6 May 2026, Hyderabad
In a remarkable example of technology-led transformation in dryland agriculture, Shri K. Chikkana, a progressive millet farmer from Bombrahalli village of Chitradurga district, Karnataka, was felicitated by Dr M.L. Jat, Secretary, DARE and Director General, ICAR at ICAR-Indian Institute of Millets Research, Hyderabad for his outstanding success in finger millet cultivation through adoption of improved scientific practices and climate-resilient millet technologies.
At 72 years of age, Shri Chikkana, associated with Kusumagiri Farmers Producer Company Limited, transformed his conventional farming system into a highly productive and profitable enterprise after adopting the improved finger millet variety HR-13, supplied by ICAR-IIMR through Kusumagiri FPO, Kundrupi during Rabi 2025. The variety was developed at the AICRP Centre, Hagari.
Prior to the intervention, Shri Chikkana cultivated traditional finger millet varieties using conventional practices and harvested only 9–11 quintals per acre under irrigated conditions. However, with continuous technical guidance from scientists of ICAR-IIMR, Hyderabad, and adoption of scientific package of practices including transplanting, balanced nutrient management, and natural farming approaches, he achieved a remarkable increase in productivity to 22–23 quintals per acre.
The transformation significantly enhanced his economic returns. The produce was procured through the FPO at the Minimum Support Price (MSP) of Rs. 4,886 per quintal, ensuring assured market access and remunerative pricing. Consequently, the income from his 6-acre farm increased substantially from nearly Rs. 2.07 lakh to Rs. 6.59 lakh. Besides improving farm profitability, finger millet cultivation also ensured fodder security for his 60 cattle, strengthening the sustainability and resilience of his integrated farming system.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Jat commended the efforts of progressive millet farmers and emphasized the critical role of scientific interventions, improved crop varieties, and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) in advancing climate-resilient agriculture, nutritional security, and rural livelihoods.
Expressing his gratitude, Shri Chikkana acknowledged the continuous support and technical guidance provided by the scientists of ICAR-IIMR, including Dr C. Tara Satyavathi, Director, ICAR-IIMR, Hyderabad and other senior officials. He stated that being felicitated by Dr Jat, was a matter of immense pride and motivation for him to further promote millet cultivation among fellow farmers.
He also appreciated the contribution of Dr Narasimha Murthy, CEO, Kusumagiri Farmers Producer Company Limited, for facilitating timely supply of quality seeds, farmer training programmes, and continuous field-level support.
The inspiring success story of Shri K. Chikkana demonstrates the transformative potential of improved millet technologies, scientific farming practices, and institutional support in enhancing farmers’ income, climate resilience, nutritional security, and sustainable agriculture. His achievement is now motivating several farmers across Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh to adopt advanced millet cultivation practices for a more resilient and prosperous farming future.
(Source: ICAR-Indian Institute of Millets Research, Hyderabad)
Like on Facebook
Subscribe on Youtube
Follow on X X
Like on instagram