Last week, I embarked on a journey through the districts of Purnea, Araria, and Katihar in Bihar, and during this excursion, a unique and special opportunity presented itself — the inauguration of a new shop belonging to our agriculture entrepreneur, Ghanshyam Yadav. The inaugural ceremony was graced by the Vedic chants performed by Ghanshyam’s young children, Dhruv and Dharamveer.
Back in 2016–17, with the unwavering support and guidance of the Syngenta Foundation, KF India initiated the implementation of the Agricultural Entrepreneur (AE) development program in Bihar. Ghanshyam was part of the inaugural batch, and we facilitated his comprehensive training at MANAGE, Hyderabad, for a duration of 45 days. Post-training, Ghanshyam initiated his agricultural business, starting from a modest kachha house in his village. Before venturing into agriculture, Ghanshyam operated as a DJ, renting sound systems for various events and weddings.
Our initial aspirations when commencing this journey were centered around providing sustainable livelihoods for 10th pass youths in the villages. The scale of success achieved within just three years surpassed our initial imaginings. AEs now boast an annual turnover of 2–3 crores, providing complete agriculture services from pre-sowing to post-harvest to farmers in nearby villages.
When Ghanshyam learned about my travel plans to Purnea, he expressed his desire for me to inaugurate his newly constructed shop. I casually agreed, promising to visit.
During my visit to the K Nagar FPO office, I met Ghanshyam, and he mentioned that the construction was nearing completion and would take two more days. Two days later, he called me early in the morning, stating that the construction was finished and hoped I could inaugurate it.
Despite a hectic schedule and rainy weather, I promised to try to make it. In the afternoon, he called again, informing me that the puja was completed, and people were eagerly waiting for the inauguration.
Despite being situated 65 km away in another district, Ghanshyam’s earnest request moved me, and I arrived at his house around 5 pm, greeted by around 100 people eagerly awaiting the inauguration. Together with Ghanshyam and his family, I inaugurated the shop. His mother insisted on performing a garland tika ceremony on Ghanshyam’s head, blessing him for success.
Overwhelmed by his love and regard, Ghanshyam insisted on hosting a dinner. My entire team and I dined with him and other guests before returning to my local stay at Gedabadi in the Korha FPO office.
As I reflect on the past, memories of the early days of Ghanshyam, Sunil, and other Agricultural Entrepreneurs (AEs) often come to mind. Many times, they expressed their initial doubts and uncertainties, questioning their ability to engage in the business, particularly in directly supplying farmer produce to institutional buyers. However, over time, they witnessed a transformative change, evolving into living examples of success.
Beyond financial achievements, the social impact of this program is evident in various ways. Ghanshyam’s children are now receiving a quality education, setting the foundation for a brighter future. Furthermore, Ghanshyam has taken land on lease for farming, contributing not only to his economic well-being but also to the agricultural landscape of his community.
In a remarkable development, Ghanshyam recently played a pivotal role in forming a Farmer Producer Company (FPC) under the CSS Scheme alongside other AEs. This collaborative initiative not only strengthens the bond among entrepreneurs but also fosters a sense of community and shared success. These social impacts highlight the positive ripple effect of the program, reaching beyond individual prosperity to benefit families, education, mobility, and community development.
Throughout this journey, every stakeholder has played a crucial role, offering unwavering support and contributing to their growth. The farmers in their villages believed in their potential, extending support, and together, as a united community, they have flourished. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to each individual who has been a part of this journey.
Reflecting on this decade, I take immense pride in the remarkable journey and achievements of communities we serve and individuals like Ghanshyam, embodying the essence of what we have collectively earned over the past ten years.
