Farmers Are Embracing Crop Diversification, says Agri Officer

Farmers are being pushed by District Agriculture Officer V.T. Rama Rao to diversify their crops in order to increase soil fertility, productivity, and profitability. He claims that those who choose to produce commercial crops rather than the common paddy will receive government assistance.

Farmers have responded favorably to the drive to promote commercial crops like maize, pulses, millets, and vegetables, Mr. Rao told The Hindu.

"As Collector A. Suryakumari advised, we have been educating farmers about the advantages of commercial crops. They invest about Rs 22,000 per acre in paddy, but they only get back about Rs 37,500. Because the government has established a respectable Minimum Support Price for them, they may make more money from commercial crops,” he claims.

Report From ICRISAT

"ICRISAT scientists recently visited certain mandals in the district and examined the state of the soil while also addressing the farmers' concerns. They should shortly provide a report that will be helpful to farmers in terms of crop diversification,” he continues.

According to him, over 27,000 farmers have expressed interest in implementing the Zero-Based Natural Farming methods, which will reduce costs and accelerate the restoration of soil fertility.

Abundant Supply of Seeds

"This Kharif, crops will be planted on 1.29 lakh hectares in the district, with maize taking up 15,574 hectares and paddy 90,811 hectares. The remaining space will be used to grow other types of crops,” he said.

"We are providing 41,850 quintals of seeds through Rythu Bharosa Kendras. Up to 79,119 farmers have registered their details and indicated the number of seeds they require. There is no lack of seeds, and we are offering the types they selected at discounted prices,” Mr. Rao continues.