Surat: Manjibhai Chaudhary, a 53-year-old farmer from Nasrapur village in Umarpada taluka, has carved a path of self-reliance and success by embracing traditional yet progressive agricultural practices. By shifting to organic turmeric cultivation and value-added processing, Manjibhai has not only achieved economic stability but also ensured quality education for his three daughters, who are pursuing B.Ed. and B.Sc. degrees.
A graduate by education, Manjibhai chose to follow in his father’s footsteps rather than seek a job. His early exposure to conventional farming sparked a deeper interest in sustainable agriculture. Over time, he began incorporating modern, eco-friendly methods such as organic farming, drip irrigation, water harvesting, and mulching. These practices have significantly improved crop yield and market value compared to chemical-based farming.
According to Manjibhai, chemical farming of crops like peanuts yielded low returns and required higher input costs. However, after switching to natural inputs like jeevamrut and ghanjeevamrut, productivity has increased substantially. He has been cultivating turmeric for the past five to six years, and last year alone, he produced 50 man (approximately 1,800 kg) of turmeric, earning around Rs. 2.5 lakh.
Previously, turmeric sold for Rs. 100–150 per kilogram, but the shift to organic methods has boosted the price to Rs. 300–350 per kilogram. His products, known for their purity and quality, are quickly purchased in the market. With support from government initiatives, Manjibhai participates in various training and exposure visits, where he learns new agricultural techniques and applies them effectively.
In addition to turmeric, he practices integrated farming by planting drumsticks, bananas, chikoo, guava, sugarcane, and mangoes, including Totapuri, Rajapuri, and Kesar varieties. These provide seasonal income without requiring significant extra investment. He also receives a monthly government subsidy for maintaining indigenous cows, aiding his livestock operations.
Manjibhai takes pride in never using chemical fertilizers since transitioning to organic farming. He emphasizes that his mangoes fetch a good price directly from his farm, eliminating the need to travel to markets. His dedication to chemical-free agriculture has become a model of inspiration in the region.
As per report, Manjibhai expressed his happiness over the Indian government's recent establishment of the National Turmeric Board, which aims to boost turmeric development, branding, and exports. He noted that the GI tag given to turmeric further validates its quality and economic value.
Encouraging fellow farmers, Manjibhai urged them to experiment with organic farming on small plots. He believes that returning to toxin-free agriculture is not only viable but essential for long-term sustainability, health, and prosperity.
