Yuvraj Parihar, a progressive farmer from Agra, Uttar Pradesh, epitomizes how hard work, innovation, and vision can turn dreams into reality. On December 3, 2024, he was honoured as the First Runner-Up ‘Richest Farmer of India' at the Millionaire Farmers of India (MFOI) Awards 2024, earning the title of "Second Richest Farmer of India." The award was presented by Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways of India, Ujjwal Mukherjee, Head of Marketing Services, Mahindra Farm Division, M.C. Dominic, Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Krishi Jagran, along with other esteemed dignitaries on the dais. This prestigious recognition highlights Parihar’s remarkable contributions to agriculture and his transformative journey.
A Celebration of Excellence in Agriculture
The MFOI Awards 2024, organized by Krishi Jagran in collaboration with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) as Co-organizer and sponsored by Mahindra Tractors, was held from December 1-3, 2024, at the iconic IARI Grounds, Pusa, New Delhi. The three-day event brought together over 1,000 influential participants, including policymakers, industry leaders, research scholars, and progressive farmers, to celebrate innovation and collaboration in agriculture.
From a staggering 22,000 nominations, 400 exceptional individuals were honored at the event, with an additional 1,000 awards to be presented at state-level ceremonies in the coming months.
Parihar's Journey: How It All Started
Parihar's journey serves as a powerful example of determination. Coming from a non-agricultural background, with his father being a doctor, he became inspired to modernize farming after witnessing the challenges faced by traditional farmers. Two decades ago, he embarked on his agricultural journey, transforming 400 acres of farmland in Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan into centres of innovation. By focusing on high-demand crops such as potatoes, cabbage, and moong beans, and branding his produce under the name "Dr. BPS," he has established himself as a pioneer in modern agriculture.
Parihar’s approach combines sustainable farming with cutting-edge technology. He implemented drip irrigation systems, precision farming, and soil health management practices that have significantly boosted crop yield and quality. His success has inspired other farmers in the region to adopt similar techniques, contributing to a more productive and environmentally friendly agricultural landscape.
Building Infrastructure and Investing in the Community
In addition to farming, Parihar has invested in infrastructure, building cold storages and warehouses to preserve produce and secure better market prices. These facilities have not only ensured that his crops are well-preserved but have also supported other farmers by providing storage solutions that reduce post-harvest losses. His vision extended to education; he established seven educational institutions aimed at providing skill development and opportunities for the younger generation, empowering them with knowledge and practical training to pursue careers in agriculture and related fields.
With an annual turnover of Rs 50 crore from agriculture alone and a total business turnover of Rs 100 crore, Parihar has become a symbol of agricultural success. His efforts have been recognized internationally, including an award for Best Potato Grower at the International Potato Conclave in 2020. This recognition, along with the accolades received at home, underscores his position as an influential figure in global agricultural circles.
His commitment to innovation and sustainable practices has not only improved his own prosperity but also set benchmarks for others to follow. Parihar’s story serves as a powerful reminder that with the right approach, farmers can transform their livelihoods and contribute to the economic development of their communities.
Sustainable Agriculture and Youth Empowerment
Beyond personal achievements, Parihar is dedicated to advocating for sustainable farming practices and inspiring youth. He believes that the integration of technology and eco-friendly farming techniques is essential for the growth of Indian agriculture. He actively encourages young farmers to embrace modern methods, showing that adopting sustainable practices can lead to better financial and environmental outcomes.
Parihar’s efforts are helping shape a future where agriculture is viewed as a progressive and profitable career choice. His emphasis on training and education is ensuring that the upcoming generation of farmers is equipped to tackle the challenges of modern agriculture. By sharing his journey and insights at seminars and workshops, he continues to motivate others to pursue innovation and excellence in the field.
Vision Behind MFOI Awards:
The idea of the Millionaire Farmer of India (MFOI) Awards was conceived by MC Dominic, Editor-in-Chief of Krishi Jagran. His deep understanding of the agricultural landscape and his recognition of farmers’ immense yet often overlooked contributions led to the conception of this groundbreaking initiative. The MFOI Awards celebrate the unsung heroes of Indian agriculture, shining a spotlight on the individuals shaping the future of farming.
Yuvraj Parihar’s story is one of resilience, ingenuity, and impact. As he continues to lead by example, his contributions extend beyond personal gains, touching the lives of countless farmers and inspiring transformative changes in the agricultural sector.