Solan Farmer Earns ₹21 Lakh/Acre with Organic Kiwi Farming
In the picturesque town of Solan, Himachal Pradesh, a farmer has achieved a remarkable feat in organic kiwi farming, earning a whopping ₹21 lakh per acre. Pratap Bharnal, a local farmer, began his journey in organic kiwi farming in 2017, and today, he is reaping the benefits of his hard work and dedication. In this blog post, we will explore how Pratap Bharnal achieved this remarkable feat and what lessons we can learn from his success story.
The Journey Begins
Pratap Bharnal, a third-generation farmer, has been involved in farming for over two decades. However, in recent years, he noticed a decline in apple production and sales, which was a major concern for him. To diversify his income and stay ahead of the competition, Pratap decided to venture into organic kiwi farming. In 2017, he started with 100 kiwi saplings on a small plot of land, which he had previously used for apple cultivation.
The Challenges
Pratap faced several challenges in the early days of his organic kiwi farm. One of the major challenges was the lack of knowledge about kiwi farming in the region. He had to research extensively and consult with experts to learn the best practices for kiwi cultivation. Another challenge was the initial investment required to set up the farm, which was substantial.
The Breakthrough
Despite the challenges, Pratap remained committed to his vision of becoming a successful organic kiwi farmer. He worked tirelessly to ensure that his farm was managed sustainably and with minimal environmental impact. He used only water and cow dung manure as fertilizers, which not only reduced his costs but also improved the overall health of the soil.
The Payoff
Fast forward to today, Pratap’s kiwi farm has grown exponentially. He now has 400 kiwi plants, yielding an average of 52 kg every season. Last season, he harvested a staggering 21,600 kg of kiwis, earning a profit of ₹21 lakh per acre. This is a remarkable achievement, especially considering that Pratap started with just 100 saplings five years ago.
Lessons Learned
Pratap’s success story is a testament to the power of determination, hard work, and sustainable farming practices. Here are some key lessons that we can learn from his journey:
- Diversification is key: Pratap’s decision to diversify his farm from apples to kiwis has paid off handsomely. Diversification can help farmers manage risk and increase their income.
- Sustainable farming practices: Pratap’s use of natural fertilizers and minimal environmental impact has not only improved the health of his soil but also reduced his costs.
- Research and planning: Pratap’s success is also due to his extensive research and planning. He worked tirelessly to learn the best practices for kiwi cultivation and invested in his farm wisely.
- Commitment and perseverance: Pratap’s journey was not easy, but he remained committed to his vision and persevered despite the challenges.
Conclusion
Pratap Bharnal’s success story is an inspiration to farmers and entrepreneurs alike. His journey from a small plot of land to earning ₹21 lakh per acre is a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and sustainable farming practices. As we move forward, it is essential that we learn from Pratap’s success and adopt similar practices to ensure a sustainable future for our planet.
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