Desert Miracle: Farmer Cultivates Strawberries and Broccoli in Arid Lands

Ramchandra Rathore, a determined farmer from the arid Luni tehsil in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, has defied the odds stacked against him. In an area known for its barren land and labeled as a 'dark zone' due to water pollution, Rathore's success story shines as he successfully grows strawberries and broccoli against the harsh desert backdrop.

Challenging Scenarios Yield Remarkable Results

Hailing from the Marwar region of western Rajasthan, notorious for its challenging climatic conditions and frequent droughts, Rathore's agricultural accomplishments stand out. Despite the mass migration of the youth in search of employment opportunities, Rathore chose to return to his ancestral land, where he not only cultivated crops but introduced innovative farming techniques that garnered global attention.

Early Struggles and Determined Return to Farming

Raised amidst farming struggles and compelled to support his family instead of pursuing higher education, Rathore initially resorted to tailoring. However, after his father's demise in 2004, at the young age of 17, he decided to rekindle his farming legacy. Initially cultivating moong, millet, and jowar, he encountered challenges due to the unsuitable water conditions.

Government Training Paving the Way

A turning point arrived when Rathore participated in a seven-day government-sponsored training at the Jodhpur CAZRI Institute under the Krishak Mitra Scheme. This enlightenment exposed him to rainwater conservation methods and innovative agricultural practices tailored for desert conditions. Armed with newfound knowledge, he revolutionized his approach to farming.

Inspiring Transformations and Unprecedented Yield

Taking inspiration from the horticulture department, Rathore ventured into establishing a polyhouse in 2018. His initiatives expanded to include a farm pond and a vermicompost unit in 2019-20. By leveraging rainwater for polyhouse cucumber cultivation, he achieved a groundbreaking yield of 14 tonnes within a 100-square-meter area, an unprecedented feat in Jodhpur district.

Pioneering New Frontiers in Agriculture

Continuing his streak of innovation, Rathore diversified into cash crops, successfully growing strawberries and zucchini in the desert terrain. Additionally, he spearheaded organic fertilizer production, dedicating a significant portion of his land to horticulture. His achievements have sparked a farming revolution, inspiring other farmers to embrace similar practices.

Championing Local Prosperity and Farmer Empowerment

Rathore passionately advocates for local youth to eschew job migration, offering training and hope to those with limited prospects. Encouraging the return of those who migrated years ago, he stresses the importance of rainwater conservation, believing it can transform Rajasthan's agricultural landscape. Earning up to Rs 6 lakhs annually, Rathore tirelessly supports fellow farmers to improve their financial standings.