The Economic Times

Andhra farmer turns drought-hit land into 180-acre fruit farm. Grows apples, dates and dragon fruit; earns Rs 2 crore annually

Anantapur farmer Mekala Shiva Shankar Reddy transformed arid land into a thriving orchard. He adopted water-saving drip irrigation and fertigation techniques for his crops. Reddy diversified his farm to include dates, dragon fruit, and grapes, achieving significant success. Another farmer, K V Ramana Reddy, successfully cultivated low-chill apples in the region. These initiatives demonstrate innovative farming practices overcoming regional water scarcity challenges.