Shri. Ramanna Nadur of Channapur village Hubli taluka Dharwad district owns less than 5 acres of land. After getting trained by AME Foundation, Ramanna adopted sustainable maize cultivation practices in one acre of his field integrating organic soil management, efficient water use, IPM, and improved seed selection.
Ramanna selected high-yielding improved maize varieties, well-suited to local conditions. He practiced direct seeding using a seed drill to ensure uniform seed distribution and optimal plant spacing. Direct seeding reduces labor costs, ensures uniform crop establishment, and enhances water and nutrient use efficiency. Ramanna practiced inter cropping in maize with legumes (such as cowpeas and pigeon peas), to enhance soil fertility as legumes fix atmospheric nitrogen, enriching the soil. He used farmyard manure (FYM), compost, and vermicompost to provide essential nutrients to the maize crops. He applied these organic fertilizers before sowing and as top dressing during the growing season.
Ramanna adopted IPM practices, including the use of biological control agents (such asTrichoderma for controlling maize seed borne diseases ), pheromone traps, and neembased biopesticides. He used organic mulches like straw and crop residues around maize plants to suppress weed growth, retain soil moisture, and improve soil health.
By following sustainable agriculture practices, Ramanna could harvest higher yield with lower costs. His approach not only benefitted his farm but also serves as a model for other farmers in the region, promoting a shift towards sustainable agriculture and improved livelihoods
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