Innovation of protected farming: Khema Ram Chaudhary, a farmer of Gudha Kumawatan village in Jaipur rural area of Rajasthan, has achieved unique success in protected farming. Born in 1973, Khema Ram not only made farming profitable with his experience and determination, but also played an important role in spreading new technologies in the area and getting it the status of “Mini Israel”.
Khema Ram adopted advanced methods like hydroponic technology, NFT system, and solar energy in his fields. These innovations made his farming sustainable and environmentally friendly. His experiments and experiences earned him recognition not only locally but also nationally and internationally.
The beginning of protected farming
Khema Ram visited Israel in 2012, where he closely observed the modern techniques of protected farming. This trip changed his thinking and the direction of his farms. He first installed polyhouses and solar panels on one acre of land. He says,
“The Israel tour made me understand how farming can be made profitable despite less water and limited resources. I decided to adopt it in my fields.”
Khema Ram started cultivating crops like cherry tomatoes, lettuce, strawberries, and broccoli in his farm. These crops were completely organic and were grown with the help of modern techniques.
Inspiration and expansion
Khema Ram’s contribution was not limited to his farms only. He also told the local farmers about new techniques and the benefits of protected farming. Under his guidance, polyhouses and net houses were built in 800 to 1100 acres. Along with this, farming was made more effective by using farm ponds and solar energy.
Khema Ram said,
“When I shared my experiences with other farmers, they understood how protected farming can change their lives. Now, our entire area has become an example of modern farming.”
Khema Ram also taught farmers how to store rainwater and use it in farming. He built 200 farm ponds in his area, which proved very useful in water conservation.
Awards and Honors
Khema Ram’s hard work and his innovations were honored with many national and state level awards. His major awards include:
• Shrestha Krishak Award (2012)
Rajasthan Solar Energy Pump Sartaj Award (2013)
• Innovative Farmer Award (2020)
Padma Bhushan Dr. R.S. Paroda Farmer Shiromani Award (2021)
• Entrepreneurship Champions Award (2024)
Through these awards, Khema Ram’s contribution has been appreciated not only at the state but also at the national level.
Benefit of Government Schemes
Khema Ram took advantage of many government schemes for farming. He took grants for sprinkler system in 2002, drip irrigation in 2004, and farm pond construction in 2012. Apart from this, he received a grant for solar energy in 2013. These schemes were helpful in modernizing his farms.
Khema Ram says,
“Government schemes helped me adopt modern technology. These not only reduced my costs but also increased production.”
The journey of farms to become Mini Israel
Khema Ram’s innovations and hard work earned his area the status of “Mini Israel”. Foreign researchers now visit here after seeing the techniques used in his fields. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations has also mentioned his farming.
Khema Ram believes that farming cannot be made profitable without water conservation and advanced techniques. He taught farmers how to produce more with less water.
Conversation with Khema Ram
During a conversation with Khema Ram, he said,
“Initially there were challenges in adopting the techniques. But, I did not give up. Now, I inspire others with my experience.”
He also said that farmers should always adopt natural and sustainable methods. He believes that organic farming is not only good for the environment, but it is also beneficial for health.
Future plans
Khema Ram dreams of making protected farming techniques reach every farmer in Rajasthan. He wants every farmer in his region to become self-reliant and make proper use of natural resources.
Khema Ram’s next step is to make hydroponic technology more popular. He says,
“It is the need of the hour that we move towards sustainable and eco-friendly farming. This will ensure a safe future for our children.”
Khema Ram Chaudhary’s story shows how commitment and innovation can give a new look to farming. His efforts are not only an inspiration for farmers, but it is also an example for the entire agricultural system.
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