Lucknow, Mar 24: Highlighting the urgent need to modernise agriculture, Padma Shri awardee Ram Saran Verma stated that farming must be treated as a profit-oriented venture. He added that the time has come to make a intellectual shift in the farming so that the farming may be converted into profitable business. He emphasised that diversifying crops, embracing scientific techniques, and aligning farming practices with regional climate conditions are essential steps to increase farmers’ earnings and reduce uncertainties.
While interacting with journalists from Jammu visiting Lucknow, Verma observed that truly successful farmers are those who carefully study their fields and crops, and adapt their farming practices in harmony with the natural conditions of their land. He further noted that the traditional reliance on staple crops such as wheat and rice often yields modest financial returns, especially when compared to more pro itable, high-value alternatives.
He emphatically highlighted the striking profitability of banana cultivation, stating that it can generate an impressive income of ?2 to ?4 lakh per acre, while traditional crops like wheat and rice deliver comparatively meagre returns. He underscored that this dramatic contrast serves as a wake-up call for farmers to rethink their approach-urging them to treat agriculture not as a subsistence activity, but as a dynamic and profit-driven enterprise.
Verma also underlined the value of following proper crop cycles, stating that it not only improves productivity but also helps farmers manage risks arising from unpredictable weather. He said that systematic farming practices can significantly enhance both yield and stability.
Sharing insights from his own experience, he mentioned that adopting simple measures like staking in tomato farming doubled his output from 200 quintals to 400 quintals. This, he said, demonstrates how small changes can lead to substantial gains.
At present, Verma cultivates bananas on 70-80 acres and potatoes on more than 150 acres, along with other crops such as tomatoes and watermelons. He also stressed the importance of selecting the right crop varieties, noting that different types of potatoes fetch different prices in the market.
Recalling his journey into banana farming, Verma said he began experimenting with the crop in Maharashtra during the late 1980s after recognising its profit potential, and later introduced it in Uttar Pradesh. He highlighted that choosing the correct planting window-between June 15 and July 15-is crucial for achieving better yields.
He further pointed out that Uttar Pradesh has a strong demand for bananas, with a significant portion still being sourced from outside the state, offering a valuable opportunity for local growers.
Referring to colder regions such as Jammu and Kashmir, Verma advised farmers to cultivate crops suited to their climate. He suggested that fruits like apples and strawberries can provide better returns in such areas.
In conclusion, Verma reiterated that a combination of crop diversification and scientific planning is key to ensuring sustainable growth and profitability in India’s agricultural sector.
Adopt Modern Practices and Diversify Crops to Boost Farm Income: Ram Saran Verma
