Solan Farmer Earns ₹21 Lakh/acre with Organic Kiwi Farming
For many farmers, the age-old adage “diversification is key” rings true. Diversifying one’s farm by experimenting with new crops and methods can not only increase yields but also reduce reliance on a single product and minimize risks. Pratap Bharnal, a farmer from Solan, Himachal Pradesh, is a shining example of this principle. In 2017, Bharnal made the bold decision to pivot away from traditional apple farming and instead, turned his attention to organic kiwi farming. The results have been nothing short of astonishing.
The Journey Begins
Bharnal’s decision to switch to kiwi farming was sparked by the declining rates of apple production in the region. As a result, he began to explore alternative crops that could thrive in Solan’s unique climate. After conducting extensive research, he settled on kiwi, a fruit that is not only in high demand but also requires minimal pesticides and chemicals to grow. In 2017, Bharnal started with a small plot of 100 kiwi saplings, carefully nurturing them to ensure they received the best possible start.
The Organic Approach
Unlike traditional kiwi farming methods, which rely heavily on chemical pesticides and fertilizers, Bharnal opted for an organic approach. He eschewed the use of synthetic chemicals, instead turning to natural methods to control pests and diseases. His secret sauce? Water and cow dung manure. Yes, you read that right! Bharnal’s innovative approach has not only reduced his environmental footprint but also resulted in a significantly higher yield.
The Payoff
Fast forward to the present, and Bharnal’s kiwi farm has expanded to an impressive 400 plants. The average yield per season? A staggering 52 kg. Last season, his farm produced an astonishing 21,600 kg of kiwis. With a market price of around ₹10,000 per kg, Bharnal’s farm earned a whopping ₹21 lakh per acre. To put this into perspective, this is a return on investment of over 1,000%!
Lessons Learned
So, what are the key takeaways from Bharnal’s success story? Here are a few:
- Diversification is key: By diversifying his farm away from traditional apple production, Bharnal has reduced his reliance on a single crop and minimized risks.
- Organic is the way to go: By opting for organic farming methods, Bharnal has reduced his environmental footprint and increased his yields.
- Innovation is key: Bharnal’s innovative approach to pest control using water and cow dung manure has resulted in a significantly higher yield.
- Investment in research is crucial: Bharnal’s extensive research on kiwi farming and organic methods has paid off in the long run.
Conclusion
Pratap Bharnal’s success story is a testament to the power of innovation, diversification, and organic farming. As the demand for organic produce continues to grow, farmers like Bharnal are well-positioned to capitalize on this trend. His journey serves as a reminder that, with the right approach, even the most unlikely crops can become a lucrative and sustainable source of income.
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