.svg)
Mekala Shiva Shankar Reddy
Mekala Shiva Shankar Reddy
| |
| |
| Born | 8 February 1971 Prasannayapalli, Anantapur district, Andhra Pradesh, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Occupation | Farmer, Agricultural Innovator |
| Years active | 1980s–present |
| Known for | Quinoa cultivation, drip irrigation, sustainable farming models |
| Spouse | Hemalatha |
| Children | Harish Reddy, Jayashanthi, Roopa |
Mekala Shiva Shankar Reddy (born 8 February 1971) is an Indian farmer and agricultural innovator from Anantapur district in Andhra Pradesh. He is widely known for implementing sustainable farming practices in drought-prone areas and for being among the early adopters of quinoa cultivation in India. His work emphasizes water conservation, crop diversification, and improved farm productivity.
Early life and background
Reddy was born into an agricultural family in Prasannayapalli village. His parents, Mekala Eswar Reddy and Lakshmi Devi, were traditional farmers. Due to financial and practical circumstances, he discontinued formal education after primary schooling and chose to pursue agriculture full-time.
Growing up in a farming environment, he gained early exposure to traditional and modern agricultural practices, especially through his family’s involvement in grape cultivation, which introduced him to horticulture and viticulture.
Farming journey
Reddy began his agricultural journey with groundnut cultivation during the late 1980s. Recognizing the limitations of rain-fed farming, he gradually shifted to horticulture in 1989, cultivating crops such as grapes and citrus fruits.
In 1993, he introduced drip irrigation on his farm, significantly improving water-use efficiency. This marked a turning point in his farming approach, enabling him to expand cultivation even under limited water availability.
By 2000, he had pioneered the cultivation of sunmelon in Andhra Pradesh on a commercial scale. His success in muskmelon farming led to large-scale production and supply to major urban markets, including Delhi.
Crop diversification
Over time, Reddy diversified his agricultural activities to include a wide range of crops such as pomegranate, banana, papaya, coconut, tomato, ridge gourd, figs, and chia seeds. This diversification helped reduce risks associated with climate variability and market fluctuations.
His farming model focuses on combining traditional knowledge with modern agricultural techniques to maximize yield and sustainability.
Quinoa initiative
In 2012, Reddy successfully cultivated quinoa, becoming one of the early farmers in India to harvest the crop. His experiment demonstrated the viability of quinoa in semi-arid regions and contributed to its recognition as a nutritious and climate-resilient crop.
Following his success, other farmers in the region began exploring quinoa cultivation as an alternative crop.
Sustainable practices and innovations
Reddy has adopted several sustainable agricultural practices, including micro irrigation and fertigation, across his farmland.
His agricultural operations include:
- Around 130 acres under pomegranate cultivation
- Approximately 25 acres of muskmelon
- Multiple grape varieties cultivated across 25 acres
These practices have resulted in substantial water savings, estimated at more than 50%, along with improved soil health and reduced input costs.
He also emphasizes efficient nutrient management, mechanization, and energy conservation to enhance overall farm productivity.
Experimental farming
Reddy manages an agricultural farm spanning nearly 180 acres, where he experiments with exotic fruit crops to identify varieties suitable for dryland agriculture.
The farm includes species such as persimmon, longan, lychee, macadamia, and canistel. This initiative serves as a knowledge hub for farmers interested in high-value horticulture and crop diversification.
Impact and outreach
Reddy’s farming model has influenced many farmers in the Anantapur region to adopt horticulture and sustainable agricultural practices. His work has contributed to improving farmer incomes and reducing dependence on water-intensive crops.
He has also mentored rural youth and farm workers, helping them transition into independent farming and entrepreneurship. His efforts have played a role in transforming parts of Anantapur into a significant fruit-producing region.
Achievements
Some of his key achievements include:
- Generating approximately ₹1.4 crore revenue from muskmelon cultivation on 20 acres
- Producing nearly 400 tonnes of muskmelon within a short cultivation cycle
He is also recognized for:
- Early adoption of drip irrigation (1993)
- Commercial introduction of sunmelon in Andhra Pradesh (2000)
- Early quinoa cultivation in India (2012)
Awards and recognition
- 2020 – Recognition from the International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage
- 2015 – Innovative Farmer Award, Government of India
- 2015 – Outstanding Progressive Farmer Award
- 2007 – Adarsha Rythu Award, Government of Andhra Pradesh
Personal life
Mekala Shiva Shankar Reddy is married to Hemalatha and has three children: Harish Reddy, Jayashanthi, and Roopa. His family continues to be actively involved in agricultural activities.