In Punjab, Sukhjeet Singh Bhangu spearheads innovative farming methods, generating an annual revenue of 1 crore INR.
A Tale of Modern Agriculture: Sukhjeet Singh Bhangu's Rise as a Hi-Tech Farmer
Sukhjeet Singh Bhangu, a former Physical Education professor and national-level player with a knack for farming, embarked on an extraordinary journey transforming his ancestral 20-acre land into a thriving model farm. His transformation was fueled by an insatiable curiosity, a deep connection with the scientific world of agriculture, and a relentless pursuit of innovation.
Roots in Rural India
After earning his Master's in Physical Education, followed by a diploma in agriculture, Sukhjeet spent eight years teaching Physical Education. However, the pull of farming never waned. Ultimately, he made the decision to return to his roots and take up cultivation on his family's land.
Initial challenges were plentiful, with low productivity, poor crop performance, and a lack of understanding about modern agronomic practices. But destiny had more in store for Sukhjeet. A visit to a Krishi Mela at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) in Pusa marked a turning point in his journey.
A Chance Encounter at IARI
In 2013, Sukhjeet stumbled upon new Basmati rice varieties - Pusa Basmati 1509 among them - that promised higher yields and shorter maturity periods. Seized by curiosity, he procured some seeds and conducted trials on his own farm. The results were astonishing - a staggering 40% increase in yield and a significant income jump that season. This life-changing experience ignited a passion for scientific farming in Sukhjeet.
From Curiosity to Commitment
Inspired by his success, Sukhjeet became a regular visitor to IARI, engaging with agricultural scientists, studying new varieties, and testing them systematically on his farm. Research institutions like IARI served as essential resources for Sukhjeet, providing him with the information and knowledge needed to adapt to climate change and drive agricultural transformation in his region.
A-One Seeds: farmer-centric revolution
In 2014, Sukhjeet established 'A-One Seeds' as a response to his growing knowledge of quality seeds and desire to help other farmers experience the same transformation as he did. With his processing unit in his village, Sukhjeet supplied high-quality, certified seeds to farmers at affordable prices, offering personalized guidance to foster the growth of a strong farming community.
Today, his son Gurveer, an MBA graduate from Punjabi University, Patiala, manages the marketing department of A-One Seeds. His seed retail outlets have become hubs of shared agricultural insights, with approximately 40-50 farmers visiting daily to access the latest innovation and connect with fellow farmers and experts alike.
A Firm Belief in Science and Sustainability: A Recognized Agripreneur
Sukhjeet is a staunch advocate of strong farmer-scientist collaboration, recognizing the essential role it plays in tackling climate change challenges. By adopting climate-resilient, high-yielding varieties developed by research institutions, Sukhjeet transitioned from growing two crops per year to three - maize, basmati paddy, and wheat.
His commitment to scientific farming has earned Sukhjeet numerous accolades, such as the Farm Level Seed Processing Award, ICFA Progressive Farmer Award, India Agri Business Award, Krishi Sewa Puraskar, Best Farmer Award, Fellow Award from IARI Pusa, and the Millionaire Farmer of India Award, among others.
Global Recognition and Impact
Not only has Sukhjeet's work left an indelible mark on Punjab's agriculture sector, but it has captured the attention of policymakers, agricultural bodies, and fellow farmers across India. He was appointed as a member of the committee at ICAR and even had the privilege of meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who recognized the importance of his farm trials.
Sukhjeet's innovative approach to farming has not only improved his own farming practices but also inspired countless others to embrace the future of hi-tech agriculture.
Young Farmer Network, Making Waves in Sustainable Agriculture:
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- Sukhjeet's curiosity in science, particularly environmental science and modern agricultural practices, propelled his journey from teaching Physical Education to becoming an entrepreneur in the field of agriculture.
- Seeking financial stability to implement innovative farming methods, Sukhjeet established his own seed-producing business, A-One Seeds, which provides affordable, high-quality seeds to farmers and serves as a hub for sharing agricultural knowledge.
- Aligning his commitment to environmental science and sustainability with entrepreneurship, Sukhjeet continuously strives to educate and connect with fellow farmers, fostering innovation and collaboration in the pursuit of sustainable, hi-tech agriculture.
