Banka: Farmers in Bihar’s Banka district are adopting an innovative dibbler method of maize cultivation, which eliminates the need for plowing and chemical fertilizers. The technique, pioneered by progressive farmer Raj Pratap Bharti of Chutia village, has drastically reduced costs and improved yields, inspiring cultivators across the region.
Under this method, maize seeds are sown directly into small holes made with a dibber — a stick with an iron tip — without plowing the land.
Compost such as vermicompost or cow dung manure is placed along with the seeds, ensuring faster germination. The stalks left behind after harvesting paddy decompose naturally, enriching the soil and acting as organic fertilizer.
From Experiment to Large-Scale Success
Thirteen years ago, Raj Pratap noticed uneven germination in his maize fields. Out of curiosity, he sowed seeds in unplowed corners of his farm, only to find those plants greener, taller, and sturdier. Encouraged, he tested the dibbler method on five katthas of land. Despite ridicule from fellow villagers, he persisted — and the results proved him right.
Today, Raj Pratap cultivates maize on ten acres himself and has trained farmers in surrounding villages to adopt this method. Altogether, maize is now being grown on 250 acres using the dibbler method, generating profits worth lakhs.
High Germination, Lower Costs
According to Raj Pratap, the dibbler method ensures up to 99% seed germination, compared to 70–75% in traditional farming. It also reduces irrigation needs and eliminates expenses on plowing, hoeing, and chemical fertilizers. “This method lowers the cost of maize cultivation by about ₹10,000 per acre,” he said.
Recognition from Scientists and Farmers
The success of this technique has attracted attention beyond Banka. Scientists from VK and Sabour Agricultural University visited his fields and confirmed higher yields through crop-cutting trials. Farmers from different parts of Bihar and even Jharkhand have come to observe and learn from his model of cost-effective maize farming.
With rising input costs troubling farmers across the state, the dibbler method is fast emerging as a sustainable and affordable solution for maize cultivation in Bihar.
