Wed Nov 27 12:37:05 UTC 2024: ## Kerala Agricultural University Unveils Atlas for Boosting Rice Production in Kole Lands

**Thiruvananthapuram, November 27, 2024** – The Kerala Agricultural University (KAU) has released a comprehensive two-volume atlas detailing the state’s vital Kole paddy lands, aiming to significantly increase rice yields and farmer incomes. The atlas, a product of a state-funded GIS-based mapping project, provides a detailed analysis of the 13,362 hectares of Kole lands spread across Thrissur and Malappuram districts – the third largest paddy-producing region in Kerala.

The first volume offers a foundational understanding of Kole land farming, highlighting its challenges. The second volume features detailed GIS maps at the block, panchayat, and ‘Paadasekharam’ levels. Currently, rice productivity in these areas averages around 5,333 kg per hectare, significantly below the potential yield of 7,500 kg per hectare.

The atlas proposes several key strategies to improve yields, including:

* **Production Incentives:** Awarding incentives to farmers producing over 5,500 kg per hectare.
* **Infrastructure Improvements:** Addressing infrastructure deficits, particularly upgrading aging irrigation regulators.
* **Sustainable Soil and Water Management:** Implementing efficient soil testing and sustainable water management practices.
* **New Rice Varieties:** Researching and introducing high-yield rice varieties suited to the Kole ecosystem.
* **Double Cropping:** Promoting a double-cropping system (rice followed by pulses) by adjusting planting schedules to optimize the growing season.

Agriculture Minister P. Prasad officially released the atlas, praising the three-year effort by the KAU team led by Sunil V.G. The atlas combines scientific research, local knowledge, and cartographic expertise to provide a comprehensive guide for enhancing the productivity of this unique ecological treasure. The work emphasizes the need for focused research and improved production protocols to unlock the full potential of the Kole lands.

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