In the beautiful hills of Nainital, Uttarakhand, Prakash Chandra Belwal is a shining example of successful farming. He manages a 20-acre farm filled with cereals, fruits, and vegetables. Since 1990, he has earned over Rs 30 lakh every year through his dedication and diverse crops.
Prakash’s journey began after the death of his father. He took over the family farm in the village of Lakhanmandi. The land is rich and fertile, surrounded by the Nandhaur Forest Range. This area is perfect for agriculture, with natural water channels that help irrigate the crops. Prakash has never faced water scarcity, thanks to these streams and irrigation canals.
His farm is a mix of traditional wisdom and modern practices. He grows summer rice, various vegetables, and has a beautiful mango orchard. This orchard not only enhances the landscape but is also a major source of income.
Prakash believes in organic farming. He minimizes the use of chemical fertilizers and prefers organic manure like cow dung compost and vermicompost. This approach keeps the soil healthy and improves the quality of his produce. “The land has a soul. When you care for it, it responds,” he says. His farming techniques include crop rotation and natural mulching, which help maintain a balanced ecosystem.
However, farming has its challenges. The nearby forest is home to wildlife, including elephants and langurs, which can damage crops. To protect his harvest, Prakash spends nights in the fields during sensitive seasons, ensuring that he can coexist with nature while safeguarding his crops.
One major advantage for Prakash is the location of his farm. It is close to Haldwani Mandi, the second-largest agricultural market in Uttarakhand. This makes it easy for him to sell his produce at good prices. His commitment to quality has earned him a loyal customer base. People appreciate his fresh, chemical-free produce, which is rare in today’s market.
Recently, Prakash joined the Global Farmer Business Network (GFBN), a platform that connects farmers worldwide. He hopes to share his experiences and learn from others about sustainable farming practices. He believes that community support is essential for farmers. “When we share our struggles and solutions, we all grow,” he explains.
Over the years, Prakash has received many awards for his farming efforts. He was recognized at the Mango Festival in Dehradun and has been awarded for his contributions to sustainable agriculture. Despite his success, he stays humble and treats farming as a lifestyle and legacy. He encourages young people to explore agriculture as a viable career option, especially in a time when urban migration is common.
Prakash Chandra Belwal’s story is not just about farming; it’s about hope and harmony with nature. He shows us that with hard work and respect for the environment, farming can still be a prosperous way of life. His 20-acre farm is more than just land; it’s a place of growth, both for crops and for the community around him.