Ashokareddy’s family thrives with agroforestry, mixed cropping and integrated farming

CHIKKABALLAPUR
The Ashokareddy family from Muttukadahalli in Chintamani taluk is enjoying financial success through agroforestry, mixed cropping, and integrated farming. This shift in focus has improved their living standards and provided them with a steady income.
Ashokareddy, a graduate, initially moved to Bengaluru in search of employment due to poor rainfall and crop failures. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, he returned to his village and decided to pursue farming. He chose agroforestry for its water efficiency and planted 800 sandalwood trees on two acres of land. To support his long-term investment, he also planted 100 hibiscus trees, 50 neem trees, 50 mahogany trees, and 20 teak trees.
In addition to tree planting, Ashokareddy grows fodder, high-yielding maize, and several types of millet. The income from these crops sustains the family until the sandalwood matures. He also cultivates legume varieties to feed silkworms and grows various crops such as ragi, groundnut, toor dal, and vegetables for household use.
Through diversified, sustainable farming, the Ashokareddy family has achieved financial stability and a higher quality of life.