Rajasthan Farmer Earns Over Rs 50 Lakh Annually Through Integrated Farming and Wins Prestigious Awards

The story of Surendra Awana exemplifies how innovation, determination, and sustainable practices can transform agriculture into a thriving and profitable industry. Combining organic farming, horticulture, and dairy farming, Awana has developed a groundbreaking model of success, generating an annual income of over Rs 50 lakh. His pioneering approach has inspired farmers across India, showcasing the immense potential of integrated farming systems.

A Journey from Tradition to Innovation

Hailing from Bhairana village in Rajasthan, Surendra Awana transformed his family's traditional farming methods into a modern, sustainable farming enterprise. Embracing the Integrated Farming System (IFS), he has cultivated 55 acres organically, incorporating dairy farming, horticulture, medicinal crops, and eco-friendly innovations. By utilizing cow dung to produce items like bricks and lamps, Awana has created a farm that benefits the environment while maximizing profitability.

Model of Integrated Farming Systems

Surendra Awana’s farm operates as a self-sustaining ecosystem, housing 300 Gir cows, along with camels, horses, goats, and sheep. He grows 42 varieties of fruits and vegetables, creating a diverse and robust agricultural base. Awana’s key innovation lies in transforming farm commodities into high-value products and marketing them directly to consumers. This eliminates intermediaries, ensuring better revenue and stronger customer relationships. By establishing businesses under his own name, he has created a direct and trustworthy connection with his market.

Leveraging Government Support

Initially unaware of available government subsidies, Awana’s interaction with agricultural agents opened doors to numerous opportunities. These resources allowed him to expand and upgrade his farm. His participation in the National Gokul Mission further strengthened his enterprise, securing Rs 2 crore in subsidies under a Rs 4 crore project. By effectively utilizing government programs, Awana set an example of how farmers can enhance their businesses through informed decision-making.

Recognition and Awards

Surendra Awana’s innovative contributions to agriculture have earned him widespread recognition. His accolades include:

• IARI-Fellow Farmer Award 2023 by the Indian Agricultural Research Institute

• Jagjivan Ram Abhinav Kisan Puraskar 2021 by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)

• National Gopal Ratna Award 2021 by the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, Government of India

• National Haldhar Organic Award 2019 by ICAR

• Krishak Protsahan Award 2021 by the Central Sheep and Wool Research Institute

• Progressive Farmer Samman in 2020 and 2022 by the Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute, Jhansi

• Certificate of Commendation for Breed Improvement 2020 by the National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources, Karnal

• State-Level Animal Husbandry First Award 2023 by Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, Government of Rajasthan

• First Prize for Organic Farming 2021 by the Government of Rajasthan

• Breed Conservation Award 2023 by ICAR

In addition to these accolades, Surendra Awana has applied for the prestigious Padma Shri Award, further solidifying his legacy as a pioneer in agriculture.

Sustainable Practices and Direct Marketing

Sustainability is at the core of Awana’s farming philosophy. By cultivating 24 varieties of green fodder, he ensures high-quality milk production from his livestock. His direct marketing strategy enables him to sell milk and agricultural products directly to consumers, bypassing traditional supply chains. With a monthly operational cost of Rs 10–12 lakh, Awana’s profits stand at Rs 4–5 lakh per month, translating to an impressive annual income exceeding Rs 50 lakh.

Surendra Awana’s success story is a testament to the transformative power of innovation and sustainability in agriculture. By blending traditional knowledge with modern techniques, he has redefined farming as a profitable business. His journey inspires farmers nationwide to adopt creative and sustainable practices, proving that agriculture can be both economically rewarding and environmentally responsible.