Get ready to be inspired by the incredible journey of Suhagrani, a woman whose determination and passion for natural farming have transformed her life. Hailing from Imaliya village, located in Lalitpur district, Uttar Pradesh, Suhagrani has been growing vegetables since 2021. Thanks to the support of ISGVS (Ishara Sri Gayatri Vikas Samiti), she embraced natural farming and developed a Multilayer Kitchen Garden that turned her humble 20-disimal plot into a thriving, productive space.
The Struggles of Starting Out
Initially, Suhagrani’s harvest was just enough to feed her family, with no surplus to sell. Her small kitchen garden was unprotected, and the crops were often destroyed by roaming animals, leading to significant losses. At one point, almost half of her harvest was lost to these predators, and she faced serious challenges in making her venture profitable.
But Suhagrani was not one to give up. Determined to turn things around, she sought guidance from a natural farming expert. Following the advice she received, in April 2022, she took a simple yet transformative step—she installed barriers around her garden to protect her crops from animals. This one act made all the difference.
Turning Point and Success
With the barriers in place, Suhagrani was able to protect her vegetables from animal damage, and soon she had a steady supply to sell in the market. In the past year, she successfully sold 10 quintals of brinjal at INR 30 per kilo, earning a gross income of INR 25,000. The additional income has allowed her to support her family, covering essential expenses like food, medicine, and education for her children.
Her garden, once a small patch of land, is now lush and full of a wide variety of seasonal vegetables, from the crisp cauliflower and juicy tomatoes to the nutritious ridge gourd and tangy onions. Suhagrani’s produce stands out in the market for its natural appearance and delicious taste, allowing her to demand better prices and make her organic farming venture even more profitable.
Beyond Farming: A New Source of Income
Today, Suhagrani’s garden has become not only a source of nutrition for her family but also a way for her to earn a living. She embodies the proverb “Aam ke aam, guthaliyon ke daam”—reaping the joys of the earth while gaining the benefits of a thriving business. Her success in natural farming has also made her an example of how hard work and the right guidance can lead to prosperity in rural areas.
A Testament to Perseverance
Suhagrani’s story is a powerful reminder of the rewards that nature offers when you work in harmony with it. With her perseverance, determination, and the capacity-building efforts provided by ISGVS, she has managed to turn a modest piece of land into a flourishing source of income and sustenance. Her journey is a beacon of hope for many in rural areas, proving that, with the right support and mindset, anyone can overcome challenges and achieve success.
Suhagrani’s story is a perfect example of how natural farming and empowerment can change lives, not only for individuals but for entire communities. She is proof that with dedication and the right guidance, even the smallest garden can yield abundant rewards.