In a remarkable transformation from a disciplined Army career to pioneering sustainable agriculture, Gurbinder Singh Bajwa, a 49-year-old farmer from Sarchur village, is charting new courses for the region’s agricultural landscape. Bajwa, once a soldier, now leads a grassroots movement toward eco-friendly farming practices that challenge conventional methods.
After leaving the Army in 1997 to pursue his passion for farming, Bajwa steadily built a successful career, marked by innovation and resilience. Early in his journey, he ventured into cultivating medicinal plants under a contract in 2000, growing crops like safed musli, sativa, and amla. Despite the setback when the contract was not honored by the private company, Bajwa’s determination did not waver. He explored value-added agriculture by processing and packaging organic pulses, turmeric, and chili, gradually transforming his trials into triumphs.
Bajwa’s commitment to environmentally sustainable farming deepened over time. He was one of the first in the area to halt the practice of burning stubble—a common method used to clear fields—and to reduce the use of chemical pesticides. Instead, he adopted and promoted ‘fire and pesticide-free’ methods. His efforts have not only improved the health of his own fields but have also inspired a group of local farmers to follow suit.
In an innovative move to support his community, Bajwa helped establish a cooperative that now operates a center offering farm machinery rentals. Small farmers in the vicinity, who commit to refraining from burning crop residue, benefit from this shared resource, reducing both costs and environmental impact. The cooperative, originally formed in 2012 via a social media group initiated by agriculture officer Dr. Amrik Singh from Gurdaspur, has evolved into a dynamic organization known as the Young Progressive Farmers’ Producer Organisation. By 2015, the group formalized its operations and expanded into processing and marketing organic produce including pulses, turmeric, chili, and jaggery.
Key members of this progressive collective include Avtar Singh Sandhu, Kuldeep Singh, Palwinder Singh, Gurdial Singh, Harinder Singh, and Dilbagh Singh. Their collaborative venture, now recognized as ‘Kisan Sandh Bank,’ provides essential farm implements to those within a 30-kilometer radius of Sarchur, thereby strengthening local agricultural infrastructure.
Bajwa’s vision extends beyond organic farming practices. He has been an ardent promoter of Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) techniques in Punjab, authoring a comprehensive guide that outlines practical solutions for field preparation, seeding techniques, and weed management. His methods have resonated with many farmers, prompting hundreds to adopt chemical-free approaches to rice cultivation. To reach a wider audience, Bajwa has also embraced digital platforms, launching a YouTube channel and Facebook page dedicated to supporting farmers with tips on sustainable cultivation and effective crop marketing.
Despite facing personal challenges—including a severe injury from an accident in the fields that sidelined him for three years—Bajwa’s unwavering spirit remains a beacon for his community. Reflecting on his experiences, he has called for a more robust government support system for accident victims within the agricultural sector.
Bajwa’s journey, from his disciplined days in the Army to becoming a catalyst for change in organic and sustainable farming, epitomizes a spirit of innovation and selfless service. His belief in ‘Sarbat Da Bhala’ (welfare for all) has not only redefined his life but is also reshaping rural Punjab. His contributions were further recognized on a national platform when he represented Punjab farmers during a ‘Mann Ki Baat’ session with Prime Minister Narendra Modi last January.
As Punjab’s agricultural community continues to evolve, leaders like Gurbinder Singh Bajwa remind us that change is possible when vision, perseverance, and community spirit come together.
