Potential and Opportunity of Rice Production Improvement Through Information System of Integrated Cropping Calendar in Riau Province

ABSTRACT

Development of an integrated cropping calendar is a necessity, which is
expected to increase agricultural yields and can reduce crop losses due to drought and
flooding. This information system summarized in one data base becomes a need to get
various information in a fast time. The cropping calendar provides complete information
for farmers. The operational guidelines are set at the sub‐district level. The cropping
calendar is an important tool in adjusting cropping patterns to climate change. Rice
productivity in Riau Province is still low range of 3.5‐4 ton/ha and the average
planting index is once a year. The production can still be increased to 5‐6 tons/ha
through introducing rice technology such as superior seeds, VUB, fertilization,
amelioration, pest control. Through applying the information system of integrated
cropping calendar in WS 2017/2018 and DS 2017 in Riau Province, the planting index
for rice can be increased to 167%. The increase in the Planting Index will have a real
impact on increasing rice production.