Ramkaran Tiwari has been cultivating potatoes since 2015. Belonging to Etawah, Uttar Pradesh, Ramkaran started his career in agriculture by joining his family farming tradition. But Ramkaran had a vision: he wanted to prove that farming, when done right, could be a highly profitable venture. "Farming is in my blood, but I always believed that it could be more than just a way of life—it could be a business, a source of pride and prosperity," says Ramkaran, reflecting on his early years.
Turning Point: Learning and Innovating
Ramkaran’s journey to success wasn’t an easy one. Like many farmers, he faced the usual challenges—uncertain weather, fluctuating market prices, and the constant pressure to produce enough to make ends meet. But he knew that if he wanted to achieve something great, he had to innovate.
The turning point in Ramkaran’s farming career came when he attended a training session at the Central Potato Research Institute (CPRI) in Shimla. This training was recommended by the Uttar Pradesh Agriculture Department and proved to be a game-changer for him.
"At CPRI, I learned about the seed plot technique, which revolutionized the way I approached potato farming. It was more than just a technique; it was a new way of thinking about farming," recalls Ramkaran.
With the knowledge he gained from CPRI and the support from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Ramkaran didn’t just implement the techniques—he went a step further. He built a small tissue culture lab on his farm, which allowed him to produce high-quality potato seeds. This investment paid off handsomely, ensuring both a bountiful harvest and a product that his customers loved.
Building a Brand: The Rise of Shivam Seeds Farm
Today, Ramkaran Tiwari runs Shivam Seeds Farm, named after his son, Shivam Tiwari, who is a B.Tech engineer and plays an important role in managing the farm. Together, they combine traditional farming methods with modern technology, helping the farm to grow and succeed. Spread over 30 acres, the farm produces an impressive 3,500 to 4,000 quintals of potatoes each year. What makes Ramkaran’s farm unique is the wide variety and high quality of the potatoes it grows.
"We grow more than ten varieties of potatoes, including Kufri Lima, Kufri Sangam, and Kufri Bahar, among others. Each variety is cultivated with care and attention to detail, ensuring that our customers get the best quality produce," says Ramkaran with pride.
But Ramkaran didn’t stop at producing high-quality potatoes. He embraced modern marketing techniques, using social media to connect directly with his customers. Instead of relying on traditional market sales, Ramkaran posts about his produce online. The response has been overwhelming.
"Customers come directly to the farm to buy potatoes. They trust the quality of our produce, and we’ve built a strong relationship with them. The price is fair, and even if there are market fluctuations, our customers know they can rely on us," explains Ramkaran.
Impact on the Community: A Catalyst for Change
Ramkaran’s success hasn’t just benefited him and his family; it has had a profound impact on the entire community. Thanks to his innovative farming techniques and high-quality produce, Etawah has transformed from a region that once imported potatoes from Punjab and Haryana to one that now exports potatoes to these states.
"We used to import potatoes, but now we are exporting them. It’s a matter of pride for us, and we’re working towards exporting our produce internationally in the coming years," says Ramkaran with a sense of accomplishment.
Ramkaran’s farm has also become a significant source of employment and livelihood for many in the community. His success story has inspired other farmers to innovate and invest in their farming practices.
Investing in the Future: From Farm to Fortune
Ramkaran’s journey is also a story of wise investment. Every year, he invests between Rs. 20-25 lakh into Shivam Seeds Farm. The returns are substantial, with profits close to Rs. 1 crore. But for Ramkaran, the real reward isn’t just financial gain—it’s the satisfaction of creating something meaningful and lasting.
"I always tell other farmers to create their own brand and invest in quality seeds and training. Farming can be highly profitable if we approach it with the right mindset and techniques," advises Ramkaran.
Achievements and Awards
Ramkaran Tiwari's contributions in the field of agriculture have been recognized with several awards, including the third prize in the state for potato production during the Kisan Samman Ceremony on the 110th birth anniversary of the late Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh in December 2023. He also received the third prize for a 500-gram size red potato variety at the State Fruit, Vegetable, and Flower Exhibition in 2020, held in Lucknow.
Inspiring the Next Generation: A Legacy of Success
Ramkaran Tiwari’s success is not just measured in the tons of potatoes he produces but in the lives he touches and the inspiration he provides to farmers across the country.
"I want every farmer to believe that they too can achieve great things. Farming is not just a way of life—it’s a pathway to success and fulfillment." concludes Ramkaran, his voice filled with hope and determination.
As we look to the future, Ramkaran Tiwari’s story reminds us that the soil beneath our feet is rich with opportunities, waiting for those who dare to dream big. His journey from a humble farmer to a successful entrepreneur is an inspiration for all, proving that with the right mindset and a willingness to innovate, anything is possible.
