farming writers

Category: farming

  • Dairy Farm Business –Dairy Business Challenges and How to Overcome Them Successfully Dairy Business  Complete Information

    1. What is Dairy Farming?

    In dairy farming, animals like cow, buffalo are raised to produce milk and its products like cheese, curd, butter etc. Milk is an essential food item, so its demand always remains.

    1. Types of Dairy Farming

    Small scale dairy farm: 2-5 animals, family run.

    Commercial dairy farm: Large scale, with machines and modern technology.

    Mixed farming: Other farming (like crops) along with dairy.

    1. Why do dairy farming?

    Constant demand for milk and milk products.

    Subsidies and schemes from the government.

    Means of employment and additional income.

    Possible in both rural and urban areas.

    Better use of resources by synergizing with crop farming.

    1. Location selection for dairy farm

    Availability of water.

    Good roads and connectivity for milk supply.

    Good source of greenery (fodder).

    Mild and comfortable climate.

    Veterinary hospital and medicines nearby.

    1. Breed Selection

    Indian breeds: Gir, Sahiwal, Red Sindhi, Tharparkar (good in summer).

    Crossbreed: Holstein Friesian (HF), Jersey (high milk yield).

    Choose according to your region, like climate and fodder.

    1. Infrastructure Required

    Shed: Ventilated, clean, dry place.

    Milking room: Clean place for milking.

    Feed store: Place to store fodder.

    Water system: Clean water should be available at all times.

    Dung management: Making bio-fertilizer from dung.

    Equipment: Milking machine (if possible), feed mixer, milk storage tanks.

    1. Feed and Nutrition

    Green fodder: Grass, maize, jowar, bajra.

    Dry feed: wheat straw, bran.

    Concentrate feed: feed made from grains, fish, oil seeds.

    Mineral and vitamin supplements.

    Clean water available 24 hours.

    Regular and correct amount of feed.

    1. Breeding and care of calves

    Artificial insemination (AI) or natural breeding.

    Good care of pregnant cows.

    Proper nutrition, hygiene and vaccination of calves.

    1. Milk production and quality

    Daily hygiene.

    Washing hands while milking.

    Cooling milk immediately.

    Prevention of adulteration.

    1. Marketing and sales

    Nearest dairy mill or dairy collection center.

    Selling milk directly to the consumer.

    Making and selling milk products (cheese, curd, butter).

    Branding and packaging.

    1. Economic Aspects (Cost & Profit)

    Initial investment: Animal purchase, shed construction, equipment.

    Operational cost: Fodder, medicine, salary, electricity, water.

    Profit: More milk and products from good breed, regular care, better management.

    Government scheme: Subsidy, loan facility for dairy farms in many states.

    1. Main challenges and suggestions

    Proper arrangement of fodder.

    Prevention from animal diseases.

    Focus on milk quality.

    Adopting new technology (like milking machine, feed mixer).

    10 Animals Dairy Farm Business Plan (Full Details)

    1. Initial Investment

    Expense Item Estimated Cost (₹)

    Buying 10 healthy cows/buffaloes ₹3,00,000 – ₹7,00,000
    Shed Construction ₹3,00,000 – ₹5,00,000
    Milking Machine ₹1,00,000 – ₹1,50,000
    Milk Cooler/Cooling Tank ₹1,50,000 – ₹3,00,000
    Feed Mixer Machine ₹50,000 – ₹1,00,000
    Paneer Making Kit ₹20,000 – ₹50,000
    Butter and Ghee Making Machine ₹1,00,000 – ₹1,50,000

    Other equipment (tankers, containers, water tanks) ₹50,000 – ₹1,00,000

    Total initial cost ₹10,70,000 – ₹20,50,000

    1. Monthly Expenses (Operational Cost)

    Item of Expense Estimated Monthly Cost (₹)

    Fodder (greenery + dry + concentrate) ₹40,000 – ₹60,000

    Medicine, vaccination and veterinary care ₹5,000 – ₹10,000

    Labor Salary ₹8,000 – ₹15,000

    Electricity, water, other expenses ₹5,000 – ₹8,000

    Total Monthly Expenses ₹58,000 – ₹93,000

    1. Monthly Income

    Average milk production per animal = 8-10 litres/day

    10 animals total milk production = 80-100 litres/day

    Price of milk = ₹50-₹60/litre

    Income from milk:

    Quantity of milk Price per litre Daily income (₹) Monthly income (₹)

    80 litres ₹50 ₹4,000 ₹1,20,000

    100 litres ₹60 ₹6,000 ₹1,80,000

    Additional income from products (estimate):

    Product Monthly production Selling price (₹) Monthly income (₹)

    Cottage cheese (10-15 kg) 12 kg ₹400/kg ₹4,800
    Curd (50 kg) 50 kg ₹60/kg ₹3,000

    Butter/Ghee 5-10 kg ₹800/kg ₹6,000

    1. Total Monthly Estimated Profit

    Monthly Income (Milk + Products) = ₹1,20,000 – ₹1,80,000 + ₹13,800 = approx ₹1,33,800 – ₹1,93,800

    Monthly Expenses = ₹58,000 – ₹93,000

    Monthly Net Profit = ₹75,000 – ₹1,00,000 (approx)

    1. Machines and Equipment Required (Details)

    Machine/Equipment Used Estimated Cost (₹)

    Milking Machine For Extracting Milk ₹1,00,000 – ₹1,50,000
    Milk Cooler/Cooling Tank For cooling milk quickly ₹1,50,000 – ₹3,00,000
    Feed Mixer Machine For mixing feed ₹50,000 – ₹1,00,000
    Paneer Making Kit For making paneer ₹20,000 – ₹50,000
    Butter/Ghee Making Machine For making butter and ghee ₹1,00,000 – ₹1,50,000
    Tankers and Containers For Milk and Product Storage ₹50,000 – ₹1,00,000

    1. Key Points of Dairy Farm Business

    Take full care of animal health, get vaccination done at the right time.

    Always give high quality feed and in right quantity.

    Cleanliness is important to maintain the quality of milk.

    Sell the products in the market with packing and branding.

    Make sure to take advantage of government subsidies and schemes.

    Easy recipes and machines used to make dairy products

    1. Milk

    How to store: Immediately after extracting the milk, put it in a cooler/cooling tank so that the milk does not spoil.

    Machines required: Milking machine, milk cooler.

    1. Curd

    Ingredients:

    Fresh milk: 1 liter

    Culture of curd (pre-made curd): 2-3 tablespoons

    Method:

    1. Boil the milk and cool it to 40-45°C.
    2. Add the curd culture to the milk.
    3. Keep it in a lukewarm place for 6-8 hours.
    4. Store in the refrigerator after the curd is set.

    Machines:

    Heater or stove to heat the milk.

    Milk cooler for pasteurization.

    1. Paneer

    Ingredients:

    Milk: 5 liters

    Lemon juice or vinegar: 100 ml

    Method:

    1. Boil the milk.
    2. As soon as the milk boils, add lemon juice to it and mix gently.
    3. The milk will curdle and the water will separate.
    4. Filter it in a clean cloth and squeeze it.
    5. Press the paneer under a heavy weight for 1-2 hours.
    6. Paneer is ready, keep it in the fridge.

    Machine:

    Paneer making kit (leather filter cloth, press machine).

    1. Butter

    Ingredients:

    Cream (milk cream or cream extracted for butter)

    Method:

    1. Put the cream in the butter maker machine.
    2. The machine separates the butter and whey.
    3. Wash the butter with water and pack it.

    Machine:

    Butter maker machine.

    1. Ghee

    Ingredients:

    Butter or whey

    Method:

    1. Cook the butter or whey in a large vessel on low flame.
    2. When the butter melts and the water evaporates and the color changes, then the ghee is ready.
    3. Cool it and keep it in a clean container.

    Machine:

    Ghee making machine (if on a large scale).

    1. Use of machines

    Name of machine Use Things to keep in mind

    Milking machine Quick and clean milking Keep the animal clean so that it does not get stressed

    Milk cooler Quick cooling of milk Keep the temperature between 4-5°C
    Feed mixer machine Mixing the fodder Keep the feed nutritious
    Paneer making kit Make the process of making paneer simple Add the right amount of acid (lemon/vinegar)
    Butter maker machine Make butter Keep the quality of cream good
    Ghee making machine Make ghee It is important to cook on low flame

    Dairy Products: Ingredients, Packing, and Marketing

    1. Curd

    Ingredients:

    Fresh milk: 1 liter

    Curd culture: 2-3 tablespoons

    Packing:

    Plastic or glass containers (100-200 grams)

    Labeling: Brand name, date, ingredients, and expiry date

    Marketing tips:

    Sell to local shops, sweet shops, and online home delivery.

    Tell the benefits of fresh and homemade curd on social media.

    1. Paneer

    Ingredients:

    Milk: 5 liters

    Lemon juice or vinegar: 100 ml

    Packing:

    Vacuum packing or plastic box (250 grams to 1 kg)

    Store in refrigerator to keep fresh

    Marketing tips:

    Supply to hotels, restaurants, and supermarkets.

    Share paneer recipes and health benefits on social media.

    1. Butter

    Ingredients:

    Cream

    Packing:

    Vacuum packing or small containers (100-500 grams)

    Store in the fridge and label

    Marketing tips:

    Sell to local bakeries, home cooks, and shops.

    Emphasis on taste and purity.

    1. Ghee

    Ingredients:

    Butter or whey

    Packing:

    Glass bottles or tin containers (250 grams, 500 grams, 1 kg)

    Good labeling and packing is a must

    Marketing tips:

    Explain the benefits of Ayurvedic and pure ghee.

    Sell in the local market as well as on online platforms.

    1. Marketing and sales tips

    Build a brand: Create a good name and logo.

    Promote on social media: Be active on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp groups.

    Focus on quality: Maintain the freshness and taste of the product.

    Check the competition: Study the local and online market.

    Direct sales and home delivery: Reach the consumer directly.

    Take advantage of government schemes: Participate in farmer fairs, exhibitions.

    Complete packing and marketing plan for dairy products

    1. Packing Details

    Product Packing Material Packing Size Packing Tips

    Milk Plastic pack, tetra pack 500 ml, 1 liter Store in the refrigerator, clean packing is a must
    Curd Plastic or glass container 100 gm, 200 gm Well sealed packing, label
    Cheese Vacuum pack, plastic box 250 gm, 500 gm, 1 kg Keep in the refrigerator, vacuum packing maintains freshness
    Butter Small container or vacuum pack 100 gm, 250 gm Keep cold, pack in clean container
    Ghee Glass bottles, tin container 250 gm, 500 gm, 1 kg Good labeling is a must, store in an airtight container

    1. Labeling Must-Haves

    Product name

    Production date

    Expiry date

    List of ingredients

    Manufacturer’s name and address

    Use-by date Method (if necessary)

    Store method

    1. Marketing Strategy

    3.1 Local Marketing

    Supply dairy products to local grocery, milk shops, and vegetable market.

    Make local sweets and restaurants customers too.

    Start home delivery service.

    3.2 Digital Marketing

    Create pages on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp.

    Share fresh pictures and videos of the products.

    Tell health benefits and recipes.

    Make arrangements to take orders online.

    3.3 Promotions and Offers

    Offer discounts for the first 1-2 months.

    Keep referral or cashback offers.

    Give special packing and offers on festivals.

    1. Sales Channels

    Channel Benefits

    Local grocery and milk shops Quick access to customers, low transport cost

    Restaurants and sweet shops High volume orders, regular customers

    Online marketplace High reach, brand building

    Home delivery Customer convenience, direct feedback

    1. Estimated Monthly Revenue

    Suppose 80 liters of milk is obtained daily from 10 animals.

    Around ₹1,50,000 – ₹2,00,000 monthly income from sale of milk and products.

    This can be increased with marketing and good packaging.

    1. Some important suggestions

    Quality is the most important – pay special attention to the freshness and cleanliness of milk and products.

    Take feedback from customers and keep improving.

    Try new products like flavored curd or masala butter.

    Take advantage of government schemes, like Pradhan Mantri Dairy Yojana.

  • From Engineer to Crorepati Farmer: The Inspiring Journey of Mukesh Kushwaha

    In a world where most young professionals pursue secure corporate jobs, Mukesh Kushwaha from Bardoura village near Bina in Madhya Pradesh made a bold move—he left behind a promising career in mechanical engineering to embrace farming. Today, he earns over ₹20 lakh annually through modern vegetable farming and provides employment to 20–25 people in his village. Here’s his inspiring transformation from an engineer to a successful agro-entrepreneur.

    Early Life and Career Shift

    Mukesh always dreamed of becoming an engineer. After completing his diploma in Mechanical Engineering from Khurai Polytechnic College in 2003, he landed a job offer in a highway construction company in 2004. However, the offered salary of just ₹6,000 per month didn’t sit well with him. Disillusioned, he returned to his village and joined his father in traditional vegetable farming on 12 acres of land.

    At that time, the return on investment was modest—only ₹5–7 lakh per year, despite the hard work. That’s when Mukesh decided to modernize their farming methods.

    Training and Modern Farming Transformation

    With a thirst for knowledge and improvement, Mukesh approached the Horticulture Department. He was introduced to advanced farming techniques like drip irrigation, mulching, and raised-bed farming. He was also part of an exposure tour to Maharashtra and Karnataka, where he saw farmers reaping big profits using modern techniques.

    This experience was a turning point. Inspired by what he saw, Mukesh returned home and began implementing these techniques. His productivity skyrocketed. Over time, he acquired 13 more acres, taking his total farmland to 25 acres.

    High-Yield, Low-Cost Farming Model

    Today, Mukesh grows a variety of vegetables including:

    Potatoes

    Onions

    Tomatoes

    Eggplants (brinjal)

    Carrots

    Spinach

    Fenugreek

    Coriander

    Radish

    Green peas

    Earnings Breakdown (Per Year):

    Crop Area (Acres) Production Revenue

    Potatoes 9 acres 800 quintals ₹9.6 lakh
    Onions 12 acres 1200 quintals ₹14.4 lakh
    Brinjal + Tomato 3 acres – ₹5.5 lakh
    Mixed Vegetables 1 acre – ₹1.5 lakh
    Total Income 25 acres – ₹31 lakh (approx.)
    Net Profit – – ₹18–19 lakh after expenses

    His produce is supplied to Bina, Sagar, Khurai, and Bhopal markets.

    Tomato Farming for Year-Round Income

    Mukesh also promotes tomato farming as a profitable crop that can be grown year-round with the right infrastructure. With drip irrigation, mulching, and proper fencing, a farmer can earn 4 to 10 times more than traditional methods.

    Scientific Storage Techniques

    To prevent losses from fluctuating market rates, Mukesh has mastered modern onion storage. He uses exhaust fans, bamboo fencing, and net layering over bricks to store onions for up to a year without spoilage.

    Giving Back to the Community

    Mukesh isn’t just a farmer—he’s a mentor. He guides fellow farmers in modern techniques and helps them improve their income. Recognizing his leadership and dedication, his village elected his wife, Mamta Kushwaha, as the village Sarpanch. Mukesh himself now serves as the Rural Wing President of BJP in the region.

    What is Mulching and Why It Matters?

    Mulching is the practice of covering soil with organic or synthetic materials to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and enhance fertility. Mukesh uses high-quality mulching sheets that last 2–3 crop cycles. While the initial cost is ₹12,000–15,000 per acre, the returns outweigh the expense.

    Conclusion

    Mukesh Kushwaha’s story is a shining example of how knowledge, innovation, and courage to break societal norms can transform lives. By adopting scientific farming, he turned a modest family farm into a thriving agribusiness. His journey is not only an inspiration for Indian farmers but also a blueprint for future agri-entrepreneurs who wish to make farming a profitable and respected career.

  • How Motilal Turned 3 Acres into a Flower Farming Empire and Earned Lakhs in Just 120 Days

    In the fertile lands of Samastipur district, Bihar, an inspiring story of agricultural transformation is unfolding. Meet Motilal, a farmer from Barish Nagar village, who leveraged modern training and government support to turn his modest 3-acre farm into a thriving flower farming business. Within just 120 days (4 months), he began earning lakhs of rupees — a remarkable example of how innovation and dedication can revolutionize traditional farming.

    The Journey from Traditional Farming to Flower Cultivation

    Samastipur is primarily known for its cultivation of food grains and vegetables. However, Motilal’s decision to diversify into floriculture (flower farming) is a game-changer for him and the local community. Encouraged by the Horticulture Department’s Floriculture Mission, he received training and a government grant that equipped him with the knowledge and resources to start flower cultivation on a commercial scale.

    Motilal chose to grow marigold (genda), rose, marigold spikes (gulchharra), and several local varieties — altogether cultivating 4 to 5 different flower species across his 3-acre farm.

    Training and Support that Made the Difference

    One of the key factors in Motilal’s success was the training he received in Bengal under the state horticulture program. This training helped him master:

    Best practices in seed selection and seedling transplantation

    Pest and disease management using eco-friendly methods

    Optimal harvesting and post-harvest handling techniques

    Cold storage use to maintain flower freshness and extend shelf life

    With this expertise, Motilal was able to significantly increase both the quality and quantity of his flower production.

    How Flower Farming Became Highly Profitable

    Motilal explains that every acre of his flower farm yields about ₹1 lakh every 3 months. With 3 acres under cultivation, he earns approximately ₹3 lakhs per season. Since there are two cropping seasons in a year, his annual income from flower farming alone reaches lakhs of rupees.

    Another vital advantage he mentions is the ability to store flowers in cold storage for 20-25 days, which prevents spoilage and allows him to sell at optimal market prices — a critical factor for profitability in floriculture.

    Employment Generation and Community Impact

    Not only has Motilal improved his own financial standing, but he also employs 4-5 local workers to help manage his farm, creating valuable jobs in his village. His success story has inspired many other farmers in Samastipur to consider flower cultivation as a viable and lucrative agricultural option.

    Motilal’s Advice to Fellow Farmers

    “The key to success in farming today is embracing modern technology and continuous learning. Flower farming is just as profitable as traditional crops if done right. With proper guidance and hard work, farmers can open new avenues for income and community development.”

    Why Flower Farming is a Smart Choice for Farmers Today

    Flower cultivation is emerging as a promising diversification strategy for farmers in India, especially in regions like Bihar where demand for flowers is increasing due to festivals, weddings, and religious ceremonies. The government’s floriculture missions and training programs are making it easier than ever for farmers to enter this sector with confidence.

    Conclusion

    Motilal’s story exemplifies how government support, training, and adopting new agricultural practices can drastically improve farmers’ livelihoods. His journey from a small-time farmer to a successful flower entrepreneur in just a few months is a beacon of hope and inspiration for farmers across India.

    If you are a farmer looking to diversify your crops or someone interested in agribusiness, Motilal’s success teaches us that innovation combined with perseverance can lead to tremendous rewards.

  • Return to the Land? Meet Someone Who Never Left Part II: 1970s–1990s | The Story of Michele Lobascio, Puglia, ItalyPart II: 1970s–1990s | The Story of Michele Lobascio, Puglia, Italy

    Michele Lobascio

    In a time when food production has become a central topic for everyone, we want to share the story of a man who has never left agriculture and who, even today, tends to his olive and almond trees with care. This is Michele Lobascio, father of the Terradiva family, who long before the brand was born, consolidated the family farm. Behind the brand and the choice of organic agriculture, there are years of experiences, efforts, battles, human relationships, and social changes in Southern Italy and in the way of being farmers. This interview is divided into two parts, covering Michele’s life from childhood to the 1990s.

    Part 1: Childhood Memories and Sharecropping (1960s)

    Michele has been going to the fields since the age of seven, helping his father. In those days, the family also had animals — a horse, mule, and mare — which were the tractors of the time. Children assisted adults in animal surveillance during the “controra,” the early afternoon rest period after lunch when farmers took a break. The workday was long, from dawn around 5 AM until sunset, making the afternoon rest essential.

    Animals played a crucial role: they helped plow the land, transported goods, and enabled travel between the town of Minervino Murge and the countryside. On the cart pulled by the mule and mare, it took about two hours to reach the fields on the Murgia plateau. Plowing was important for preparing the soil for sowing, breaking up clods and making it fertile for seeds. What took animals and men three full working days to do for one hectare of land back then now takes only two hours with modern machinery.

    Michele helped with olive and grape harvests, and the transportation of pruning waste, which was piled outside the fields.

    As a child, Michele viewed farming as an exhausting job, since farmers had to work outdoors regardless of weather conditions — rain, wind, sun, or cold. However, he admired the independence farmers had in organizing their work despite being sharecroppers.

    What did it mean to be a sharecropper?
    Sharecropping was a form of land management where the landowner provided the land and the laborers provided the work, organization, and manpower. Initially, the harvest was split 50/50 between owners and laborers. After laborers’ struggles, the split became 60% for laborers, who also demanded that owners supply fertilizer.

    Michele’s father and other laborers eventually left sharecropping because it was not remunerative enough. Michele recalls the landowner’s visits in his Fiat 1100 car, overseeing the work and asking children to pick fallen almonds during harvest.

    In summer, when school ended, Michele’s family stayed in the countryside for weeks at a time, sleeping on beds made from straw bales. Days started before sunrise and ended soon after sunset. In the evenings, friends of Michele’s father would tell stories and tales after feeding the animals. The animals were well cared for, cleaned, and groomed carefully, as they were the tractors of that era. Loyal dogs named Giglio and Bobby kept the family company through changing generations.

    Part 2: The Land Occupation Movement and Cooperative Farming (1970s–1990s)

    At the age of twenty, Michele actively participated in the land occupation movement in Minervino Murge during 1977-78. At that time, a national law aimed to help unemployed young people by allowing them to occupy poorly cultivated lands to make them productive.

    In Minervino Murge, a large farm owned by a charity but managed by the Municipality was the target of the occupation. This farm was a legacy of the Counts Corsi, intended to fund schooling for laborers’ children through its proceeds.

    The occupation was a struggle that lasted months. Each time the police cleared them from the land, Michele and the other young unemployed people would return and peacefully sit down, ready to be removed again. This repeated cycle eventually convinced the authorities to recognize their efforts and assign the lands to them.

    The struggle even led to a trial in the municipal council chamber, and their story gained national media attention.

    RAI, the Italian state TV, broadcasted a documentary on the agricultural laborers’ struggles in Minervino Murge. The documentary was viewed all over Italy and brought support from cooperatives in Emilia-Romagna, especially from Sant’Alberto, Ravenna.

    Bruno Taroni, manager of a large cooperative in Sant’Alberto, wrote Michele a letter encouraging them not to give up. This led to a valuable collaboration between the cooperative in Puglia and those in Emilia-Romagna. Michele was invited to their annual cooperative celebration, where he met with agronomists and cooperative staff who helped structure their new cooperative.

    Michele’s cooperative was named “Carmine Giorgio” after a local baker and early 20th-century laborer’s rights activist from Minervino. Through support from the League of Cooperatives of the Ravenna Federation, they received essential farming equipment like tractors, irrigation systems, and tools to help shift their land from mainly wheat cultivation to diverse fruit and vegetable farming.

    Later, Michele was also involved with another cooperative, “La Primula” — named after the first flower to bloom after winter. These cooperative experiences were a vital training ground: sharing ideas, teamwork, and learning to navigate different opinions.

    After some years, Michele worked in processing and marketing agricultural products. This period helped him understand the complexities of large-scale distribution, from sorting vegetables and table grapes to the inner workings of distribution centers.

    Finally, in 1999, Michele decided to leave the processing industry behind and focus exclusively on transforming and running his family’s farm. This led to Terradiva becoming an organic-certified farm, dedicated to sustainable and chemical-free agriculture.

    Michele’s Advice to Young Farmers

    Agriculture is a job for those who love it. Trees and plants are alive and fragile, needing constant care and attention. You can’t work only when it suits you—they require daily dedication and understanding.

    Today, Michele knows every tree on his land—their diseases, root problems, and unique needs. Caring for plants is like dealing with people; it requires empathy and attentiveness.

    When asked about innovation, Michele says it means finding ways to live better, reducing fatigue, and enabling easier production. Agriculture is exhausting and far from the romantic images often portrayed in the media. Innovation helps produce more with less effort and without toxic chemicals.

    This is the story of a farmer who never left the land—who fought for it, nurtured it, and transformed it. Michele Lobascio’s journey is one of resilience, community, and commitment to a better, organic future.

  • 🇺🇸 Revolution of Vertical Farming – The Story of California Farmer Stuart O’Cliffe

    📍 Location: San Francisco, California

    👨‍🌾 Farmer: Stuart O’Cliffe

    Type of Farming: Vertical Hydroponic Farming

    Journey: 8 years

    🌆 Farm in the middle of the city

    In 2016, Stuart started with a thought –

    “If there is no land in the city, can farming be done in the sky?”

    He started an indoor farm inside an old factory building – in which farming was done without soil, only with water and nutrient solution (Hydroponics).

    🥬 Vegetables grown on 5 floors

    Today at his “SkyFresh Farms”:

    More than 20 vegetables grown on a height of 5 floors

    Like: Lettuce, Spinach, Basil, Green leaves, Microgreens

    Crop ready every 10 days, production throughout the year

    Entire farming is done with AI and sensor control – water, light, temperature all automated

    🌍 A boon for the environment too

    95% less water usage

    No need for pesticides

    Almost zero carbon emissions

    Fresh vegetables within the city – no need for transport

    💰 Earning model

    Vegetables at premium prices to hotels, restaurants, supermarkets

    $1.5 million annual turnover (~₹12 crores)

    Along with vegetables, he also sells “Smart Farming Kit”

    Now 5+ franchise farms in the US, Europe and Dubai

    🧠 Stuart’s message:

    Farming Now it is not just about tractors and ploughs. Now farming means technology + vision + power of nature.”

  • 🇺🇸 Story of a female farmer from America – Lori Stabar: Earning crores from flower farming

    📍 Location: Washington State, America

    👩‍🌾 Farmer: Lori Stabar

    Type of farming: Organic flower farming

    Experience: 15+ years

    🌸 Started from a small garden

    Lori Stabar started her journey in 2007. She started growing some flower species on just 1 acre of land – like dahlia, sunflower and tulip. Initially, she started selling flowers in local markets and wedding events.

    🌿 Farming with organic methods

    Lori never used chemical or synthetic fertilizers. He:

    Used homemade compost and cow dung manure for fertilizer

    Grows a variety of flowers for each season

    Started his own “Pick Your Own Flowers” farm tour service

    💐 The Smell of Success

    In just a few years, his “Floret Flower Farm” became one of the largest organic flower farms in the US.

    400+ species of flowers in 2 acres

    Sales of thousands of dollars every season

    Separate income by selling flower seeds, books and online courses

    1 million+ followers on Instagram

    💰 Sources of income

    Direct sale of flowers: $2-3 lakhs annually

    Seed and plant sales: $1 lakh+

    Courses, books, branded merchandise: $1 lakh+

    Total estimated annual income: ₹4 to ₹5 crores

    📖 Inspiration for others

    Lori wrote a book: “A Year in Flowers”, which was a success worldwide.

    Now she is teaching thousands of small farmers (especially women) that even with less land, crores can be earned from flowers.

    🌼 Lori’s message:

    “If you love the land, the land will give you fragrance, peace and prosperity in return.”

  • USA Farmer Story: The Rise of Regenerative Rancher Gabe Brown – From Loss to Legacy Location: Bismarck, North Dakota, USA

    Farmer: Gabe Brown

    Type: Regenerative Cattle and Crop Farming

    Journey Duration: 25+ Years

    The Beginning of the Struggle

    In the early 1990s, Gabe Brown purchased a small 1,760-acre ranch near Bismarck, North Dakota. Like most American farmers at the time, he followed conventional farming methods — tillage, monoculture crops, and chemical inputs.

    Then came disaster:
    Four years of crop failures in a row due to hail and drought pushed Gabe to the brink of financial collapse. With massive debts and declining soil health, Gabe was forced to think differently.

    Turning to Regenerative Agriculture

    Instead of giving up, Gabe abandoned chemical fertilizers, tillage, and monoculture in favor of:

    Cover crops

    No-till farming

    Diverse crop rotations

    Mob grazing (rotational grazing of cattle)

    Natural compost and biological inputs

    His goal: Heal the soil and restore the land.

    Results and Success

    Over the next decade, Brown’s Ranch transformed into one of the most productive and profitable farms in the region:

    Reduced input costs by 85%

    Soil organic matter increased from 1.9% to over 6%

    Water infiltration improved from 0.5 inches/hour to over 8 inches/hour

    Profits soared — despite using fewer chemicals and less machinery

    Today, Gabe Brown’s 5,000-acre farm includes livestock (cattle, sheep, and poultry), grains, cover crops, and vegetables — all managed organically and regeneratively.

    Beyond Farming: Global Impact

    Gabe is now a global regenerative agriculture educator.

    His book, “Dirt to Soil”, is a bestseller among eco-conscious farmers.

    He co-founded Soil Health Academy to train farmers worldwide.

    His farm receives thousands of visitors annually, from India to Africa to Australia.

    Income & Business Model

    Gabe doesn’t just farm — he educates, consults, and sells products:

    Farm income: ~$500,000+ annually from diversified produce and livestock

    Consulting & book sales: Additional six-figure earnings

    Online soil health courses: Major passive income stream

    His success shows how regenerative farming can be highly profitable and sustainable long-term.

    Gabe’s Message to Farmers:

    The problem isn’t the land. It’s our management of it. Heal the soil, and everything else will follow — food, water, health, and income

    Gabe brown

  • “Russell Hedrick: From a firefighter to a world record-setting farmer – The real power of drones”

    🌽 Russell Hedrick – North Carolina’s first-generation farmer who set records with drones

    🔥 Introduction

    Russell Hedrick, a former firefighter, didn’t inherit a farm when he started farming. But he had the passion to adopt new technologies. And when he incorporated technologies like drones and RTK (Real-Time Kinematics) into his farming, he didn’t just grow crops — he made history.

    🚁 Drones increased productivity

    Russell started using drones in his first year, which gave him centimeter-level accuracy. He gave his crops only the fertilizer and spray they needed — no more, no less.

    The result?

    Corn and soybean yields double

    State record soybean yield in 2021

    World record dryland corn yield in 2022

    🌎 Progress of the whole village, not just yourself

    Russell believes that the benefits of drone technology are not limited to just one farmer. When a farmer’s yield increases, his income increases, the local economy also strengthens.

    He says that if American agriculture is to remain competitive globally, then widespread use of technologies like drones is necessary.

    💰 Benefits of drones in Russell’s view

    Increase in production

    Proper use of natural resources

    More profit at low cost

    New jobs to the local community

    🔚 Conclusion

    Russell Hedrick’s story is an inspiration to all those farmers who think that technology is only for those with big budgets. The truth is that drones are the weapon of every farmer today who wants to do smart farming.

  • Timothy Danley – The California Farmer Who Transformed Orchard Farming to New Heights with Drones: “Timothy Danley: The Fourth-Generation California Farmer Who Transformed Orchard Farming with Drone Technology”

    🌿 Introduction

    Timothy Danley, who is farming on the fertile land of California, is not just a traditional farmer — he is part of a generation of farmers who are taking farming to new heights by connecting it with technology. There was a time when he had to take the help of an airplane or helicopter to know the condition of his fields. But now, he has a tool that has become the eye of his farm — the DJI Mavic 3T drone.

    🚁 Drones usher in the era of Real-Time Farming

    Timothy monitors his fields every day with the help of drones. He can not only do a complete aerial mapping of the field, but can now understand in real time where the crop needs more attention.

    A typical example is when his orchard faced problems with flowers not blooming. Timothy created an NDVI map (Near Dense Vegetative Index) using the Mavic 3T, which gave him an accurate idea of ​​the health of every tree in his orchard. This allowed him to immediately target specific trees that were in trouble.

    💡 This technology is for every farmer

    Timothy believes that the use of drones in agriculture is not just for big farmers. Starting with an entry-level drone, even small farmers can do aerial photography, crop health monitoring and soil mapping. He believes that future farming is incomplete without drones.

    📈 Benefits at a glance

    Time savings: Saves time compared to helicopter or manual inspections

    Accurate diagnosis: Identify sick trees with NDVI maps

    Cost reduction: Treat only affected areas

    Improves crop quality

    🔚 Conclusion

    Timothy Danley’s story shows how combining tradition and technology can make farming smarter and more profitable. If you too want to make your farm future-ready, drone technology is no longer an option, but a necessity.

  • From Small Garden to Thriving Business: The Inspiring Journey of Bernadus, a Farmer from Timor

    Introduction:

    Farming is more than just a profession in Timor—it’s the main source of livelihood for many families. For Bernadus, a 39-year-old farmer from Bijaepasu village, farming started as a humble effort to meet daily needs. But through dedication, learning, and smart financial choices, he transformed his small vegetable garden into a thriving business. This is his inspiring story of growth and hope.

    Bernadus’ Early Days: A Struggle to Meet Daily Needs

    Initially, Bernadus and his wife grew only a few vegetables—mainly eggplants and chilies—in their small backyard garden. They sold their produce to neighbors and earned just enough to cover daily expenses. Life was simple but financially tight. Like many farmers in rural areas, Bernadus lacked access to advanced farming knowledge and capital to expand his business.

    A Turning Point: Training and Financial Support

    Everything changed when Bernadus received training from Wahana Visi Indonesia, a trusted partner of World Vision. The training introduced him to better farming techniques, pest management, and crop diversification, opening new possibilities.

    Motivated by what he learned, Bernadus decided to expand his farm. But for that, he needed capital. He approached the People’s Bank of Indonesia (BRI) and took a loan of Rp 4,000,000. With this money, he improved his farm’s productivity and started selling vegetables beyond his immediate neighborhood.

    Business Expansion and Smart Investments

    Encouraged by his initial success and ability to repay the loan, Bernadus took a bigger step in 2013 by borrowing Rp 20,000,000. This capital was invested strategically. He purchased a water pump for reliable irrigation, upgraded his farming tools, and bought quality seeds.

    In addition to eggplants and chilies, Bernadus added chicory and kangkung to his crops. This crop diversification allowed him to meet different market demands and increase revenue.

    Results: Financial Stability and Family Welfare

    Thanks to his expanded business, Bernadus now earns around Rp 400,000 daily from selling vegetables at traditional markets in several villages. This income covers his family’s daily needs, pays for his children’s school tuition, and allows him to save money for their college education.

    Bernadus’ story highlights the power of education, access to finance, and hard work in transforming rural livelihoods. His success is an inspiration for other farmers in Timor and beyond.

    Lessons from Bernadus’ Journey

    1. Training Matters: Gaining knowledge on modern farming methods can drastically improve productivity.
    2. Access to Finance: Small loans can help scale a farm business if invested wisely.
    3. Diversification: Growing a variety of crops can reduce risks and increase income.
    4. Planning for the Future: Investing profits in family welfare and education secures long-term benefits.

    Conclusion: Farming as a Pathway to Prosperity

    Bernadus’ journey from a small garden to a profitable vegetable farm shows that with the right support and determination, small farmers can overcome challenges and improve their livelihoods. Programs like those from Wahana Visi Indonesia and microfinance institutions such as BRI play a critical role in empowering farmers.

    If you are a farmer or someone interested in agriculture, remember that continuous learning, smart investments, and diversification can open new doors of opportunity.