Farmers fail to adapt, reaping huge losses

Tandur: The farmers of Peddemul, Yalal and Basheerabad and Tandur mandals are mainly depending on cultivation of vegetables and fruits. They are still following the age-old methods, instead of adopting the modern practices.

Horticulture officials who have to offer timely advices and guidance have not been successful in transforming farming practices of vegetable growers in the district. As a result, the farmers are unable to heap profits.

For instance, the farmers can grow different varieties of fruits. The horticulture officials could suggest varieties suited to their land. But, almost all the farmers are growing banana plantation only. On the other hand, the farmers are not well aware of farming technologies like drip and sprinkle irrigation.

As the officials concerned are not available at the field level, the farmers are not showing any interest on the alternative methods and crops. In fact, the farm equipment and necessary seeds should be given on subsidy to the farmers. They cannot afford it in open markets.

Unaware of all these issues, Shaik Rahat, a farmer, spent money from his pocket to procure equipment for drip irrigation. "I waited for the assistance from the officials so far. But, did not receive any help, so I have gone forward," he said.

He also purchased banana plants from Medchal at the cost of Rs 12 per plant and started cultivation. He has been continuing cultivation without any suggestions from experts like many other farmers. It is high time that horticulture officials came into the scene and offered their expertise to the farmers for profitable cultivation.