The fertilizer application technology “P-dipping,” developed by JIRCAS, was featured at a hands-on event organized in collaboration between JIRCAS and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Tsukuba during the Rice Planting Festival held at JICA Tsukuba in Tsukuba City, Ibaraki, on May 16, 2026. This initiative aimed to provide an opportunity for the general public to experience the technology through actual practice while raising domestic awareness. Approximately 150 people attended the event. 

P-dipping is a fertilization technique in which rice seedlings are dipped into mud mixed with phosphorus fertilizer before transplanting. By applying phosphorus locally to the root zone, the method improves fertilizer use efficiency while contributing to increased yields and reduced environmental impact. Its effectiveness has already been demonstrated in rice farming systems in Madagascar, and its application is currently expanding to other regions in Africa and Asia.

At the event, Dr. YAGETA Yoshie, a researcher from the Social Sciences Division, introduced the key features and benefits of P-dipping to participants. In addition to displaying infographic posters, efforts were made to ensure that the explanations were accessible and engaging even for children, with many participants commenting that they had “learned something new.” 

During the hands-on rice planting session in the paddy field, Dr. OKAMOTO Takanori  and Dr. ARATANI Haruka from the Crop, Livestock and Environment Division demonstrated how to prepare the mud mixture containing phosphorus fertilizer and how to apply it to the roots of seedlings. Participants then entered the paddy field with seedlings they had treated themselves and experienced transplanting rice by hand. Many practical questions were raised, such as “How should the mud and fertilizer be mixed?” and “How much mud should be attached to the roots?” Participants of all ages, from children to adults, showed strong interest and enthusiasm throughout the activity. 

This collaboration provided a valuable opportunity for participants to experience the concept of P-dipping firsthand through rice planting, serving as an effective way to share JIRCAS research results with a domestic audience. Furthermore, together with the introduction of initiatives in developing regions, the event also promoted greater understanding of international cooperation and sustainable agriculture. JIRCAS will continue to expand opportunities for outreach and demonstration both in Japan and overseas to further promote the adoption of P-dipping.