Genabhai Darghabhai Patel: An example of innovation and inspiration in pomegranate farming 

Genabhai Darghabhai Patel, a differently abled farmer from Government Golia village in Banaskantha district of Gujarat, not only made his mark in the field of farming with his dedication and hard work but also became an inspiration for thousands of farmers in the region. The efforts Genabhai made to promote horticulture in his district are an excellent example of technological innovation and community service in farming.

Pomegranate farming: The beginning of change

In Banaskantha district, where the water level had gone deep, horticulture was a challenge for the farmers. Genabhai saw this situation as an opportunity and started pomegranate farming.

Genabhai’s experience:

Genabhai says:

“Earlier, no farmer here thought of horticulture. I decided to cultivate pomegranate despite being differently abled. Initially, everyone discouraged me, but I did not give up.”

Expansion of Pomegranate Cultivation:

1. High Quality Pomegranates:

• Genabhai planted pomegranate varieties that give good production even in less water.

2. Drip Irrigation:

• Genabhai used drip irrigation technology to save water and increase production.

3. Pomegranate School:

• Genabhai started a school for farmers with the aim of teaching pomegranate cultivation.

Results:

• More than 80,000 farmers in the area visited his farm.

• Thousands of farmers started pomegranate cultivation due to his inspiration.

Technological Innovations in Farming

Genabhai adopted many advanced techniques in his farms.

Use of Drip Irrigation:

Drip irrigation not only saved water but also helped in maintaining soil fertility.

Other supporting techniques:

1. Advanced planting techniques.

2. Use of organic manure.

3. Crop diversification to maintain water levels.

Genabhai explains:

“We ensured that water and resources were used properly at every step of farming. This not only increased the quality of our crop but also kept the water level of the land stable.”

Community service through farming

Genabhai not only promoted his own farming but also helped other farmers.

Community service aspects:

1. Supply of saplings:

• Genabhai provided pomegranate saplings to farmers in the area.

2. Tractors and equipment:

• He facilitated farmers with tractors and other equipment.

3. Training programmes:

• Genabhai trained farmers on how to cultivate pomegranate and adopt new techniques.

Farmers’ feedback:

A local farmer said:

“With the help of Genabhai, we started pomegranate farming on our land. Now our income has doubled.”

Benefits of government schemes

Genabhai also made full use of government schemes in his farming.

Subsidy on drip irrigation:

• Genabhai received 50% subsidy from the government for drip irrigation.

• This subsidy not only helped in reducing his cost but also inspired other farmers to adopt this technology.

Genabhai’s view on government schemes:

“If farmers make proper use of government schemes, they can not only improve their farming but also strengthen their economic condition.”

Awards and recognition

Genabhai’s achievements have been recognized at the national and international level.

Major awards:

1. Padma Shri Award (2017):

• This award was given for his agricultural innovation and community service.

2. 12 other national level awards:

• Proof of Genabhai’s hard work and dedication.

Genabhai’s thoughts on the awards:

“Awards are an honour for me, but my real success is that I helped other farmers and made them self-reliant.”

Economic success and impact

Genabhai’s pomegranate farming not only empowered him financially but also changed the economic condition of his village and district.

Financial figures:

• Annual income: ₹21-30 lakh.

• More than 1 lakh farmers benefited from his farming.

Global demand for pomegranate:

Genabhai’s pomegranate has now made its place in the local markets as well as the international markets.

Future plans

Genabhai wants to take his innovation further.

Priorities:

1. More technical improvements in pomegranate cultivation.

2. Promote cultivation of other crops as well.

3. Start more training programmes for farmers.

Genabhai’s Dream:

“My dream is that every farmer becomes self-reliant and uses water and resources wisely.”

Conclusion

Genabhai Darghbhai Patel has proved that when there is dedication, hard work and the right use of technology, any challenge can be solved. His story is a source of inspiration for Indian farmers.

“Genabhai’s hard work and innovation has shown that steps taken in the right direction can bring not only individual but also community change.”