In today's world, where many seek opportunities beyond their villages for better jobs, Gyanendar Singh chose a different path. Embracing his agricultural degree, he dedicated himself to advancing his family’s generational farming legacy. While his family had traditionally cultivated staple crops like wheat and sugarcane, and his father had introduced potato farming, Gyanendar took a bold step forward. Driven by a vision to elevate their farming practices, he ventured into growing a diverse range of vegetables, transforming their agricultural approach and sustaining their heritage.
“I always wanted to use what I learned in agriculture to improve our farm,” Gyandev recalls. "Instead of going into a different field, I decided to put my knowledge to work where it all began, on our land." In 2001, he started cultivating cauliflower as his main crop and gradually expanded to include tomatoes, cucumbers, bottle gourds, sponge gourds, and lemons—a crop he had always been passionate about.
Innovation and Sustainability: The Keys to Success
With 12 acres of land under his care, Gyanendar embraced modern agricultural techniques, which helped him boost both yield and sustainability. He installed drip and sprinkler irrigation systems, enabling efficient water usage while nurturing the crops.
“Drip irrigation has been very beneficial for me,” Gyanendar shares. His commitment to sustainability doesn’t stop there. He minimizes the use of chemical fertilizers, depending instead on neem oil and cow dung manure that he prepares himself. “I use as little urea as possible,” he says, adding that he also utilizes Trichoderma, a natural bio-agent that enhances soil health and crop productivity.
Building a Successful Business
Gyanendar’s organic farming approach has gained him a loyal customer in Mother Dairy, where he sells his fresh, chemical-free vegetables. This year, he sold 22 crates of potatoes at Rs 700 per crate, and his tomato crop alone brought in Rs 3-4 lakh per acre. His efforts have turned his farm into a profitable business, providing a stable income for his family.
"Farming has always been my passion," Gyanendar says with pride. "Seeing my crops thrive and knowing that I am contributing to something bigger than myself is what drives me every day."
Recognition for His Hard Work
Gyanendar’s dedication has not gone unnoticed. In December 2023, he was awarded the Chaudhary Charan Singh Kisan Samman for the highest production of 12.40 quintals per hectare of ragi (variety VL 356). Honored by the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath, Gyanendar received third prize and Rs 50,000 as recognition of his achievements.
He also received the Progressive Farmer Award from Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Uttar Pradesh. Speaking about these honors, Gyanendar says, "These awards motivate me to keep pushing forward. It’s a proud moment for me and my family."
Government Support and Subsidies
Gyanendar has also benefited from government schemes. He was granted a 90% subsidy for installing high tunnels and drip irrigation systems on his farm. "The officials inspected my farm one by one to ensure there were no issues with the canal. The support I’ve received has been crucial in expanding my operations," he explains.
A Vision for the Future
Today, Gyanendar’s farming venture generates an annual income of Rs 25-30 lakhs, with input costs amounting to only 20% of his earnings. His hard work, combined with modern techniques and sustainable practices, has turned farming into a highly profitable business.
A Message to Fellow Farmers
With a heart full of gratitude and a spirit of determination, Gyanendar has a powerful message for fellow farmers: "Agriculture is a very profitable sector, and I encourage everyone to consider it as a serious career option. The potential is immense if you use the right techniques, like drip irrigation and organic farming. It’s not just about growing crops; it’s about growing opportunities."
Through a forward-thinking approach, Gyanendar Singh has shown that farming, when done with passion and innovation, can lead to both personal fulfillment and financial success. His story is not just a tale of hard work but reflects the power of modern agriculture.
