Paddy Nursery Sowing Gains Momentum During Ardra Nakshatra; Farmers from Jharkhand Flock to Gaya Seed Market, Women Lead Purchases

Paddy Nursery Sowing Gains Momentum During Ardra Nakshatra; Farmers from Jharkhand Flock to Gaya Seed Market, Women Lead Purchases

Gaya | Correspondent

With the onset of Ardra Nakshatra, considered one of the most important periods for paddy nursery sowing, agricultural activities have intensified across Gaya district. While local farmers are busy preparing paddy nurseries in their fields, a large number of cultivators from neighboring Jharkhand are arriving at Gaya's well-known seed market to purchase high-quality paddy seeds. The demand for certified seeds has increased significantly as farmers gear up for the upcoming cultivation season.

One of the most notable aspects this year is the growing participation of women farmers. A majority of the visitors purchasing seeds are women, who are actively selecting seed varieties after carefully comparing their quality, yield potential, and prices. Their increasing involvement reflects the expanding role of women in agricultural decision-making and farm management.

Every morning, farmers from Jharkhand districts such as Dhanbad, Koderma, Giridih, Bokaro, and nearby areas travel to Gaya by the Dhanbad–Gaya Intercity Express. After reaching Gaya Railway Station, they head directly to the seed shops located at Kirani Ghat, where dozens of retailers offer a wide range of paddy seed varieties. The market witnesses heavy footfall throughout the day as farmers purchase seeds according to their farming requirements, soil conditions, and local climate.

Seed traders say business has increased sharply since the beginning of Ardra Nakshatra. Besides local farmers, hundreds of cultivators from Jharkhand are visiting the market every day, creating a vibrant trading atmosphere. Shopkeepers also noted that the number of women buyers has increased considerably compared to previous years, and many of them are making well-informed purchasing decisions after gathering detailed information about different seed varieties.

Agricultural experts explain that Ardra Nakshatra is traditionally regarded as the most suitable period for preparing paddy nurseries. Seedlings raised during this time generally develop better and establish stronger growth after transplantation, resulting in higher crop productivity. This is why farmers consider the period crucial for ensuring a successful paddy season.

Gaya's seed market has earned a strong reputation among farmers from both Bihar and Jharkhand for supplying quality seeds. The market offers certified seeds produced by government agencies as well as reputed private companies. Farmers can choose from a wide range of short-duration, medium-duration, and long-duration paddy varieties depending on irrigation facilities, soil type, and expected rainfall.

Farmers visiting from Jharkhand said they prefer buying seeds from Gaya because of the reliable quality, competitive prices, and wider availability of improved varieties. Many have been visiting the market every year, believing that quality seeds form the foundation of a successful harvest and significantly improve crop yields.

Women farmers shared that they are now actively involved in every stage of farming—from selecting seeds and preparing nurseries to transplanting, weeding, and harvesting. They believe purchasing seeds themselves enables them to make better choices and ensures improved agricultural outcomes.

The seed market remains crowded from morning until evening, with retailers providing detailed information about different paddy varieties, including their yield potential, disease resistance, maturity period, and cultivation methods. Several shops are also offering guidance on seed treatment and modern farming practices to help farmers achieve better productivity.

Officials from the district Agriculture Department have urged farmers to use only certified seeds. According to the department, certified seeds not only increase crop production but also reduce the risk of diseases and improve farmers' income. Officials are also advising farmers to prepare nurseries on time, treat seeds before sowing, and use balanced fertilizers for healthier crop growth.

Agricultural scientists have recommended that farmers choose climate-resilient paddy varieties capable of performing well even under irregular rainfall conditions. They also emphasized proper land preparation, timely irrigation, and scientific transplantation techniques to reduce cultivation costs and maximize yields.

Seed traders reported that demand for paddy seeds is significantly higher this year than in previous seasons, resulting in brisk sales of several popular varieties. However, they assured that sufficient stocks are available in the market and there is currently no shortage of seeds. Farmers have been advised to purchase seeds only from authorized dealers and always obtain a purchase receipt.

The ongoing rush in Gaya's seed market also highlights the importance of agriculture in the regional economy. Paddy cultivation remains the primary source of livelihood for millions of farmers across Bihar and Jharkhand. Timely availability of quality seeds and proper nursery preparation play a vital role in determining the success of the entire farming season.

Overall, the arrival of Ardra Nakshatra has marked the beginning of intensive paddy cultivation activities across the region. The increasing number of farmers visiting Gaya from neighboring Jharkhand, coupled with the active participation of women farmers, reflects the growing demand for quality agricultural inputs. If weather conditions remain favorable, farmers are optimistic about achieving higher productivity and a successful paddy harvest this season.