Gadag, Karnataka, 10th June 2025: Netafim India, a leading smart-irrigation solution provider, organized Pragati – a Progressive Farmer Training cum Felicitation Program at Gadag, Karnataka. The initiative focused on empowering farmers from the Singataluru Lift Irrigation Scheme (SLIS-3) through structured training, knowledge sharing, and recognition of best practices. Covering over 11,330 hectares, the SLIS-3 project has seen significant adoption of modern irrigation methods such as drip system. The farmers are growing crops like Maize, sunflower, Green gram, onion, chilly, flowers etc. The farmers are successfully adopting fertigation (nutrient supply through drip) to each crop as per crop need.
At the event, 30 progressive farmers who demonstrated successful implementation of these techniques were felicitated with a Pragati Farmer Badge and gift hampers. These farmers will now participate in Netafim’s advanced training modules and act as ambassadors for sustainable agriculture within their communities.
The event was graced by dignitaries including Dr. Girish Maraddi (Director, WALMI, Dharwad), Mr. Laxman Jogdandakar (AE, KNNL), Mr. Mailsamy M (General Manager, MEIL), Mr. Girish Deshpande (AGM, Netafim India), and Mr. Umesha M.C. (AGM, Netafim India), who addressed the gathering on innovation-led agricultural growth.
Speaking at the occasion Dr. Girish Maraddi, Director WALMI, said “The Pragati initiative by Netafim India is a strong step toward empowering farmers under the SLIS-3 project. By providing hands-on training in drip irrigation, fertigation, and digital farming, the program equips farmers with practical knowledge to improve yields, manage resources efficiently, and adopt sustainable practices. He emphasized on the importance of soil testing and providing the right nutrients to crops to increase productivity. Such initiatives are crucial for building a future-ready farming community in Karnataka and beyond.”
Mr. Girish Deshpande, Assistant General Manager, Netafim said, “With Pragati, our aim is to create a strong community of progressive farmers who lead by example. By adopting drip irrigation and modern farming techniques, these farmers are not only improving their own productivity but also inspiring others in the region to embrace sustainable agriculture. This is how real transformation begins—farmer to farmer.”
As part of the day-long training, farmers received guidance on topics such as project benefits, yield improvement using drip systems, fertigation, maintenance practices, future cropping strategies, and digital farming tools. Live demonstrations and real-life success stories added practical insights into the knowledge-sharing sessions.
The event highlighted how farmers have doubled their yields while reducing input costs—saving on water, labor, and fertilizers. Initiatives like Pragati reaffirm Netafim India’s commitment to advancing sustainable agriculture, rural prosperity, and community-led transformation.