Wed Jan 14 16:12:29 UTC 2026: ### Iowa State University Horticulture Department Visits Kerala Farm

The Story: A delegation from the Horticulture Department of Iowa State University, U.S., visited a 20-acre farm run by state award-winning farmer S.V. Sujith on the St Xavier’s College campus in Thumba, Kerala on Tuesday, January 13, 2026. The Iowa team engaged in discussions with Mr. Sujith about his vegetable farming methods, focusing on pest control, mechanization, and fertigation techniques.

The visit highlights the growing interest in sustainable and innovative agricultural practices in Kerala. Mr. Sujith’s Naaden Agro Farm, which leases land from the college, grows over 30 types of vegetables under the ‘Safe to Eat’ system, with support from the Kerala Agricultural University (KAU).

Key Points:

  • Visitors were from the Horticulture Department of Iowa State University, U.S.
  • The farm visited is a 20-acre plot run by S.V. Sujith, a State Award-winning farmer.
  • Discussions centered on vegetable farming methods, pest control, mechanization, and fertigation.
  • Naaden Agro Farm grows over 30 types of vegetables under the ‘Safe to Eat’ system.
  • The Iowa State University team consisted of 14 members and was led by Catherine Swoboda and Ajay Nair.
  • The visit was coordinated by Gayathri G., Assistant Professor at the KAU College of Agriculture, Vellayani.

Key Takeaways:

  • The visit underscores the international interest in Kerala’s agricultural practices, especially its focus on safe and sustainable vegetable production.
  • Farmer S.V. Sujith’s success and recognition through the Haritha Mithra Award likely contributed to the Iowa State University team’s decision to visit his farm.
  • Collaboration between farmers, agricultural universities (KAU), and research institutions like the Krishi Vigyan Kendra and the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology is crucial for promoting innovative farming techniques.
  • The “Safe to Eat” system and traceability measures employed at the farm are of particular interest, reflecting a growing global concern for food safety and consumer transparency.

Impact Analysis:

  • This exchange between Iowa State University and Naaden Agro Farm may lead to further collaborations and knowledge transfer, potentially benefiting both agricultural communities.
  • The visit could encourage greater adoption of sustainable farming practices and traceability systems in Kerala and beyond, promoting safer and more reliable food production.
  • The event may also influence agricultural curricula and research priorities at both Iowa State University and KAU, fostering a greater focus on practical, farmer-led innovations.

    Read More

Related News: