Sirkazhi farmer reaps rich dividends with high-tech cucumber cultivation under NADP

N. Vinayagam, a farmer from Umayalpathi village, Sirkazhi taluk, has successfully turned to high-tech greenhouse cucumber cultivation, supported by the National Agricultural Development Programme (NADP). By adopting polyhouse technology, he has ensured stable yield, better quality, and year-round production, overcoming open-field farming challenges.

Unlike conventional farming, where crops are affected by extreme weather, Mr. Vinayagam’s 2,000 sq. m. polyhouse allows for continuous cultivation, even during the rainy season. The Horticulture Department provided him with a ₹8.90-lakh backend subsidy, reducing his ₹20 lakh investment burden.

Using European cucumber varieties in high demand at star hotels, he harvests 1,000 kg daily, generating a net income of ₹12 lakh to ₹15 lakh per 160-day cycle. His 90-tonne annual yield surpasses open-field output, where weather fluctuations impact productivity.

Explaining the cultivation process, Mr. Vinayagam said seedlings sprouted within five days of sowing and the first flowering occurred in 10 days, followed by fruiting within 35 days. Harvesting begins around 50 to 55 days, with each cycle lasting 160 days. Polyhouse farming allows the plants to spread effectively using nets, leading to better growth and higher output. Compared to open-field cultivation, where plants struggle due to environmental factors, greenhouse farming ensures a superior quality crop.

Market demand for his cucumbers remains strong, with bulk buyers including luxury hotels and premium vegetable suppliers. The farmgate price ranges from ₹40-₹45 a kg, contributing to his impressive revenue stream.

Mr. Vinayagam also cultivates jasmine flowers on his land, benefiting from the 16,000 jasmine saplings per acre provided under the NADP scheme, adding another ₹2 lakh in seasonal earnings every three months.

Mr. Vinayagam credited his success to consistent support and field visits by Horticulture Department officials, whose guidance helped him optimise his farming techniques.