A shift in strategy: How diversification fuelled Nanak Farms’ growth

Abstract

This case study documents the transformation of Nanak Farms, located in Kaljharani village of Bathinda district, Punjab, from a conventional cereal-based farming system to a diversified, high value cash crop enterprise. Under the leadership of farmer-cum-entrepreneur Ravdeep Singh, the farm transitioned from rice–wheat cultivation to the adoption of strawberries, parthenocarpic
cucumbers, potato, tomatoes, and other vegetables through open-field and protected cultivation systems. The study highlights the role of innovation, resilience, and informed decision-making in overcoming financial, climatic, and market-related challenges. High-value crops such as strawberry and parthenocarpic cucumber significantly enhanced farm profitability. The overall benefit-cost
ratio improved from 2.8 under conventional crops to 3.0 after diversification, demonstrating superior economic efficiency. Integration of beekeeping for pollination, adoption of organic practices, efficient water management, and direct marketing strategies further strengthened sustainability and income stability. The findings underscore the immense potential of crop diversification, protected
cultivation, and institutional support in improving farm income, resilience, and resource-use efficiency.