Balnadu Suresh Bhatt has become a leading example of progressive agriculture through his exceptional integration of traditional practices with cutting edge technology. Over the past two decades, Bhatt has transformed his 14.5-acre farm into a thriving enterprise that not only meets but exceeds modern agricultural expectations. His commitment to sustainability, innovative techniques, and community support have positioned him as a model for farmers throughout the Dakshina Kannada district and beyond.
Bhatt’s farm is a testament to the benefits of crop diversification and scientific farming methods. He has carefully selected a range of crops to cultivate, including areca nut, coconut, rubber, medicinal plants, and various fruit trees. A notable feature of his farm is the intercropping of pepper vines with these diverse crops. This method not only maximizes the use of available land but also enhances the productivity and sustainability of his farm.
Bhatt’s pepper cultivation is particularly impressive. He grows over 6,000 pepper vines, which are supported by 400 concrete pillars. This infrastructure allows him to produce 4.5 tones of pepper annually. His ambitious goal is to double this output to 10 tones within the next four to five years. To achieve this, he utilizes modern agricultural techniques, including solar dryers for processing nuts and pepper, and fiber and aluminum ropes for efficient harvesting and spraying.
Sustainability is a core principle of Bhatt’s farming philosophy. About twenty years ago, he tackled his village’s electricity issues by establishing a hydroelectric power system. By harnessing water from a 60-foot fall, Bhatt’s system generates two kilowatts of electricity, which is sufficient to meet the needs of his household. This self-sufficient approach to energy reflects his broader commitment to reducing environmental impact and promoting sustainable living.
Water management is another area where Bhatt excels. His farm relies entirely on rainwater, and he has invested in constructing three large water storage tanks, with a fourth under construction. These tanks have a combined capacity of 18 lakh liters. The stored rainwater is naturally used to irrigate his farm, eliminating the need for pumps and reducing his farm’s reliance on external water sources.
Bhatt’s innovative and sustainable farming practices have not gone unnoticed. Two years ago, he was honored with the Krishi Pandit Award, recognizing his contributions to modern agriculture and his role as a leader in the field. His farm has become a valuable learning resource, attracting schoolchildren, scientists, and agricultural officials from various institutions, including ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research) and Agricultural Science Centers.
The farm’s role as an educational hub is a significant aspect of Bhatt’s work. By opening his doors to visitors, he shares his knowledge and practices with others, contributing to the broader agricultural community. His approach serves as an inspiring example of how traditional farming can be enhanced through modern innovations.
Balnadu Suresh Bhatt’s farm is more than just a successful agricultural enterprise; it is a beacon of how integrating traditional practices with modern technology can create a sustainable and productive farming model. His work demonstrates the potential for farmers to adapt and thrive by embracing both new techniques and traditional wisdom.
As he continues to expand his farm and improve his practices, Bhatt remains a key figure in advancing agricultural sustainability and innovation. His achievements offer valuable lessons for farmers and agricultural enthusiasts, showing that with dedication and creativity, it is possible to achieve remarkable results in the field of agriculture.