From Farm to Flower Markets: A Rose-Growing Success Story: How a Ratlam farmer turned Dutch rose cultivation into a profitable venture
Ratlam: Dilip Singh Anjana, a farmer from Ringnod village in the Ratlam district of Madhya Pradesh, demonstrates how modern farming practices and improved connectivity can transform the livelihoods of people in rural areas.
Anjana grows Dutch roses in a polyhouse spanning one bigha of land. He harvests approximately 800 roses daily, which are bundled into 40–50 bouquets, generating a daily income of about Rs 4,000 to 5,000.
He established the polyhouse with a loan of Rs 25 lakh under a government horticulture scheme, for which he received a subsidy of Rs 12 lakh. Subsequently, he invested an additional Rs 12 lakh into his rose cultivation, for which he received a further subsidy of Rs 5 lakh.
Anjana employs scientific farming methods, including drip irrigation and the use of organic fertilizers. The roses he grows are transported to Jaipur and other major cities outside the state, where there is a strong demand for these fresh flowers.
Better Roads, Fresh Roses
Previously, transportation posed a significant challenge; any delays could cause the delicate flowers to spoil before reaching distant markets. However, the construction of an eight-lane highway passing near his farm has changed the situation.
With faster transportation, he is now able to deliver fresh roses on time, significantly reducing the risk of the flowers perishing. Anjana’s story illustrates how improved farming techniques, government support, and basic infrastructure—such as roads—can collectively create new opportunities for farmers. His experience serves as an inspiring example of how traditional agriculture can be transformed into a market-oriented business, opening up better income avenues for rural families.