Paddy cultivation is the backbone of Indian agriculture, but it is also one of the most water-intensive crops. Traditional methods of keeping rice fields continuously flooded consume huge amounts of water, increase costs for farmers, and contribute to methane emissions, a major greenhouse gas.
To address this, a climate-smart practice called Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) is being adopted across the world. At Kopa FPC, we are implementing AWD with thousands of farmers across Birbhum and Murshidabad districts, in partnership with organizations like Kosher Climate, Inqube, and ERDA.
What is AWD?
Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) is a water-saving irrigation technique for paddy cultivation. Instead of keeping the field continuously flooded, farmers allow the water to drain naturally until the field is moist (not dry) before re-irrigating.
This method can be easily monitored using a perforated AWD pipe installed in the field. When the water level inside the pipe falls below 15 cm from the soil surface, it’s time to irrigate again.
Benefits of AWD
✅ Water Conservation – Saves 25–30% of irrigation water compared to traditional flooding.
✅ Reduced Costs – Lower fuel and electricity use for pumping water.
✅ Higher Yields – Studies show AWD maintains or even improves rice yields.
✅ Climate Impact – Cuts methane emissions by up to 50%, making farming more climate-friendly.
✅ Carbon Credits – Farmers can earn additional income through carbon credit programs.
AWD in Action at Kopa FPC
- Birbhum District – 5,000 hectares under Project Vrihi with Inqube.
- Murshidabad District – 4,500 hectares with ERDA’s Sustainable Paddy Cultivation Initiative.
- Birbhum Expansion – 7,000 hectares in partnership with Kosher Climate.
- Farmers Benefited – 30,000+ farmers trained and enrolled.
Our field teams regularly conduct training sessions, distribute AWD pipes, and support farmers in adapting this low-cost but high-impact method.
The Future of Paddy Farming
AWD represents a paradigm shift in rice cultivation. It is not just a water-saving technique, but a tool for sustainability, resilience, and rural prosperity. By combining traditional knowledge with modern practices, AWD ensures that farmers can secure their livelihoods while protecting natural resources.
At Kopa FPC, we believe AWD is a cornerstone of regenerative agriculture and a key step toward building a climate-smart future for Indian farming.
“Farmers United, Prosperity Shared” – Together, we can save water, increase incomes, and fight climate change.