Suttur, December 22, 2023: The ICAR JSS Krishi Vigyan Kendra in Suttur marked a significant milestone today with the distribution of four new paddy varieties as alternatives to the Jyothi variety. Following successful cultivation by local farmers, a field day was organized at Gurulingegowda’s paddy field in Biligere Village, Nanjangud Taluk.
The event featured a dais program at JSS KVK, where Shri Ravi, Assistant Agriculture Director, emphasized the importance of disease-resistant varieties. Farmers were advised to implement precautionary measures, including seed treatment and the application of medicines, to enhance yield.
Dr. H.B. Manoj, Paddy Variety Scientist of V.C. Farm, shared insights on preventing diseases and pests in paddy crops. Farmers expressed their preference for the ‘Sahyadri Kempu Mukti’ and ‘KMP 220′ varieties due to their disease resistance and increased height compared to the Jyothi variety.
Progressive farmers Sri Shankarguru and Gurulingegowda, along with Scientist Dr. Manoj and Senior Scientist and Head of JSS KVK Smt. H.V. Divya, inaugurated the program. Dr. Manoj highlighted the features of the KMP 220 variety, emphasizing the positive results obtained in farmers’ fields.
In her address, Smt. H.V. Divya commended farmers for their keen interest in adopting new varieties. She provided insights into the characteristics of the newly introduced red paddy varieties, including KMP 220, Sahyadri Kempu Mukti, and Kerala Agriculture University’s Shreyas and Pournami varieties.
Farmers, considered agro-scientists in this context, actively participated in the selection process, providing information about yield, market prices, and plant characteristics post-harvest. The participating farmers evaluated the paddy varieties, with ‘Sahyadri Kempu Mukti’ receiving the highest score, indicating its suitability for the region.
Dr. Y.P. Prasad orchestrated the program, with JSS KVK Scientists Sri Shamraj and Shilpa, and over 20 farmers, both male and female, from surrounding villages in attendance.
This initiative not only empowers local farmers with alternative options but also fosters collaboration between farmers and agro-scientists, contributing to the sustainable development of agriculture in the region.
