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October 28, 2024 | The Times of India |

Naveen Chathubai, a farmer from Aivarnadu village in Karnataka's Dakshina Kannada district, has successfully integrated Taiwan red lady papaya as an intercrop within his arecanut plantation, demonstrating sustainable and profitable farming practices. This papaya variety requires low maintenance and begins yielding fruit within three months of planting. However, excessive rainfall and waterlogging can damage the plants, making proper site selection crucial. 

Chathubai noted that the fruit fetches Rs 20–25 per kg in the market due to its high demand for food products like salads and ice creams, coupled with a shelf life exceeding 15 days. Initially starting with 100 saplings from local horticultural stations, he expanded to 200 and earned over Rs 50,000 in additional income last year. The papaya plants benefit from the same irrigation provided to arecanut, reducing the need for extra resources. Recognized with the Best Farmer Award by Keladi Shivappa Nayaka University, Chathubai plans to expand his papaya cultivation further. This approach highlights the potential of intercropping for enhancing income and optimizing land use in traditional farming setups.

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