How a 72-Year-Old Karnataka Farmer More Than Doubled His Finger Millet Yield

At 72, Chikkana changed the way he cultivated finger millet, commonly called ragi. He had previously grown traditional varieties using conventional practices. His harvest remained around 9–11 quintals per acre under irrigated conditions, limiting the returns from his six-acre farm.

The turning point came when he adopted HR-13, an improved finger millet variety developed through the agricultural research system. ICAR’s Indian Institute of Millets Research supplied the seed through Kusumagiri Farmers Producer Company Limited, Kundrupi, during the 2025 rabi season. Scientists also guided him on cultivation practices.

The change produced a marked difference. ICAR reported that Chikkana harvested 22–23 quintals per acre after adopting HR-13 and following the recommended cultivation package. His reported yield more than doubled compared with his earlier harvest, demonstrating the potential of combining improved seed with appropriate crop management.

How the Farmer Increased His Harvest

1. Choose a suitable variety

Seed choice was central to Chikkana’s results. HR-13 was developed at the All India Coordinated Research Project centre in Hagari. Farmers considering a similar change should first check whether a variety is recommended for their district, soil, rainfall pattern and irrigation access.

A variety that performs well on one farm may not produce identical results elsewhere. Farmers should ask their local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agricultural university about seed availability, maturity period, disease response and recommended sowing practices before replacing their existing crop variety.

2. Follow scientific planting methods

Chikkana adopted transplanting as part of the cultivation package recommended by scientists. The suitability of transplanting depends on local conditions, labour availability and the recommended package for the chosen variety. Farmers should compare these requirements with direct sowing before deciding which method fits their farm.

Timely planting and proper crop establishment help farmers manage the growing season. They should follow local guidance on seedling age, spacing and field preparation rather than copy practices without checking whether they suit their soil and water conditions.

3. Manage nutrients carefully

Balanced nutrient management was another part of the scientific practices adopted on Chikkana’s farm. Applying fertiliser without considering crop requirements can increase costs without delivering the expected yield. Farmers can use soil-test recommendations and local agricultural advice to determine nutrient needs before deciding application rates.

Organic manure and crop residues may also contribute to soil health when managed properly. Their use should complement the crop’s nutrient requirements rather than replace a balanced plan without assessment. Farmers should keep records of input costs alongside harvest quantities to judge whether higher production improves their net returns.

Better Returns Through Market Access

4. Connect with a farmers producer organisation

Chikkana’s seed reached him through Kusumagiri Farmers Producer Company Limited. The organisation also helped connect the improved variety with a farmer who could use it. Such links can make agricultural technologies more accessible, particularly when farmers cannot obtain seed or technical information independently.

Farmer producer organisations can help members source inputs, share information and explore collective marketing. Before joining or using these services, farmers should understand membership costs, procurement terms, payment schedules and the responsibilities of the organisation. Access to a group does not automatically guarantee a profitable sale.

5. Check the selling price before sowing

ICAR reported that Chikkana’s finger millet was procured through the FPO at the minimum support price of ₹4,886 per quintal. This provided a known procurement price for his produce. Farmers elsewhere should confirm current MSP rates, procurement arrangements and local eligibility before estimating their expected income.

A higher yield does not always mean a proportionate increase in profit. Seed, labour, fertiliser, irrigation, transport and harvesting costs all affect the final amount. Farmers should calculate these expenses and compare them with the likely sale value before adopting a new variety or changing cultivation methods.

6. Use crop residues productively

ICAR also reported that finger millet cultivation helped Chikkana maintain fodder supplies for his 60 cattle. This added value beyond the grain harvest by linking crop production with livestock needs. For farms that keep animals, straw and other suitable residues can form part of a planned fodder system.

Farmers should assess the quantity and quality of available residues and store them safely to reduce spoilage. They should also avoid assuming that every crop residue can meet livestock nutritional requirements on its own. Advice from a veterinary officer or livestock specialist can help farmers prepare a balanced feeding plan.

What Other Farmers Can Learn

Chikkana’s experience highlights three practical lessons: choose an appropriate variety, follow locally recommended cultivation practices and establish a reliable route to market. His results were achieved with scientific guidance, so farmers should seek advice before adopting the same approach under different growing conditions.

The reported yield increase is specific to his farm and should not be treated as a guaranteed outcome for every grower. Rainfall, soil fertility, irrigation, pest pressure, labour and market prices can change results. Small demonstration plots can help farmers compare varieties before switching their entire cultivated area.

At 72, Chikkana’s experience also shows that farmers can adapt their methods when suitable seed, technical guidance and market access come together. For other ragi growers, the useful starting point is to consult local agricultural experts, calculate cultivation costs and test recommended practices on a manageable area before expanding.