Bengaluru: In a bid to enhance the agricultural support system, the Karnataka Horticulture Department is set to launch ‘Kisan Malls’ in Mysuru, Chitradurga, and Davangere districts as part of an innovative initiative to improve the horticulture sector. These malls will serve as one-stop centers, offering farmers a comprehensive range of services, including technical guidance, market access, agricultural tools, and essential supplies, all under one roof.
The announcement of the Kisan Malls was made in the 2024-25 state budget by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, with the Horticulture Department collaborating with Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) to make this a reality. The project will be launched on a pilot basis in these three districts, with plans for further expansion if successful.
The Kisan Malls aim to make farming more accessible and efficient by providing essential services and products tailored to the needs of horticultural farmers. The malls will offer:
- Seeds, Fertilizers, Pesticides, Organic Fertilizers and growth hormones for horticultural crops.
- Agricultural Tools and Equipment required for farming.
- Technical Support from experts who will offer advice on crop management, pest control, and disease prevention.
- Market Access: Farmers will receive assistance in finding suitable markets for their produce.
- Post-Harvest Guidance: Advice on technology and techniques for post-harvest management.
Additionally, farmers will be given information on available loan facilities from banks, government subsidies, and various horticultural schemes that can help boost their productivity.
According to Ramesh D.S., the Director of the Horticulture Department, each Kisan Mall will receive an estimated budget of ₹30 lakh. The funds will be divided equally between operational costs (including salaries of mall staff) and infrastructure expenses, such as building renovations and mall setups.
The malls will be managed by FPOs with strong track records in the respective districts, ensuring that they are run efficiently and serve the needs of the farmers effectively. Ramesh D.S. confirmed that all preparatory work would be completed in the next two months to ensure smooth operations.
- Soil and Water Testing: To assess the quality of soil and water, which are vital for horticultural crops.
- Training and Workshops: Regular training programs will be conducted for farmers on new farming techniques, sustainable practices, and crop management.
- Online Marketing Support: The malls will help farmers market their products through social media and digital platforms.
- Query Resolution: Expert staff will be available to answer any agricultural queries from farmers, offering solutions on the spot.
The Kisan Malls will provide high-quality products at affordable prices, ensuring that farmers can access everything from seeds to post-harvest technology without financial strain. These service centers aim to be technology-driven, with experts offering modern advice on improving yields and farm management.
In the second phase of the project, the government plans to expand the Kisan Mall network to include districts such as Maddur (Mandya district), Shivamogga, Chikkaballapur, Bagalkot, Ballari, and Koppal. This expansion will bring the benefits of the Kisan Mall model to a larger number of farmers across Karnataka, promoting growth in the state’s horticulture sector.
This initiative marks a major step toward empowering farmers by providing streamlined access to vital resources, expert knowledge, and new market opportunities. It is expected to significantly improve the productivity and profitability of farmers, especially in the horticulture sector, which is a critical part of Karnataka’s agricultural landscape.
The launch of Kisan Malls represents a forward-thinking approach by the state government to create a sustainable, farmer-friendly ecosystem that combines technology, knowledge, and market access to create a more prosperous future for the farming community.