comprehensive understanding of the land evaluation process is essential in determining the suitability of an area for aerobic rice cultivation. This is why a land evaluation framework is being proposed for promoting aerobic rice cultivation in the dry and intermediate zones of Sri Lanka. Through this framework, it is hoped that farmers, agricultural professionals and stakeholders will be provided with the knowledge and tools needed to make informed choices regarding land suitability. Thus, by working together it is possible to facilitate sustainable rice production in Sri Lanka..

[Audio] An evaluation framework for aerobic rice cultivation in dry and intermediate zones in Sri Lanka has been developed. This framework involves studying the specific climate conditions of the region and analyzing the characteristics of the land type. Important parameters of land evaluation, such as fertility, water availability and soil texture, are taken into consideration. In addition, crop protection practices and the costs of rice cultivation are also accounted for in the assessment of the suitability of the land type for aerobic rice cultivation..

[Audio] In Sri Lanka, the dry and intermediate zone regions face significant obstacles when it comes to agriculture. These zones have limited water resources and have a potentially unpredictable climate, making it difficult for farmers to sustain themselves. The land evaluation framework for aerobic rice farming is essential in these areas, as it requires less water than traditional paddy farming and has the potential to bring a range of advantages to the farmers in those regions. This framework has the capability to significantly improve the lives of many people in our country..

[Audio] Today, I'd like to talk about the Land Evaluation Framework for Aerobic Rice Cultivation in Dry and Intermediate Zones. This framework provides a way for farmers in dry and intermediate climates to increase their yields and improve their economic prospects without relying on a traditional, water-intensive way of farming. Through the framework, we assess key elements such as soil quality and water availability which help us identify the ideal areas for aerobic rice farming and enable farmers to make informed decisions. In Sri Lanka, the dry zone includes the northern, north-central, and eastern parts which receive relatively less rainfall, while the intermediate zone lies between the wet and dry zones and includes areas such as the central and north-western regions with an intermediate pattern of rainfall. With the help of this framework, we can ensure that this new approach has been implemented effectively and that farmers in these areas get the most benefit from it..

[Audio] Aerobic rice is an innovative approach to growing rice, which has many advantages over traditional paddy farming. By controlling the water level in the soil, aerobic rice uses less water while still providing enough for the plants to thrive. This improved water management also leads to better soil aeration, which aids root development, nutrient uptake, and reduces the risk of conditions which may limit plant growth. Aerobic rice cultivation offers a sustainable agricultural solution that helps conserve water resources for everyone..

[Audio] Aerobic rice cultivation has many benefits for farmers, the environment, and communities. It is an efficient water conservation technique, as it requires less water compared to traditional flooded rice cultivation. Aerobic rice farming allows farmers to achieve higher grain yields while optimizing the use of resources such as water and fertilizers. As the non-flooded conditions in aerobic rice cultivation contribute to reduced greenhouse gas emissions, it is also beneficial for the environment. Finally, aerobic rice cultivation offers greater flexibility in land selection, allowing farmers to cultivate rice in areas with lower water availability or unsuitable soil conditions for traditional paddy farming. Because of these advantages, aerobic rice cultivation should be widely adopted..

[Audio] A detailed assessment of several essential elements is needed for the land evaluation framework for aerobic rice farming in dry and intermediate zones. These include the characteristics of the soil, the availability and quality of water, the climate conditions, the topography and the socioeconomic factors. This is to assess the suitability and potential use of the land for aerobic rice farming..

[Audio] It is essential to identify the right areas to cultivate our rice crops so that they can thrive. In order to do this, a land evaluation framework for aerobic rice cultivation in dry and intermediate zones has been developed. This framework provides a structured approach to predict which areas possess the characteristics that are conducive to successful aerobic rice farming. This will help us to achieve increased productivity and expand areas of production..

[Audio] Rice cultivation is an integral part of many cultures and diets around the world and understanding and appreciating the various methods used is paramount. This slide provides an evaluation framework for aerobic rice cultivation in dry and intermediate zones, outlining a flowchart of steps to help evaluate the potential for successful outcomes. Attention to important details like soil, water, and the environment is essential for farmers and experts in order to maximize the yield they wish to achieve..

[Audio] Soilgrids 2.0 is a global soil information database that provides high-resolution maps and predictions of various soil properties worldwide. It offers detailed soil attribute data, including organic carbon content, pH, soil texture, and more, with uncertainty estimates for its soil property predictions. Although local validation and calibration is recommended for precise applications at regional or local scales, this resource is freely accessible online and is a great tool for those looking to understand soil at different locations and depths..

[Audio] OpenStreetMap provides an invaluable resource in the monitoring and evaluation of rice field paddy cultivation. Its open-access license allows detailed maps of the world to be accessed for free, making it a necessity in monitoring the locations of rice fields. OpenStreetMap allows us to gain a better understanding of topographic data, which is crucial for monitoring the progress of paddy cultivation. Moreover, OpenStreetMap has potential to assist in the development of an efficient land evaluation framework for aerobic rice cultivation in dry and intermediate zones..

[Audio] Climate data plays an important role in successful rice paddy cultivation, allowing to identify suitable locations with different groundwater levels and yield potentials. This helps farmers select the right varieties of rice for their land and climate conditions. In recent times, three categories of climate data are used more and more to evaluate land suitability: observed data, reanalyzed data, and downscaled future climate data. This helps to make sure the right decisions are taken when preparing fields for rice farming..

[Audio] The slide number 15 focuses on the climate data for the aerobically grown rice cultivation in the dry and intermediate zone. The Department of Meteorology in Sri Lanka is the primary source for observed climatic information. They collect, process and analyse meteorological data from different weather stations in the country. This information gives access to historical weather data, which includes temperature and rainfall. Having this data is essential to ensure the success of aerobically grown rice cultivation in the region..

[Audio] Climate data is essential in determining the appropriateness of land for aerobic rice farming. Two types of information can be used in making this determination - observed climate data and reanalyzed climate data. The NASA POWER database provides reanalyzed daily weather data in locations where observed climate data is unavailable. This data gives projections of rain, temperature, vapor pressure, sun light, and other meteorological factors. Employing this data allows us to precisely evaluate the appropriateness of land for this kind of rice farming..

[Audio] This slide is about the Future Climate of Rice Fields Paddy Cultivation. The Consultative Group for International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) have developed a database that focuses on Climate Change, Agriculture and Food Security. This database includes bias-corrected daily climate data for future periods, so we can predict the climate with more accuracy. This is made available through their website, which you can find at the bottom of the slide..

[Audio] The Department of Irrigation in Sri Lanka has developed a great technology solution: an online database that provides information on water availability. Data available in the database include water resources, reservoir levels, irrigation scheduling, and related information that can help farmers assess the potential of cultivating rice in the dry and intermediate zones. This information can be leveraged by farmers to make more informed decisions on how to optimize their use of water resources..

[Audio] Model simulations are essential for attaining the best yield figures when cultivating aerobic rice. The AquaCrop model is useful for simulating the growth and development of the crops, working out water demands, and anticipating yield. Interpreting the outputs derived from this model is vital for assessing the productivity and efficiency of the rice fields..

[Audio] GIS technology has established itself as a core instrument in the contemporary agricultural sector. ArcGIS 10.6 operates as a sophisticated Geographic Information System, permitting us to form a yield map tailored to our aerobic rice cultivation. Its graphical representation provides the ability to effortlessly comprehend designs, discern developments, and pinpoint zones of high and diminished yields of our crop. This understanding can be a critical aid in aiding us to map out, superintend and enhance our exertion and resources to the highest level feasible..

[Audio] Cost Benefit Analysis (CBA) is a useful tool for assessing the economic viability and efficiency of a project. This method of evaluation aims to identify the costs and benefits associated with a proposed project, policy or decision. It helps to weigh the pros and cons and prioritize alternative options, in order to determine whether the benefits justify the costs. Paddy cultivation is no exception, and so CBA should be employed when conducting economic analysis in this area..

[Audio] The Social Analysis of this project will utilize the Social Impact Assessment (SIA) method. This technique is employed to gauge the social impacts and implications of proposed projects or interventions, aiming to measure the potential social risks, benefits and outcomes associated with the implementation of aerobic rice cultivation in the area..

[Audio] A land evaluation framework for aerobic rice farming in Sri Lanka's dry and intermediate zones is essential for sustainable agricultural development. Such a framework should take into account soil type, water availability, and climate conditions, so that farmers and policymakers can make informed decisions about which areas are best suited for cultivation. The advantages of this approach are increased yields, improved soil health, and reduced water consumption, all of which benefit both farmers and the country as a whole in terms of economic growth and food security. We now turn to the experience of a family from an island nation, displaced due to climate change, and the difficulties they face in trying to settle into a new country..

[Audio] I am discussing the references for the Land Evaluation Framework for Aerobic Rice Cultivation in Dry and Intermediate Zone Group 2. This framework focuses on the use of aerobic rice cultivation as a water-saving approach for rice production. To assess its potential, several resources have been used. A PDF from Research Gate titled “Aerobic Rice: A Water Saving Approach for Rice production” dives into the potential of this approach. A book from Google Books titled “Rice in Asia: Climate Change and Resilient Crops” talks about the effect of climate change on rice production. Articles from Science Direct such as “Aerobic Rice for Water-Saving Agriculture: A Review” and “Effects of Spatial Variability of Soil Physical Properties on Aerobic Rice Yield” were also used, as well as an article from MDPI titled “Water Saving in Rice Systems: A Review”. All these resources were used to assess the potential of Aerobic Rice Cultivation in Dry and Intermediate Zone Group 2..

[Audio] Finally, thanks to the audience for their attention and engagement throughout the presentation..