DDS as a Living Lab for Millets Says Farmer Welfare Commission Chair Kodandareddy
Farmer Welfare Commission Chairman Kodandareddy praised the Deccan Development Society for preserving traditional millet crops, stressing women farmers’ role in sustainable agriculture and public health protection.
- DDS promotes traditional millet farming.
- Women farmers protect native crops.
- Chemical free farming safeguards health.
The Deccan Development Society has emerged as a living laboratory for millet cultivation, playing a crucial role in protecting traditional crops, said State Farmer Welfare Commission Chairman Kodandareddy. He was speaking as the chief guest at the 26th traditional crops harvest festival held at the Pachasale campus in Machunur village, Jharasangam mandal, on Friday.
Kodandareddy said that native crops have survived only because of the commitment and resilience of women farmers associated with DDS. He noted that their efforts have ensured that age old millet varieties continue to thrive despite changing agricultural practices.
Expressing concern over excessive use of chemical fertilizers, he warned that such practices not only reduce soil fertility but also contribute to serious health problems when chemically grown food is consumed over time. He stressed the need to return to sustainable and natural farming methods for long term agricultural and public health benefits.
The Chairman assured that he would raise the issue of providing bonuses to DDS women farmers with the government. He also said discussions would be held with NABARD to address crop losses caused by monkeys, wild boars and deer.
The event witnessed participation from local representatives and officials including village sarpanch Madhavi, DDS Executive Director Divya, Farmer Welfare Commission Member Secretary Gopal, Professor Nandakishore, commission members Ramulu Naik, Ram Reddy, Gopal Reddy, KV Narasimha Reddy, ADA Bhikshapathi, Tahsildar Bhaskar and several DDS women farmers.
