Rice Genomics and Genetics 2025, Vol.16, No.2, 61-70 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/rgg 67 6.4 Lessons learned from case studies The case studies demonstrate that integrating advanced water management techniques like AWD with precision nutrient management strategies such as SSNM can significantly improve rice yield and resource-use efficiency. These practices not only enhance productivity but also contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing water usage and nutrient losses. The success of these strategies in different regions underscores the importance of tailoring agricultural practices to local conditions to achieve optimal results. The lessons learned emphasize the need for continued innovation and adaptation in rice cultivation to address the challenges of water scarcity and environmental degradation while ensuring food security (Khurana et al., 2007; Liang et al., 2013; Liu et al., 2013; Sadhukhan et al., 2023). 7 Technological Innovations in Water and Fertilizer Management 7.1 Smart irrigation systems Smart irrigation systems, such as those utilizing sensors and the Internet of Things (IoT), have been identified as effective methods to enhance water use efficiency in rice farming. These systems allow for precise control of water application, reducing wastage and improving crop yield. However, the high cost of these technologies can be a barrier for small-scale farmers (Figure 3) (Mallareddy et al., 2023). Alternate wetting and drying (AWD) is another smart irrigation technique that has been shown to save water and maintain yields, while also reducing greenhouse gas emissions (Islam et al., 2020; Huang, 2024). Figure 3 A smart irrigation device installed in the field (Adopted from Mallareddy et al., 2023) 7.2 Precision agriculture tools Precision agriculture tools, including precision nutrient management systems, have been shown to significantly improve the productivity and efficiency of direct-seeded rice. For instance, the use of Nutrient Expert® and SPAD meter-based nitrogen management has been demonstrated to enhance grain yields and water productivity while reducing nitrogen use by approximately 27.1% (Pratap et al., 2022). These tools help in optimizing the application of fertilizers, thereby increasing nutrient use efficiency and reducing environmental impact (Sadhukhan et al., 2023).
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