Manjit Singh, a 59-year-old tenant farmer from Kotkapura in Faridkot, has transformed his life through determination and innovative farming. Despite owning no land, he rents nearly 10 acres to grow turmeric, earning up to ₹4 lakh per acre annually, even while paying a hefty ₹80,000 per acre in rent.
Singh, a graduate and trained stenographer, turned to agriculture after his family sold their small 2.5-acre farm in the 1980s. Working with Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) and pesticide companies, he gained vital knowledge before renting land in the 1990s. By 2010, he focused entirely on turmeric farming, driven by the motto, “Haldi is Healthy.”
Growing turmeric on four acres, Singh uses high-quality seeds he prepares himself. Each acre produces 15-16 quintals of powder, sold at ₹300-400 per kg. His processed turmeric, marketed through word-of-mouth, even attracts international buyers. Singh’s profits stem from strict quality control and relentless field monitoring.
Besides turmeric, Singh diversifies with garlic, ginger, Basmati, and barley, promoting sustainable farming. Dubbed ‘Kheti Da Doctor,’ he offers guidance to fellow farmers and has received numerous awards.
However, as a tenant farmer, Singh misses out on government subsidies, which he believes should support cultivators rather than absentee landowners. Advocating for policy reforms, he urges a shift from monoculture to diversified farming for sustainable growth.
“Dedication and innovation are the keys to success,” Singh emphasizes. “Punjab needs to embrace sustainable agriculture.”
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