In a world where many young people seek opportunities far from their villages, Deepak Raj Tushir chose a different path. Growing up in Janti Khurd village in Sonipat district, Haryana, Deepak began his academic journey with a degree in Computer Science Engineering, followed by an MBA in Information Technology. His qualifications led him to a successful 10-year career at Wipro, a renowned multinational corporation. Despite the rewards of his corporate life, Deepak felt a deeper calling to return to his roots and contribute to agriculture, driven by a desire to make a lasting impact on his community.
In 2012, he made a life-changing decision to shift his focus from the corporate world to dairy farming. He partnered with two farmers from New Zealand and two fellow computer engineers—Pankaj Navani and Sukhvinder Saraf—to establish Binsar Farms.
Vision Behind Establishing a Dairy Farm
“All three of us came from villages and wanted to contribute positively to the ecosystem, helping both farmers and consumers. Our experiences in the city highlighted the lack of quality milk, which motivated us to start our own dairy farm.”
This vision was not just about profit; it was about creating a sustainable farming model that would benefit the community and improve the quality of life for local farmers.
Starting the Dairy Journey
Deepak and his partners began their venture by acquiring a one-year-old heifer—a young female cow that had not yet given birth. This initial step was crucial for learning the fundamentals of dairy farming. The team decided to focus on a mix of HF (Holstein Friesian), Jersey, and Indian breeds. These breeds were chosen for their established research-backed standards and compatibility with machine milking, making the farming process more efficient.
Facing Early Challenges
However, the road was not smooth. Deepak recalls the difficulties they encountered right from the beginning:
“Buying cattle was itself a challenge. We were computer engineers trying to enter a new field, and people mocked us for our lack of experience.”
The team purchased 50 cattle, but only 35 survived due to diseases. This setback was disheartening and raised doubts about their venture.
Turning Point
“After losing 15 cattle, we realized we needed to use our IT knowledge to analyze the situation. We began weighing the cows and conducting lab tests, discovering that healthy cows had good weight, while underweight ones suffered from diseases.”
By implementing data management techniques, Deepak and his team were able to identify health issues early on and improve the conditions of their cattle. This analytical approach became the foundation of their farming practices.
Building a Sustainable Dairy Business
Deepak and his partners quickly established protocols for cattle testing and management. They recognized the importance of quality genetics and imported semen from reputable sources with proven records, leading to healthier, high-yielding cattle. This commitment to quality set Binsar Farms apart from local competitors.
Adapting to Market Realities
Initially, Deepak faced disappointment when they struggled to receive fair prices for their milk. Many farmers earned only Rs. 18-19 per liter, which was disheartening after their hard work and investments.
“After putting in so much effort, it was disheartening to see such low returns. We had to find a solution.”
In response to this challenge, Deepak and his team pivoted their strategy. They began packaging their milk in bottles, a move that resonated with customers looking for quality products. What started as a sale of 4 to 10 liters daily quickly grew to an impressive 7,000 to 8,000 liters as they established a reputation for quality.
Expanding the Product Line
Today, Deepak's dairy farm offers a wide variety of dairy products through their user-friendly app. Customers can order butter, flavored milk, lassi, curd, paneer, and ghee, making it convenient for families to access nutritious options. Over the last six years, Deepak has made a significant shift by exclusively using A2 semen for breeding, focusing on the health and quality of his herd.
In addition, he has conducted DNA tests on the cattle purchased from local sources, discovering that 60-70% of the herd has A2 blood. This allowed him to group these cattle separately, ensuring they received proper care and pasteurization procedures.
Holistic Approach to Farming
Deepak manages 50 acres of land for growing crops such as maize and sorghum. Furthermore, he oversees 200 acres of contract farming, where he provides seeds and guidance to local farmers. This not only supports the farmers financially but also helps secure a steady supply of fodder for his cattle.
“I want to empower local farmers. By introducing them to profitable crops, we can improve their livelihoods and ensure a steady supply of fodder for our cattle.”
Deepak's farm spans 11 acres and employs 16 staff members, including veterinarians and agricultural experts. The farm utilizes modern mechanization techniques, including PMR (Partially Mixed Ration) feeding, to enhance efficiency and productivity.
Collaboration for Success
Deepak has formed collaborations with New Zealand farmers, focusing on growing fresh fodder for cattle. This partnership ensures that the cows receive the best nutrition possible, contributing to higher milk quality and overall herd health.
Recognition and Success
Deepak's innovative practices and dedication to quality have garnered numerous accolades. He has received 6-7 awards, including the Agri-Leadership Award and the Best Dairy Farming Award from Haryana. His farm generated an impressive turnover of Rs. 23 crore last year, with a net margin of 5-6%.
“Despite the challenges, we remain committed to sustainable practices and continuous learning. The workshops we conduct help fellow farmers tackle dairy-related issues, and recently Amul also visited with their farmers.”
Deepak Raj Tushir’s journey from a corporate employee to a successful dairy entrepreneur serves as an inspiration for many aspiring farmers. Through data-driven decision-making and a commitment to quality, he has not only transformed his life but also uplifted the community around him. His story highlights the importance of innovation in agriculture and the potential for young farmers to create meaningful change in their lives and the lives of others.
“Embrace modern methods, take care of your cattle, and always strive for better yields. Together, we can redefine dairy farming in India,” says Deepak.
