Amar Singh’s journey from an auto-rickshaw driver to a successful farmer and entrepreneur
Amar Singh, a 60-year-old farmer from Saman village in the Bharatpur district of Rajasthan, has redefined the concept of farming by embracing innovation and entrepreneurship. From humble beginnings as an auto-rickshaw driver to becoming a celebrated name in horticulture, his journey reflects, vision, and a commitment to community welfare.
A Modest Start
In 1993, Amar Singh decided to switch from driving an auto-rickshaw to agriculture, seeking financial stability and a better livelihood for his family. His early efforts involved growing conventional crops like cereals and pulses, but the returns were modest. Singh’s life took a significant turn in 1997 when he came across a pamphlet at an agricultural exhibition about the health benefits and market potential of amla (Indian gooseberry). Intrigued and inspired, he planted 100 amla saplings on his 2.5-acre farm, purchased from the Bharatpur Horticulture Department for ₹1,200.
Challenges in the Early Years
The initial years were challenging as Singh transitioned into horticulture. It took 4-5 years for the trees to mature and start bearing fruits. Once the fruits were ready, Singh faced difficulties in selling them. Local markets offered minimal returns, with traders paying as low as ₹2-3 per kilogram for the best-quality amla. However, Singh’s resolve to turn his fortunes around kept him going.
The Turning Point: Amla Processing
Singh observed that processed amla products like murabba were sold at much higher prices compared to raw fruits. Recognizing an opportunity, he decided to venture into value addition. In 2005, after receiving training in murabba preparation from a private foundation, Singh set up a small-scale processing unit on his farm with an initial investment of ₹5 lakh.
The first year was tough. Singh and his brother had to personally market their murabba in nearby villages, often selling on credit. Despite the struggles, their product gained popularity due to its quality and taste. By 2009, Singh had established his own brand, “Amrita Murabba,” which became a household name in Rajasthan.
Expansion and Success
As demand for his murabba grew, Singh formed the “Amar Self Help Group” to expand production. He employed local women, empowering them financially and promoting rural entrepreneurship. His processing unit now operates year-round, providing steady income to many families in the village.
Singh’s amla production also expanded significantly. By 2015-16, his farm yielded 400 quintals of amla annually, contributing to an impressive turnover of ₹27-28 lakh. Apart from murabba, Singh diversified into other amla-based products, including pickles, candies, and juice, further enhancing his revenue.
Sustainable Farming Practices
Amar Singh is not just an entrepreneur; he is also an advocate for sustainable agriculture. He invests 40% of his profits into farm mechanization and sustainable practices. His farm features a biogas plant, solar panels, drip irrigation systems, and a compost pit, showcasing his commitment to environmental conservation.
Additionally, Singh grows a variety of crops, including brinjal, chili, tomato, cauliflower, cabbage, and mustard, in between his amla trees. This intercropping method maximizes land utilization and provides supplementary income. He also keeps six buffaloes, using their milk for home consumption and their dung for his biogas plant.
Community Impact
Singh’s entrepreneurial journey has had a transformative impact on his community. His processing unit employs over 25 women from nearby villages, providing them with a stable source of income. This initiative has empowered women to contribute to their households financially and gain independence.
Singh is also a mentor to other farmers, regularly conducting training sessions organized by the horticulture department. His farm has become a model for sustainable and profitable horticulture, inspiring many to follow in his footsteps.
Marketing and Overcoming Challenges
Marketing his products was one of the biggest challenges Singh faced. Initially, he had no linkages with traders or markets. Over time, he built strong connections with wholesalers and retailers in Rajasthan, ensuring a steady demand for his products. Singh also introduced innovative packaging to enhance the shelf appeal of his murabba, giving it a competitive edge in the market.
Recognition and Legacy
Amar Singh’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. He has received several accolades, including being felicitated by the then Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Shri Ashok Gehlot, for his contribution to horticulture and rural entrepreneurship. His story has been featured in various forums, making him a symbol of resilience and innovation in Indian agriculture.
Vision for life
Amar Singh continues to innovate and expand his operations. He actively seeks new techniques and knowledge, often attending agricultural expos and interacting with experts. His vision is to scale his business further while maintaining his commitment to sustainability and community welfare.
Amar Singh’s journey from an auto-rickshaw driver to a successful farmer and entrepreneur is a powerful narrative of how determination and innovation can transform lives. His story is not just about personal success but also about uplifting an entire community. Singh’s endeavors in amla farming and processing have set a benchmark for others, proving that agriculture, when combined with entrepreneurship, can be a highly rewarding venture.
