Solan Farmer Earns ₹21 Lakh/Acre with Organic Kiwi Farming
In the midst of the rapidly changing agricultural landscape, a Solan farmer has made a remarkable shift towards organic kiwi farming, earning a whopping ₹21 lakh per acre. Pratap Bharnal, a farmer from Solan, Himachal Pradesh, has successfully diversified his farm away from apples, which were once the mainstay of his agricultural operations. In this blog post, we will explore Bharnal’s journey towards organic kiwi farming and the secrets behind his remarkable success.
Declining Apple Prices Led to Diversification
Pratap Bharnal’s journey towards organic kiwi farming began in 2017, when he noticed a significant decline in apple prices. As a result, he was forced to rethink his agricultural strategy and explore alternative crops that could provide a better return on investment. After conducting extensive research, Bharnal decided to take the plunge into organic kiwi farming. With his initial investment of ₹1 lakh, he started with 100 saplings in his 4-acre farm.
From Saplings to 400 Kiwi Plants
Fast forward to today, Bharnal’s farm has transformed into a thriving organic kiwi farm, with 400 kiwi plants yielding an average of 52 kg every season. The initial 100 saplings have grown exponentially, and Bharnal credits his success to his commitment to organic farming practices. “I realized early on that chemical pesticides and fertilizers were harming the soil and the environment. I decided to switch to organic farming, which has not only improved the quality of my produce but also increased my yields,” he explains.
The Power of Cow Dung Manure
Bharnal’s decision to adopt organic farming has also led him to explore alternative methods of fertilization. He now uses only cow dung manure to nourish his kiwi plants, which has not only reduced his costs but also minimized the use of chemical substances in his farm. “Cow dung manure is rich in nutrients and has proven to be an excellent alternative to chemical fertilizers. It also helps to improve the soil’s structure and health,” he notes.
Record Harvest Yields ₹21 Lakh
Last season, Bharnal’s farm harvested an impressive 21,600 kg of kiwis, earning him a staggering ₹21 lakh per acre. This remarkable yield is a testament to his dedication to organic farming and his commitment to improving the quality of his produce. Bharnal attributes his success to the healthy soil, the right irrigation system, and the effective use of cow dung manure.
The Future of Organic Kiwi Farming in Solan
Bharnal’s success story is not only inspiring but also holds significant implications for the future of organic kiwi farming in Solan. As the demand for organic produce continues to grow, farmers like Bharnal are likely to play a crucial role in meeting this demand. With his expertise and experience, Bharnal is now sharing his knowledge with other farmers in the region, encouraging them to adopt organic farming practices.
Conclusion
Pratap Bharnal’s journey towards organic kiwi farming is a shining example of the potential that lies in diversifying agricultural operations. His commitment to organic farming practices has not only improved the quality of his produce but also increased his yields and earned him a significant income. As the demand for organic produce continues to grow, Bharnal’s story is a timely reminder of the importance of adopting sustainable farming practices.
