Edukasi dan Pembinaan Budidaya Teknologi Padi Salibu: Upaya Mencapai Ketahanan Pangan dan Pemberdayaan Ekonomi Masyarakat Desa Mekarjaya, Kabupaten Sukabumi

Abstract

The rice issue in Indonesia is characterized by seasonal shortages and price fluctuations influenced by extreme weather conditions, shrinking agricultural land, distribution constraints, and the dilemma between import policies and self-sufficiency, despite the fact that national data often indicate surplus stocks. These conditions directly affect farmers’ welfare, price affordability for consumers, and national food security. Mekarjaya Village, located in Warungkiara Sub-district, Sukabumi Regency, was previously known as one of the rice-producing areas. However, it has recently experienced a significant decline in the number of farmers due to high production costs, limited access to capital, and rice selling prices that are not proportional to farming expenses. On the other hand, although the majority of the population works as farmers, local rice demand cannot yet be fulfilled, causing the community to depend on supplies from outside the village. This education and coaching program aims to introduce the salibu rice cultivation method as an alternative farming technology that can reduce production costs and increase land productivity by up to 115%. The implementation of this method is expected to improve farmers’ income, encourage sustainable agricultural practices, and strengthen village-level food security. Through an education- and mentoring-based approach, this program serves as a strategic effort to enhance farmers’ capacity and optimize local agricultural potential.