Amidst the backdrop of lush fields and age-old farming traditions, Amandeep Kaur Dhaliwal is crafting a modern tale of agricultural innovation and success. A tech-savvy professional turned farming entrepreneur, Amandeep has transformed her family’s 17-acre farm into a model of integrated farming, earning lakhs each month while inspiring farmers to rethink the potential of their land.
A Journey of Reinvention
Amandeep’s story began far from the fields she now passionately cultivates. Armed with postgraduate degrees in IT and computer applications, she was once pursuing a PhD in computer science. However, life took a dramatic turn in 2014 when she got married and decided to embrace a different path. Leaving behind a promising academic career and her job at Khalsa College, Muktsar, she chose to focus on her family and explore the untapped potential of agriculture.
“I wanted to do something meaningful and sustainable,” Amandeep said, reflecting on her decision to leave behind her comfort zone and immerse herself in farming. Her journey into agriculture deepened in 2015 when she and her husband, Khuspal Singh Sangha, trained in fisheries at Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (GADVASU), Ludhiana. Inspired by the possibilities of integrated farming, they embarked on a venture that would redefine farming in their village.
Building an Ecosystem: The Integrated Farming Model
Integrated farming, as Amandeep practices it, is a circular system where every element supports the other. Fish farming is paired with pig farming, with pig waste serving as feed for the fish, and nutrient-rich wastewater from the fish ponds enriching the soil for crops. “The principle is simple—there is no waste,” Amandeep explained, her voice brimming with pride. “It’s sustainable, environmentally friendly, and highly profitable.”
The couple started small. By 2016, they had set up a fish farm on 2.75 acres, followed by a pig farm in 2017 with just 12 female pigs. By 2020, the piggery had grown to an impressive 400 pigs. Challenges, however, were aplenty. From managing nutrition and disease in pigs to ensuring high-quality fish production, every step demanded meticulous planning and expert advice.
Their hard work paid off. By 2018-19, Amandeep’s fish farm alone generated Rs 13 lakh in revenue with input costs as low as Rs 40,000, thanks to the superior diet provided by pig waste. Similarly, the piggery boasted a 30–40% return rate, with consistent demand for piglets and meat across states like Assam and Nagaland.
Weathering the Pandemic Storm
The Covid-19 pandemic tested the resilience of Amandeep’s venture. Bulk orders for pigs were canceled, forcing her to pivot to direct meat sales. Despite the challenges, the fish farm thrived, supported by local demand. “Our fish farm became our lifeline during the lockdown,” she recalled. The piggery, however, was temporarily shut, dealing a significant blow to their integrated farming model.
Even during this period, Amandeep proved her adaptability. While living in Canada with her husband and daughters, she managed farm operations remotely, balancing her role as an accountant and part-time McDonald’s employee with her duties as a farmer. “My heart was always in Punjab,” she said, reflecting on her return to the village in 2023 to personally oversee the rebuilding of the pig farm, which is set to reopen in March 2024.
A Vision for the Future
Amandeep’s ambitions are far from over. She plans to scale up her integrated farming operations and launch a dairy farm, expanding her ecosystem while continuing to prioritize sustainability. Her innovative practices, such as Azolla culture and the cultivation of crops like maize and bananas, further enhance the farm’s productivity and eco-friendliness.
“Farmers must stop selling their land to send their children abroad,” she urged. “There’s immense potential here—it just requires dedication and proper management. Integrated farming is not just about working hard; it’s about working smart.”
An Inspiration for Many
Amandeep’s journey has earned praise from agricultural experts and local authorities. “Her story shows how traditional farming can be revolutionized with innovation and scientific methods,” said Dr. Ramandeep Kaur, Deputy Project Director of the Agricultural Technology Management Agency, Jalandhar. “She is a role model for farmers looking to maximize profits sustainably.”
From rearing fish and pigs to cultivating vegetables and trees, Amandeep’s integrated farm is a testament to her vision and perseverance. For this trailblazing farmer, the soil of Punjab is not just a livelihood—it is a canvas where dreams of sustainability, prosperity, and innovation come alive.
