On 21–22 May 2026, SELCO Foundation, in collaboration with Daksha Yantra Nati (DYN) and UAS, Mandya, organized a hands-on workshop on mechanization of the paddy value chain with energy-efficient solutions at VC Farm, Mandya. CIKS was represented by Mr. S. Thulasi Dhasan and farmers Mr. D. Balasubramanian, Mr. A. Elangovan, Mr. D. Venkadesan, and Mr. P. Thirupathiraja.
The two-day programme brought together farmers, FPOs, rural entrepreneurs, and development partners from four southern states for classroom sessions and practical demonstrations on mat nursery preparation, mechanical transplanting, battery-operated cono weeders, AWD sensors, drone spraying, and battery-operated harvesting equipment. Participants also received nursery kits on the second day, and Mr. A. Elangovan shared his experience with paddy transplanter use.
The group visited the Rice Diversity Centre at Kirugavalu village, which conserves more than 1,350 traditional rice varieties, along with other crops, as a model for biodiversity conservation. They also observed a solar dryer, oyster mushroom unit, and multi-stage paddy processing facility, gaining exposure to post-harvest and value-addition technologies.
The workshop concluded with the distribution of Basmati paddy seeds and a feedback session. Participants appreciated the practical demonstrations and exposure visits, and the programme highlighted sustainable, climate-resilient approaches to paddy cultivation.
