Comparative socio-economic profile and cultivation practices of indigenous aromatic rice cultivars in Cooch Behar and North Dinajpur districts of North Bengal

Abstract

Indigenous aromatic rice cultivars such as Kalonunia and Tulaipanji hold high cultural, economic, and nutritional significance in North Bengal. This study documents and compares the socio-economic conditions of farmers, landholding patterns, varietal preferences, cultivation experiences, and the effects of climate variability on rice production in Cooch Behar and North Dinajpur districts. Data was collected from 100 farmers (50 in each district) through structured interviews. Results reveal that farmers in both regions are predominantly middle-aged with long cultivation experience (>20 years). In Cooch Behar, Kalonunia dominates (92%), while North Dinajpur exclusively cultivates Tulaipanji. Landholding is small (average <1 bigha under aromatic rice), highlighting its role as a niche crop. Climate stress—particularly reduced rainfall and increased temperatures—has led to significant changes in aroma, grain size, and yield. Market prices ranged between ₹3,500-₹4,500 per quintal across sites, with farmers of North Dinajpur district receiving slightly higher prices due to stronger market linkages. The findings suggest that while traditional knowledge sustains aromatic rice cultivation, adaptation strategies are urgently required to mitigate climate stress and safeguard this heritage crop.