From Lecture Halls to High-Tech Harvests
Many professionals dream of trading their nine-to-five routine for something they can call their own, but few take the leap as successfully as Subhasmita Mohanty. Formerly a sociology lecturer at Loknath Mahavidyalaya, she found herself unfulfilled by the limitations of employment. Driven by a desire for autonomy and self-reliance, she made a radical career pivot that has not only secured her financial future but also uplifted her local community.
Trading Security for Independence
The journey began with a simple realization: the traditional employment path offered security but lacked the satisfaction of building a personal legacy. Encouraged by her husband and inspired by online resources explaining the Chief Minister’s Agricultural Entrepreneurship Scheme, she decided to venture into the world of integrated farming. Despite initial hurdles with project approvals and land logistics, her determination saw her through. She liquidated personal assets, including a truck and tractor, to secure the necessary capital when bank loans fell short, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to her vision.
Revolutionizing Agriculture with Technology
Subhasmita did not just start a farm; she established a modern, environmentally controlled (EC) poultry operation on two acres of land. Unlike traditional setups, her facility utilizes advanced automation to regulate temperature, feed, and water, ensuring optimal conditions for livestock. This high-tech approach minimizes manual labor and maximizes efficiency.
Harvesting Financial Success
The financial results of this bold move have been staggering. Each batch yields a profit between four to six lakh rupees, a sum that dwarfs her previous annual teaching salary. Beyond poultry, the integrated farm includes fishery units and fruit plantations, diversifying income streams. What started as a personal quest for independence has grown into a commercial hub employing ten local workers.
Future Horizons
With a thriving business model now established, the vision has expanded. Plans are already underway for a massive expansion involving a five-crore investment to further scale operations. Subhasmita’s story stands as a powerful testament to the potential of modern agriculture, proving that with the right technology and grit, farming can be a highly lucrative and dignified profession.
With inputs from: Itishree Nayak, PrameyaNews7
