Rakesh Sirohi, a farmer from Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh, has become a shining example of how modern agricultural techniques can transform farming into a profitable business. For the last 17 years, he has been working tirelessly to improve his farming practices, and his commitment to adopting new technologies has brought him tremendous success. Focusing mainly on sugarcane farming for the past 13 years, Rakesh has increased his yields significantly and is now generating an annual profit of Rs 30-35 lakh. His achievements have made him a role model for farmers across India who are looking to modernize their farming methods.
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ToggleRakesh Sirohi’s Journey in Sugarcane Farming
Rakesh’s journey in agriculture started 17 years ago, when he decided to take up farming as a full-time profession. Initially, he followed conventional farming practices, but his interest in improving his productivity and income led him to explore modern farming techniques. He gradually transitioned to sugarcane cultivation and started experimenting with different methods to boost yields. His hard work paid off, and today, he produces 2000 quintals of sugarcane per hectare on his 11-hectare farm.
Recognizing the Importance of Modern Techniques
One of the key reasons behind Rakesh Sirohi’s success is his adoption of modern farming techniques. For instance, he uses the trench method for planting sugarcane, which increases the crop yield by 35-40% compared to traditional methods. The trench method allows for better germination, saving water, reducing pest infestation, and ensuring efficient fertilizer usage. Rakesh also uses drip irrigation to manage water consumption, which helps in providing the exact amount of water needed for the crop and reducing wastage.
Rakesh cultivates several new varieties of sugarcane, including 13235, 15023, 18231, 16202, and 17018. These varieties are resistant to pests and diseases, resulting in higher yields and healthier crops. He believes in rotating sugarcane varieties every 5-7 years to maintain the quality of the produce and prevent soil degradation.
Efficient Soil and Manure Management
Proper soil management is crucial for ensuring healthy crops, and Rakesh has mastered this aspect. Before planting sugarcane, he deeply plows his fields at least twice, breaking the hard soil layers and improving aeration. This process ensures that the soil gets the necessary sunlight and nutrients, leading to better crop growth. In addition to chemical fertilizers, Rakesh mixes Trichoderma with cow dung manure and applies it to his fields. This mix not only enriches the soil with essential nutrients but also helps maintain soil fertility.
Mixed Cropping and Diversification
Rakesh doesn’t rely solely on sugarcane farming; he also practices mixed cropping on his farm. Alongside sugarcane, he grows other crops like mustard, cauliflower, brinjal, marigold, cabbage, and bitter gourd. This diversification helps in reducing the financial risks associated with depending on a single crop. By growing multiple crops, Rakesh ensures a steady income throughout the year, as some crops are harvested earlier than others.
Moreover, he has ventured into sugarcane seed production. Rakesh orders new varieties of sugarcane seeds from government research centers and grows them to produce high-quality seeds. He then sells these seeds to other farmers, which adds another stream of income to his business.
Farming Techniques and Profits
Thanks to his innovative farming methods, Rakesh has been able to achieve an impressive annual profit of Rs 30-35 lakh from his sugarcane farm. About 40% of his sugarcane goes to the sugar mill, while the remaining 60% is sold as high-quality seeds to other farmers. His ability to use modern techniques like trench planting, drip irrigation, and organic farming methods has allowed him to maximize his profits and achieve sustainable farming success.
Table – Breakdown of Rakesh Sirohi’s Farming Practices
Farming Technique | Benefits |
---|---|
Trench Method | 35-40% higher yield, better germination, saves water |
Drip Irrigation | Efficient water use, reduces wastage |
New Sugarcane Varieties | Pest and disease resistance, higher yields |
Mixed Cropping | Diversification of income, reduces risk |
Organic Methods | Improves soil fertility, sustainable farming |
Conclusion
Rakesh Sirohi’s success story is a testament to the power of modern farming practices. By embracing new techniques like trench farming, drip irrigation, and mixed cropping, he has revolutionized sugarcane cultivation in Uttar Pradesh. His innovative approach has not only increased his profits but also contributed to the sustainability of his farming practices. Rakesh continues to inspire farmers across India to adopt new methods and improve their productivity.
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A dedicated agronomist with a passion for sustainable farming, our author blends traditional wisdom with modern techniques to empower farmers. Through Krushimantri, we share practical insights, innovative ideas, and inspiration for a thriving agricultural future.