Guwahati: Lachit Gogoi, a 30-year-old farmer from Assam, has been successfully harvesting King Chilli (Bhoot Jolokia) for the last four years; he has left no stone unturned for growing this famous spice, adopting organic methods like vermicompost and organic manure. Last year, he harvested 50-60 quintals of King Chilli, earning above Rs 30 lakhs. It means his hard labour paid dividends.
Lachit has been using drip irrigation; through this method, water is directly delivered to plant roots, reducing wastage and improving crop health. Drip irrigation is costly; government subsidies help him in setting up the system. These methods prevent soil erosion and weed growth, ensuring bumper production.
Despite success, Lachit’s agriculture venture is not free from challenges. He had to address pests and crop diseases, especially during flowering and fruiting stages. He uses pesticides as per the requirement. Heavy rain and other natural calamities in Assam also affect his crops. Receiving good-quality seeds is another major issue with Lachit.
Lachit always speaks in favour of organic farming. Currently, he has been using some pesticides. He is ready to start organic practices on his farmland. He has an ambition to switch entirely to organic farming in the future.
Lachit has reaped success by dint of hard work, adaptation of modern techniques, and creative thinking, turning farming into a profitable career and inspiring youths of his region to venture into the agricultural sector to explore agriculture and horticulture sectors as a path to financial security and sustainability.
