A progressive transformation in agricultural practices is underway in Kanjikuzhy, Alappuzha, as a farmer embraces the pioneering Israeli farming model to revolutionize tomato cultivation. This visionary initiative involves the utilization of specially designed mini poly houses, elevated beds, and mulching sheets, enhancing crop growth and sustainability.
The inauguration of this experimental project was graced by Agriculture Minister P. Prasad, who symbolically planted a seedling on Sunday to commemorate the occasion.
At the core of this groundbreaking approach is the cultivation of tomatoes within purpose-built mini poly houses. The seedlings are carefully transplanted onto raised beds, which are subsequently shielded by mulching sheets to optimize growth conditions.
Sujith Swami Nikarthil, the driving force behind this innovative endeavor, is confident that the poly house technique will effectively combat pests and diseases, leading to increased tomato production. One of the remarkable advantages of this approach is its potential to enable year-round farming, promoting sustainability and resilience in agriculture.
Nikarthil’s journey into advanced agricultural practices commenced when he was part of a delegation of 27 farmers who visited Israel through an Agriculture Department program. The goal was to explore cutting-edge farming techniques earlier in the year.
Before delving into tomato cultivation, Nikarthil successfully established a banana farm inspired by the Israeli model in Cherthala South Grama Panchayat. On this banana farm, he has cultivated 1,200 tissue culture banana plants spanning five varieties, including ethan (plantain banana), njalipoovan (finger banana), chenkathali (red banana), and two robustas.
Diverging from the traditional one-pit-one-plant method, Nikarthil employs a practice from Israel by planting three saplings in each pit, fostering high-density planting. This innovative approach has enabled him to accommodate an additional 400 saplings.
The inauguration event witnessed the presence of various dignitaries, including Kanjikuzhy Grama Panchayat President Geetha Karthikeyan, Panchayat Vice President M. Santhosh Kumar, Panchayat Member K. Kanakan, Agricultural Officer Janish Rose Jacob, Assistant Agricultural Officer S.D. Anila, and Karma Sena Convenor G. Udhayappan. These esteemed individuals joined the Agriculture Minister in planting seedlings, signifying the start of a transformative chapter in agricultural practices within the region.
