1,750 Quintals of Potatoes Grown in Just 70 Days – A Modern Farming Success Story
Bhokardan Taluka: The Sonwane family of Khandala has set a new benchmark in agriculture by successfully cultivating 1,750 quintals of potatoes in just 70 days, yielding a staggering income of ₹28.5 lakh. This remarkable feat was achieved by moving away from traditional crops and embracing innovative farming methods with the support of Sambhavshri Agro Processing LLP.
Vilas Seshrao Sonwane, a teacher by profession, along with his younger brother Damodar Seshrao Sonwane, mother Kushivartabai Sonwane, wife Savita Vilas Sonwane, and sister-in-law Manisha Damodar Sonwane, collectively manage a 20-acre farm in Survey No. 215. Out of this, 16 acres were dedicated to the experimental potato crop.
They procured 160 quintals of the Pukhraj potato variety from Pune at ₹3,000 per quintal and planted them on November 3, using tractor-assisted precision sowing at four by six-inch spacing. A well-planned drip irrigation system was used to supply water and nutrients. Additionally, four rounds of fungicide sprays, along with soluble fertilizers and potash, were applied to protect the crop and enhance yield.
Despite an investment of ₹8 lakh, the early harvest, which began on January 24, has already yielded 200 quintals from just eight acres, with the remaining crop expected to be harvested within the next two days. Current market rates range from ₹1,600 to ₹1,700 per quintal, translating to a projected total income of ₹28.5 lakh.
From Loss to Profit – A Journey of Resilience
Previously, the family cultivated chilies, which suffered due to the Karpa disease, leading to a loss and a loan burden of ₹22 lakh. However, with perseverance and by adopting modern techniques under the guidance of Sambhavshri Agro Processing LLP, they bounced back—earning ₹67 lakh in 2023, thereby becoming debt-free.
After the chili crop failed again, the family pivoted to potato farming, planting 10 quintals per acre across 16 acres. This resulted in an impressive yield of 110 quintals per acre, even though it was their first time cultivating potatoes.
Labour & Logistics
To support this massive operation, 70 workers were brought in from Madhya Pradesh, with accommodation arranged on-site. These laborers, previously affected by lack of work, now have seasonal employment opportunities, particularly in February and July.
The Future is Modern Farming
The Sonwane family’s success story is a shining example of how embracing modern agricultural practices can lead to transformational results. With technical guidance and processing support from Sambhavshri Agro Processing LLP, farmers are now seeing the light at the end of the tunnel.
“Farmers should move beyond traditional methods and adopt modern farming techniques if they truly want to prosper.”
– Vilas Sonwane, Productive Farmer
Sambhavshri Agro Processing LLP – Empowering Farmers, Transforming Agriculture