Introduction: A Farmer Who Chose Innovation Over Job-Hunting
In Rajasthan’s Jalore district, Balwant Lakhani, a young B.Ed. graduate, chose not to chase government jobs like most of his peers. Instead, he turned to farming—**organic, sustainable, and scientifically driven**. His journey from job-seeking youth to successful organic entrepreneur is a model for young farmers across India.
Vermicompost Farming: Turning Waste into Wealth
What is Vermicomposting?
Vermicomposting is the process of using red worms to decompose organic waste into nutrient-rich compost. Balwant started with just **1 kg of red gobarwas earthworms** sourced from Jobner-Sikar and a basic setup on his farm.
His Unique Method
– Prepares decomposed cow dung using a **bio-basher machine**.
– Fills specially constructed **80 vermi beds**, each 20×20 feet in size.
– Earthworms convert the cow dung into compost in **60 days**.
– Uses **mesh sieves** to separate and reuse the worms.
Output & Earnings
– Produces **60 tons of vermicompost every 2 months**.
– Sells compost locally and regionally with **high demand**.
– Earns up to **₹4.8 lakh per cycle** (~$5,800 USD).
– The compost is **35% more effective** than traditional options in increasing soil fertility, water retention, and crop growth.
Employment Creation
His unit provides **regular jobs to 5–7 workers** who help with mixing, sieving, and packaging the compost.
## Napier Grass Cultivation: Profitable Fodder Farming
Why Napier Grass?
Balwant added **Napier grass** to his model to provide high-nutrient fodder for livestock, especially dairy animals. Napier remains green even in hot summers and supports milk production.
Key Benefits
– Grows fast and yields up to **40 quintals per season**.
– High market demand from nearby districts like Sanchore, Pali, Barmer, Jodhpur, and Bikaner.
– Sells at **₹1200–1500 per quintal**, offering high profit margins.
Creating a Mini Plant Nursery for Local Farmers
Balwant developed part of his land into a **low-cost nursery** where he grows and distributes:
– Papaya
– Moringa (Drumstick)
– Tulsi (Holy Basil)
– Neem
– Flowering plants
– Napier grass cuttings
These plants are provided to fellow farmers **either at cost price or for free**, promoting sustainable agriculture and community farming.
Youth Empowerment Through Organic Farming Training
So far, Balwant has trained **more than 20 rural youth** in:
– Vermicomposting techniques
– Napier grass cultivation
– Nursery development
His mission is to **make agriculture attractive, viable, and modern** for India’s youth.
Key Takeaways: A Model Worth Replicating
Balwant Lakhani’s story proves that:
– You don’t need a government job to be successful.
– Scientific farming can lead to financial independence.
– Sustainable models can generate employment and protect the environment.
“Farming, when done with science and commitment, can outperform any job.” – Balwant Lakhani
Final Note
If you’re looking for a **low-investment, high-impact farming model**, Balwant’s story is a blueprint worth studying and replicating. His work not only brings income but also inspires a new generation of Indian farmers.