Farmers in Tiruchi Advised to Use PPFM Amid Weak Monsoon

With monsoon rainfall remaining scarce and water levels at the Mettur dam insufficient to sustain Cauvery river flow, the Agriculture Department in Tiruchi district has begun promoting the use of Pink Pigmented Facultative Methylotrophs (PPFM) among farmers. Officials say the bacteria, known for its drought-mitigation properties, can help crops withstand water scarcity and heat stress in the short term.

Proven Benefits of PPFM Spraying

PPFM, a phyllosphere bacteria, acts as a plant growth promoter and has shown promising results in alleviating water stress for crops. According to R. Sugumar, Assistant Director of Agriculture in Musiri, foliar spraying of PPFM can help crops resist water stress for up to 10 days. However, it is most effective when applied to crops with healthy growth.

The Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU) had earlier promoted PPFM spraying during drought conditions in paddy fields about a decade ago. While its use declined in subsequent years, officials believe it is highly relevant now, given the weak monsoon attributed to the El Niño effect. Farmers are advised to spray one litre of PPFM per acre, with two applications spaced 15 days apart.

Focus on Drought-Resistant Crops

In recent months, the Agriculture Department has encouraged farmers in Musiri block to spray PPFM on crops such as sorghum, groundnut, gingelly, and sugarcane. The results have been encouraging, with visible improvements in crop resilience under water-stressed conditions. The department now plans to distribute PPFM under central subsidised schemes for demonstration plots of sorghum, groundnut, and castor in the district.

Why This Matters

The initiative comes at a critical time when farmers in Tamil Nadu are grappling with weak monsoon rains and dwindling water resources. By promoting PPFM spraying, the Agriculture Department aims to provide farmers with a practical solution to mitigate the effects of drought and safeguard crop yields.

This renewed focus on PPFM reflects the urgent need for innovative agricultural practices to adapt to changing climate conditions and ensure food security in the region.

Source: The Hindu