Paddy area (25.45 lakh ha) occupies more than 90% of the net cropped area (28.11 lakh ha) and 61.18% of the gross cropped area (41.60 lakh ha) during 2011-12 in Assam. Production of rice in the state was 50.45 lakh MT during 2011-12. Being the single major source of agricultural GDP, rice plays a significant role in the state economy. In Assam, rice has been the major food in the consumption

basket. However, the growth scenario of rice in the state has yet to gain the required momentum. Considering the unparalleled population growth in the state, the matter requires greater attention. The population of Assam has increased at an alarming rate in the last three decades. With this trend, rice requirements for the state would be 120.0 lakh tonnes by 2020. Drought, submergence and flash flooding, low resource base of farmers, and lack of proper infrastructural facilities are varied obstacles to obtain higher rice productivity in rainfed areas. There is no other way but to increase the per capita productivity of land, as there is limited scope of increasing crop area due to rapid urbanization in the state. There is need to motivate, mobilize and activate the extension programme for adoption of modern technology in every nook and corner of the state.