Weeding using the KB weeder has several advantages for paddy cultivation using the SRI method, including promoting healthy root and plant growth, enhancing biomass utilization, improving soil aeration, and increasing yields through more productive tillers, larger panicles, more grains per panicle, and increased grain weight. The KB weeder design was improved for better operational convenience and mulching, and it is manufactured by three units in West Bengal that each have a capacity to produce 100 weeders per month. The weeders are supplied to dealers for sale in rural areas using the existing KB supply chain. Quality control measures are implemented and each weeder is under warranty for one year. Farmers report the KB weeder is efficient and easy

2. Advantages of weeding Periodic management of weeds has been one of the major factors contributing towards the higher productivity of paddy under SRI – 1. Promotes healthy growth of roots and consequently the plant 2. Enhances the utilisation of biomass 3. Facilitates proper aeration in the soil 4. Increase in yields as a result of more productive tillers, large panicle size, more number of grains per panicle & increased grain weight

3. KB WEEDER Length of the pipe decreased from 43 inches to 33 inches to ensure operational convenience Length of the spikes increased from 90 mm to 100 mm for better mulching of soil 2 L-shaped support has been provided at two sides Handle bent in the form of cycle handle to provide better grip to the user. An extra support has been provided at the point of bent A U-shaped bent has been added to provide strength to the handle Angle increased to 160° from 135° for better adaptability to persons of different heights

5. Supply Chain The Weeders fabricated by the potential manufacturers are then passed on to dealers for sale in remote rural areas. We are currently using the existing KB supply chain for weeder marketing.

6. Quality and Production Quality control during Production: Strict quality control measures are taken at manufacturing unit through Quality Assurance Manager Plan: Warranty of one year Each weeder will have unique punch plate numbers Weeders will be sold under the Brand name KB Production: Production just enough to meet IDEIs requirement of weeder Interested organization can make a visit to the manufacturing units to understand the process

7. And in Closing... “ The KB Weeder is an efficient device in its function and easy to use so as to reduce the drudgery on labour. Adding organic matter to the soil by mixing weeds with the soil has helped in increasing the yield of rice. It is really wonderful and stirring to see such a robust growth in rice”, says Asgar Ali, North Dinajpur, West Bengal. “ I found that the stirring effect of the weeder has positive impact on the grain yield. I also found that the weeder use has a sort of earthing up effect and the plants produce new roots which probably help in additional nutrient uptake. Today I am a happy man as there is regular supply of rice for my family”, says a cheerful Ramhari Panda, Contai, West Bengal. Farmer Speak…

8. THANK YOU