With the support of the Jeevidam programme and a CSR grant from Rasi Seeds Pvt. Ltd., Narayanpur Farmer Producer Company introduced a High-Density Planting System (HDPS) using a Vacuum Pneumatic Planter to increase cotton yields and reduce sowing costs. This mechanized solution has improved planting precision, addressed labor shortages, and encouraged sustainable cotton farming practices among local farmers.
Introduction
Located in Samasthan Narayanapur Mandal of Yadadri Bhuvanagiri District, Telangana, this area has relied heavily on cotton as a primary crop, covering more than 80% of the Kharif farmland. Despite high dedication to cotton cultivation, challenges like soil degradation, high input costs, and labor shortages limited productivity. With the support of the Jeevidam program of DHAN Foundation, Narayanpur Farmer Producer Company (FPC) has implemented new practices to improve yields and reduce costs, bringing positive change to local farming.
Challenge and Opportunity
The conventional approach to cotton cultivation in Narayanapur used a spacing of 0.8 x 0.3 meters, leading to yields of around 15-25 quintals per hectare. Over time, frequent use of chemical fertilizers had affected soil quality, reducing nutrient levels and productivity. The Jeevidam program saw this as an opportunity to introduce improved, efficient, and environmentally friendly practices.
Innovation through Mechanization: The High-Density Planting System (HDPS):
Narayanpur FPC adopted a High-Density Planting System (HDPS) with the help of a Vacuum Pneumatic Planter, provided by Rasi Seeds Pvt. Ltd. under their CSR program. By changing the spacing to 0.8 x 0.17 meters, farmers could plant up to 70,000 cotton plants per hectare, almost doubling the previous plant density.
The vacuum pneumatic planter helps maintain consistent spacing and depth, reducing seed waste and ensuring even placement. Unlike traditional manual labor, which is time-consuming and some inconsistencies like poor spacing, density etc, the machine can plant two acres within an hour, providing an efficient solution for labor shortages and improving accuracy.
Results: Increased Yields and Reduced Costs
Field trials conducted on two acres in Narayanapur demonstrated positive results, with a 90% seed germination rate, consistent row spacing, and accurate planting depth. The HDPS system increased plant density, offering the potential for higher yields per acre.
This mechanized system also led to financial savings. Traditionally, sowing costs included seedbed preparation and labor, totaling around ₹1,500 per acre. The vacuum planter reduced these costs to about ₹1,000 per acre, making cotton farming more economical and sustainable for local farmers.
Collaboration and Impact
The adoption of HDPS and mechanization was made possible through the support of Rasi Seeds Pvt. Ltd., whose CSR grant covered the ₹6.5 lakh cost of the planter. This collaboration with the Jeevidam program of DHAN Foundation enabled Narayanpur FPC to introduce advanced techniques that were previously unaffordable. The successful trial has motivated more farmers in the community to consider HDPS as a practical approach to cotton cultivation.
Future Plans
Following the initial success, Narayanpur FPC plans to expand HDPS and mechanization to more farmers. By adopting these methods, the company aims to improve efficiency and reduce cultivation costs, supporting more sustainable cotton farming practices across the area.
Narayanpur’s story shows how practical changes in cultivation methods, supported by collaboration and appropriate technology, can make a meaningful difference in farming outcomes and community livelihoods.
