In a quiet corner of Boko, Assam, a young farmer is redefining what it means to succeed in agriculture.
Prasenjit Boro, hailing from Katalgaon village, has emerged as a shining example of innovation and perseverance in farming.
At just 28, Boro has turned nearly 20 bighas of land in Dari village into a lush expanse dedicated to papaya farming in Assam.
His journey proves that sustainable practices, combined with government support, can offer a path to prosperity beyond conventional government jobs.
Embracing Organic Papaya Farming
Prasenjit Boro chose papaya cultivation after exploring different high-value crops suited to the region’s soil and climate.
He adopted organic farming techniques to improve soil health, avoid chemical residues, and produce fruit that fetches higher prices in the market.
Boro shared:
“I wanted to grow something healthy and profitable. Organic papaya farming seemed perfect for Assam’s weather and soil.”
His approach has won praise from agricultural experts, who say organic practices protect biodiversity and improve long-term farm income.
Central Scheme Fuels Growth
Boro’s impressive progress owes much to a Centrally sponsored horticulture scheme.
Under the initiative, farmers receive subsidies for saplings, organic inputs, and technical guidance from the horticulture department.
This support reduced Boro’s initial costs and helped him manage risks associated with shifting to a new crop.
An official from the Horticulture Department said:
“Prasenjit’s success story reflects the purpose of these schemes—to empower farmers, boost income, and promote sustainable agriculture.”
Rising Demand for Papaya in Assam
The decision to focus on papaya farming in Assam was strategic.
Papaya is in high demand for its health benefits, including being rich in vitamins and aiding digestion.
Local markets in Assam, as well as traders from other states, seek good quality papaya, ensuring a steady market for Boro’s produce.
Boro explained:
“I sell my papayas in Guwahati and nearby towns. Demand is strong, especially for organic fruits. People are becoming more health conscious.”
He earns an estimated ₹8 to ₹10 lakh annually from his papaya farm, a significant income for a young farmer in rural Assam.
Impact on Local Community
Boro’s success has not gone unnoticed in his village and surrounding areas.
Other farmers have begun visiting his farm to learn about cultivation techniques, disease management, and organic practices.
A neighbour, impressed by Boro’s achievements, said:
“He’s shown us that farming can be modern, profitable, and respectable. Many of us want to try papaya cultivation now.”
Boro now plans to conduct informal workshops to share knowledge and encourage others to adopt sustainable farming.
Overcoming Challenges with Determination
The journey has not been easy for Boro.
He faced difficulties such as securing funds for initial investment, learning pest management techniques, and finding reliable markets.
However, his commitment and willingness to learn kept him moving forward.
He credits support from government schemes and guidance from agricultural officers for helping him navigate obstacles.
Boro shared:
“There were times I felt uncertain. But I believed in my work. Now, I want to inspire others to trust in farming.”
Future Plans and Bigger Dreams
Buoyed by his success, Boro is now eyeing expansion.
He hopes to increase his cultivation area and explore value-added products like dried papaya and papaya pulp for the food processing industry.
He also wants to use digital marketing to reach wider markets and attract better prices for his organic produce.
Agriculture officials believe Boro’s model can become a template for boosting papaya farming in Assam and creating rural employment.
A Call for Youth to Join Agriculture
Prasenjit Boro’s journey underscores the potential of agriculture as a modern and lucrative career.
He urges youth not to see farming as a last resort but as a genuine opportunity to build a sustainable livelihood.
“Farming is not backward. It’s the future if done smartly,” he said.
The story of this young farmer offers hope for thousands across Assam looking for success and dignity in the fields.
For those considering a similar path, Boro’s message is clear—believe in your work, embrace new ideas, and don’t be afraid to try something different.
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