AMELIORATION OF SALINITY STRESS IN RICE CULTIVATION OF WEST BENGAL

Abstract

West Bengal a prominent rice-producing state in India, faces significant challenges related to soil salinity, particularly in its coastal regions and the Sundarbans delta. Salinity adversely impacts rice productivity by affecting soil structure, nutrient availability, and water uptake by plants. This is a critical issue in saline- prone district like south 24 parganas, North 24 paraganas, and Purba Medinipur, where tidal intrusion and rising sea level exacerbate the problem. Research highlights that salinity stress reduces germination rates, plants growth, and grain yield in rice, a staple food crop for millions in the state. This issue has included introducing salt- tolerance rice varieties such as Swarna sub1, Nona Bokra, and CSR 43, along with improved agronomic practices like proper drainage system. The study undergoes the importance of adaptive strategies to mitigate salinity effects, including sustainable water management, genetic enhancement of rice varieties, and community engagement. These measures the essential to ensure food security and the economic stability of farmers in the salinity – affected regions of west Bengal. Further research and policy investigations are required to address the long-term impacts of salinity of rice cultivation in the state.

DOI - https://doi.org/10.65525/SVUP.9788198800473.2025.451-465