Narendra Kumar Chhikara: Inspirational in turning disability into opportunity in food processing

Narendra Kumar Chhikara, a resident of Tatesar village in northwest Delhi, has made a name for himself in the field of food processing. Despite being physically challenged, Narendra braved the odds and made his mark in food processing with the help of new technologies. His hard work and passion not only made him a successful entrepreneur, but his work has also provided employment opportunities to local villagers.

Innovation and rural empowerment in food processing

Narendra’s company Purti Food Vision is a unique initiative through which he is bringing innovation in the field of food processing. The main objective of his venture is not just to earn profits but also to improve the economic condition of local farmers and bring empowerment to the rural community. His company buys fruits and vegetables directly from farmers, which are then processed and converted into various products. He says, “Our aim is that farmers get a fair price for their hard work and consumers get fresh, safe and sustainable food products.” This initiative not only eliminates the need for farmers to go to the market, but also ensures a fair price for their produce.

Passion to turn disability into opportunity

Narendra’s physical condition made his journey difficult, but he never let it become his weakness. He started his journey by taking technical training in food processing from Krishi Vigyan Kendra and Pusa Institute in Ujwa village, Delhi. Since establishing Purti Food Vision in 2016, he has provided employment to many villagers. With the assistance received under the Pradhan Mantri Swa-Nidhi Yojana, he strengthened his business even more. He says, “Physical disability should be seen as a challenge and turning every challenge into an opportunity is the real achievement.”

Narendra’s contribution to food processing

Through Purti Food Vision, Narendra has done many experiments in food processing. The company processes fruits and vegetables and makes them sustainable, so that nutritious and quality products can reach consumers. This includes preservation of fruits and vegetables, their packaging, and converting them into value-added products. The demand for their products is increasing in the markets of Delhi and its surrounding areas. This approach has not only boosted their business but has also benefited the farmers. “Processing reduces the wastage of the product and the product can be used for a longer period of time,” says Narendra.

Communication and collaboration with farmers

Narendra believes that just providing technical information is not enough, but continuous communication and collaboration with farmers is also important. He has built a strong network with local farmers, where he informs them about the benefits of farming and processing. By organizing regular meetings with farmers, they are introduced to advanced agricultural techniques. Under this, Narendra has spread awareness on ways to improve soil quality, techniques to increase crop production and the possibilities of value-added products through processing. According to him, “It is very important to explain not only production, but also how to increase the profit from that production.”

Effective use of government schemes

Proper use of government schemes is an important part of Narendra’s success. The financial assistance received under the Pradhan Mantri Swa-Nidhi Yojana helped him bring more technological improvements in his business. With the help of this scheme, he purchased modern processing machines and technical equipment, which improved the quality and durability of his products. He believes that if government schemes are used properly, it can be a significant support for entrepreneurs. He also inspires other farmers and entrepreneurs to take advantage of government assistance to grow their business.

Honours and Awards: An Inspiring Journey

Narendra has been awarded many national and international awards for his hard work and excellent work. He has received prestigious awards like Innovative Farmer Award (ICAR-IARI), Deenbandhu Sir Chhotu Ram Rashtriya Pratibha Samman, International Human Solidarity Award. These awards not only symbolize his personal achievement but also recognize his contribution in the field of food processing. His efforts have also been appreciated by government and private institutions.

Future Plans and Vision

Narendra’s future plan is to expand Purti Food Vision nationally and internationally. He wants to add farmers from other states to his network so that they can get more employment and opportunities in the field of processing. He believes that if food processing initiatives are promoted in rural areas, it can pave the way for economic growth in the region. Narendra aims to make his products famous not only in the Indian market but also in the international market in the future. 

Narendra Kumar Chhikara’s story is an inspiration that shows how a person can make a unique contribution in his field despite overcoming physical challenges. His innovations in the field of food processing, his deep connections with local farmers, and effective use of government schemes make him an excellent entrepreneur and a responsible citizen of the society. His efforts are not only an inspiration in the field of food processing but also an important step towards building a self-reliant India.