In the Narmadapuram district of Madhya Pradesh, lies the small village of Gardha, a village where Man Singh Gurjar, a farmer who has transformed the landscape of natural farming resides. For the past 14 years, Man Singh has been continuously involved in organic farming practice. Besides that, he also preserves over 600 varieties of indigenous seeds, safeguarding the future of sustainable agriculture. His incredible feat of growing a 7-foot-long bottle gourd and a 30 kg watermelon has made him an inspiration for farmers across India.
Man’s deep connection with the land is reflected by his words, “Farming is not just about growing crops; it’s about nurturing the earth, preserving its resources, and ensuring a better tomorrow for generations to come,”
Man Singh believes in the potential of indigenous seeds, which have been used for centuries. He cultivates a wide range of crops, from sugarcane, wheat, pigeon pea, and paddy to gram and moong on his 15-acre farm. Unlike the hybrid seeds that many farmers buy from the market, he prefers indigenous seeds, according to Man, “Indigenous seeds don't need heavy doses of fertilizers or pesticides, and yet, they yield more nutritious and abundant crops.” This belief has led him to prioritize their use, contributing not only to higher yields but also to environmental conservation.
“Hybrid seeds are a trap,” he says. “They demand more and give less, while indigenous seeds give farmers a chance to grow crops that are naturally strong and resilient.”
High Yields with Low Costs
On 8 acres of his land, Man Singh grows sugarcane, using varieties such as 8006, 865, and 8605, which yield 400 to 500 quintals per acre. He also grows co-crops like gram and mustard on the remaining land, diversifying his income. His natural farming methods, free from chemical inputs, allow him to keep costs low while maximizing profits.
“I earn up to Rs 2 lakh per acre from sugarcane, and up to Rs 80,000 per acre from gram, all through natural farming,” Man Singh proudly shares. “My main cost is labor. Everything else—from fertilizers to pesticides—I prepare myself, naturally.”
Power of Natural Produce
Man Singh’s naturally grown crops are in high demand. His produce is often booked in advance, and he sells directly from home at double the market price. While chemically grown gram fetches Rs 50 per kg in the market, his gram sells for Rs 100 per kg, exemplifying the superior quality of his produce. His Bansi and Lokan wheat varieties also yield 10 to 12 quintals per acre and are highly sought after by consumers who value natural, chemical-free grains.
A Vision Rooted in Tradition
For Man Singh, farming is more than a profession—it’s a mission to return to the roots of agriculture. “Only by conserving our indigenous seeds can we secure the future of farming,” he says with conviction. He’s a firm believer that farmers should grow crops for themselves and not for the benefit of corporations. His motto, “Homegrown seeds, homemade fertilizers, and homemade taste,” embodies this philosophy.
He encourages farmers across the country to embrace natural farming, produce pure, healthy grains, and protect the environment. “Natural farming is the way to make farmers self-reliant. It’s not just a method; it’s a movement to empower farmers and ensure their prosperity.”
A Farmer’s Pride
Man Singh’s pride in his work shines through in everything he does. His success is not just in the numbers—though earning Rs 30 lakh annually is no small feat—but in the fact that he is creating a sustainable model that other farmers can follow. “It’s not about how much I earn, it’s about what I’m leaving behind for the future,” he says with humility.
His story is a ray of hope for countless farmers who struggle with the challenges of modern farming. By focusing on indigenous seeds and natural methods, Man Singh has proven that there is a way to achieve success while protecting the land, the crops, and the environment. His message is clear: “Farm for yourself, not for the rich. Grow food that nourishes the body and the earth.”
Through his dedication and innovative farming practices, Man Singh Gurjar is helping shape a future where farmers are not only prosperous but also stewards of the environment. His journey from a humble farmer to a role model for sustainable agriculture is proof that with passion, determination, and respect for nature, anything is possible.
