Farmers’ Preferences for the Sustainable Availability of Superior Rice Seeds under the Six Rights Principle in Bali

¹ Research Center for Behavioral and Circular Economic, National Research and Innovation Agency, Indonesia
² Research Center for Manuscripts, Literature, and Oral Traditions, Indonesia

^* Corresponding author: iket010@brin.go.id

Abstract

Seeds of new superior varieties are very important to increase rice production in Indonesia. However, challenges persist within the seed system, including low adoption rates, seed unavailability during planting seasons, and a lack of alignment between seed supply and farmers’ preferences. The six guiding principles of the seed system (right variety, quality, time, quantity, place, and price) form the basis of the government’s seed distribution policy. This study aims to examine farmers’ preferences regarding these principles and to develop planning strategies that support the sustainable availability of rice seeds at the farm level. The research was conducted from September to November 2023 in three districts of Bali Province, involving three private seed producers, ten key informants, and 65 Subak-based farmer groups. Perception measurement using a Likert scale and Participatory Prospective Analysis (PPA). Findings indicate that two principles—right quantity (48.77%) and right time (57.69%)—were only partially met. The recommended strategy is a moderate-optimistic scenario, which includes ensuring genetic conformity as labeled, maintaining seed germination rates above 80%, improving seed quality based on rice ecosystem types (paddy and dryland), promoting efficient seed usage per hectare, and increasing VUB seed production in accordance with irrigation conditions.