Solan Farmer Earns ₹21 Lakh/Acre with Organic Kiwi Farming
In a remarkable achievement in the field of sustainable farming, Pratap Bharnal, a farmer from Solan, Himachal Pradesh, has successfully earned a staggering ₹21 lakh per acre by adopting organic kiwi farming methods. This remarkable feat is not only a testament to the potential of organic farming but also a shining example of innovative and sustainable agriculture practices in the region.
Pratap Bharnal’s journey into organic kiwi farming began in 2017, when he decided to diversify his farming operations away from apples, which were experiencing declining rates. With a passion for experimenting with new crops, Pratap started with 100 kiwi saplings on his 2-acre land, with the aim of exploring the potential of organic kiwi farming.
Fast forward to today, Pratap has expanded his kiwi farm to 400 plants, yielding an average of 52 kg every season. His farm, nestled in the picturesque hills of Solan, has become a model for sustainable and organic farming practices in the region.
Pratap’s secret to success lies in his commitment to using only natural resources for his kiwi farm. He relies solely on water and cow dung manure to nourish his plants, eschewing synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. This approach not only promotes soil health and biodiversity but also ensures a chemical-free harvest for his kiwi fruits.
Last season, Pratap’s kiwi farm yielded a staggering 21,600 kg of kiwis, earning him a whopping ₹21 lakh per acre. This remarkable profit margin is a testament to the potential of organic kiwi farming, not only for farmers like Pratap but also for the environment and the local community.
Pratap’s success story has also inspired other farmers in the region to adopt organic farming practices. His farm has become a hub for knowledge sharing and skill-building, with many farmers visiting his farm to learn about his innovative approaches to organic kiwi farming.
So, what makes Pratap’s approach to organic kiwi farming so effective? Here are some key takeaways from his remarkable success story:
- Diversification: Pratap’s decision to diversify his farm away from apples was a bold move, but it paid off. By experimenting with new crops, he was able to tap into new markets and revenue streams.
- Soil conservation: By relying on natural resources like cow dung manure, Pratap has been able to conserve soil health and promote biodiversity.
- Water conservation: Pratap’s use of water-efficient irrigation systems has helped him conserve water, a precious resource in his region.
- Market focus: Pratap has identified a niche market for his organic kiwis, catering to customers who are willing to pay a premium for chemical-free produce.
- Knowledge sharing: Pratap’s willingness to share his knowledge and expertise with other farmers has helped to create a ripple effect of innovation and sustainability in the region.
Pratap’s remarkable success story is a testament to the potential of organic kiwi farming in Solan and beyond. As the demand for organic and sustainable produce continues to grow, farmers like Pratap are poised to reap the benefits of this emerging market.
