Sukhdev Singh began farming in 1996 when agriculture seemed like an uphill battle. At that time, the land in his village was barren and filled with saline soil, making it nearly impossible to grow crops. The challenge didn’t stop there—he also had to deal with water shortages that made farming even harder. "In those early days, I barely managed to grow anything. It felt like every effort was in vain," Sukhdev recalls, reflecting on the tough beginnings.
Despite his limited education, having completed only up to matriculation, Sukhdev was determined to improve his family's livelihood. His persistence paid off when a government initiative called the Land Reclamation Programme came to his rescue. The programme provided a 75% subsidy for the introduction of gypsum, a soil additive that helped transform his unproductive land, along with the power supply.
Miracle of Gypsum: A Turning Point
The introduction of gypsum into Sukhdev Singh’s fields marked a turning point in his life. "It was like watching a miracle unfold," he says, recalling the moment when his barren land began to show signs of life. Gypsum helped improve the soil’s ability to soak up water, reducing erosion and runoff, and making the land fertile again. This transformation took about three years, but the wait was worth it.
"After three long years, I finally saw my hard work paying off. It felt like the land was being reborn," he says with a smile. With the land now more fertile, Sukhdev decided to grow crops like sugarcane, potatoes, mustard, berseem, and maize, moving beyond the traditional paddy-wheat system. Each new crop brought him not just financial rewards but also a renewed sense of accomplishment.
Embracing Technology and Knowledge
Sukhdev’s desire to expand his knowledge led him to connect with the Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) and the Farm Advisory Service Centre (FASC). Attending training sessions there proved to be pivotal in his journey toward agricultural excellence. He learned about advanced crop varieties and modern farming techniques that would later transform his yields of wheat, maize, rice, and sugarcane.
"Learning from experts opened my eyes to new possibilities," Sukhdev shares. Armed with this knowledge, he didn’t just stop at growing crops-he wanted to do it smartly and sustainably. He adopted an underground pipeline irrigation system to conserve water, a resource they once struggled to manage.
Growth Beyond Imagination
Sukhdev Singh’s hard work didn’t stop with just transforming his land; he also invested in tools that would help him expand his farming operations. In 1999, after improving his soil conditions, he purchased his first tractor. Not only did he use it for his own farm work, but he also rented it out to other farmers, adding a supplementary income stream. By 2002, he had earned enough to buy a second tractor, further boosting his productivity.
Today, Sukhdev farms on a total of 100 acres of land, a combination of his 18 acres and leased land. He cultivates a variety of crops, including wheat, rice, maize, and peas, ensuring that his income remains diversified. His strategic approach to farming has made him a leading figure in his community, admired for his relentless drive and innovation.
Smart Farming and Environmental Stewardship
A defining feature of Sukhdev’s farming is his focus on smart farming. "It’s not just about farming; it’s about smart farming," he says. This approach is evident in his water-saving irrigation system and his practice of storing basmati rice and maize to avoid distress sales. His innovative use of paddy straw to replenish the soil, instead of burning it, further demonstrates his commitment to environmentally friendly farming practices.
"I never burn stubble," he says. "Instead, I spread it in the field to help retain soil moisture and fertility. The land has given me so much; I feel it's my duty to give back." This sense of environmental stewardship has earned him respect among his fellow farmers and agricultural experts alike.
Expanding Into Dairy Farming
In addition to crop farming, Sukhdev also runs a successful dairy enterprise. He currently owns 5-6 buffaloes and 6-7 cows, producing about 126 quintals of milk annually. "The dairy business adds another layer of security and income," he explains, noting that the surplus milk is sold to local dairy units, generating an additional income of approximately Rs. 3,78,000 per year.
Dairy farming has not only supplemented his income but has also allowed Sukhdev to further diversify his farm operations, making him more resilient to the unpredictable challenges of agriculture.
Financial Success: Numbers That Tell the Story
Sukhdev Singh’s farm is a thriving example of what can be achieved through determination and smart farming practices. His diverse cropping pattern includes-
Wheat: Rs. 30,000 per acre, Rice: Rs. 40,000 per acre, Basmati: Rs. 27,000 per acre, Maize: Rs. 40,000 per acre, Oats: Rs. 20,000 per acre, Turmeric: Rs. 2,40,000 per acre, Marigold: Rs. 30,000 per acre. With his dairy enterprise adding to his income, Sukhdev earns a profit of around Rs. 7 lakh per annum. His success is a reflection of his relentless hard work and his ability to adapt and innovate.
Beacon of Knowledge and Inspiration
Sukhdev Singh is not just a successful farmer; he is also a mentor to others in his community. He often shares his knowledge with fellow farmers, especially encouraging them to adopt sustainable practices. He is a strong advocate for the use of latest technology seeds, which he obtains from KVK Kapurthala. "These seeds are pure and help me gain more profit," he says, emphasizing the importance of quality inputs in farming.
Sukhdev often advises fellow farmers to treat their fields like their own children. "If you take care of your land, it will take care of you," he says. He also stresses the importance of using chemical fertilizers in moderation and in accordance with expert advice.
Recognition and Legacy
In 2017, Sukhdev Singh was honored with the Dalip Singh Dhaliwal Memorial Award for crop diversification by PAU Ludhiana. This award was a recognition of his dedication to innovative and sustainable farming practices. "Receiving the award was a moment of immense pride," he says, his voice filled with emotion.
Today, Sukhdev’s success story is an inspiration to countless farmers, proving that with knowledge, hard work, and determination, it is possible to transform even the most challenging circumstances into success.
