V. Samikannu, a seasoned farmer from Molayanur Village in Dharmapuri district, Tamil Nadu, has dedicated over 42 years to farming. Growing up in a family of farmers, he began working alongside his parents on their land after completing his studies. Initially, he focused on cultivating vegetables and tuber crops, selling them locally at modest prices. However, despite his hard work, he often faced challenges in securing a fair profit due to limited access to market information.
Transition to Precision Farming
Samikannu's farming career turning point came in 2003. When he adopted precision farming techniques introduced by Tamil Nadu Agricultural University. Precision farming is a scientific approach that uses technology to optimize resource management and improve crop yields. This was a game-changer for Samikannu.
He has learned key technologies, including advanced tillage practices, hybrid crop varieties, need-based fertilizer application, drip fertigation, post-harvest technologies, labor reduction strategies, and consumer preference-based crop production.
Impact of Precision Farming
Samikannu's agricultural productivity and profitability have resulted in a sharp increase with the adoption of precision farming. His annual income, which was just a few thousand rupees, now ranges up to 5 lakhs. This financial transformation is attributed to the support and guidance provided by TNAU scientists and dynamic market information systems.
Crop Cultivation and Yields
Samikannu is now engaged in growing horticultural and agricultural crops on his 4.6 acres of land with remarkable output. Some of the main horticultural crops cultivated by him are tomatoes, brinjal, snake gourd, watermelon, muskmelon, drumstick, and tapioca. There are also other agricultural crops like paddy, wheat, sugarcane, banana, and millets like finger millet.
Precision farming has greatly increased crop yields. Banana (Kadali variety) is yielding 12 tonnes per acre, drumstick (PKM1 and PAVM varieties) 16 tonnes per acre, tapioca (MVD1 variety) 23 tonnes per acre, muskmelon 18 tonnes per acre, and tomatoes (Hybrid 618 variety) 58 tonnes per acre.
Awards and Recognition
Samikannu's contribution and achievement bagged him several awards. He got the MFOI award, District Millionaire Farmer in the year 2023. He also has received a cash reward of 5 lakh rupees from
the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). His achievement also inspires the rest of his fellow farmers that through modern agricultural practice will be more prosperous.
Future Plans for Farming Expansion & Community Growth
Looking ahead, Samikannu plans to develop his farming operations further. He plans to have contract farming for vegetables, form a contract farmers association, ensure daily transport facilities like milk vans, direct bank deposit for farmers, and expand his market reach to other states. He feels that crop production will be based on consumer preference. Taking these steps will enhance the social and economic status of his community.
Message to Fellow Farmers
Samikannu is urging fellow farmers to embrace new technologies and innovations developed by agricultural scientists. He believes that by adopting these advances, farmers can achieve success and contribute to the growth of the agricultural sector.
His story demonstrates that precision farming can transform lives, showing that even traditional farmers can become pioneers of modern agriculture with the right tools and knowledge.
