Thejaswi U Poojary

Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi

Udupi, Mar 21: Vittal Nayak, a farmer from Manchikodi in Manipal industrial area, has demonstrated that diverse organic cultivation is both possible and profitable by growing a wide range of chemical-free vegetables.

Coming from a long lineage of farmers, Nayak cultivates vegetables on two acres, areca nut on three acres, and coconut on two acres. His farm grows around 10 varieties of vegetables without chemical fertilizers. To ensure sustainability, he uses seeds from his own harvest, reducing dependency on external sources and promoting a self-sufficient farming cycle.

His farm produces a variety of vegetables, including radish and spiny cucumber—rarely grown in the coastal region—along with ladyfinger, yardlong beans, amaranth, multiple types of pumpkins, bottle gourd, snake gourd, Malabar spinach, ivy gourd, turmeric, brinjal, ridge gourd, colocasia, and more. He also grows two varieties of brown rice, ‘Badra MO4’ and ‘Karkala Kaje Akki.’ His commitment to seasonal cultivation ensures a continuous yield throughout the year.

In addition to vegetables, Nayak cultivates a traditional variety of brown rice (Kaje Akki) sufficient for his family’s needs. While the coastal region is known for coconut and areca nut plantations, his farm also includes these crops, along with small-scale watermelon cultivation once a year. Certain crops, such as radish and spiny cucumber, require extra care for weed control, water management, and organic manure application, which he carefully manages to ensure a successful harvest.

With growing health consciousness, consumers are opting for chemical-free vegetables over conventionally grown alternatives, leading to high demand for Nayak’s produce in local markets, including Udupi, Manipal, and Katapady. He encourages younger generations to take up organic farming and offers guidance to those interested. His dedication has earned him several honors for his achievements in organic farming.

"Farming has been my only means of livelihood. I’ve been growing crops since childhood, using animal waste and organic fertilizers. I rely on well water to maintain soil moisture. Recent weather changes are affecting the cultivation of ladyfinger and other rare vegetables. I believe that if we preserve seeds for five years, they will adapt to our local soil and climate. We use our farm’s produce for daily needs. I urge the younger generation to take up organic farming, and I am happy to guide anyone interested," Nayak shared.