Earning over Rs 20 lakh annually from his combined ventures, Omveer, the owner of Kanika Dairy Farm and Organic Farming, has transformed traditional agriculture into a thriving enterprise. His innovative approach and sustainable practices have turned his 10-acre farm in Palwal, Haryana into a model of success, from organic farming to dairy production. Omveer’s achievements extend far beyond his personal gain. His introduction of a custom hiring center, focus on eco-friendly practices like stubble management, and adoption of intercropping and drip irrigation have set new standards in the local farming community.
"Farming is more than a livelihood, it's about nurturing both the land and community," says Omveer, whose efforts have redefined what’s possible in rural farming.
Shift from Traditional to Organic Farming
Omveer began his journey as a traditional farmer, growing paddy and seasonal vegetables. However, five years ago, he decided to switch to organic farming, recognizing the long-term benefits it offers for both the soil and crop quality. Organic farming, he believes, helps improve the fertility of the land while providing better yields.
"Organic farming not only boosts the health of the soil but also ensures good quality produce for years to come," says Omveer. His decision to go organic has paid off in multiple ways, from improved soil health to high-demand organic produce in the market.
Instead of chemical fertilizers, he uses natural fertilizers like cow urine and cow dung from his livestock, which enrich the soil and maintain its fertility. This eco-friendly approach has been key in cultivating crops that are not only healthy but also free from harmful chemicals.
Alongside his crops, Omveer cultivates organic fodder to feed his cows and buffaloes, ensuring his entire farm adheres to eco-friendly practices. This creates a self-sustaining loop between farming and animal husbandry, further enhancing both operations.
Dairy Farming: Adding Value to the Business
Animal husbandry is another key aspect of Omveer’s success. In addition to farming, he has also started dairy farming, where he raises 10 indigenous breed cows and 20 buffaloes. The milk from these animals is processed into various products like curd, ghee, cream, and buttermilk, all of which are sold locally.
"The milk from indigenous cows and buffaloes is highly nutritious and has a distinct demand in the market," shares Omveer. His focus on quality and organic dairy products has earned him a loyal customer base in the region.
The demand for his dairy products is increasing, significantly boosting his annual income. His commitment to maintaining high standards in dairy production has not only benefitted his business but also provided healthy, organic dairy products to his local community. By selling directly, Omveer adds value and earns more than he would from raw milk sales. This vertical integration has enabled business expansion and a steady income stream.
Supporting Local Farmers with a Custom Hiring Center
Omveer’s success extends beyond his own farm. Recognizing the challenges farmers face in accessing modern machinery, he took a crucial step by establishing a custom hiring center. Through this initiative, he rents out agricultural equipment such as tractors, super seeders, and balers to local farmers within a 15 to 20-kilometer radius. This service has been a boon for small-scale farmers, helping them reduce labor costs and increase productivity.
"Farming can be challenging, especially without the right tools. By offering these machines for rent, I want to make farming easier and more efficient for other farmers," Omveer shares.
This initiative has not only benefited his business and strengthened the local farming community, but it has also earned government support. Omveer received an 80% subsidy from the government to establish this hiring center, which has made it more affordable for farmers to access these tools.
Expanding Income with Kinnow Orchard and Intercropping
Another key factor in Omveer's success is the diversification of his farming methods. With government support, he began growing kinnow, a citrus fruit, in his orchard. He also adopted intercropping, allowing him to grow multiple crops on the same land. This approach has increased both his production capacity and income.
"Intercropping is a great way to maximize the use of land. It helps me grow more crops and get better returns from my farm," says Omveer.
By diversifying his crops, Omveer ensures that his income is not dependent on a single crop or product, making his farm more resilient to market fluctuations or crop failures
Water Conservation and Stubble Management
Water conservation is another area where Omveer has made improvements. He has adopted drip irrigation, a method that delivers water directly to the roots of plants, reducing water waste and ensuring crops get the moisture they need. This system has helped him save water, and the government has also supported him with subsidies for implementing this technique.
"Water conservation is crucial in agriculture, and with drip irrigation, I ensure that my crops get the right amount of water without wastage," Omveer explains.
In addition to water conservation, Omveer is also an advocate for stubble management, an issue plaguing many farmers across India. Instead of burning it after harvesting, he collects it using a baler and repurposes it as animal fodder. This not only prevents environmental damage but also turns waste into a useful resource.
"Burning stubble harms the environment, and it’s a waste of valuable material. By using it as fodder, we put it to good use," he says. His stubble management practices have inspired neighboring farmers to adopt similar eco-friendly techniques, contributing to a cleaner environment.
Recognition and Awards
Omveer’s dedication to farming, animal husbandry, and sustainable practices has earned him several awards at both the district and state levels. His innovative approach to organic farming, dairy production, and supporting fellow farmers has made him a role model in the farming community. His success has not only improved his family's financial standing but also inspired other farmers.
"The recognition motivates me to keep working hard and improving my farm. But the real achievement is seeing how these practices are making a positive impact on the environment and the community," he reflects.
Omveer has transformed traditional agriculture into a thriving business through hard work, innovation, and sustainable practices. His initiatives, including a custom hiring center, organic farming, animal husbandry, and stubble management, inspire other farmers. Omveer's success highlights how farming can be both environmentally friendly and profitable by combining modern techniques with traditional methods.
"Farming is not just a job; it's a way of life. And with the right approach, it can be a very fulfilling one," he concludes.
