The Rice and Dhamma Way: Identity, Belief and Value for Innovating the Production of Organic Rice in the Buddhist Way at Loomnamchang Community in Mae Tha District, Lampang Province

Abstract

The objectives of research are: 1) To study the identity, beliefs and values of rice culture in the Loomnamchang Community; 2) To develop the production system and rice seed varieties based on the cultural practices of the Loomnamchang Community; 3) To develop a prototype innovation for the rice production system and seed varieties based on the cultural practices of the Loomnamchang Community. The research adopts a mixed-method approach, including documentary, interviews with 32 participants, focus group discussions with 21 participants for the development of the production system and seed preservation, and participatory action research involving 35 participants to establish a prototype for rice production and seed preservation. Data were analyzed using content analysis and a process-oriented approach to model innovation.

The results of the research found that:

1)Identity, beliefs and values of rice culture are multifaceted: 1) Religious Dimension, rice is interwoven with spiritual teachings ; 2) Family Dimension, rice cultivation fosters value and sacred rituals; 3) Belief and Ritual Dimension, traditional ceremonies are incorporated into rice production; 4) Community Dimension, rice production strengthens the local economy and livelihoods; 5) Tradition and Culture Dimension, rice cultivation expresses gratitude and reverence; 6) Nature and Environmental Dimension, rice farming practices help sustain the environment.

2) Development of Rice Production Systems and Rice Seed consist of: 1) Rice  as both food and cultural symbol; 2) Traditional and modern technologies used in rice production and seed in Lampang; 3) Factors affecting rice production namely Internal factors e.g. durable rice, the height of the rice plant; external factors e.g. soil quality, water sources; 4) The rice production process, including high-quality seeds, effective soil and water management; 5) The seed preservation process, which involves community awareness, demonstration field trials, evaluation, and seed propagation.

3)Development of Rice Production Innovation into 3 aspects: 1) Cultural Innovation, organic rice cultivation using sustainable methods and creating organic rice network; 2) Social and Cultural Innovation, participatory organic rice cultivation supported by government and farmer networks; 3) Economic and Health Innovation, organic rice cultivation for processing, raising awareness of its benefits, and marketing  through digital platforms.