Udupi: Paddy farming has gained momentum across Udupi district as the monsoon rains begin to ease. The region witnessed steady rainfall in May and June, which replenished rivers and streams, allowing water to accumulate in paddy fields—creating ideal conditions for sowing.

With rainfall now stabilizing, farmers across key agricultural belts like Katapady, Hebri, Brahmavar, Kundapur, and Udupi have begun the seed-sowing process. The favorable weather has provided the much-needed boost for agricultural activities, and fields are now bustling with activity.

However, a persistent shortage of manual laborers continues to pose challenges, especially along the coastal belt. In response, many farmers have turned to the ‘mat neji’ technique—a method involving seedbed preparation on mats for later transplantation. Tractors and power tillers have replaced traditional plowing in several areas, with mechanization becoming increasingly popular.

As a result, mechanized farming is gaining traction throughout the district. Farmers are adapting their operations based on equipment availability and are proactively getting their fields ready for transplantation.

This growing shift toward technology-driven agriculture shows a clear transition in farming practices in the region, combining traditional methods with modern solutions to optimize yield and labor.