An example of success in protected farming is the story of Vivek Kumar

Vivek Kumar, a resident of Bhakla village in Saharanpur district of Uttar Pradesh, has taken a step in a new direction through protected cultivation. Vivek has a net house in an area of ​​one acre, in which he cultivates colorful capsicum. Due to Vivek’s hard work and this protected farming model, he is earning an income of about Rs 5 lakh annually. His journey is not only inspirational for the farmers of Saharanpur, but also shows the importance of modern techniques in farming in the entire Uttar Pradesh.

Importance of protected farming and journey of success

Vivek says that due to limited income in traditional farming, he was inspired to adopt new technology. He said, “The ratio of cost and income in traditional farming is very low. This was the reason why I turned to protected farming. Through farming in net house, we can give favorable environment to the crops, which improves quality and also increases production.”

Under protected farming, Vivek selected colorful capsicum. Cultivation of capsicum in a net house protects the crop from weather and pests, and maintains continuity in production. Vivek says that capsicum cultivation is more profitable than traditional crops, and its colorful fruits are in great demand in the market.

Increase in income and economic change

Vivek said that through protected farming he earns an income of about Rs 5 lakh every year. He said, “Capsicum is in demand throughout the year, and we sell directly to traders and retailers. Thus, we get a good price without middlemen and our income increases.” Apart from this, the quality of production in Vivek’s farming is so better that his capsicum sells more than other areas.

Contribution of government schemes in protected farming

Vivek also considered government schemes a major part of his success in protected farming. He has taken advantage under the Farm Machinery Bank scheme, which has provided him with the necessary equipment and resources for farming. He says that this government scheme has reduced his costs and helped him maintain quality in the net house. Vivek says, “It is very important to have the right equipment for protected farming. With government assistance, we have got a reduction in the cost of machines and equipment, which enables us to manage better.”

Benefits and challenges of protected farming

Vivek says that there are many benefits of protected farming. In the net house, crops can be kept safe from temperature, moisture and pests, which improves the quality of the produce. “Through protected farming we can control environmental impacts and also reduce the use of pesticides. This keeps our products safe for health and its demand remains among consumers,” says Vivek.

However, there are some challenges during protected farming, such as high initial cost in setting up the net house and its maintenance cost. Vivek says that this cost seems high in the beginning, but as the production increases, this cost is quickly recovered. He said, “There was some concern about the expenditure in the first year, but the successful cultivation of capsicum solved all the problems.”

Inspiration for other farmers

Vivek believes that the technology of protected cultivation should be spread, so that other farmers can also benefit from it. He told many farmers of his area about net house farming and trained them. “Some farmers of our village are now adopting this model of protected farming, which is also increasing their income,” Vivek says.

Future plans and vision

Vivek is planning to expand his farming in the coming years. He is also thinking of growing other types of crops in net houses, so that his income can increase further. Also, he wants the government to provide more subsidies and schemes for such protected farming, so that small farmers can also benefit from it. He believes that if such techniques are adopted properly, then there can be a huge change in Indian agriculture.

Conclusion

Vivek Kumar’s story makes it clear that protected farming not only increases the income of farmers, but also paves the way for technological improvement in the agricultural sector. Taking advantage of the government schemes and on the strength of his confidence, Vivek has made a special identity for himself in this field. His example proves that if farmers use modern techniques and government schemes properly, then a lot of success can be achieved in agriculture. This initiative of farmers like Vivek will also prove helpful in building a self-reliant India.