Mangaluru
Naveen Chathubai, a farmer from Aivarnadu village in Sullia taluk, Dakshina Kannada district, has made significant strides in sustainable agriculture through innovative practices. Among his achievements is the successful intercropping of Taiwan red lady papaya within his arecanut farm, a venture that has proven both sustainable and profitable.
Chathubai, honored with the Best Farmer Award from Keladi Shivappa Nayaka University of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences, Shivamogga, highlights that this papaya variety requires minimal maintenance and begins to yield fruit just three months after planting. However, he notes that excessive rainfall can adversely affect the plants, particularly in waterlogged conditions.
This papaya fetches an impressive market price of Rs 20 to 25 per kg, thanks to its popularity for use in fruit salads, ice creams, and various dishes. Its excellent taste and shelf-life of over 15 days further enhance its market appeal.
Chathubai sourced his saplings from the local horticulture department and the Agricultural & Horticultural Research Station in Ullal. Starting with 100 saplings and expanding to 200, he has earned an additional income of over Rs 50,000 last year alone. He plans to further expand his papaya cultivation, leveraging the irrigation from his arecanut plants to support the growth of this lucrative crop.
