Passion isn't just a word but a transformative energy that turns curiosity into expertise and challenges into opportunities. It's the unwavering commitment to learning, experimenting, and persisting through setbacks, leading to remarkable success and inspiring others to pursue their dreams with fervour. Manan Agarwal's story beautifully exemplifies how passion can pave the way to success.
Manan is a B.Tech graduate who left his job to pursue his passion for flower cultivation, a passion that blossomed during the COVID-19 lockdown. "The COVID-19 lockdown was a turning point for me. It gave me the time and space to explore my fascination with flowers," Manan recalls. In 2022, when everyone was confined to their homes, Manan's fascination with growing flowers led him to leave his job and buy a small piece of land in Bhagwanpur Tehsil, Haridwar. This marked the beginning of Manan's journey as a floriculturist, but his path wasn't easy, marked by the challenges of entering a competitive market that demanded high-quality flowers for survival.
Struggles and Determination
Manan's initial attempts at flower farming were fraught with difficulties. He mentions, “As a B.Tech graduate, I was not familiar with the basics of floriculture and was confused about how and where to start. So, I decided to immerse myself in learning.” With this thought, Manan studied various books, met experienced floriculture farmers, and consulted state and central departments to gain comprehensive knowledge about flower farming. Manan proudly says, “These learnings were crucial. It helped me gain the knowledge I needed to succeed."
Despite his efforts, Manan was still not fully convinced about growing flowers on farmland. Nevertheless, he courageously began experimenting with different flowers at home, learning through trial and error how to cultivate them in the local topographic and climatic conditions. Despite the high investment costs, he was not initially getting the expected profit.
Seeking Government Support
At this point, his friends suggested seeking aid and subsidies from the National Horticulture Board (NHB). Seeing a ray of hope, Manan consulted NHB, and the department provided invaluable assistance, guiding him through the application process and project implementation. They connected him with various research institutions for adopting technology and offered financial support. With NHB's backing, Manan established his project in 2023, setting up a polyhouse for Gerbera cultivation. He acknowledged, "The support from the National Horticulture Board was invaluable. Their guidance and financial aid were instrumental in establishing my polyhouse for Gerbera cultivation."
Achieving Success in Floriculture
Over time, Manan's dedication and interest in farming and floriculture paid off. He managed the project beautifully, resulting in the production of high-quality Gerbera flowers. By February 2023, he transplanted six color varieties of Gerbera, with commercial production starting in July 2023. He produced around 3,500 plants per day, selling each for an average price of Rs. 3.00 per stick. In the year 2023-24, he earned a gross revenue of Rs. 37,80,000.00, with operational expenses amounting to Rs. 10,00,000.00, leaving him with a net income of Rs. 27,80,000.00.
Manan received a back-ended subsidy of Rs. 25.08 lakh from NHB, significantly aiding his success. His flourishing business motivated other farmers to explore protected cultivation of flowers and vegetables under NHB schemes.
A Milestone in Floriculture
Manan's journey set a milestone in the floriculture business in Uttarakhand. Through constant perseverance and overcoming hurdles, he proved that protected cultivation of Gerbera in polyhouses is not only profitable but also a means to bring prosperity and generate employment. His entrepreneurial expertise, combined with assistance and guidance, brought him success that a traditional job could not offer.
Beyond Floriculture
Manan's success extends beyond farming; he also runs a primary school in Dehradun. His journey, seeded during the COVID-19 lockdown, is a testament to how adopting modern agricultural practices and focusing on high-value crops can transform the lives of farmers, even in challenging environments. His story highlights the importance of continuous learning, innovation, and community support in achieving agricultural success.
Inspiring Future Generations
Manan Agarwal’s success story is an inspiration for aspiring farmers. His transition from a secure engineering job to a successful floriculture entrepreneur showcases the power of following one's passion with dedication. Manan says, "With passion and perseverance, you can turn challenges into opportunities and achieve remarkable success." By embracing modern techniques and seeking continuous improvement, Manan has carved a niche for himself and set an example for others to follow.
(With inputs from Meenakshi Tiwari, Deputy Director, National Horticulture Board Dehradun, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer’s Welfare)
