Bachittar Singh Garcha, a farmer from Deh Kalan village in Punjab, has made a remarkable turnaround in his life by venturing into soybean cultivation and processing. After facing severe losses in potato farming, Garcha embraced soybean farming and established an automatic processing plant. Today, his enterprise, which includes soy milk and tofu production, generates annual sales of up to Rs 48 lakh.
A Life-Changing Encounter
Nearly 20 years ago, prominent figures from the agriculture sector, including Punjab Agriculture University Vice Chancellor Dr. GS Kallat and Dr. MS Swaminathan, known as the Father of the Green Revolution, visited Deh Kalan village. They were intrigued by Garcha’s innovative soybean processing unit in an area traditionally known for wheat and paddy cultivation. Their visit, coupled with Garcha’s surprising revelation of giving away his products for free, marked a pivotal moment in his journey.
The Turning Point
With support from the Punjab Agriculture University, Garcha received essential market linkages and a sales booth at the university campus. This assistance proved crucial as he transitioned from giving away products to establishing a successful business. His automatic plant now processes soybeans into milk and tofu, and he also produces biscuits, namkeen, and mathri from by-products. Marketed under the name ‘Vigour Soy Health Milk’, Garcha’s products are popular across several districts including Ludhiana and Bathinda.
Overcoming Financial Struggles
Before his soybean venture, Garcha faced significant financial hardships. In the late 1990s, he suffered losses amounting to Rs 3 crores due to an oversupply of potatoes. This led to the sale of 15 acres of his farmland, his most valuable asset. The emotional toll was profound, leaving him reclusive and disheartened.
A New Beginning with Soybeans
Inspired by a trade fair on soybean cultivation, Garcha pursued training in soy milk and tofu production at the Central Institute of Agricultural Engineering (CIAE), Bhopal, in 2002. Returning to Punjab, he started a small factory, initially facing challenges in marketing his products in a region where traditional dairy was preferred. Despite initial setbacks and skepticism from his family, Garcha remained committed to his vision.
Community and Official Support
Dr. Mandeep Singh from the Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) in Sangrur praised Garcha’s perseverance and the support provided to him. KVK helped set up stalls at farmer fairs and promoted Garcha’s products, significantly contributing to his success.
Current Success and Legacy
Garcha’s soybean processing plant now produces up to 700 liters of soy milk and four quintals of tofu daily, earning him an annual profit of Rs 10-12 lakh. He has trained his daughter-in-law, Karanveer, to manage operations and is deeply involved in his work despite his age.
Awards and Recognition
Garcha’s achievements have been recognized with several awards, including the State Award in 2003 and the Chaudhary Charan Singh National Award in 2004. Recently, he received the Soil Beverage of the Year 2023 award for his contributions to the soy industry in India.
Reclaiming His Land
With his renewed success, Garcha has reinvested in his future by purchasing back seven of the 15 acres of land he had previously sold. Reflecting on his journey, he expresses hope to reclaim all his land and highlights his transition from obscurity to respect and dignity in his community.
