Sarvesh Kumar could not clear the exams for joining the armed forces even after four attempts. He changed his career path and became a farmer instead. He employs organic farming practices in his fields and earns more by selling his organic vegetables and products. Sarvesh has been awarded with the Progressive Farmer Award.
Bareilly: Sarvesh Kumar is a resident of the village Nawabganj, Bareilly. As a kid, he wanted to join the armed forces to serve his country. He attempted the exams four times but could not succeed at it. In search of a second career option, he decided to become a farmer.
Sarvesh had interactions with several farmers involved in organic farming practices and discovered the potential of organic agriculture. He consulted agriculture experts at Krishi Vigyan Kendra in IVRI. Sarvesh dedicated himself to learning all the organic practices along with educating more farmers about the same.
Difference in prices of crops
Sarvesh shares that the crops grown organically are sold almost at a double price than the normal crops. The harvest in the first year is not significant however, the full benefits of organic farming become evident from the third year onwards.
Presently, Sarvesh owns 17 acres of land and practices organic farming avoiding the use to chemical fertilizers. He grows sugarcanes and produces jaggery from it. The idea of organic produce attracts the customers, and they willingly pay a higher price for the products. This helps Sarvesh to increase his income by one and a half times.
Getting rid of termites
The problem of termites is common in the fields. Sarvesh solved the termite infestation issue by changing the farming methods and without the use of chemicals. He was able to get rid of the termites by planting turmeric intermittently around the sugarcane and vegetable fields. This method helps in increasing the quality of the vegetables.
Cultivation of vegetables
Along with sugarcane, Sarvesh cultivates vegetables like cucumber, lady finger, bottle gourds, brinjals, beetroot, radish and coriander. The cultivation of several crops has significantly increased his income. The expenses of sugarcane cultivation are covered with the success of co-cropping.
Providing training to farmers
Sarvesh influences other farmers by educating them about organic farming practices. He actively trains other farmers and is frequently invited to agricultural programmes where he shares his knowledge about the advantages of organic farming.
Sarvesh was honoured with the Progressive Farmer Award for his sustainable agriculture. Around 250 to 300 farmers have joined him in this initiative.
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