Samba chilli cultivation is affected by declining soil health and high dependence on costly chemical inputs; hence, a Bio-Input Production Unit will help to promote sustainable and cost-effective farming practices.
This project aims to
01
Establish a regional bio-input production and supply hub
02
Improve soil health and promote sustainable farming practices
03
Enhance productivity and quality of Samba chilli
04
Strengthen seed traceability and quality assurance systems
05
Empower Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs)
Key Interventions
- Production of bio-fertilizers, bio-pesticides, bio-stimulants, and plant growth promoters
- Establishment of a vermicompost production unit at KVK
- Supply of bio-inputs to chilli farmers, FPOs, and seed growers
- Conduct of demonstrations, field schools, and farmer training programmes
- Technical support and continuous backstopping by KVK
Expected outcome
- +15–20% increase in soil organic carbon
- +15–20% increase in soil organic carbon
- ₹20–30 lakh annual savings (1,000 acres)
- 5 FPOs strengthened with bio-input supply
- Adoption rises from 40% to 75% in 3 years
Testimonials
I am a Samba chilli farmer from Virudhunagar. Over time, heavy use of chemical inputs had weakened our soil and increased our cultivation costs.
With the Bio-Input Unit at KVK Aruppukottai, we began using bio-fertilizers and vermicompost. Gradually, our soil regained its health, chemical use reduced, and our crops became stronger and more resilient.
Today, my yield has improved, input costs have come down, and the quality of our chilli is much better, helping us get higher prices. This initiative has not only strengthened our income but also restored our confidence and helped protect our traditional farming for the future.
Mr. Sekaran
Farmer