Farmer-innovator Mekala Shiva Shankar Reddy transforms drought-prone lands with sustainable agriculture

In a region long challenged by water scarcity and unpredictable rainfall, farmer and agricultural innovator Mekala Shiva Shankar Reddy is redefining what is possible through sustainable and scientific farming practices.

Born in Prasannayapalli village of Anantapur district, Reddy began his journey in agriculture at a young age after discontinuing formal education. Starting with just five acres of farmland, he has built a diversified agricultural enterprise spanning nearly 180 acres, becoming a model for modern, resilient farming in semi-arid regions.

Reddy’s work stands out for its early adoption of water-efficient technologies. Back in 1993, he implemented drip irrigation systems, significantly reducing water usage while improving crop yield. Over the years, he expanded into fertigation and optimised irrigation scheduling, achieving water savings of over 50% compared to traditional methods.

His innovative mindset led him to diversify beyond conventional crops. While he initially cultivated groundnut, he soon transitioned to horticulture, introducing grapes, sweet orange, and later a wide range of crops, including pomegranate, banana, papaya, and muskmelon. His commercial success is particularly evident in muskmelon farming, where he reportedly generated a turnover of approximately ₹1.4 crore from just 20 acres, producing nearly 400 tonnes within a short 75-day cycle.

In 2012, Reddy gained recognition for being among the early adopters of quinoa cultivation in India. By successfully growing the crop in Anantapur’s challenging climate, he demonstrated its potential as a high-value, climate-resilient alternative for Indian farmers.

Beyond commercial farming, Reddy has turned his land into a hub for experimentation and research. His farm hosts 30–40 varieties of exotic fruits, such as persimmon, lychee, macadamia, and dragon-like species adapted to Indian conditions. This initiative serves as a live demonstration site, encouraging farmers to explore high-value horticulture and diversify their income sources.

Reddy’s impact extends far beyond his own fields. Through mentorship and hands-on support, he has helped numerous farmers in the region shift from traditional crops to horticulture, improving their income and sustainability. Many individuals who once worked under him have gone on to become independent farmers and employers, contributing to rural economic growth.

His farming model emphasises reduced input costs, improved soil health, and efficient resource management. Reports suggest that farmers adopting his methods have achieved up to a 40% reduction in input costs and over a 30% reduction in water usage, alongside increased productivity.

Recognising his contributions, Reddy has received several accolades, including the Innovative Farmer Award from the Government of India and recognition from the International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage (ICID).

Today, Mekala is not just a farmer but a symbol of transformation in drought-prone agriculture. His work continues to inspire a new generation to view farming not as a challenge, but as a sustainable and profitable enterprise driven by innovation and resilience.
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