Agriculture Practices Performed in the State of West Bengal

Agriculture plays a pivotal role in West Bengal Agriculture. West Bengal constitutes 8 % of India's population and widely people are engaged in farm activities. The staple food of West Bengal is rice, therefore, producing 15% of the total rice production area. Various other crops are being cultivated including maize, pulses, wheat, oil seeds, potatoes, barley, and many others. Around 66 % of jute is supplied from the state. There are two other major crops grown in West Bengal which include Tobacco and Sugarcane.

West Bengal has gained recognition as one of India's prominent industrialized states, renowned for its thriving industrial sector. With a staggering number of approximately 10,000 registered factories, the state has actively facilitated industrial growth by introducing Shilpabandhu, a single window agency. This agency aims to offer comprehensive support and guidance to investors interested in establishing and operating industrial units within the state.

Calcutta stands out as a significant hub for industries, particularly the jute industry. In addition to the well-established alloy steel plant at Durgapur, West Bengal boasts several steel plants. The central government has also played a pivotal role in setting up industries in various sectors such as tea, sugar, chemicals, and fertilizers. The abundance of natural resources, particularly tea, and jute in the region and its vicinity, has further propelled West Bengal's prominence as a major center for the jute and tea industries.

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Agricultural Practices Followed in West Bengal 

Following are some major agriculture practices performed by West Bengal:-

System of Rice Intensification (SRI)

West Bengal has embraced the System of Rice Intensification. It is an innovative method of rice cultivation. SRI focuses on improving the productivity and sustainability of rice cultivation through traditional practices. It involves transplanting rice seedlings individually, maintaining a wider spacing between plants, reducing water usage, and managing soil health through organic inputs. SRI has led to increased rice yields and reduce water requirements, making it an eco-friendly and cost-effective approach to rice cultivation.

Organic Farming

Many farmers in the state have adopted organic methods, avoiding the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and genetically modified organisms. Organic farming promotes the use of natural inputs, such as organic manures, compost, bio-fertilizers, and bio-pesticides, to maintain soil fertility and pest control. This practice aims to produce healthier and environmentally sustainable agricultural products. West Bengal has adopted this practice and found a profitable increase in the farms.

Floriculture

Flower cultivation in West Bengal is another profitable practice adopted widely. Various varieties, including roses, marigolds, orchids, and gladiolus, are carried out for both domestic and export markets. The state's favorable climate, fertile soil, and proximity to urban markets make it suitable for commercial flower production.

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Fish Farming in Paddy Fields

In West Bengal, fish farming in paddy fields also  known as "Integrated Fish Farming has been adopted and practiced widely." Farmers cultivate fish species like carp, catfish, and prawns in the same fields where paddy crops are grown. The paddy fields act as fish ponds during the non-monsoon season, creating an integrated farming system. This practice not only utilizes the land effectively but also provides an additional source of income for farmers.

Sericulture

This silk production practice in West Bengal involves mulberry cultivation and silk production. Farmers rear silkworms on mulberry leaves and harvest the cocoons for silk production. Sericulture provides employment opportunities, plays a key role in uplifting the rural economy, and boosts farm productivity with a highly increased rate of income.

Also Read:- Agricultural Practices Followed in The State of Arunachal Pradesh