V. Samikannu, a farmer from Molayanur Village, has successfully adopted precision farming techniques on his 4.6-acre farm, achieving impressive yields. He began farming 42 years ago, initially producing vegetables and tuber crops, but struggled with limited market access. In 2003, he adopted precision farming techniques from Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, which revolutionized his farming practices.
Samikannu’s farm now produces a wide range of horticultural and agricultural crops, including tomatoes, brinjal, snake gourd, and more. He has achieved remarkable yields, with banana production reaching 12 tonnes per acre, drumstick production reaching 16 tonnes per acre, and more. His success has earned him several awards, including the MFOI award and a 5-lakh rupee reward from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research.
Samikannu plans to expand his farming operations, including contract farming, forming a contract farmers association, and expanding his market reach. He urges fellow farmers to adopt new technologies and innovations developed by agricultural scientists, believing that this can lead to success and the growth of the agricultural sector. His story demonstrates the transformative power of precision farming, showcasing that even traditional farmers can become pioneers of modern agriculture with the right tools and knowledge.