Farmer's Innovative Techniques in Strawberries, Broccoli, & Tomatoes Capture Global Agricultural Interest: Success Story

In the arid landscapes of Luni tehsil in Jodhpur district, where barren lands and water pollution pose significant challenges, Ramchandra Rathod has emerged as a beacon of hope and innovation in the agricultural realm. Once a tailor and now a pioneering farmer, Rathod's transformative techniques have not only revolutionized his ancestral land but garnered global attention.

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In the heart of the Marwar region, plagued by recurrent droughts forcing youth migration in search of jobs, Rathod's farm has become a pilgrimage site for agriculture enthusiasts and experts across India. What makes his story extraordinary is his success in cultivating unconventional crops like strawberries and broccoli in the midst of adversity.

Rathod's journey began in 2018 when a tube well installation provided water with a TDS reading far below the optimal range for farming. Undeterred, a seven-day training at the Jodhpur CAZRI Institute through the Krishak Mitra scheme became a turning point. Rathod learned the art of rainwater conservation and innovative desert farming practices, discovering the potential of polyhouses and the benefits of rainwater harvesting.

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Armed with newfound knowledge, Rathod established a polyhouse in 2018 and expanded his efforts, introducing a farm pond and a vermi-compost unit in 2019-20. By harnessing rainwater for cucumber cultivation, he achieved a record-breaking yield of 14 tonnes in just 100 square meters, a feat unmatched in Jodhpur district.

Continuing his streak of innovation, Rathod ventured into cash crops, successfully growing strawberries, zucchinis, Broccolis, Tomatoes, etc. in the challenging desert environment. His integrated approach involves rainwater storage, organic fertilizer production, and dedicating significant land to horticulture.

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Rathod's success story has not only improved his income and provided quality education for his children but has also inspired over 500 farmers in neighboring areas. His wife's role as a Ward Panch reflects the family's active involvement in community leadership.

With a vision for collective progress, Rathod established a Farmer Producer Organization (FPO) to support fellow farmers in innovating their agricultural practices. His message to the youth is clear—don't run after jobs, don't migrate. Through training programs, he encourages those with no future in jobs to find opportunities in farming, prompting a return of those who migrated years ago.

Rathod's integrated approach to rainwater harvesting and sustainable farming practices not only addresses the challenges of meager rainfall and groundwater depletion in Rajasthan but also serves as a blueprint for sustainable agriculture. With an annual income of Rs 6 lakh, Rathod is now dedicated to improving the financial condition of farmers in his region, proving that innovation and determination can transform even the most challenging landscapes.

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