Mandya: Despite being a major sugarcane-growing region, Mandya is struggling with stagnant yields, while North Karnataka reports consistent growth in production. Experts have submitted a detailed report to the sugar commissioner, analyzing the causes behind this disparity and proposing solutions.
Key Challenges Identified:
🔹 Land Fragmentation – Small, scattered plots hinder large-scale, efficient farming.
🔹 Improper Plant Spacing – Restricted root growth reduces productivity.
🔹 Overuse of Water – Excessive irrigation depletes soil health, unlike water-efficient practices in North Karnataka.
🔹 Nutrient Imbalance – Over-reliance on urea with insufficient potassium and phosphate affects crop growth.
🔹 Smaller Landholdings – Mandya’s sugarcane farms average 10 quintals, whereas North Karnataka farms span 8-10 acres, supporting better farming techniques.
Government Intervention:
To address these concerns, the agriculture department has taken proactive steps. Recently, 50 Mandya farmers were sent to Belagavi for a study tour on advanced sugarcane farming techniques, focusing on spacing, irrigation, and fertilization.
Agriculture Department Joint Director Ashok stated, “Mandya’s farming practices need a shift. Unlike North Karnataka, where cultivation started recently, Mandya’s land has been farmed for generations, impacting soil productivity. Larger landholdings and modern techniques give North Karnataka an edge.”
Sugarcane Cultivation Trends (2019-24):
📉 Farmer participation dropped by 6,000 in the past year
📊 Average yield fluctuated between 111-118 tonnes per hectare
Despite challenges, Mandya remains a leading sugarcane producer. Authorities continue to raise awareness and promote better practices to sustain long-term growth.
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