Innovative farmer scripts success in mixed farming

A progressive farmer in Appashettalli has scripted a success story by constantly innovating on farm implements for use in the farmland.

A passion for farming has helped A D Mohan Kumar, a graduate, to engage in farming, rather than depend on a white-collar job for his livelihood.

The innovations have made him set up an engineering workshop in Shanivarasanthe.

Son of A D Dodde Gowda and Janaki, Mohan Kumar continued to stay in the village and engage in innovations in farming.

He has been engaged in mixed farming on 5.5 acres of land. He cultivates paddy on 1.5 acres of land. Mixed farming helps him to earn an income throughout the year.

“If one crop fails, another helps to fetch an income,” says Mohan Kumar.

He cultivates coffee, pepper, cardamom, orange, arecanut, banana, coconut, butter fruit, lychee and rambutan. The use of organic manure has helped him to fetch a better yield.

Mohan Kumar has been depending on rainwater and a pond for irrigating the farmland. His family members help him in carrying out farming activities.

An innovative mind has helped him to come out with various innovations in farm equipment.

In his workshop, he has been introducing low-cost technology for the farmers. The pepper separating machine, weed remover, sprayer using old two-wheeler engine, cardamom dryer and woodcutter machine have been innovated by him to suit the farmers.

“Hard work and dedication help to achieve success. The mixed farming helps farmers to supplement the income. Farming has helped me to lead a life of contentment. Farming can never be a loss-making venture if taken up scientifically,” says Mohan Kumar.

Mohan Kumar also advises farmers by demonstrating farming activities and his innovations.

He is also engaged in introducing his innovations to the farmers depending on their need. As a secretary of Rotary Club, he is also engaged in social activities.