Silvester D’Souza
Daijiworld Media Network – Kundapur (MS)
Kundapur, Sep 6: Umesh Karkada, a resident of Karkada Tenkoli under the Saligrama town panchayat, has achieved remarkable success in agriculture alongside his profession as a vehicle driver.
Umesh Karkada, who used to dedicate his free time to agricultural work, is now reaping a bountiful harvest on his expansive farmland. His wife, Poornima, is also actively contributing to his agricultural endeavors.
Umesh Poojary was determined to carry forward the agricultural legacy left by his ancestors. He sought guidance from Sanjeeva Poojary of Irodi, who encouraged him to intensify his agricultural efforts. Umesh even rented out his own vehicle to fund his agricultural pursuits, where he cultivates a variety of crops, including paddy.
Umesh reached out to several landowners in Karkada who were neglecting their arable land, and he transformed their barren plots into lush green fields by cultivating crops. He also shares a portion of the harvest with the landowners from whom he has leased the farmland.
In the coastal region, farmers typically cultivate one or two crops annually. However, Umesh has adopted a comprehensive agricultural approach, growing a diverse range of crops throughout the year. In June, he cultivates paddy, okra, and ridge gourd. In August, he focuses on gherkins, ash gourd, and long beans. In November, he grows groundnut, pulse, greengram, and watermelon.
Facing occasional water shortages, Umesh has approached the local administration for financial assistance to dig a well on his land. He also advocates for government subsidies on agricultural equipment, believing that this would motivate more young individuals to pursue agriculture as a profession.
Umesh exclusively employs organic manure on his crops and utilizes homemade pesticides to combat pests. In addition to his agricultural work, he has leased five coconut farms in the Saligrama, Sastana, and Bennekudru areas, which have also yielded significant profits.
Umesh expressed, "I was content with my career as a vehicle driver in the past. However, my interest in agriculture grew over the years. Now, I find immense happiness in farming. It offers not only income but also satisfaction and a healthy lifestyle. My wife plays a crucial role in supporting my agricultural pursuits."