The Potential of New High-Yielding Varieties Development in Tegal Regency

Abstract

Tegal is one of the districts that has the opportunity to become one of the centers for rice production in Central Java Province. This is indicated by the relatively high paddy field area, ranked 9th in Central Java. However, rice production in Tegal Regency was only ranked 15th. One effort to improve IP is through the use of new high yielding varieties (VUB). This paper examined the opportunities for developing VUB rice in Tegal Regency. Primary data obtained from interviews with farmers and field staffs. Analysis of potential development was assessed from the feasibility of 32 and 43 VUB Inpari rice farming, Mekongga variety. The results of the study show that VUB rice farming was more feasible to be cultivated compared to the existing varieties. This was indicated by the R/C of both VUB rice which were higher than the existing variety. The response of farmers to both VUB rice was indicated by demand of most sub-districts in Tegal Regency to the two varieties. Therefore, it was necessary to guarantee the availability of VUB rice seeds in the market. This can be done by developing seed breeders of these varieties through Desa Mandiri Benih or a private seed company.