International Journal of Agriculture Extension and Social Development

author(s)
Rushikesh A Lokhande, Uttam D Jagdale and Omkar D Phatangare

abstract
Organic rice farming focuses on sustainability, protecting the environment and improving soil health, offering a better alternative to traditional farming. This study looks at how much farmers and researchers know about organic rice practices. Conducted in 2023–24 in two tehsils of Pune district, it involved interviewing 120 organic rice farmers. Data were collected to address specific goals and analyzed statistically. From the study we finding out the findings in which more than two-fifth (46.67 per cent) of the respondent are belong to medium knowledge about organic paddy cultivation. Through the study we considering the some major statement such as, near about four- fifth (80.00 per cent) of the farmers have knowledge of various government schemes aimed at supporting organic farming, like PM PRANAM and Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana. Close to three-fourths (77.50 per cent) respondent are familiar with storage techniques like using dried leaves from the Bael tree and raw garlic extract. About 73.33 per cent of the respondent are aware of natural farming preparations like NSKE extract, Dashparni, Jivamrut, and Bijamrut, based on their level of knowledge. About 72.50 per cent of them also know about the e-NAM scheme, which is backed by the central government to promote inter-state marketing and cut out middlemen from the market chain. Additionally, 70.00 per cent of the respondent of those surveyed recognize that organic farming practices can lead to increased employment rates within their community. The study highlights key topics such as organic certification, meeting international standard and using organic materials like green manure, farmyard manure and biofertilizers effectively. It explores farmers’ knowledge of crop rotation, pest management and weed control, which are essential for organic rice farming. The study also uses examples from around the world to show how traditional and modern methods can help improve rice yields. Results reveal that while some farmers understand nutrient cycling and soil health, others lack knowledge, especially about using organic materials to increase soil organic matter and store carbon. The role of microorganisms in improving nutrients and controlling diseases is also not well understood. Additionally, the cost of organic farming and limited market opportunities make it harder for more farmers to adopt these practices. This study suggests improving farmer education through training programs, demonstration farms, and hands-on learning. It calls for government policies to support organic certification and provide financial help to farmers switching to organic methods. Better teamwork between researchers, policymakers and farmers is key to making organic rice farming more successful. Organic rice farming can improve food security, protect the environment and boost rural livelihoods. Closing knowledge gaps and following organic standards can make organic rice more competitive globally while keeping ecosystems healthy.