Thrissur man uses 'Drum Seed' mechanism for paddy sowing, gains attention

Venkitangu: P V Siddique, a native of Thoyakkav, Thrissur, pioneered a new technique in agriculture using a Drum Seed machine experimentally on his 7.5 acres in the South Konjira and North Konjira paddy fields. While traditional methods require 40 kg of seeds per acre, this machine needs only 18 kg of seeds for sowing. The method has since gained attention across the region.

The technique involves arranging seeds in the 4 drums installed in a mechanical structure, which is pulled away manually. In one pass, 5 to 10 seeds fall into 8 rows, 13 centimeters apart. Sowing can be completed within 2 hours. Since germination occurs uniformly and at precise intervals, it is easy to destroy weeds and wild rice plants. It is also possible to walk between the paddy plants, apply fertilizer, and perform special care until the ears emerge. 'Uma' seeds were chosen for sowing.

Siddique also sowed seeds using this machine for other farmers in the North Konjira paddy field, Habib and Brinto. M V Rajendran, a native of Muthuvara, prepared and supplied the machine.

Siddique stated that Joby and Sojan, farmers from Kuttanad who shared their experiences of increased production through this type of sowing, were his inspiration, and he also received full support from the Paddy Field Committee.