Success Story: This farmer from Assam earned a lot by cultivating dragon fruit

Success Story: A forward-thinking farmer from Assam’s Chirang district named Akbar Ali Ahmed made a daring choice six years ago that would change the course of his agricultural career and motivate a large number of others in his community. “I wanted to try something new, something that could motivate people and help my community grow sustainably,” says Akbar. Akbar made the decision to switch from conventional crops to the exotic and in-demand dragon fruit in light of this goal. In addition to improving his financial circumstances, he established a strong example for other farmers with his business, Khidmat Agro Nursery & Farm.

Akbar has successfully raised his yearly income to an astounding Rs 1 crore by taking a chance on dragon fruit growing. His achievements have raised the bar for sustainable agriculture in Assam by encouraging many farmers in his community to embrace cutting-edge agricultural techniques.

Adopting an Exotic Crop

Akbar Ali realized he was entering unknown terrain six years ago when he decided to switch from traditional farming to dragon fruit production. Even though dragon fruit is becoming more and more popular worldwide, Assamese farmers were still unaware of it. At first, Akbar had trouble comprehending the crop’s particular needs. He was determined to make the business a success in spite of these challenges.

Since dragon fruit cultivation was new, it took a lot of preparation and study. However, I was persuaded of its possibilities,” Akbar said.

He chose the LD-1 variety, which is renowned for its excellent output and quality, after researching other variations. Akbar had a clear objective: he wanted to increase economic development while also adding to Assam’s agricultural variety by bringing in a crop that was both ecologically beneficial and lucrative.

“Khidmat Agro Nursery & Farm” construction

Akbar set up “Khidmat Agro Nursery & Farm” and planted dragon fruit on two hectares. The farm immediately became well-known and a household name in the dragon fruit industry in Assam. Akbar’s business, which generates over Rs 1 crore in revenue annually, serves as an example of how non-traditional farming may lead to the creation of new economic prospects.

“This trip has been fulfilling for my community as much as for myself. He said, “I wanted to demonstrate that farmers here can succeed with high-value crops if they have the proper resources.”

Today, Akbar’s farm is a benchmark, demonstrating that a well-considered crop choice can benefit the community and provide significant financial gains.

Overcoming Obstacles with Knowledge and Determination

There were obstacles to overcome while beginning with dragon fruit. “The high initial cost made the first year challenging,” Akbar said. A significant expenditure of about Rs 14–15 lakh per acre was needed to install strong plant pillars, buy seedlings, and set up an effective watering system. One acre can support roughly 15,000 plants, and each plant costs about Rs 30. The installation of pillars, which provide essential support for the climbing plants and cost around Rs 500 apiece, accounted for a significant amount of the expenditure.

But he considered this to be a long-term investment. After the initial setup, the crop’s maintenance expenses drastically decrease during its roughly 20-year lifetime. This decision, along with his cautious handling, paid off. Akbar’s dragon fruit trees started producing fruit within a year, with each pillar producing around 15–20 kg of fruit yearly. His farms were yielding up to 30 tons per hectare after two years, which led to an outstanding yearly turnover.

High-yield crops

Within the first year, Akbar’s dragon fruit bushes started to yield fruit, and his farm soon began to profit. With up to eight harvests each year, each pillar typically yields 15–20 kilogram of fruit yearly. Akbar Ali emphasizes the rapid turnaround time by stating that “it takes about 45 days from flowering to fruit formation.”

The farm was producing 25–30 tons per acre by the second year, bringing in more over Rs 1 million annually. For the next 20 years, the cost per hectare will be between ₹1.5 to 2 lakh, which is much less expensive than conventional crops.

Fulfilling Consumer Demand with Fruits High in Nutrients

Because of its nutrient-rich profile and health advantages, dragon fruit has become very popular in recent years. Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, it appeals to an increasing number of customers who are concerned about their health. Akbar Ali has concentrated on creating superior fruits that command high prices in the market after realizing this desire. “Dragon fruit is a crop with enormous health value; it’s not just profitable,” he says. “It is really fulfilling to know that my efforts are improving people’s health.”

The farm’s profitability has been further enhanced by the recent growth in demand for dragon fruit. Local farmers are now keen to learn about the possibilities of dragon fruit production as a result of Akbar Ali’s success.

Using Technology to Increase Yields

Akbar Ali’s commitment to use contemporary, ecological agricultural methods is one of the main factors contributing to his success. “Farming is evolving, and so should our methods,” according to him. By using strategies like as drip irrigation, he has been able to save water, which is a vital resource for agriculture that is sustainable. Because dragon fruit grows well even in low-water conditions, he constructed a drip irrigation system that reduced water use. To ensure that his food is both superior and eco-friendly, he also uses bio-pesticides and organic fertilizers.

“I was able to improve yields and reduce my environmental impact by implementing new techniques,” Akbar said. In addition to increasing his harvests, his focus on contemporary farming methods has made his farming model ecologically friendly, which benefits the ecosystem of the area.

Providing Employment Opportunities to Empower the Community

The fact that Akbar Ali’s farm creates jobs in the area is one of its features. At the moment, his farm employs around 20 individuals who are trained in agricultural practices and dragon fruit growing. His town has benefited from this job project, which has given young people there the chance to develop their abilities and make a living.

“I started my endeavor with the intention of helping everyone in my vicinity. In addition to increasing the production of my farm, I am also benefiting my community by generating employment,” he said.

Akbar’s dedication to the well-being of the community is indicative of his larger goal of using agriculture as a catalyst for constructive change. His farm empowers others in his area and has an economic effect that goes beyond his own gains.

Dragon Fruit Farming’s Long-Term Advantages

Due to its relative resistance to drought, dragon fruit cultivation is a great option for regions with limited water supplies. In the long term, dragon fruit has been a very successful crop because of this factor as well as the growing demand for the fruit because of its nutritional and health advantages. Because of Akbar’s commitment and vision, this agricultural endeavor became a reliable and consistent source of revenue.

“Dragon fruit is a reliable source of income for farmers,” he said. “It’s a crop that yields consistent returns with low maintenance costs after the first two years.”

Local farmers are increasingly considering dragon fruit as a feasible substitute for conventional crops as a result of Akbar’s efforts.

Many Assamese farmers have been inspired to try dragon fruit growing by Akbar Ali’s tale. Because he believes in the value of teamwork and mutual learning, he often shares his expertise with prospective farmers. Akbar Ali is significantly advancing Assam’s agriculture industry by holding seminars and mentoring eager farmers. Local farmers have become more creative as a result of his voyage and are now more willing to try out lucrative, unconventional crops.

“Farming is not just about crops; it’s about building a future,” said Akbar. Success will come if you have high dreams and put in a lot of effort.

His narrative inspires forward-thinking farmers worldwide by serving as a reminder of the limitless possibilities that come from accepting change, never stopping learning, and giving back to the community.