Farming can be a demanding endeavour that requires substantial time and energy, especially when it comes to growing organic vegetables. However, one tech-savvy individual from Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, has found a way to simplify the process using technology. S. Santhosh Kumar, a 43-year-old software professional, has developed an automated farm management system that allows him to efficiently control his hydroponics farm from his smartphone.
Innovative Solutions for Modern Farming
Santhosh Kumar, hailing from Neyyatinkkara, created this automated system at a modest cost of ₹20,000. Balancing his demanding office job with his passion for agriculture, he has pioneered a fully automated setup that enables remote monitoring and management of crops. He established his hydroponic farm on a 10-cent plot of land he purchased specifically for organic farming.
Reflecting on his journey, Santhosh shared, “I started organic farming ten years ago on my terrace but committed to it fully after acquiring the land three years ago. Hydroponics appealed to me because it is less labor-intensive than conventional farming. However, I faced significant crop losses due to my inability to monitor temperature and water flow effectively.”
A Personal Touch in Automation
As a UI and UX designer at a Technopark-based software company, Santhosh did not want to leave his job for farming. He began researching technologies that could enable him to manage his farm through his smartphone. Utilising home automation software, he successfully built his farming automation system, which now helps him grow a variety of leafy greens and tomatoes.
His system employs sensors and real-time data analytics to monitor crucial environmental factors, including water levels, nutrient concentration, humidity, and temperature. If adjustments are needed—like modifying the nutrient mix or regulating the lighting—the system promptly sends alerts to Santhosh’s phone, allowing him to respond immediately. This innovative approach ensures his crops receive optimal care, even amidst his professional commitments.
A Vision for the Future
Santhosh’s dedication to farming is evident in his words: “Farming has always been a dream of mine, but balancing it with my office work was challenging. Developing this system has kept me connected to something I love.”
Inspired by the success of his small-scale project, Santhosh is now focused on creating a user-friendly automated farming system. His vision includes making hydroponic farming accessible to urban residents who wish to cultivate fresh vegetables at home, without needing extensive knowledge or significant time investment. Through his innovative efforts, Santhosh Kumar exemplifies how technology can transform traditional farming into a manageable and rewarding venture.
