adminIn a significant policy shift, the Central Java provincial government has announced a halt to its plans for “printing” or creating new agricultural land. This decision comes amidst growing concerns over environmental sustainability, land conversion conflicts, and the effectiveness of previous land expansion initiatives. The focus will now shift towards optimizing existing agricultural land and improving farming practices.
Previously, the “cetak sawah” program aimed to increase agricultural output by converting non-productive land into rice fields. However, this approach has faced criticism due to its potential impact on biodiversity, deforestation, and water resource management. Furthermore, the sustainability and long-term productivity of some newly created agricultural lands have been questioned.
The Governor of Central Java emphasized the need for a more holistic and environmentally conscious approach to food security. Instead of focusing on land expansion, the province will prioritize initiatives such as improving irrigation systems, providing farmers with high-yield seeds and modern farming techniques, and strengthening agricultural extension programs. The goal is to enhance productivity and resilience on existing farmland.
This policy change also takes into account the social and economic aspects of land use. Concerns about potential land disputes and the displacement of local communities due to land conversion have played a role in the decision. By focusing on optimizing existing land, the government aims to minimize social disruption and ensure more equitable benefits for farmers.
The decision by Central Java to halt the “cetak sawah” program could serve as a precedent for other regions facing similar challenges. It highlights a growing awareness of the need to balance agricultural development with environmental preservation and social harmony. The emphasis on sustainable intensification of existing agricultural land represents a more nuanced and potentially more effective strategy for achieving long-term food security in the region.
This revised strategy also aims to empower local farmers with the knowledge and resources needed for sustainable and efficient agricultural practices on their current land.