Tag: Potato

Hardeep Singh

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In the heart of Ludhiana’s Rabbon Uchi village, a tale of ambition, dedication, and perseverance has unfolded over the past 15 years. At the center of this narrative is Hardeep Singh, a visionary dairy farmer who has transformed his dreams into reality through relentless hard work and an unwavering commitment to his craft. With an academic background in marketing, an MBA degree, and a stint at Tara Feed, Hardeep’s journey into the world of dairy farming is an inspiring testament to the possibilities that lie beyond traditional career trajectories.

Hardeep’s foray into dairy farming was no mere happenstance. His passion was ignited during his time at Tara Feed, where he had the opportunity to visit various farms as part of his job. These visits opened his eyes to the potential of dairy farming as a profitable and sustainable occupation. Armed with this newfound inspiration, he embarked on a journey that would lead him to become a pioneer in his field.

With a burning desire to learn and grow, Hardeep took extensive training in the field, initially focusing on buffalo farming before transitioning to cows. Armed with his newly acquired knowledge, he purchased 20 animals at the outset, and what sets his journey apart is his steadfast commitment to breeding. Unlike many in the industry who often rely on purchasing animals, Hardeep chose a different path. He decided to breed his own cows, a decision that not only spoke to his dedication but also set the stage for a self-sustaining farm. Over the years, his herd has grown to a total of 90 cows, comprising both Holstein Friesians (HF), with 40 actively contributing to milk production.

Obstacles, as Hardeep believes, are an inevitable part of any occupation. Yet, his approach to challenges is what truly defines him. He is not one to shy away; instead, he tackles each obstacle head-on, seeking innovative solutions. One such example is his battle against mastitis, a common and often debilitating condition in dairy cattle. Hardeep invested time and effort in researching and refining the nutrition of his cows’ feed. Drawing upon recommendations from institutions like Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) and Punjab Dairy Farmers Association (PDFA), he fine-tuned his cows’ diet, leading to a reduction in mastitis cases and an overall improvement in cow health.

Another challenge he confronted was repeat breeding. Through meticulous research and experimentation, he found a solution by incorporating the right mix of minerals and vitamins into the cows’ diet, effectively addressing the issue. Hardeep’s proactive approach doesn’t stop at on-farm solutions; he’s also tapped into the resources provided by the National Dairy Development Board. Leveraging their schemes, he secured subsidies for his initial purchase of 10 animals, giving his venture a solid financial boost.

In his pursuit of excellence, Hardeep leaves no stone unturned. He uses imported semen from reputable sources like Punjab Dairy Farmers Association, Avis, and Worldwide, enhancing the genetics of his herd. With an emphasis on technology, Hardeep employs software to monitor his cows’ health and productivity. Each cow wears a tag around its neck, and the software sends him real-time updates about their well-being, including any signs of sickness. The same software aids in optimizing artificial insemination timings, ensuring a higher success rate in breeding.

Hardeep’s accomplishments extend beyond the dairy barn. His family, especially his brothers, have been pillars of support throughout his journey. With 42 acres of land dedicated to agriculture, he maintains a symbiotic relationship between his farming endeavors. He cultivates crops such as potatoes and corn, the latter serving as silage for his cows. This integration not only reduces costs but also highlights Hardeep’s holistic approach to farming.

As Hardeep Singh continues to nurture his dairy farm in Ludhiana’s Rabbon Uchi village, his journey remains an inspiration to all who come across it. His ability to surmount challenges, embrace innovation, and sustain a thriving enterprise underscores the limitless possibilities that can emerge from a combination of passion and perseverance. In his story, we find not only a tale of individual success but also a roadmap for revitalizing and revolutionizing the agricultural landscape.

Message to farmers

Reflecting on his journey, Hardeep emphasizes the profitability of dairy farming, provided one pays meticulous attention to expenses and focuses on the crucial aspects of feed, breed, and cow management. He stands as a testament to the notion that with the right blend of passion, knowledge, and determination, even a non-traditional background can lead to extraordinary success. His story underscores the potential of agriculture as a dynamic and rewarding profession, inspiring aspiring farmers to think beyond conventional boundaries.

Sikander Singh Brar

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Revolutionizing Agriculture: The Visionary Journey of Sikander Singh Brar

In the heartland of Punjab, where farming is not just a profession but a way of life, one man’s unwavering passion for innovation has brought about a transformative change in the agricultural landscape. Sikander Singh Brar, a pioneer in the realm of farming, has not only challenged conventional practices but has redefined the essence of agriculture itself. From humble beginnings rooted in a traditional farming family to becoming a beacon of modernity, Sikander Singh’s journey is a testament to the power of determination, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

From Tradition to Innovation: The Early Years

Sikander Singh Brar’s journey began in Balihar Mahima, Bathinda, where he was born into a farming family deeply entrenched in traditional agricultural practices. His father, S. Buta Singh, was a stalwart in traditional farming techniques that had been passed down through generations. Yet, even amidst the familiarity of these age-old practices, young Sikander Singh harbored an unyielding desire to bring something new to the table.

“Why settle for the same crops year after year?” Sikander Singh pondered.

His inquisitive mind refused to succumb to the status quo. This innate desire to break free from convention, to reach for the skies from the earth to the heavens, became a guiding principle in Sikander Singh’s life. He understood that the urge to forge ahead, to innovate, should be the driving force across all fields of endeavor.

Cultivating Change: The Birth of Innovation

As Sikander Singh embarked on his academic journey, enrolling in Pharmacy at Sirsa in 1983, his foray into farming began to take shape. Supported by his elder brother, S. Samsher Singh, a Veterinary Inspector, he started to usher in a new era of farming in his village. The duo challenged the age-old practices of wheat and barley cultivation, which had long been the staple of the region.

Their motivation was clear: Why not infuse freshness and diversity into farming practices? This question echoed in Sikander Singh’s mind as he delved deeper into his newfound passion. After leaving his Pharmacy studies in 1984, he shifted his focus entirely to farming. And thus, the journey of transformation began.

Embracing Diversity: A New Chapter in Farming

Sikander Singh’s determination to explore the uncharted territory of farming led him to the cultivation of delicate and diverse crops. He took the plunge into cultivating tomatoes, an unconventional choice that would soon reap rewards. Through collaborations with various companies and the implementation of advanced techniques, his efforts bore fruit – both literally and metaphorically.

Yet, Sikander Singh’s innovation extended beyond crop selection. He held a staunch aversion to harmful pesticides and chemicals that wreaked havoc on the environment and human health. Opting for organic fertilizers and sustainable practices, he set an example that spoke volumes about his commitment to a holistic approach to farming. In 2005, they planted a kinnow orchard on five acres of land. In addition, they prepared wheat seeds from 15 acres of land and supplied seeds to the National Seed Corporation Limited, expanding their efforts to cultivate 50 acres of wheat seeds from 15 acres for the corporation.

Agricultural Revolution: An Inspiring Legacy

Sikander Singh Brar’s pioneering spirit did not go unnoticed. His successful endeavors earned him recognition from prestigious institutions like Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana. He emerged as a luminary in the agricultural landscape, sought after for his expertise, knowledge, and innovative methods. His insights were not confined to his fields alone; he generously shared his wisdom on television, radio channels, and workshops, inspiring fellow farmers on both local and global platforms.

His journey, however, was not just about accolades and achievements. It was about ensuring a sustainable future for agriculture. Sikander Singh was an ardent advocate for proper training and preparation before venturing into new farming practices. His emphasis on organic farming, minimal pesticide use, and the adoption of innovative methods echoed his unwavering commitment to the betterment of the land and its people.

The journey of Poultry farm

Sikander Singh Brar, established Sikander Poultry Farm in Balihar Mahima, Bathinda, in 1997. Starting as a modest venture with 5000 birds, it has evolved into a thriving enterprise that has a housing capacity of 35,000 birds of BV 300 breed. The Poultry farm is now managed by Amrinder Singh Brar who is a nephew of Sikander Singh Brar.

Amrinder Singh Brar holds a Masters in Agriculture from PAU and has been operating Sikander Poultry Farm in Bathinda since 2020. What started as a side business with 5000 birds has now grown to accommodate 27000 birds, including 15000 BV 300 red birds and 12000 BV 300 white birds. Under the guidance of his retired uncle, Nachhatar Singh Sran, a former Poultry Inspector, Amrinder modernized the farm to address challenges like water wastage and efficient feeding. By incorporating nipple waterers and feed trollies, Brar’s farm now operates semi-automatically, with human labor operating elevators to efficiently feed thousands of birds.

Vaccination is a crucial aspect of maintaining the health of the birds, with Brar administering 10 to 15 vaccinations to protect against diseases like CRD, Ranikhet, Fowlpox, and Coxy Variant. He emphasizes three primary factors for successful poultry farming: proper feed ingredients, constant water availability, and optimal temperature control. Despite challenges like fluctuating egg prices, Brar markets his products effectively through networking skills and has received recognition for his prominent poultry farm, as well as his ventures into horticulture and agriculture.

Amrinder Singh along with Sikander Singh are taking the Sikander Poultry Farm to new heights.

The Road Ahead: A Vision of Innovation

As Sikander Singh Brar looks to the future, his vision remains steadfast. He envisions a continued journey of growth, collaboration, and innovation. With his family by his side, he aims to explore uncharted territories, embracing change and transformation. His collaborations with experts and organizations stand as a testament to his humility and eagerness to learn.

Sikander Singh’s journey is a testament to the power of a single individual’s determination to create a better world. From a traditional farming family to a torchbearer of modern agricultural practices, he has illuminated the path of innovation for generations to come. His legacy will forever remind us that the desire to do something different can, indeed, compel humans to reach for the skies, turning dreams of innovation into tangible realities on the fertile soil of our land.

Message for farmers

For any new farmer aspiring to bring innovation in agriculture, it is crucial that they seek training and advice from relevant experts or organizations before initiating any new endeavors. After gaining the necessary knowledge, they can begin their work. Additionally, it is essential to minimize the use of pesticides and chemicals wherever possible and strive to adopt organic farming practices.

Khushdeep Singh Bains

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HOW A 26-YEAR-OLD BOY DISCOVERED THE REAL JOY OF HIS LIFE IN VEGETABLE FARMING

India holds the second largest agricultural land in the world and its impact on Indian economy is huge. But still, today, if we ask the youngsters about their future plan, then very few, will be there who will say farming or agribusiness.

A 26-year-old boy from Harnampura, Ludhiana- Khushdeep Singh Bains, who after working for 2 years in two different companies decided to switch to farming, and today he is growing only vegetables in 28 acres of land.

Well, what made Khushdeep leave his good-earning comfortable job and start farming? It was Khushdeep’s interest towards agriculture.

Khushdeep Singh Bains comes from a family background where his father- Mr. Sukhwinder Singh, mainly used to do real estate work, and for home purpose wheat and paddy farming on a small scale. Khushdeep’s father always wanted his son to do a comfortable job where he will be given a chair and desk to work, he never thought of making his son work in the sun and soil. But when Khushdeep quit his job and started farming at that time his father was completely against his decision, because in his perception, farming is an occupation which needs huge labour and it is not a work that qualified and literate people should do.

But to change any negative opinion you just need a powerful positive result, and this is what Khushdeep came up with.

How it started…

When Khushdeep was working in Eastman at that time he used to prepare seedlings and this is when he was more attracted towards farming. After working for 1 year and 8 months he switched his job and started working with UPL Pesticides, but there also he only survived for 2-3 months. He was not satisfied with his work and he wanted to do something more. So, after working for 2 years in Eastman and UPL- Pesticide Company, Khushdeep decided of starting vegetable farming.

He started with pumpkin, ridge gourd and okra by planting it in half acre each, he used pesticides and the harvest was more than his imagination. Slowly he started expanding the farming area and vegetable types. He started growing every type of vegetable, whether it is in-season or out-of-season. He also signed the contract with Pagro Foods Ltd. for pea and sweetcorn farming and gained huge profit from them. Later on, in 2016, he planted paddy, beans, potato, onion, garlic, peas, capsicum, cauliflower, mung beans, and basmati turn wise on the same land.

Along with farming, Khushdeep also started preparing seeds and seedlings of garlic and many other crops and this side work benefited him a lot. From last three years, he is displaying his seed preparation work in PAU Ludhiana Kisan Mela and is getting an overwhelming response every time.

Today Khushdeep’s father and mother, both are proud of their son’s achievements. Khushdeep himself is very happy with his work and is also encouraging other farmers toward it. Currently, he is making a good profit from vegetable farming and his future plan is to start his own nursery and food processing business.

Message to farmers:
“Farmers shouldn’t be dependent on the third person for their marketing, they should do their work on their own. There is one more thing that farmers should keep in mind and that is they should never follow anything by seeing anyone, they should do what they feel from inside.
The farmer should also think about doing diversified farming and they should grow more than one crop because in case one crop gets damage then at least there is the second crop to support you. Consult one to two experts every time and after that start your new venture.”

Ratti Ram

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A Ray of Hope Which Changed Ratti Ram’s Farming into a Profitable Venture

Ratti Ram is an ordinary vegetable farmer from Hinotia village of Madhya Pradesh. By wisely taking advantage of advanced techniques and government schemes, he established his own vegetable farm from which today he is earning profit in crores. But if we talk about a while ago, then Ratti Ram was a deprived farmer for whom even buying a footwear was also a very difficult errand. Today he owns a bike which he proudly runs in his village.

Although Ratti Ram had less land for cultivation, but scarcity of water resources acts as the major intervention between his efforts and the land. In the rainy season, when he tried to cultivate something at that time excess rain damaged his crops. All these climatic problems and other glitches were the main reason behind his poor farming conditions.

Whatever little income he used to earn from farming was all spent on fulfilling the family’s food demand, and these situations were also giving rise to many financial problems. But one day Ratti Ram came to know about Horticulture Department and he ran barefoot towards Collector Rajesh Jain’s Office District Head Quarter from his village Hinotia. When collector saw Ratti Ram, he felt his pain and the next step that he took changed the life of Ratti Ram.

Collector sent Ratti Ram to the officer of Horticulture Department, where Mr. Ratti came to know about various horticulture schemes. He got seeds of Guava, Amla, Hybrid Tomato, Okra, Potato, Garlic, Chilly etc., and with the help of horticulture schemes and subsidy, he also set up drip irrigation system, sprayer, power spray pump, power driller. Moreover, the collector also helped him in locating a pack house under subsidized rate.

His fate changed, as soon as Ratti Ram started vegetable farming by using new techniques, and in a year Ratti Ram earned a pure profit of one crore from which he bought Matador Van, two bikes, and two tractors. Other than investing in vehicles he also invested in other resources and made 3 new water wells, 12 tube well and 4 houses at different locations. He expanded his farming area by buying 20 acres land for cultivation purpose and took 100 acres land on lease. Today he is living happily with his family and a while ago he also arranged marriage ceremony for his two sons and a daughter.

Ratti Ram is a role model for all those farmers in India who are feeling helpless and abandoned, because even in his difficult times he never left his hope.