Yield Gap Analysis in Rice under Cauvery Delta Zone of Tamil Nadu State of India

Abstract

Rice productivity in salt-affected areas of the Cauvery Delta Zone can be constrained by varietal, biophysical and farm-management factors. This study assessed Yield Gap I and Yield Gap II for five salt-tolerant rice varieties (TRY1–TRY5) and identified major constraints and management practices associated with the observed gaps. The study was conducted in salt-affected areas of Tiruchirappalli, Thanjavur, Thiruvarur and Nagapattinam districts of Tamil Nadu. Five revenue villages were selected from each district, and 10 farmers were selected from each village, giving a total sample of 200 farmers. Primary data were collected using a pretested structured interview schedule, while additional information was obtained from state seed farms and private seed-distribution agencies. Yield-gap values were assessed using the yield benchmarks reported in the manuscript. TRY3 showed the lowest reported Yield Gap I and Yield Gap II among the five varieties, whereas TRY2 showed the highest reported gaps. The reported constraints comprised biophysical factors, crop-management limitations and socio-economic issues, including seed quality, planting time, irrigation, pests and diseases, soil condition, insurance, market access and extension support. The findings indicate that reducing yield gaps in the surveyed salt-affected rice systems requires coordinated attention to varietal choice, crop establishment, nutrient and water management, pest and weed management, soil-health practices, mechanisation, extension support and access to suitable seed.