Survey Reveals Low Drip Irrigation Adoption Among Nandyal Farmers

A recent survey conducted by agricultural scientists from Jain Irrigation has highlighted a troubling trend in Varikuntla Nandyal, where only 10 to 20 percent of farmers are utilizing drip irrigation systems. The survey, executed across nearly 60 villages between January 20 and 29, 2024, aimed to assess crop patterns and gauge farmers’ awareness of modern irrigation practices that could enhance productivity and conserve precious water resources.

The findings revealed that a significant majority of farmers in the district continue to depend on rainfall and traditional flood irrigation methods. Even those with access to borewells are reportedly wasting substantial amounts of water due to limited understanding of more efficient irrigation techniques. Despite evidence that drip irrigation can successfully cultivate crops using as little as 10 percent of the water required by conventional methods, the traditional approaches remain prevalent, contributing to water wastage and lower agricultural yields.

The survey team expressed concern about the farmers’ lack of knowledge regarding government subsidy schemes that offer up to 90 percent off the cost of drip irrigation equipment. This gap in awareness means that many are missing opportunities to lower cultivation costs and improve their income. The scientists underscored that increasing awareness and providing adequate technical guidance could significantly enhance sustainable agricultural practices in the region.

Awareness Initiatives Planned

In an interview with The Hans India, Hanumantha Reddy, Senior Agricultural Scientist at Jain Irrigation and leader of the survey, announced plans to organize farmer awareness programs at the Jain industrial unit in Tanguturu. These programs aim to educate local cultivators about modern irrigation practices.

During the survey, Dr Shankar Mane, Vice President and senior scientist at Jain Irrigation, engaged with progressive farmers, including Prameela Reddy from Muchumarri village in Panyam mandal. Reddy successfully cultivates various horticulture crops over nearly 10 acres using drip irrigation. The team also visited farmers Nagalingam and Govindu from Jalakanuru and Lakshmapuram villages, respectively, who are successfully utilizing drip systems to grow chili and sugarcane.

Participating junior scientists, including Mohammed Rafi, Sekhara Rao, Raghavendra Rao, Sai Chaitanya, and Shapeer, contributed to the awareness program, demonstrating a commitment to improving agricultural practices in the Nandyal district.

The findings of this survey prompt a critical need for educational initiatives that could empower farmers to adopt modern practices, ultimately leading to more sustainable and efficient agricultural methods.