Dragon Fruit Farming: This farmer earns crores of profit by cultivating dragon fruit
Dragon Fruit Farming: Akbar Ali Ahmed, a forward-thinking farmer from Assam’s Chirang region, has penned a unique tale of dragon fruit growing success. Akbar Ali abandoned conventional farming in favor of the dragon fruit crop, which not only brought him financial success but also served as a model for other farmers in the area.
He grows the LD-1 kind of dragon fruit on two hectares of land under the name “Khidmat Agro Nursery and Farm,” generating around Rs 1 crore in revenue each year.
Today, his “Khidmat Agro Nursery and Farm” is a well-known brand in Assam’s dragon fruit production industry, bringing in crores of rupees while also significantly boosting the state’s popularity of the crop. Akbar Ali’s journey is a tale of inspiration in and of itself. Tell us in full about Akbar Ali Ahmed’s tale in such a scenario.
Farming’s Beginnings and Challenges
Akbar Ali began growing dragon fruit six years ago. Due to the fact that dragon fruit was a novel crop for Assamese farmers, he had several challenges during this period. He had to put in a lot of effort in the early going to learn about this new crop, choose the right variety, and get the technical know-how needed for farming.
He decided to produce dragon fruit using the LD-1 variety, which is well-known for its excellent quality and great yield. In addition to reaping financial rewards, he planted this crop on his property since it is ecologically beneficial.
Farming and Investment Expansion
On almost 2 hectares of land, Akbar Ali Ahmed grows dragon fruit. He said in an interview with Krishi Jagran that around 15,000 plants are planted on one hectare of land, with each plant costing around Rs 30. Dragon fruit production has a significant upfront cost since it involves buying plants, erecting pillars, and purchasing watering supplies.
Approximately Rs 14–15 lakh was invested per acre in the first year, with pillar construction costing roughly Rs 500 each. However, since this crop produces over the next 20 years and requires very little care, it turned out to be a long-term lucrative investment.
Benefits and the Production Process
Within a year, the dragon fruit plant begins to produce fruit. According to Akbar Ali, one pillar yields around 15–20 kilogram of fruit annually. About eight fruit harvests occur each year, resulting in a healthy crop profit.
The time between dragon fruit blossoming and fruit production is around forty-five days. A yield of 25–30 tons per acre is achieved after two years. The cost per hectare stays between Rs 1.5 and 2 lakh from the second year to the next 20 years, which is quite affordable when compared to conventional crops. This is a significant accomplishment for Akbar Ali since it has raised his yearly revenue to above Rs 1 crore.
Technological Experimentation and Innovation
On his farm, Akbar Ali Ahmed has prioritized both dragon fruit agriculture and technical innovation. He has used innovative technology and scientific procedures to enhance farming. He saves water by using water-saving irrigation methods like drip irrigation. In addition, he manages diseases and supplies plants with nutrients by using organic insecticides and fertilizers. He feels that technical advancements in agriculture have a beneficial effect on the environment in addition to increasing productivity.
Creating Jobs and Making a Social Contribution
Akbar Ali Ahmed’s farm is providing job chances for local kids. One of his main initiatives is to educate trained individuals in a variety of agricultural activities in order to provide them with employment. Akbar Ali’s farm has over 20 workers engaged in farming-related tasks. In this manner, by giving the villagers jobs, he has not only improved his personal financial situation but also benefited the village’s residents.
Motivation for Other Farmers
The farmers in Akbar Ali Ahmed’s immediate vicinity have also been motivated by his accomplishment. He receives a lot of visits from farmers and agricultural specialists who ask him questions about different facets of growing dragon fruit. Akbar Ali informs other farmers about the advantages and technical techniques of this crop by sharing his expertise.
He assures the farmers that long-term earnings are possible in dragon fruit production with the correct investment. Due of his success, a lot of farmers are now interested in growing dragon fruit.
The Advantages of Growing Dragon Fruit
Dragon fruit is a long-term lucrative crop, but it comes with a significant initial investment. The farmer receives a steady income for 20 years after planting the sapling. Due to its low water requirements, this crop may be produced effectively even in regions impacted by drought. In addition, dragon fruit is in great demand because of its health and nutritional advantages, which may help growers make a healthy profit.
