#farmer

Global News

Farmers Saving Endangered Wildfowl in Australia through Egg Collection Initiative

Farmers in Australia have taken on the role of guardians for endangered wildfowl species by organizing an innovative egg collection initiative. The farmers, based in the Rankins Springs area near West Wyalong, have joined forces with wildlife champion Mal Carnegie and the Lake Cowal Foundation to protect the dwindling population of Malleefowl. The Malleefowl, a ground-nesting bird, has faced challenges to its survival due to the presence of feral cats and invasive foxes. The species' low survival rate, with Malleefowl chicks having less than a 2% chance of making it in the wild, prompted the farmers to step in and make a difference. Over the past three years, the farmers have been collecting eggs from the birds' nesting mounds and transporting them to a specialized incubation facility. The eggs are then released into a feral-free enclosed environment, increasing the chances of survival for the chicks. Through this catch, incubate, and release program, the farmers have successfully increased the likelihood of Malleefowl reaching maturity by tenfold. This collaborative effort has yielded promising results, with 10 juveniles spotted within the 140-acre enclosure just 12 months after their release. The farmers' involvement and their unique approach to incubation and releasing have proven instrumental in the success of the initiative. By taking proactive measures to protect the Malleefowl, these farmers have demonstrated the power of community-driven conservation efforts. Their dedication and ingenuity serve as an inspiration to others seeking to make a positive impact on endangered species and the natural environment.

4 Nov 2023

Global News

Scotland's Golden Symphony: Farmer Paints the Landscape with 250,000 Spectacular Sunflowers in Breathtaking Trail of Blooms

In a stunning display of nature's beauty, a Scottish farmer has captivated visitors by growing a quarter million sunflowers and transforming his fields into a massive trail. Crawford Niven, a 26-year-old farmer from Gloagburn Farm near Perth, Scotland, embarked on this ambitious project after discovering that sunflowers could thrive in his northern climate. Initially skeptical about their growth prospects, Niven's sunflowers defied expectations and flourished across an impressive 13-acre expanse. The towering 7-foot stalks have attracted thousands of visitors from around the world, who delight in strolling through the vibrant yellow blooms and capturing picturesque moments. Niven, known for sharing farming videos on his YouTube channel, initially created a trail in the shape of Scotland last year. However, this time, he opted for a more natural and random pattern, adding an element of surprise to the scenic spectacle. Lasting for about four weeks, the sunflower bloom offers a unique photo opportunity and a chance to immerse oneself in nature's splendor. Visitors can explore the full trail in 30-60 minutes or opt for a shorter, child-friendly version with games. Admission is free for children aged 12 and under. While the sunflowers generate awe-inspiring visuals, Niven regrets that the Scottish climate doesn't provide enough sunlight to harvest the seeds. Nonetheless, his sunflower trail stands as a testament to the beauty of nature and the ingenuity of farmers like Niven, who bring joy to people's lives through their dedication and passion.

23 Aug 2023

Global News

Star Citizens

Farmers in Idukki's High-Range Tap Wild Tamarind for Food Security

In a remarkable display of resourcefulness, farmers in Idukki's high-range region have found a unique way to put food on their tables by tapping into the abundance of wild tamarind trees. This indigenous variety of tamarind, known for its higher sour content and larger size, has become a valuable asset for the local community. The village of Pulikathadam, located nearly 10km from Moolamattom town, in Kerala, has been blessed with naturally growing tamarind trees that have been providing a bountiful harvest for generations. These trees, some of which are over a century old, have become an integral part of the village's identity. Raveendran T S, an early settler and farmer, shared his experience of arriving in Pulikathadam in 1964 and discovering the abundance of Malabar tamarind trees. These trees had grown naturally over time from fallen seeds, requiring no cultivation. Today, Raveendran harvests around 600kg of tamarind annually from his 250 trees. The farmers in this region have turned the wild tamarind into a source of income by smoke-drying the harvested fruits and selling them to local traders from Moolamattom. The tamarind is then distributed outside the district and even sold to pharmaceutical companies for medicinal preparations. The resilient nature of dried tamarind allows farmers to store it for years, providing a safety net during times of financial strain or when prices soar. The prices of tamarind have seen a rise this year, reaching up to 180/kg compared to 160-170/kg last year. The wild tamarind trees of Pulikathadam not only contribute to the farmers' livelihoods but also serve as a testament to the region's rich biodiversity. With their sustainable agricultural practices, these farmers are ensuring food security while preserving the natural resources of their community.

22 Oct 2023

Star Citizens

B.Tech and MBA Graduates Embrace Dairy Farming: Finding Fulfillment Beyond Their Fields of Study

In an inspiring turn of events, two graduates, MS Sangamesh and Rizwan Jahagirdar, have chosen to leave behind their B.Tech and MBA degrees and embark on a fulfilling journey in dairy farming. Breaking away from the conventional career paths dictated by their educational qualifications, these enterprising individuals have found a deeper sense of purpose in nurturing cows and buffaloes. Despite the initial challenges of transitioning from their respective fields of study, both Sangamesh and Rizwan have discovered a passion for dairy farming that has made the shift much easier. Rizwan, who had previously worked in different companies after completing his B.Tech, decided to pursue farming when his employer asked him to relocate abroad. Choosing to stay close to his roots in Vijayapura, he embraced dairy farming on his family's land. Similarly, Sangamesh, armed with an MBA and work experience in the corporate world, returned to Vijayapura during the Covid pandemic. Rejecting the idea of returning to his job, he seized the opportunity to become self-employed in dairy farming. Recognizing the timeless importance of milk as a commodity, Sangamesh has built a thriving dairy business, supplying approximately 50 liters of milk daily to his loyal customers. Both graduates share a common belief that educated individuals can make a significant impact in the agricultural sector. They bring knowledge, fresh ideas, and enthusiasm to an industry that often goes overlooked. By engaging in dairy farming, they not only ensure a sustainable future but also create employment opportunities for others. They advocate for the involvement of educated youth in farming, challenging the perception that it is menial work.

21 Oct 2023

Star Citizens

Madanapalle Students Invent Solar-Powered Robotic Semi-Weed Cutter to Relieve Farmers' Struggles

In a remarkable breakthrough, a group of students from Madanapalle Institute of Technology and Science (MITS) Engineering College have developed a revolutionary solution to alleviate the struggles of farmers. They have invented a solar-powered robotic semi-weed cutter that aims to reduce the workload and cost of cultivation for farmers. The innovative machine, designed by students Kumar, Lokesh, Rupesh, and Lalit Venkat Sai from the Department of mechanical engineering, operates by harnessing solar energy. Equipped with an AT 238 percent micro cooler, two DC motors, an Arduino board, ultrasonic sensors, a solar panel, a 12-volt battery, a three-wheeled cart, and a pair of scissors, the robotic cutter can be controlled remotely. Traditionally, farmers have had to invest significant manpower and financial resources to manually remove weeds from their fields, often resulting in reduced productivity. However, this new invention eliminates the need for extensive labor and expensive weed removal processes. The machine's sensors ensure that only the weeds are removed, without causing any damage to the main crop. This feature proves to be highly beneficial for farmers, as it not only eradicates the weed problem efficiently but also saves valuable time and resources. With the scarcity of agricultural laborers, farmers have been burdened with exorbitant expenses for weed control. The solar-powered robotic cutter, which costs less than Rs 15,000 to manufacture, provides an affordable alternative. It is estimated that a similar machine available in the market would cost around Rs 5 lakh. The Madanapalle students' invention has garnered appreciation from their college authorities, including Professor Muppa Lakshmana Rao and Assistant Professor H Raghavendra Rao. This groundbreaking innovation holds great promise for the farming community, offering a sustainable and cost-effective solution to their long-standing struggles.

11 Aug 2023

Star Citizens

Meet the Engineer Who Left Silicon Valley to Save Indian Farmers

In recent years, the news of farmer suicides in India has been a cause of concern for many. It is a tragic consequence of the challenges faced by Indian farmers, such as droughts, crop failures, and low market prices for their produce. However, there are individuals who have decided to take action to address this issue, and one such person is Ramesh Biswal, an engineer who left the United States to launch Villa Mart. In 2017, Ramesh launched Villa Mart — a market on wheels that would procure grains, fruits and vegetables from the farmers listed with the platform and sell them to the village consumers. By utilizing his engineering skills and knowledge from IIT Kharagpur, Biswal has created a platform that addresses a pressing social issue and has the potential to improve the lives of many farmers in the region. Having started in 2017 with one van and a handful of farmers in Bhubaneshwar, today Villa Mart has a fleet of seven vans, is connected with “over 3,000 farmers from all over Odisha”, and has reached 110 villages to date Villa Mart is not only beneficial for farmers but also for consumers who can access fresh produce at affordable prices. It is a shining example of how innovation and entrepreneurship can be used to address pressing social issues such as farmer suicides in India.

2 Mar 2023

Star Citizens

The Man From Kerala Who Has Grown 250 Different Types of Brazilian Fruits

Prajeesh Janan is a farmer from Kerala, India, who has made a name for himself by cultivating an impressive variety of exotic fruits from Brazil in his home garden. Janan's passion for horticulture began at a young age, and over the years he has devoted himself to learning about and growing a wide range of unique and unusual fruit trees. Today, his home garden is home to more than 250 different types of Brazil's exotic fruits, including the acerola cherry, cupuacu, and mango-peach. Janan's love for these exotic fruits stems from their unique flavors and nutritional properties. Many of the fruits he grows are high in antioxidants and other nutrients, making them an excellent addition to anyone's diet. In addition to their health benefits. These fruits also have a variety of culinary uses, and Janan is always experimenting with new recipes and ways to incorporate them into his meals. Janan's dedication to horticulture has not gone unnoticed, and he has gained a reputation as a skilled and knowledgeable farmer. His home garden has become a popular destination for visitors and tourists interested in learning about and trying these exotic fruits. Janan's success has also inspired other farmers in the region to try their hand at growing these unusual crops, helping to expand their availability and popularity in the local market. Overall, Prajeesh Janan's love for horticulture and his commitment to cultivating a wide variety of exotic fruits has made him a notable figure in the world of agriculture. His home garden is a testament to his passion and dedication and serves as an inspiration to others looking to explore the world of unusual and unique fruit varieties.

27 Dec 2022

Star Citizens

This Tamil Nadu Farmer Earns 1.5 Crore per Year. Know How

As a farmer, earning a yearly income of Rs 1.5 crore may seem like a far-fetched dream. However, for one farmer in India, this dream has become a reality thanks to a machine that turns banana waste into rope. P M Murugesan, a farmer from the village of Kottur in Tamil Nadu, India, has developed a machine that turns banana waste into rope. This innovative solution not only helps to reduce waste but also creates a new source of income for Murugesan, who earns approximately Rs 1.5 crore (approximately $204,000) per year from the sale of the rope. The machine, which was developed with the help of local engineers, works by shredding the banana waste and then using heat and pressure to turn it into a dense, strong rope. The process is environmentally friendly and helps to reduce the amount of banana waste that ends up in landfills. Murugesan's success with the banana waste rope machine has inspired other farmers in the region to adopt similar waste management techniques. In addition to earning a significant income from the sale of the rope, Murugesan's machine has also helped to improve the overall health and sanitation of the village by reducing waste and improving the local environment. Murugesan's innovative solution is a great example of how entrepreneurs can find new and innovative ways to turn waste into valuable resources, while also helping to improve the environment and the quality of life in their communities.

19 Dec 2022

Star Citizens

Good News

Horticulture Farm Transforms into a Horti-Tourism Hub, Boosting Karnataka's Agricultural Sector

Shedegali Horticulture Farm, a government-run research center and training institute located in Khanapur taluk of Belagavi, Karnataka, is set to undergo a remarkable transformation into the state's first horti-tourism hub. Spearheaded by Mahantesh Murgod, Deputy Director of Horticulture, Belagavi, the project aims to promote sustainable agriculture practices and offer a unique tourism experience centered around horticulture. The Shedegali Horticulture Farm is renowned for its diverse range of rare tree species and hosts a research center where over 30 varieties of fruits are cultivated. The farm sources saplings from around the world, conducts experiments, and propagates successful saplings at its nursery. Additionally, the horticulture department actively educates farmers about the cultivation of these fruit trees, providing training classes and affordable saplings to encourage their adoption. Rajkumar D Takale, Assistant Director of the Horticulture Department, emphasized the medicinal properties of the fruits grown at the farm, including their positive impact on diabetes and digestive ailments. He also noted that farmers in the region traditionally focus on paddy, sugarcane, vegetables, and cashew crops, but the diversification into fruit trees can offer them better economic opportunities. The Shedegali Farm's transformation into a horti-tourism hub will not only benefit farmers but also promote sustainable practices and raise awareness about the importance of horticulture. The project aims to attract tourists who can explore the beauty of the farm, learn about various fruit species, and experience the agricultural heritage of Karnataka.

11 Aug 2023

Good News

IFFCO Launches World's First Nano DAP Liquid Fertilizer

The Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative (IFFCO) has launched the world's first Nano DAP Liquid Fertiliser in a bid to revolutionize the agricultural sector and provide farmers with a more efficient means of boosting their productivity and income. At a grand ceremony held in IFFCO Sadan, New Delhi, Amit Shah, Minister of Home Affairs & Cooperation, dedicated the innovative product to the service of the nation, amid millions of farmers and cooperative societies from India and abroad who tuned in online to witness the launch. IFFCO has set up manufacturing facilities for the production of Nano DAP fertilisers at Kalol, Kandla in Gujarat and Paradeep in Orissa, and production has already started at the Kalol plant. This year, five crore bottles of Nano DAP Liquid, equivalent to 25 lakh tonnes of DAP, will be produced. IFFCO plans to produce 18 crore bottles of Nano DAP by FY 2025-26 through its three plants. The Nano DAP Liquid Fertiliser provides an efficient source of nitrogen and phosphorus and helps overcome the nitrogen and phosphorus deficiencies in plants. The fertiliser is biologically safe and eco-friendly, making it fit for residue-free green farming. The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has notified the Nano DAP Liquid Fertiliser under the Fertilizer Control Order, and a gazette notification has been issued allowing IFFCO to produce it in India. Speaking on the occasion, Amit Shah highlighted the contribution of cooperative societies like IFFCO and KRIBHCO to India's self-reliance. He added that IFFCO Nano DAP Liquid Fertiliser will not only increase the quality and quantity of production but also the quality of life and make a huge contribution to increasing farmer's income and land conservation. The launch of the Nano DAP Liquid Fertiliser marks a significant beginning in making India self-reliant in the field of fertilisers.

27 Apr 2023

Good News

Unconventional Farming Leads to Unprecedented Profits: The Story of Lavender in Doda

The purple revolution has begun in the hilly slopes of Jammu and Kashmir's Doda district as 200 farmers have abandoned the traditional farming of maize crops and started cultivating aromatic lavender. This transformation has led to more profitability for farmers and is a step towards fulfilling Prime Minister Narendra Modi's dream of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (self-reliant India). The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) initiated the Aroma Mission to popularize aromatic crops and provide end-to-end technology and value-addition solutions to farmers across the country. The introduction of lavender by the Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine in 2018 in the temperate regions of Jammu division under the CSIR-Aroma Mission has led to the successful cultivation of the plant in Doda, Kishtwar, and Rajouri districts. The 200 small and marginal farmers of the Bhadarwah region of Doda district embraced the initiative and started cultivating lavender in their fields in several villages. Under the CSIR-Aroma Mission, quality planting material (QPM) of eight lakh rooted plants of lavender were provided free of cost to 500 farmers in the Jammu region for 100 acres of land. The farmers were given technical support and free essential oil distillation facilities. Through CSIR-IIIM interventions, they have produced more than 800 litres of lavender oil worth Rs 80 lakh from 2018 to 2020. The success of the initiative has led to local entrepreneurs providing the required infrastructure at farmers' doorsteps to extract oil and the appropriate market to sell it. Over 100 acres of land belonging to 200 farmers have been brought under cultivation of aromatic plants, especially lavender. The farmers are already harvesting and distilling lavender in Bhadarwah and are expecting good returns as the cost of lavender oil is Rs 10,000 per litre. The "purple revolution" is an excellent example of how unconventional agricultural practices can lead to better outcomes for small and marginal farmers, as well as fulfilling the goal of Atmanirbhar Bharat. The success of this initiative can inspire more farmers to adopt unconventional farming methods and lead to a more sustainable and profitable agricultural sector.

25 Apr 2023

Good News

Reviving Hope: Rural Indian Community's Efforts Bring 'Dead' River Back to Life

The rejuvenation of the Kuttamperoor River in India is being hailed as a national example of how rural communities can come together to restore their local environment. A tributary of the Pampa and Achencoil rivers, the 4-mile-long Kuttamperoor River has for centuries been a source of life and drinking water for rural communities in Kerala. Irrigating more than 2,000 acres of rice paddy, and providing a lifeline for 500 fishermen families, the Kettamperoor River played a huge role in the local community. The river had become heavily polluted and choked with invasive water hyacinth, posing a major threat to the region's agriculture and fishing industries. However, 7,000 villagers from three communities donated around 30,000 man-hours of work to finish the initial clean up in just 2 months. They removed tons of debris and water hyacinth, and planted thousands of native plant species along the riverbanks. After that, the state government in Kerala on the southwest tip of India took over and created the conditions for life to return. They worked alongside the denizens of the river, who offered off up some of their land for a planned expansion of the river’s banks. The efforts of the Kuttamperoor community have paid off, with the river now teeming with fish and other aquatic life. The restoration project has also had a positive impact on the local economy, with farmers and fishermen now able to access clean water and maintain their livelihoods.

12 Apr 2023

Good News

Cost-Effective and Life-Saving: The Fascinating Story Behind the 'Lifesaver Stick' Created by High Schoolers

In a world where technology is advancing rapidly, it's inspiring to see young minds using their knowledge to make a difference. A group of students from Municipal Corporation High School KASPA in Vizianagaram, Andhra Pradesh, have developed a groundbreaking device that could save farmers from snakebites, a major cause of death in their region. The students, including B Ravi Teja, T Yaswanth, N Daniel Raj, and D Sandeep, created a "lifesaver stick" that emits random vibrations up to five feet on the ground, signaling danger to snakes and keeping them away from farmers. The stick is equipped with a lithium battery, eccentric motor, and switch in the circuit, and it is cost-effective, with a production cost of only Rs 150. Moreover, the device is environmentally friendly since the batteries are rechargeable, making it affordable for farmers. It also features a light that makes it useful even during the twilight hours. In addition, the stick has a pouch carrying two Ayurvedic tablets prescribed by medical professionals. Ingesting these tablets will help reduce the effects of a snakebite until the farmer can be transported to the hospital. The students met with several Ayurvedic and allopathic doctors in the process of choosing the best medicine to be integrated into the stick. The students visited agricultural fields and interacted with more than 20 farmers to conduct a study on the characteristics, aggressiveness, seasonal activeness, and habitat of snakes and the underlying factors behind snakebites other than chance encounters. MNP Bhagya Lakshmi, a biology teacher at the Kaspa high school and the group leader for the project, supervised the study. The prototype was exhibited in the state-level science fair conducted by the state government, where it drew appreciation and accolades from officials. The project is a remarkable feat of innovation and could potentially save countless lives in the region.

11 Apr 2023

Good News

Relief From Air Pollution: Indian Scientists Have New Capsules to Decrease Crop Burning

Air pollution is increasing day by day and we all are sick of it. One of the major reasons for a bad AQI has been crop burning. The activity is done by farmers, and you can't even fault them for doing it. So, what do to do then? Well, you must have heard — modern problem requires modern solutions! The Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) in Delhi has developed a new type of capsule that could potentially help decrease the amount of crop burning in the region. Crop burning is a common practice in India, especially in the northern states, where farmers often burn their fields after harvesting in order to clear the land for the next planting season. However, this practice has been linked to air pollution and other environmental issues. The IARI capsules contain microorganisms that can break down the leftover plant material in the fields, reducing the need for burning. The capsules are easy to use and can be applied directly to the fields after harvest. According to IARI scientists, the capsules have shown promising results in field trials, with the microorganisms effectively breaking down the leftover plant material. This not only helps to reduce the amount of burning but also enriches the soil with organic matter, improving its fertility and increasing crop yields. In addition to the environmental benefits, the IARI capsules could also help farmers save money on labor costs, as they no longer need to hire workers to burn the fields. The capsules could also potentially reduce the risk of fires spreading and damaging nearby homes and communities. The IARI capsules have the potential to be a valuable tool in the fight against crop burning and its negative impacts on the environment and public health.

15 Dec 2022

Good News

1 Lakh Kisan Drones by 2024 Set To Revolutionize the Agricultural Sector

Think about drones — it's a cool gadget, right? It serves various purposes, such as filming Tom Cruise hanging down a plane in Mission Impossible! What could be cooler? The answer is using drones for the people who feed our stomachs. Garuda Aerospace, a Chennai-based drone start-up, recently announced its plans to produce 1 lakh Kisan drones by 2024. The Kisan drones, designed specifically for agricultural use, will greatly benefit Indian farmers by providing efficient and cost-effective solutions for crop monitoring and management. Agnishwar Jayaprakash, the Founder and CEO of Garuda Aerospace, says, "The drone yatra will help farmers understand more about the technology and give them a better perspective on growing crops." The production of 1 lakh Kisan drones will create employment opportunities across 6 lakh Indian villages and contribute to the government's goal of doubling farmers' income by 2022. Furthermore, the widespread use of Kisan drones in agriculture will help India achieve food security and self-sufficiency in the long run. India is a developing country, and it dreams to be a $3 trillion economy soon. The drone market is expected to cross $5 billion by 2024, and it requires at least 1 lakh drone pilots by next year. In conclusion, the production of 1 lakh Kisan drones by Garuda Aerospace is a welcome development that will greatly benefit Indian farmers and the agriculture industry as a whole. It is a step towards modernizing the sector and improving the livelihoods of farmers.

14 Dec 2022

Good News

Farmers Realize That Plants They Burnt As Waste Are in Fact Medicinal Treasure

It is said that knowledge is power. There is no doubt about it as knowledge given to farmers about plants helped them to harness the goodness in plants which otherwise were burnt as waste. Farmers in nine villages in the periphery of Vadodara, Gujarat have now learned to convert their farm waste into Ayurvedic medicines. The farmers, unaware of the benefits of wild plants growing in their fields would bury or burn them. When the Gujarat Ecological Society (GES) began to educate them about the medicinal qualities of these plants, they were inspired to use the farm waste to make valuable medicines. Workshops The Gujarat Ecological Society conducted many workshops for the farmers to train them in the art of making Ayurvedic medicines from the wild plants growing in their fields. They informed the farmers about the medicinal and commercial benefits of plants like kuvadiyo,nagod, galo, damro, guggal , bhangro and gudmar. The farmers learned the procedure to make hair and body oil, sherbets, cough syrup, medicinal powders and mouth fresheners from the plants which they used to earlier consider as waste. Addition To Farmer’s Income Farmers who used to pay labour cost of removing and disposing of the farm waste can now see an addition to their income through the manufacture and marketing of medicinal products prepared from the farm waste. Villagers are given access to Ayurveda experts who provide them with formulas to make oils, cough syrups and other products that are helpful in joint pain, arthritis, diabetes, hypertension etc. The farmers have also realized that the wild plants have good commercial value as they are in demand by pharmaceutical companies to make medicines. Through proper guidance, the wild plants- that farmers earlier used to burn causing air pollution- are now being put to good use thus, benefitting the farmers as well as the environment.

24 Nov 2019

Good News

Know How This Path-Breaking Technology Is Helping to Improve the Health of Tea Farmers in Assam

Tea farming involves spraying pesticides and fertilizers which farmers do manually putting their health and lives to risk. Many workers are known to have lost their lives to tuberculosis and respiratory diseases as they are not provided with protective gear like masks. BRS Ventures that has acquired the world’s first tea company ‘Assam Company India Limited’ has decided to address this issue with the help of Artificial Intelligence. Robotic Drones At a workshop conducted in Assam’s Dibrugarh district, B R Shetty, Founder of BRS Ventures said that the company will introduce two robotic drones that will spray fertilizers and pesticides on the plants from a height of 6-8 feet. This will help reduce wastage of fertilizers and improve the quality of tea through the technique of precision spraying. The two drones are designed to perform varied functions. While one set will analyze the health of plants, soil conditions and other natural factors, the other will spray fertilizers and target pests. Better Health of Tea Farmers Tea farmers suffer due to the manual spraying of fertilizers and pesticides as particles are dispersed in the air causing respiratory diseases and TB which can be fatal. Farmers are to be provided with masks, gloves and goggles while spraying, but few employers adhere to such rules. The drones will make their work easier, but that doesn’t mean that they will lose their jobs. Shetty has assured that the use of technology will not lead to retrenchment and they will be engaged in different areas.

5 Nov 2019

Good News

For the First Time in Kerala, a Milk ATM Begins Operations

We all have heard of ATMs that deliver cash, but have you heard of an ATM that renders milk? A first of its kind milk ATM was opened recently in Kerala at Attingal, Thiruvanathapuram. The milk ATM facility at Attingal will provide round the clock milk which is an essential item that is purchased daily. A Novel Initiative The milk ATM is the initiative of Milco, a dairy cooperative based at Keezhattingal. It will supply milk to the ATM from its own farm. Customers can avail of prepaid ATM cards that will allow them to draw milk from the machine. People can also deposit money into the machine to get milk. Customers will have to carry their own vessels for milk. The president of Milco, Panchamam Suresh said that only organically produced milk will be supplied through the ATM. High-Quality Milk Milco's secretary Anil Kumar said that the milk supplied through ATM will be of high quality and no preservatives or additives would be mixed in it. The capacity of the facility is 500 litres. In case Milco is unable to meet the high demand for milk through ATM, then it plans to source the extra milk from farmers engaged in organic dairying under the supervision of Milco. The profit from the ATM will go to the dairy farmers. This new ATM seems to be a convenient and easy way of getting our daily milk. Good quality and purity of milk also add to the advantage. Image Source: Mathrubhumi English

29 Oct 2019

Good News

Experts at Pune Institute and IMD Develop a Revolutionary App for Farmers

A new mobile app named Meghdoot has been launched by the Ministries of Earth Sciences and Agriculture that provides the location, crop and livestock-specific weather-based agro advisories to farmers in local languages. Revolutionary App The mobile app developed by experts from the India Meteorological Department and Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, Pune and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research provides forecast relating to temperature, rainfall, humidity, and wind speed and direction, which have a crucial role to play in agricultural operations. It also renders advisories to the farmers on how to take care of their crops and livestock. The service is at present available in 150 districts in different parts of the country. It will be made available throughout the country in a phased manner by next year. Modern Outlook The app is sophisticated enough to provide information in the form of images, maps and pictures to help the farmers to have a clearer picture. For a wider reach, it has been integrated with WhatsApp and Facebook so that farmers can also share advisories among themselves. Information and advisories are updated twice a week on Tuesdays and Fridays. This user-friendly app which can be downloaded from Google Play Store and App Store will certainly be of great assistance to the farmers

29 Aug 2019

Good News

The Farmers in Enabavi Village in Telangana Only Practice Natural Farming

The budget 2019 was declared on July 5 where the Union Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharam said that zero-budget farming can help increase farmers’ income. The pesticides used for chemical farming degrades the quality of the agricultural land and moreover, the pesticides and synthetic urea are also expensive. Organic or natural farming, on the other hand, can prevent the land from losing its fertility and it does not even require the need for costly chemicals. And Enabavi village in Telangana tells us why organic farming is important. The village has been practising natural farming for the last few years and it is known as Telangana’s first organic village. 75-year-old farmer, Ponnam Mallaiah’s yield increased initially when he started using more chemical fertilizers. But later the input burden kept escalating and both his income as well as yield stopped growing. And now for the past 19 years, Ponnam has been practising natural farming as reported by NDTV. Ponnam told the portal that earlier each farmer had a loan of RS 15000 but, today no one has the burden of debts and every house has a bike, tractor, therefore, life is going really well. The small farmers grow rice, wheat, chillies, millets, oilseeds, cotton, and vegetables in Jangaon district of Telangana which are not only being sold in the local markets and Hyderabad but, also in Singapore. Mylaram Venkanna, a farmer in the village gave up on chemical farming after realizing how hazardous chemicals can affect one’s health and can even take life. On explaining how the natural way of farming works, he told NDTV that cow urine and dung are stored to make bio manure and vermicompost. The neem seeds from its tree are used as a biopesticide. They grow leguminous crops with the main crop for nitrogen fixation. And subsoil to enrich and multi crops for good soil health. Mylaram can also make pheromone to trap pests. They even grow plants which attract insects which can keep pests at bay. Opting for natural farming can curb down several problems for the farmers and make their life easy. Enabavi village’s outstanding way of organic farming is certainly the way how it should be done.

23 Jul 2019

Good News

BSF's 'kissan guards'

Farmers having their cultivable land beyond border fence need not worry about facing the heat of the recent bitterness in India-Pakistan relations as the Border Security Force is doing their bit to help the farmers of border areas. Amrik Singh, a farmer who owns six acres of land beyond border fence said that it is the paddy sowing season and he was wary that BSF might impose restrictions or close the gates in advance due to tensions at the border, but to his pleasant surprise the force has shown generosity and is even helping the farmers whenever the need arises. A BSF inspector on duty at one of the border gate stated that there have been cases where farmers indulge in cross border smuggling or divulging information to Pak Rangers. Some farmers have even been found cultivating poppy in their fields situated beyond the fence. Therefore, they have to adopt strict measures like putting restrictions on farmers’ movements or frisking their implements as it is a matter of national security. A local farmer Sukhdev Singh said that they felt secure in presence of BSF's 'kissan guards' who escort them beyond border fence and provide them with security cover. General secretary, Border Areas Sangarsh Committee Rattan Singh Randhawa said that the presence of Kissan Guards makes the farmers feel safe and comfortable to do their work and adds to their confidence while working in the field. He added that the fear of being attacked by some elements from Pakistan side always loomed large over the farmers, but the presence of BSF subdues their fears.

18 Jul 2017

Good News

This app help farmers to know the selling market

When we think about mobile application, most of the times we have always taken granted the city people, but here’s an application that thinks about the farmers. This data application developed helps the farmers to decide the best time to sell their produce in face of high fluctuation in crop prices. This app has won the two-day long hackathon 'ICT4D Data Jam, which was held at ICRISAT's ihub, Hyderabad on May 12. While data entrepreneurs, data analysts, IT professionals and academics competed to find solutions on how technology can better address the development challenges, the winning team, Time2Sell developed a data-based innovation completed preliminary development of a price prediction app. This app aims to help the farmer decide when to sell. Also, customized instalment sales plans for farmers based on their existing loans, interests, quantity of crop are among the key features. The second place was secured by team AgriBarT, who developed a dynamic group formation app that enables collective bargaining for small scale farmers. The team built a prototype to identify farmers with similar purchase requirements, demographics, geographies and historical cropping patterns. The app will empower farmers to gain benefits through bulk ordering in the shared economy.

16 May 2017

Good News

New App to benefit farmers by replacing middlemen

Anil Lade, a 27 year old engineer has a strong agricultural background which helped him come up with a technological solution for one of the most pressing issues of the sector — dealing with the middlemen. Lade felt that even after tremendous hardwork, farmers have no control over the price of their produce as middlemen rule the market. His education in engineering and management helped him come up with an app called ' Marketyard' which he hopes will eliminate the middlemen and benefit the farmers. Marketyard, as the name suggests, is an online market for buyers and sellers, but exclusively for the agricultural sector. The app is free and farmers can list the quantity and quality of their produce so that prospective buyers can go through them. Location of the buyer is also listed so that sellers can browse through the list and contact the buyer directly. As he hailed from a family of pomegranate farmers in Sangola taluka of Solapur district, he knew how farmers were fleeced at markets. Market access was limited to the farmers and they had very little say in matters regarding price of their products. To tackle these problems, Lade developed this app which due to the universal reach of technology, allows a wider market access to the farmers. The app was launched four months ago and it has been downloaded more than 10,000 times. Other than fruits and vegetables, the app also allows for listing of agricultural equipment and farm machinery — both on rent and purchase. Lade added that the app also allows listing of farm animals for sale.

20 Apr 2017

Good News

In a first, UP government will purchase potatoes directly from farmers

The UP government has decided to directly purchase potatoes from farmers to avoid wastage due to shortage of cold storage. This was decided in the second cabinet meeting on Tuesday. The Centre supported this move of the UP government and has approved the procurement of 1 lakh metric tonne (MT) of potatoes in the state under the Market Intervention Scheme (MIS) during 2016-17 crop year (JulyJune). The purchase will be made at Rs 4,870 per MT. This move will also save farmers from incurring loss. The cabinet also approved agreement on 24x7 power supply for which MoU was signed between UP chief minister Yogi Adityanath and Union power minister Piyush Goyal. The government also gave nod to short term mining to plug the shortfall of sand and building material. Efforts are being taken to check the spread of Japanese Encephalitis and to increase beds in hospitals. The UP government also plans to make roads across the state pothole free bu June 15. The UP government spokesman Siddarth Nath Singh said that the government has sanctioned Rs 4,502 crore for making 85,943 km of roads identified to be made pothole free.The PWD will also repair 3,100 km of national highway .

13 Apr 2017

Good News

Positive Reads

Heroic Farmer's Unlikely Ride: Sickly Leopard Rescued and Carried to Safety on Motorcycle

A young farmer in India has become a hero after saving the life of a young leopard. Venugopal, also known as Muttu, found the unconscious juvenile leopard in the corner of his field in the Hassan District of Karnataka. He observed the animal for some time and decided to intervene, carrying the leopard on his motorbike to his village. The villagers immediately called the forest service, who took the leopard to receive veterinary care. Officials from the Hassan DCF confirmed that the leopard was dehydrated and had likely strayed into the village in search of food. What appeared to be a case of leopard poaching turned out to be a compassionate act of rescue. Muttu's act of courage has been widely applauded, and he will not face any charges for his actions. Human-animal conflict is a major issue in rural India, with encounters between humans and wild animals often causing harm to both parties. Muttu's actions are a heartening reminder that coexistence with wildlife is possible and that compassion and empathy can go a long way in saving lives. The story has also garnered attention for its demonstration of the power of social media to dispel misinformation and celebrate acts of kindness and bravery.

21 Jul 2023

Positive Reads

Know the Significance of Kisan Divas Which Is Celebrated Today

Every year, India observes Farmers’ Day or Kisan Diwas on December 23. Farmers should be given due recognition as they are the backbone of the economy of the nation. The fifth Prime Minister of India, Chaudhary Charan Singh, was born on this day as well. He began his career as a farmer before becoming a member of the government. His contribution to the country and farmers is celebrated on this day. The purpose of celebrating this day is to raise public awareness of the value of farmers and their important role in the overall social and economic growth of the country. Chaudhary Charan Singh is a brilliant example of how one may achieve greatness despite leading the simple lifestyle of a farmer. By promoting and helping pass many measures for farmers' reforms, Singh was instrumental in changing India's agricultural sector both before and after independence. After the Janata Party was defeated, Singh succeeded Prime Minister Morarji Desai, serving in that position from 1979 to 1980. Singh worked to improve the lives of Indian farmers throughout his brief tenure as prime minister. Several programs were put up to improve the social standing of farmers. In 2001, the Indian government decided to designate Singh's birthday as the day to commemorate Kisan Diwas in recognition of his outstanding efforts and transition from farmer to head of state. On this day, numerous events are planned across the nation each year. The farming community is significantly impacted by these activities, which also give them a platform to express their needs and goals. The most recent innovations in science and technology are presented by agricultural scientists to help farmers maximize their productivity. The government also helps farmers by holding competitions and giving awards to the winners.

23 Dec 2022

Positive Reads

Amul To Use Cutting-Edge Technology To Boost Farmers’ Revenue

Amul, the cooperative brand managed by Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation Ltd. (GCMMF) and controlled by over 36 lakh milk producers in Gujarat is instrumental in spurring India’s White Revolution which made the nation a leading producer of milk and milk products. Speaking to ANI, Amit Vyas, managing director of Amul Dairy, said that farmers have always come first at Amul, and the company ensures that they make a good living from producing milk. He even went on to say that farmers are Amul's true owners. In order to further increase the standard of living of farmers, Amul is focussing on the genetics of the dairy herd. It is employing technologies like digital bands, sorted sex semen, and embryo transfer to improve the breeds of dairy cows and buffaloes. It possesses proven bulls of the high breed which will be utilized to fertilize the embryo to deliver high breeds for the future generation. With hybrid cows and new technologies, farmers will be able to produce milk equivalent to 10 cows with just half the number of cows. Additionally, Amul has been completely digitalized and animals are provided with digital bracelets that help to track their health and analyze their patterns. Earlier, bovines gave birth to more males than females, but thanks to technology more female calves are being born that will help to raise the farmer’s income. By assisting to cut back expenditures and offering the technology at a low cost to farmers, Amul helps to double their income and improve their standard of living.

13 Dec 2022

Positive Reads

Know Why Hop Shoots Is the Costliest Vegetable in the World Costing Up to a Lakh

Hop shoots are known to be the priciest vegetable not just in India, but throughout the world. The vegetable, which is known for its therapeutic benefits, costs around Rs 85,000! Yes, you have heard it right. One can buy a gold ring with that amount. This vegetable is used in the treatment of tuberculosis because it has therapeutic characteristics. Additionally, hop shoots aid in digestion, remove body odor, provide relaxation to people with depression or anxiety, function as an analgesic, and are known to treat insomnia. The hop plant, also known as Humulus Lupulus, is a perennial plant. According to the website agrifarming.in, hop shoots are used for "bittering," "flavoring," and as a "stability agent in beer" and have "antibacterial benefits." Hop shoots, which are native to North America and Europe, were thought to be weeds before their beneficial properties came to light. Hop Shoots are small in size and very difficult to harvest. The weed-like tendrils spread randomly, so one must "hunch" and "search around." Last year, Amresh Singh an enterprising farmer from Bihar was in the news for being the first person in India to cultivate hop shoots. That created a buzz on social media as people tweeted about the green conical vegetable and how it could be a game changer for Indian farmers.

23 Nov 2022

Positive Reads