In the heart of Sikar, Rajasthan, amidst vast farmlands, a revolution in organic farming is unfolding, led by a resilient woman named Santosh Pachar. With just an 8th-grade education, Santosh is challenging norms and turning heads with her innovative farming techniques.
A Beacon of Innovation:
Santosh Pachar might not have pursued higher formal education, but her ingenuity is making waves in the agricultural community. Adopting a unique blend of ghee and honey in organic carrot farming, she’s successfully carved a niche in a space dominated by conventional methods.
Journey to Recognition:
Though Santosh has always been inclined towards organic farming, embracing a mix of horticulture and traditional crops, her journey took a notable turn in 2002. It was then that she began cultivating carrots organically on her 30 bigha land, setting the stage for her ascent in the agricultural arena.
From Chemicals to Organics:
Like many farmers, Santosh and her family initially relied on chemical farming methods. Over time, however, they noticed a decline in crop yields. Even when they pivoted to organic methods, challenges persisted. The carrots grew in irregular shapes, diminishing their market value. Instead of being deterred, Santosh innovated. She devised a novel technique integrating ghee and honey in organic farming, which not only enhanced the quality of her produce but also brought her national acclaim, culminating in the President’s Award for her transformative contributions to farming.
A Flourishing Endeavour:
Today, the Pachar household boasts an annual income of Rs 20 lakh, a testament to Santosh’s relentless dedication and innovation. This income marks a twentyfold increase from their earnings in previous years. Recognizing her outstanding efforts and significant contribution to organic farming, Santosh was felicitated with the President’s Award twice, in 2013 and 2017.
Paving the Way for Others:
Santosh’s impact isn’t limited to her own fields. She has emerged as an inspiration for thousands of farmers across the country. More than just being an example, she actively imparts her knowledge, having trained over 7000 farmers in the nuances of carrot farming and the broader principles of organic agriculture.
In an era when sustainable and organic methods are gaining traction, Santosh Pachar stands as a beacon, exemplifying how determination, innovation, and a genuine love for the land can lead to remarkable achievements. Through her story, we’re reminded that sometimes, the most profound changes come from the most unexpected places.
