Success Story: This farmer from Rajasthan earned lakhs of rupees through organic farming
Success Story: A forward-thinking horticulturist from Rajasthan named Manoj Khandelwal is a prime example of how willpower and creative problem-solving can make aspirations come true. Manoj was first engrossed in Kota’s real estate and stock markets, but he always had a strong, lasting affinity for farming, which was inspired by his father’s agricultural heritage. He worked alongside his father on their small family farm for many hours as a boy, fostering his ambition of turning agriculture into a lucrative and sustainable source of income. His transition from the corporate world to prosperous farming today is evidence of his foresight, tenacity, and persistent dedication to his passion.
Transition from Real Estate to Agriculture
His family only possessed one yard of farmland in 2009–10, and he didn’t own much land at the time. However, his desire to build something significant drove him to begin farming on six bighas of rented land. After quitting his job, he started cultivating vegetables in 2010 and experienced the first taste of agricultural earnings. This achievement encouraged Manoj to learn more about farming, concentrating on climate-friendly crops that were appropriate for his area.
Manoj progressively changed his emphasis to organic farming and included contemporary methods into his methods. He currently cultivates 10,000 guava trees, as well as wheat, mustard, soybeans, vegetables, and medicinal plants on 70 bighas of land. His guavas are of outstanding quality and size, weighing an average of 600 to 750 grams. These guavas are highly sought after in major cities like Delhi, Jaipur, and Kota, as well as in international markets, and are offered at premium prices, ranging from Rs 70 to Rs 100 per kilogram.
Manoj attributed his success to using sustainable agricultural practices and technology to produce high-quality crops at a cheaper cost. In addition to increasing his earnings, his commitment to organic techniques has brought him acclaim on a state and federal level. For his contributions to modern farming, he has received accolades from institutions such as SBI and MFOI.
A Comprehensive Approach to Farming
According to Manoj, the secret to sustained farming is variety. He suggests that other farmers use a three-pronged strategy:
Basic Farming: For steady revenue, concentrate on cash and staple crops like soybeans, wheat, and mustard.
Orchards: To establish a reliable source of income, invest in long-term crops like guavas.
Vegetable farming: Produce veggies for consistent daily income.
Manoj has maintained a steady and successful agricultural enterprise by striking a balance between these three farming practices. He emphasized the dangers of monocropping and urged farmers to diversify their crops and constantly strive for high-end goods.
Suggestions for Other Farmers
The Journey of Manoj demonstrates a strong commitment to lifelong learning and creativity. He exhorts farmers to be receptive to innovation and new technologies and to adjust to the shifting needs of the market. His strategy of combining conventional farming knowledge with contemporary methods results in a sustainable model that strikes a balance between environmental preservation and financial gain.
As his business expands, Manoj now earns Rs 50,000 every bigha. Local markets and high-end customers in India and abroad may now purchase high-quality organic produce from his farm. Manoj’s story has lessons for farmers around the country. It proves that for people with vision, perseverance, and creativity, farming can be a fulfilling and prosperous endeavor.
