Implementation of Organic Rice Farming Based on Local Wisdom in Bali Province, Indonesia

The Green Revolution has significantly contributed to agricultural development. However, it has also caused environmental damage due to excessive use of agricultural inputs and land exploitation. To promote sustainability in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SGDs), organic farming has been recommended to improve and maintain agroecosystems. In Bali Province, Indonesia, the concept of Tri Hita Karana (THK), a form of local wisdom, has guided farmers in implementing the System of Rice Intensification (SRI) technique introduced by the government. This study explored how organic rice farming integrates local wisdom, assessed farmers’ knowledge and attitudes towards SRI, and examined government support initiatives for organic rice farming. The results revealed that SRI farming aligns with the principle of nurturing the soil to enhance fertility, improving soil, water, and air in paddy fields and surrounding areas. THK also guides organic farming practices in SRI, helping farmers maintain a harmonious relationship with God, nature, and fellow human beings. Farmers generally have a high level of knowledge about SRI and agree with its implementation. While the government supports organic rice farming through policies and farmer subsidies for production inputs, it is recommended that efforts be intensified through improved agricultural extension programs that implement more demonstration plots based on the concepts of “learning by doing” and “seeing is believing”, increased SRI-related training activities for farmers, and more extension workers to enhance outreach across Bali’s dispersed agricultural regions.