Rajaram Chaudhary’s Flower Success with Protected Cultivation

Rajaram Vitthal Chaudhary, a resident of Shiroli village in Pune district of Maharashtra, has given a new direction to flower cultivation through protected cultivation. Born on 10 May 1955, Rajaram has proved with his dedication, hard work and inclusion of new techniques that even small farmers can achieve great success through innovation in agriculture.

Beginning of protected cultivation

Rajaram says, “Farming was going on from our ancestors, but it was my idea to bring innovation in it. I started flower cultivation in 12 guntha (20 R) of land. There was fear in the beginning, but I decided to move forward with my hard work and new techniques.”

Rajaram adopted the concept of protected cultivation, in which techniques like greenhouse and polyhouse are used. Through this, flower cultivation is protected from adverse weather and pests. This improved the quality of his produce and flowers got high prices in the market.

Innovation in flower cultivation

Rajaram started cultivating different types of flowers, including flowers like roses, marigolds, and gerberas. He says, “I saw that there is always a demand for flowers. Flowers are used more in weddings, festivals and other events. So I chose it as a good business.”

He used advanced seeds, organic manure and techniques like drip irrigation in his farming. According to him, “Drip irrigation reduces water consumption and crops get adequate moisture on time. This method is also beneficial for the environment.”

Incorporation of technology and market

Rajaram established a network for selling flowers in the local market as well as in big cities. He ensured quality and timely delivery of flowers, which increased the trust of his customers.

Rajaram says, “I started selling my flowers in local mandis. Later I started sending flowers to big markets like Mumbai and Pune. This increased my income significantly.”

Awards and Honours Received

Rajaram’s hard work and innovation were appreciated by various institutions and organisations. He was honoured with several prestigious awards, including:

1. 2004: Honoured by RCF Limited for excellence in rural development and floriculture in Pune district.

2. 2012: “Krishi Samridhi Puraskar” by ICAR, New Delhi.

3. Member of Scientific Advisory Committee: Selected by Mahatma Phule Agricultural University, Rahuri.

4. Member of Rural Programme Advisory Committee: Nominated by All India Radio, Pune, Government of India.

Rajaram believes that these awards are a testimony to his commitment to his work and his contribution to society.

Benefit of Government Assistance

Rajaram also took full advantage of government schemes. He got subsidy on drip irrigation and other modern equipment. Through this, he saved water in his fields and increased production.

Rajaram says, “The government subsidy made my farming more technology-driven. Drip irrigation reduced water consumption by 40%.”

Economic impact and contribution to society

Rajaram earned an annual income of Rs 2.20 lakh from flower farming. Apart from this, his farming inspired other farmers of his village. He says, “After seeing my farm, other farmers of the village have also started taking interest in flower farming. I feel very happy to see this.”

Rajaram believes that innovation and inclusion of technology in farming can strengthen the rural economy.

Recognition in journalism and society

Rajaram’s story found place in various newspapers and magazines. Articles published on his innovations and successes gave him wide recognition. He says, “The media gave a platform to my story, which also inspired other farmers.”

Facing challenges

Rajaram faced many challenges in his journey. He says, “In the beginning, there was difficulty in adopting technologies like greenhouse and polyhouse. Its cost was high and it required special knowledge. But I found solutions to these problems with the help of agricultural experts and government institutions.”

Future plans

Rajaram plans to expand his farming further. He says, “I now want to start cultivating aromatic flowers and medicinal plants. Along with this, I am planning to send my flowers to international markets.”

Apart from this, he wants to make local farmers aware of protected farming by training them. His goal is that every farmer in his village adopts modern techniques and earns a better income.

Importance of protected farming

Rajaram’s experience makes it clear that protected farming not only increases productivity, but is also environmentally friendly. According to him, “Protected farming protects crops from adverse weather. It also improves the quality of crops.”

The story of Rajaram Vitthal Chaudhary is an inspiration for all those farmers who want to turn their farming into a profitable business. His hard work, innovation and dedication have proved that even small farmers can dream big and make them come true.

His success gives the message that if farmers adopt modern techniques and pay attention to the quality of their crops, they can not only increase their income but can also contribute positively to the society and the environment.