Do subsistence farmers prefer traditional varieties?
The literature does not indicate the amount of subsistence farmers in Asia, but the data gathered by Mark A. Bell indicates that production distribution by ecosystem in Asia is 55% irrigated, 29% rainfed-lowland, 8% flooded areas, and 8% upland rice farms. Subsistence farmers are those who plant only enough rice to meet the requirements of their household. It is observed that many of these farmers use traditional rice varieties. Most of these subsistence farmers are found in unfavourable upland areas. Some are even beneficiaries of land reform programmes who depend on rainfall for irrigation and have reverted to traditional practices because they have no access to programme services. Francois Mazaud (FAO) raised the concern that some farmers persist in using traditional varieties. Pat Borlagdan (IRRI) came from a commercial rice growing family. He recalled the amazing success of the miracle rice IR8 when it was first introduced. Many farmers like them converted to the new miracle rice.
