Punjab Farmer Harvests 1,200 Quintals of Kinnow Annually, Earning Impressive Income

Stinnu Jain, a progressive farmer from Abohar, Punjab, has turned his dream of successful farming into an inspiring reality. Six years ago, he had little knowledge of modern agriculture and relied on traditional methods passed down through generations. But with a passion for learning and a determination to succeed, he transformed his approach. Today, Stinnu cultivates 20 acres of land, with 8 acres dedicated to Kinnow, and his hard work pays off with an impressive harvest of 1,200 quintals annually. His story is a testament to how perseverance and innovation can turn challenges into opportunities.

Stinnu has learned the art of growing ideal conditions for Kinnow. He says that 6.6 is the ideal soil pH and the temperature level below 35°C for healthy crops. Kinnow is best planted in August and September, while the pits are left open a couple of months in advance to get rid of harmful soil insects and excess heat. Stinnu makes use of a 20x20-ft. spacing between plants for best orchard management and adopting high-density farming techniques on the 3 acres with a 20x10-ft. spacing for higher yield potential.

Tapping into Organic Fertilizer Efficiency

Realizing the need for organic farming, Stinnu incorporates cow dung manure in his fields. Zydex's Godhan helps in ripening manure in just 40-50 days instead of waiting for the natural composting process. With Zytonic-M, he reduces the quantum required to just 1 ton per acre while improving soil health, fruit size, and quality. This new method has increased his yield and income manifold.

New Fertilizer and Irrigation Technology

Stinnu suggests the sprinkling application of fertilizers by spreading it uniformly throughout the soil so that root growth and the development of the plant are optimized. For irrigation, he applies the flood method avoiding waterlogged conditions because standing water is harmful to a crop.

Harvesting Optimization and Life Cycle Management

Third-year bearing for Kinnow plants is common, but Stinnu prefers to delay harvest till the fourth year for tree longevity and better fruit quality. The first year each tree gives a high of 30–35 kg, which increases to 2–2.5 quintals after six years. With proper care, the productivity shelf life for the plant is 35-40 years.

Favorable Soil Fertility Through Mixed Cropping

To maintain soil fertility, Stinnu practices mixed cropping by growing mustard, moong, and other small crops alongside Kinnow. Thus, he conserves soil, as well as generates an additional income. So, it makes his model not only sustainable but also economically viable for him.

Cost-Effective Production with High Returns

Kinnow cultivation costs approximately Rs 40,000 per acre, with an average yield of 150–170 quintals per acre. Stinnu’s innovative practices and emphasis on quality allow him to command higher prices for his produce, ensuring significant profits year after year.

Sustainability Through Innovation

Stinnu converts excess plants in his orchard to green manure using a rotavator, thus minimizing waste and increasing the health of the soil. In addition, he uses effective pest control measures including for fruit flies that hit his crops to ensure good yields. He is therefore a role model for modern farming.

Stinnu's success story tells us how traditional farming can be transformed with modern techniques, scientific knowledge, and perseverance. Mixing modern technology with traditional organic practices, he has increased his income several times and at the same time proved to the farmers of the country how profitable and sustainable farming can turn out to be if done strategically.