Anil Kumar, a farmer from Dhana village in Jhajjar district, Haryana, has been using sustainable farming practices, focusing on environmentally friendly and resource-efficient techniques. By transitioning from chemical-based farming to natural farming practices, he has improved both the quality of his crops and his financial success, proving that eco-friendly farming can be both profitable and sustainable.
Transition to Natural Farming
In 2015, Anil made the courageous decision to move away from conventional chemical farming. He recognized that excessive use of agricultural chemicals was depleting soil fertility, compromising crop quality, and polluting the environment. Most importantly, the chemicals were posing risks to human health. Anil turned to natural farming as a solution, embracing techniques that prioritize sustainability, environmental health, and soil preservation.
A key aspect of his transformation was his commitment to using indigenous seeds. As Anil explains, “Natural farming is impossible without indigenous seeds.” These seeds are better suited to the local environment, produce higher-quality crops, and fetch better market prices. Moreover, they contribute to greater biodiversity in the food system.
Organic Inputs and Water Management
Anil’s farming is grounded in the use of organic inputs. He prepares and applies homemade fertilizers such as Jeevamrit, Ghana Jeevamrit, mustard cake, sour lassi, and cow dung and urine. These natural substances not only enrich the soil but also promote sustainable crop growth without harming the ecosystem.
Water management plays a vital role in Anil’s farming practices. By creating raised beds and regulating water usage carefully, he ensures that his crops receive the right amount of moisture. This practice prevents water wastage, enhances soil health, and improves crop yields, making his farm both efficient and eco-friendly.
Profitable Wheat Farming
Anil primarily grows wheat on his 5-acre farm during the Rabi season. His approach is simple yet effective. After irrigating the field, he allows the top layer of soil to lose some moisture, ensuring better germination and reducing weed growth. He closely monitors his crops, using organic solutions to control pests and diseases instead of relying on chemical pesticides.
The results are impressive. Anil consistently achieves wheat yields of 10 to 17 quintals per acre—significantly higher than typical yields in natural farming. The quality of his wheat is so exceptional that he sells it at Rs 5000 per quintal. Moreover, he processes the wheat into value-added products like flour, semolina, and porridge, which can be sold for up to Rs 7000 per quintal, providing him with substantial additional profits.
Low-Cost, High-Quality Farming
One of the most remarkable aspects of Anil’s farming is its low cost. By making his own organic fertilizers, he avoids the high expenses associated with chemical inputs. While natural farming requires more manual effort, Anil believes it is well worth it. “Natural farming requires more hard work, but it is more profitable. The cost inputs are low, and the quality of the crops is better,” he says.
Adding Value to the Crop
In addition to growing wheat, Anil adds value to his produce by processing it into high-demand products. This strategy enables him to maximize his earnings while minimizing reliance on intermediaries. His focus on quality and value-added products has turned his 5-acre farm into a highly profitable, sustainable model.
Championing Sustainability and Spreading Awareness
Anil’s impact extends beyond his farm. As a mentor and advocate for natural farming, he regularly conducts workshops and shares his experiences with fellow farmers in his community. Through these interactions, he encourages others to adopt eco-friendly practices and demonstrates the potential benefits of natural farming.
Anil believes that natural farming is not just an agricultural method but a way to improve public health and preserve the environment for future generations. “With natural farming, we can improve our health and save the environment. This is the most sustainable method of farming,” he asserts.
A Sustainable and Profitable Model
Anil Kumar’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, innovation, and a commitment to sustainable practices. By integrating modern techniques with traditional wisdom, he has created a farming model that is both environmentally friendly and financially rewarding. His success challenges the conventional belief that chemical-intensive farming is the only way to ensure high yields and profitability.
