CHITTOOR: Kuppam in Chittoor district has transformed into a thriving horticulture hub, setting a benchmark for agricultural innovation and contributing significantly to farmers’ livelihoods.
Leveraging advanced Israeli technology, the Kuppam Horticulture Hub has introduced modern farming practices. These innovative methods have revolutionised agriculture in the region.
The hub, formally inaugurated on January 2, 2019, by the then Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, was envisioned to make Kuppam a model for horticulture. Spanning across 22.8 acres, the Centre of Excellence (CoE) at Pedda Bangarunatham village in Kuppam mandal focuses on the cultivation of flowers and vegetables, utilising cutting-edge techniques like drip irrigation, polyhouses, and grafting.
The hub supports farmers in producing high-quality crops with minimal resources, ensuring increased productivity and profitability. The favourable climate supports a variety of vegetables, flowers, and fruits, including marigolds, tomatoes, and capsicum. Farmers, officials, and students receive training on modern agricultural practices, improving skills at the centre.
By introducing innovative methods and supporting market access, the hub has significantly enhanced the income of local farmers.
With its success, the Kuppam Horticulture Hub has transformed the local economy as well as solidifying Andhra Pradesh’s position as a leader in modern horticulture practices.
On November 30 in 2024, the Kuppam Horticulture Hub was honoured with the Skoch Award for its outstanding achievements in agriculture. Among the 57 Centres of Excellence (CoEs) in India, Kuppam stood out for its exemplary performance in cultivating flowers and vegetables using modern technologies.
Farmers have lauded the hub for its tangible impact on their incomes and skills. “Earlier, we struggled with low yields and lack of market access,” said Ramesh Naidu, a local farmer.
“Thanks to the hub’s training programmes and hybrid seeds, my tomato crop yield has tripled, and I’ve been able to sell the produce at a better price,” he told TNIE.
Another farmer, Lakshmi Devi, shared how cultivating marigolds under polyhouses has improved her family’s financial stability.
“The quality of flowers has increased, and the returns are beyond what I imagined,” she said.
Since 2018, the hub has organised 43 training sessions, benefiting over 2,605 farmers. Additionally, nearly 6,000 students from various colleges and officials from across the country have visited the centre, gaining insights into modern horticulture practices. The hub has produced over 64 lakh grafted plants and 1.94 crore non-grafted plants, generating substantial revenue while directly benefiting thousands of farmers.
The hub has inspired visits from agricultural experts across India and abroad. Officials from States like Kerala, Haryana and Mizoram have praised the centre’s efforts, planning to replicate its techniques in their States.
“The Horticulture Hub is a testament to the State government’s commitment to empowering horticulture farmers. By providing cutting-edge training and resources, the centre aims to help farmers overcome challenges like adverse weather and pests, ensuring sustainable growth,” said Chittoor District Collector Sumit Kumar.