Happy Seeder Technologies in Punjab State of India: Lessons Learned from Farmers

Abstract

Happy seeder has emerged as a way for a sustainable production system under the present rice-wheat cropping system in Punjab. The present survey was conducted during season 2019, comprising 50 randomly selected farmers on happy rabi seeder technology in Punjab, India, to understand the status, economic benefits, ease of access and complexity of technology, recommended practices (POP) followed and reasons for the non-adoption of recommended practices. The majority of the respondents used happy seeders in their field on a rent basis. The majority of the respondents (84 percent) observed a decrease in yield and net income by adopting a happy seeder, whereas input expenditures were reduced while using a happy seeder. The survey further revealed that the majority of the respondents applied more than the recommended dose of nitrogenous fertilizers and more seed rate. Refinement needs to be done in recommendations of use of happy seeder. Necessary incentives by way of subsidy and low rent on happy seeders to increase adoption of this technology should be made available by the concerned agencies.