Radheshyam Parihar, a 48-year-old progressive farmer from Vinayaga village in Madhya Pradesh, has transformed traditional farming practices into a thriving organic farming enterprise. Over the past two decades, he has combined traditional farming practices with innovative techniques to build a successful brand and establish himself as a leading figure in sustainable farming.
Through his efforts, Radheshyam has not only achieved impressive financial success, with an annual income of Rs 18–20 lakh and a profit of Rs 15 lakh but has also become a mentor, training thousands of farmers on the benefits of ecological and sustainable farming practices. His journey is a remarkable example of how financial prosperity and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand.
A legacy of farming with a vision for change
Radheshyam Parihar is a generational farmer so he was originally introduced to farming techniques by his father, who owned a 3-acre farm and practiced traditional farming methods. After passing 12th grade, Radheshyam wanted to bring more innovation into their practices. Radheshyam noticed the enormous potential of organic farming and decided to transform the family farm into an innovative and sustainable one.
Initial Struggles
Radheshyam had a lot of difficulties in the beginning, especially when it came to selling and promoting his produce. His receiving of organic certification from Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, marked an enormous transformation. In addition to increasing the credibility of his goods, this certification signalled the start of his organic farming career.
Diversified Crop Cultivation: From Spices to Medicinal Plants
He had just 3 acres of fertile land, now he manages 22 acres of fertile land. With the diversity in crops, Radheshyam maintains his steady income, fulfilling the needs of the markets. Radheshyam diversified his production on the farm with spices, like turmeric, chillies, garlic, and coriander, in addition to medicinal plants such as ashwagandha, quinoa, chia, basil, satavar, isabgol, and tulsi. These varieties helped him target various markets and meet the growing demand for organic produce.
He developed a processing unit where he would enhance the value of his products with quality to attract more in the market. He branded 'Malwamati' to identify with purity and quality, attracting a good client base.
Building a Brand: Rise of 'Malwamati'
Radheshyam proactively advertised his goods by taking part in agricultural fairs and events and giving product demonstrations. He immediately gained the trust of customers with his hands-on approach and dedication to quality, which resulted in a notable increase in sales. His brand's success, Malwamati, serves as a reminder of how crucial direct marketing and consumer interaction are in the agriculture industry.
Empowering Farmers: The Training School
Radheshyam started a farmer training school to understand his fellow farmers' challenges. He has trained more than 6,000 farmers on organic farming techniques so far. He has trained them in growing crops and marketing, thus helping the farmers double their income. Most of his trainees have taken to organic farming and are now flourishing in their agricultural enterprises.
Awards and Recognition
Radheshyam’s dedication and innovative approach have earned him numerous awards, including:
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First Prize in Organic Farming (State Level)
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Dhartimitra Award (2017)
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Krishi Bhushan Award from Mahindra & Mahindra
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Biodiversity Award (First Prize at State Level)
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MFOI Award 2024 (National Level)
These awards reflect his commitment to sustainable agriculture and his influence in the farming community.
Financial Success
His innovative practices and diverse crop cultivation have been constructed into substantial financial success. With an annual income of Rs 18–20 lakh and a profit of Rs 15 lakh, his farm stands as a model of profitability and sustainability. His success demonstrates that organic farming when coupled with effective marketing and processing, can be a highly lucrative enterprise.
Message to Fellow Farmers
Radheshyam encourages farmers to take charge of their supply chain, cut out intermediaries, and boost revenue by selling their goods directly to customers. He stresses how crucial it is to switch to organic agricultural methods, which protect the ecosystem and soil while also guaranteeing long-term viability for coming generations.
He encourages farmers to see farming as both a business and a way to make a living, encouraging diversification and the use of modern technologies to reach their maximum potential.
Radheshyam Parihar’s journey from traditional farming to becoming a pioneer in organic agriculture serves as an inspiration for farmers across the country. His success underscores the financial and ecological benefits of sustainable farming practices, making him a role model for those seeking to transform their agricultural endeavors into profitable and environmentally friendly ventures.
