In a world increasingly focused on sustainability and health, Ratan Lal Daga stands tall as a testament to the transformative power of organic farming. At the ripe age of 71, he has turned unproductive lands into thriving fields of sandalwood, rudraksh, fig, and various organic produce.
A Scholar in the Fields:
Holding a B.Sc degree, Ratan Lal Daga is not just any farmer; he’s the farmer of the year. Venturing into organic farming, Daga has strategically increased his income by minimizing losses, a testament to his knowledge and experience.
The Organic Shift:
Transitioning from chemicals wasn’t easy. For two years, yields diminished, causing considerable financial strain. Undeterred, Daga persevered, and today, his farm yields grains, fruits, spices, and exotic crops like figs, rudraksh, and sandalwood.
Building a Farming Community:
Nestled in Mathania town of Jodhpur, Daga’s farmhouse spreads across 150 bighas. Since 1976, he has tilled this land, and over the years, he has incorporated 8 farming families into his organic vision.
The Struggle with Chemicals:
Back in 1976, Daga, despite his academic background, began with chemical farming. The initial results were alarming – reduced crop quality and declining soil health. Fruits and vegetables became vulnerable to pests, with pesticides offering little reprieve. Slowly, his fields turned barren.
The Turning Point:
Facing degraded lands, Daga committed to organic farming. The initial years were tough; the soil had been heavily damaged by chemicals. But with persistent organic farming, the land rejuvenated. The soil teemed with earthworms, insects, and natural nutrients. Recognizing the transformation, Daga refined his approach, focusing on rotating 3 to 4 crops.
Market Recognition:
As Daga concentrated on a few organic products, they garnered significant attention. The increasing demand for his organic fruits, vegetables, and spices led him to expand into horticulture and oilseed cultivation.
Reaching the Public:
A customer, impressed by Daga’s organic offerings, opened a shop in Jodhpur. This step bridged the gap between the farm and the table, ensuring Daga’s organic products reached consumers directly.
A Booming Demand:
Today, Ratan Lal Daga’s organic produce is so sought-after that consumers reserve in advance. He no longer relies on traditional markets or warehouses. Moreover, he prepares seeds for multiple crops, distributing them among local farmers, furthering the spread of organic practices.
Ratan Lal Daga’s journey from barren fields to a thriving organic farming empire serves as a beacon for many. Through his unwavering commitment, he has showcased that age is no barrier to innovation and that with patience and dedication, one can revolutionize traditional practices for a sustainable future.
