Engineer-Turned-Farmer Shakti Dev Finds Prosperity in Organic Farming

Dharamshala, Sept 28 – In an era when most youngsters chase jobs in metros and multinational companies, Shakti Dev from Dictu village, Kangra district, chose a different path. A polytechnic diploma holder in double streams of engineering, he worked in the private sector for several years before deciding in 2012 to leave his job and return to his ancestral fields.

“The fragrance of my soil, the love of my parents, and the desire to achieve something with my own hands brought me back,” says Shakti.

Initially, he practiced chemical farming like most farmers. However, high costs and low returns left him dissatisfied. The turning point came in 2018 when he attended a month-long training at Nauni Agricultural University, where he embraced natural farming techniques. He began using jeevamrit, ghan jeevamrit, dashparni ark, and agniastra—traditional bio-inputs. With support from the agriculture department, including subsidies for indigenous cows, his farming base strengthened.

Switching to natural farming reduced costs, improved soil fertility, and enhanced crop quality. Today, Shakti has a stable market network, diversified into floriculture and nursery, and earns ₹30,000–40,000 per month from his farm. His orchards of lychee, flowers, and livestock rearing complement his income.

Beyond personal success, Shakti motivates nearby farmers to adopt sustainable methods. He promotes zero tillage and natural pest control, emphasizing that organic practices preserve soil health, protect the environment, and ensure nutritious food.

“Despite my technical education, the joy of growing something on my own land is unmatched. That is true happiness,” he says. His journey exemplifies how determination can turn farming into a dignified and sustainable profession for youth.