Farmer Ruby Pareek is creating a strong identity in organic farming

Ruby Pareek, a resident of Lalsot village in Dausa district of Rajasthan, is an inspiration in the field of organic farming. She has not only converted her farm towards organic and natural farming, but has also inspired thousands of women to become self-reliant in this field. Her journey from chemical farming to organic farming is a symbol of a sustainable solution and dedication towards building a society.

Pledge of poison free farming

Ruby Pareek took a pledge of “poison free farming”, the main objective of which is to build a healthy society and protect the environment. She established Pareek Organic Farm, Khatwa, which is spread over about 1-5 acres of land. On this farm, she operates various models of natural and organic farming.

The main focus of her efforts is the vermicompost unit, which has a production capacity of 200 metric tons. In addition, she has planted 10,000 fruit trees and an Azolla fern unit on her farm. All these efforts have not only proved helpful in protecting the environment, but also provide employment opportunities to farmers and the local community.

Empowering women

Ruby Pareek has made special efforts to empower women.

– She has trained 22,000 women in organic farming so far.

– 1,000 of these women have set up vermicompost units on their farms.

– Through these units, women have got employment opportunities from home, which has strengthened their economic condition.

She says that “organic farming is not only beneficial for the environment, but it is also a powerful medium to make women self-reliant.”

Creation of Farmer Producer Organization

Ruby Pareek created a Farmer Producer Organization, which aims to transform farmers into traders.

– This organization helps in increasing the quality and production of farmers’ produce.

– Branding and marketing of organic products is done through the organization. – This helps farmers get the right price for their produce and they become financially self-reliant.

Benefits of government schemes

Ruby Pareek has also taken advantage of government schemes in her efforts.

1. Vermi Compost Unit:

She set up a 200 metric tonne vermicompost unit with the support of the government.

2. Solar Energy and Drip Irrigation:

Using technologies like solar energy and drip irrigation, she made efforts to conserve water and save energy.

3. Fruit Trees:

Government assistance also contributed to the 10,000 fruit trees planted on her farm.

Honours and Achievements

Ruby Pareek has received 25 to 30 honours at the national and international level for her efforts. Prominent among them are:

1. Dharti Mitra National Award (2021):

Dada Saheb Phalke International Film Festival, Mumbai. 2. Siddha Shikhar Samman (2022):

National event held at Shimla.

3. Innovative Farmers Award (2023):

By Indian Council of Agricultural Research, New Delhi.

4. Organic India National Award (2023):

By Competitive International Institute.

5. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Agricultural Service Award (2024):

By His Excellency Governor Acharya Devvrat at Gandhinagar, Gujarat.

These achievements have not only appreciated her work but also given her an identity in the field of organic farming.

Model of organic farming

Ruby Pareek’s model of organic farming is sustainable and eco-friendly.

– Vermi Compost:

The organic manure prepared from her unit is used in the fields, which increases the fertility of the soil.

– Fruits and Vegetables:

The crops and fruits grown on her farm are sold at a higher price in the market due to being organic. – Azolla Fern:

Azolla fern is used as nutritious fodder for animals.

Challenges and Solutions

Ruby Pareek faced many challenges in her journey.

1. Initial cost:

The initial cost of organic farming is high.

2. Lack of awareness:

There is a lack of awareness among farmers and consumers about the importance of organic products.

3. Marketing:

Creating a proper market and access to customers for organic products is a challenge.

She solved these problems with collective efforts and support from government schemes.

Future plans

Ruby Pareek is committed to taking her work further.

1. Creation of a processing unit:

She wants to set up a unit for processing her produce, which will increase both the quality and value of the products.

2. Training center for farmers:

A center where farmers can be informed about organic farming techniques. 3. Direct Marketing:

Using digital platforms to deliver your products directly to customers.

Message to farmers

Ruby Pareek believes that “farming is not just a business but it is also a responsibility towards our environment and society.”

She appeals to farmers to adopt organic farming and contribute towards environmental protection.

Conclusion

Ruby Pareek’s story proves that if farmers are aware and dedicated, farming can be made a profitable and sustainable business. Her success is not only an inspiration for her village and district but also an example for farmers across the country.

Her hard work, dedication and leadership skills have given a new direction to organic farming. Her dream is to make organic farming a reality.