Mounesh Vishwakarma

Daijiworld Media Network – Bantwal

Bantwal, Sept 14: Agriculture can become a profitable and sustainable livelihood if the youth embrace it with innovation and market vision, said MLA Rajesh Naik, stressing that modern methods and government support must go hand-in-hand with traditional farming.

He was addressing members of the Sanjeevini Women’s Federation at a special workshop on agriculture-based entrepreneurship and Farmer Producer Organisation (FPO) formation held at Oddoor Farmhouse hall in Kadeshivalaya village on Saturday.

'Farming needs a market mindset, not just hard work'

“Young people are increasingly drawn to farming, but success lies in giving it a modern touch,” the MLA said. “Once you achieve better yields through improved practices, you must focus on creating strong market linkages. That’s the missing link holding many farmers back,” he observed.

He emphasised that many farmers fail to fully utilise existing market systems, which has contributed to stagnation in the agriculture sector. However, the growing use of social media and digital platforms has made agricultural knowledge and market access easier than ever before.

“By staying in touch with the agriculture department and tapping into available schemes, farmers can modernise their operations and benefit significantly,” he added.

Coastal Karnataka's identity is rooted in agriculture

Rajesh Naik underlined the deep-rooted connection between farming and life in the region. “In coastal Karnataka, every household is connected to agriculture in some way. It is our identity. What we need now is to bring in mechanisation and make agriculture profitable,” he said.

He encouraged the gathering to learn how to maximise returns through improved tools, methods, and market strategies.

Women at the forefront of rural agri-enterprise

Calling for greater female participation in agriculture-based enterprises, Naik pointed out that the central government offers up to 90% subsidy for forming agricultural production companies.

“This is a golden opportunity. If federations like Sanjeevini seize this chance, every village in Dakshina Kannada can build a self-reliant economy through farming,” he noted.

He added that organic farming should also be encouraged for building a healthier society. “Success is possible if you commit to a vision and pursue it with determination,” he told the women participants.

“This is just the beginning. If the Sanjeevini Federation succeeds in forming an agri-company, I will work towards replicating the model across every village in Bantwal taluk,” he promised.

Expert guidance on building farmer-led companies

Dr Veena Rai, director of Agriculture Department, spoke about how women in rural areas can collaboratively cultivate crops and sell them through company platforms, ensuring better profits and self-reliance.

Pradeep D’Souza, assistant director of the Horticulture Department, detailed various schemes designed to make farmers economically empowered. He explained how women’s groups can form companies, what crops to focus on, and how to use government support effectively.

He also provided guidance on applying for financial aid, subsidies, and company registration under the government’s FPO initiatives.

The programme was attended by Kadeshivalaya GP president Bharathi S Rao, Raita Seva Sahakari Sangha president Vidyadhar Rai, Matru Sanjeevini Federation President Babita, and panchayat members Sanath Alva, Suresh Banari, Jaya R, and Deviprasad Shetty.

PDO Sunil Kumar compered the event and coordinated the workshop.