In recent years, farmers from Bhavnagar district have been moving away from chemical-based farming and embracing natural, eco-friendly methods. This shift is not only improving the health of the soil but also increasing farmers’ earnings, especially when they add value to their produce. One inspiring example comes from a farmer who earns lakhs every year through natural turmeric cultivation and processing.
Bhavnagar Farmers Turning to Natural Farming
Chemical farming, though widely used in the past, has several drawbacks. Continuous use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides damages soil fertility, reduces crop quality, and makes the land less productive over time. Recognizing these problems, many farmers in Bhavnagar have chosen to switch to natural farming.
Natural farming uses organic, cow-based methods, which significantly lower production costs. Farmers prepare their own fertilizers and pest control solutions using ingredients like cow urine, compost, and herbal extracts. This not only saves money but also ensures healthy, chemical-free produce.
Instead of selling their crops directly in raw form, some innovative farmers now focus on value addition—processing and packaging their products before selling. This approach has helped them earn far more than they would by selling unprocessed produce in the market.
The Story of Praveenbhai Kheni from Parvadi Village
One shining example is Praveenbhai Kheni, a farmer from Parvadi village in Gariyadhar taluka of Bhavnagar district. For many years, he practiced chemical farming. However, over time, he noticed that his land was losing fertility and yields were declining. Realizing the long-term harm, he made the bold decision to switch to natural farming nine years ago.
Praveenbhai admits that in the first year of natural farming, the yields were lower. But by the second and third year, the soil had recovered, and productivity increased significantly. Today, he grows a variety of crops naturally, earning substantial income while keeping his soil healthy for the future.
Cultivating Natural Turmeric on 10 Bighas
Currently, Praveenbhai has dedicated 10 bighas of land to natural turmeric cultivation. But instead of selling the raw turmeric directly to wholesalers, he processes it himself. On his farm, he cleans, dries, and grinds the turmeric into fine powder. He then packs it attractively and markets it in various cities of Gujarat, including Ahmedabad, Vadodara, and Surat, and even sends it as far as Delhi.
This value-added approach has transformed his earnings. From one bigha of natural turmeric, he earns between ₹1,25,000 and ₹1,50,000. The cost of production is minimal since natural farming avoids expensive chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
The Benefits of Cow-Based Natural Farming
Praveenbhai emphasizes that natural farming is entirely cow-based. Fertilizers and pest repellents are made using organic ingredients such as:
- Jivamrut – a liquid organic fertilizer prepared from cow dung, cow urine, jaggery, pulse flour, and soil.
- Cow urine – used as a natural pest repellent and plant growth booster.
- Sour buttermilk – effective in controlling certain crop diseases.
- Castor oil – used to make natural insecticides.
Since all these inputs are prepared on the farm, there is no need to purchase costly agrochemicals. This not only reduces farming expenses but also keeps the produce 100% natural and chemical-free.
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Encouraging Other Farmers
Praveenbhai believes that more farmers in Bhavnagar and across India should adopt natural farming. While the transition may require patience in the initial years, the long-term benefits are undeniable—healthy soil, better yields, reduced costs, and higher profits from value-added products.
Consumers are increasingly aware of the health risks of chemical residues in food. As a result, there is growing demand for natural and organic products. Farmers who can tap into this demand with high-quality, processed goods stand to earn significantly more.
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A Model for the Future
The success story of Praveenbhai Kheni shows how natural farming, combined with value addition, can transform rural incomes. By focusing on quality, sustainability, and smart marketing, farmers in Bhavnagar are proving that agriculture can be both profitable and environmentally friendly.
As more people turn towards healthy eating, the market for natural products like turmeric powder will only grow. With determination and the right farming practices, any farmer can follow in these footsteps and secure a better future for both their land and their family.