Pradeepan’s Journey: From Novice to Skilled Farmer
Empowering Agriculture in Sri Lanka
Introduction: A Farmer in the Making Pradeepan, a determined young man with a passion for learning, embarked on his agricultural journey with little knowledge but an abundance of enthusiasm. He had never even heard of polytunnels before, yet he was eager to embrace the challenges and opportunities that farming presented.
The Challenge of Starting from Scratch
When Pradeepan first ventured into agriculture, he faced a steep learning curve. He lacked the knowledge and resources necessary to run a successful farming business. Timely access to bioproducts, essential training, and the know-how to manage a farm were all obstacles in his path.
Empowerment Through DevPro
Pradeepan’s fortunes changed when DevPro stepped in during 2022. Before their support, he felt lost and overwhelmed, struggling to make progress in his farming journey. With DevPro’s help, he gained access to pesticides and comprehensive training programs. Even after an unfortunate accident that slowed his progress for a short period, the continued support from DevPro and his family allowed him to keep the farm running without any major setbacks.
A Wealth of Knowledge and Expertise
DevPro’s training equipped Pradeepan with the skills he needed to thrive. He learned about pest control, proper chemical usage, and seasonal application techniques. His knowledge grew exponentially, transforming him from a novice to a skilled farmer in a short span of time, giving him a renewed sense of purpose and confidence, which transformed his life and his family’s future.
“DevPro’s support was a turning point in my life; it gave me the tools and confidence to build something meaningful.”
A Family Affair, Supported by a Dedicated Workforce
Pradeepan’s farm is a family endeavor, managed by four dedicated individuals. When the workload demands it, they hire additional workers to ensure smooth operations. Their collective effort has yielded impressive results, with a consistent harvest of 3,000 kg of seed potatoes every three months from their 15-perch plot.
Looking Ahead: Expansion, Education, and Innovation
Pradeepan’s ambitions extend beyond his current achievements. He envisions expanding his farming operations to new locations, sharing his knowledge with aspiring farmers, and even importing seed potatoes from New Zealand for cultivation in Sri Lanka. He remains committed to continuous learning and innovation.
“My dream is to expand, educate others, and continue innovating in the agricultural field.”
Diversification and Resourcefulness
While seed potatoes are Pradeepan’s primary crop, he also cultivates a variety of vegetables, adapting to the seasons. He has made the most of the space provided to him, even repurposing a less-than-ideal location into a storage area for pesticides and tools.
Vision for Growth
A vision for the future Pradeepan’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of knowledge, support, and unwavering determination. He envisions a future where he continues to grow as a farmer, expands his operations, and contributes to the agricultural development of his community. His story is an inspiration to all those who dare to dream and strive for a better tomorrow.
“I didn’t know anything about farming at first, but I was determined to learn. With the support of DevPro and my family, I’ve come a long way.”
Statistics:
- Started in 2022
- Yield increased by 15%
- 4-5 additional workers during peak seasons.
- 3,000 kg of seed potatoes every three months