Banker-Turned-Farmer Surjit Singh Bimbh Honored for Promoting Chemical-Free Agriculture in Punjab
In a heartening recognition of sustainable agricultural practices, Surjit Singh Bimbh, a retired banker turned progressive farmer from Hoshiarpur, Punjab, has been honored for his dedication to organic farming. The award was presented during the Annual Kisan Mela organized by Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) in Ludhiana, highlighting a growing shift towards eco-friendly cultivation methods in the region.
A Dream Realized: From Banking to Organic Farming
Surjit Singh Bimbh, a native of Birampur village in the Hoshiarpur-I block, embarked on his organic farming journey after retiring as a deputy general manager from a public sector bank in 2015. An alumnus of PAU, he holds an MSc in Agronomy from 1978 and had even pursued PhD studies before joining the banking sector. Motivated by a deep-seated desire to promote chemical-free food, he established "Bimbh Natural Farm" and now practices organic cultivation on 15 acres of land.
His farm produces a diverse range of crops, including wheat, particularly the traditional 'Sona Moti' variety, turmeric, pulses such as urad, rajma, and moong, along with garlic, onion, potato, and radish. Reflecting on the recognition, Bimbh said, "It's a long-cherished dream come true. My main focus has always been to provide consumers with the right things to eat, food that is free from pesticides and harmful additives."
Award Ceremony and Recognition
Bimbh was conferred the CRI Pumps Award for outstanding farmer adopting organic farming techniques. The award was presented by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, in the presence of Gurmeet Singh Khuddian, noted agricultural scientist Gurdev Singh Khush, and PAU vice-chancellor Satbir Singh Gosal. This accolade underscores the importance of sustainable agriculture in Punjab, a state traditionally known for intensive chemical-based farming.
Dr. Maninder Singh Bons, associate director (Training) at PAU-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Hoshiarpur, congratulated Bimbh, stating, "Farmers like Surjit Singh Bimbh are leading by example by adopting organic practices that not only conserve natural resources but also respond to the rising demand for safe and nutritious food."
Innovative Farm Practices and Mission
A standout feature of Bimbh's farm is an on-site organic jaggery and brown sugar unit, where production follows traditional methods. His sugarcane, grown on a large portion of the farm using the bed technique, is processed entirely within the farm premises. Bimbh explained, "We produce only as much as the demand is there, not more than 15–20 per cent extra. In fact, the jaggery and brown sugar we produced this year was already booked in February and has been completely sold."
Emphasizing his broader mission, Bimbh added, "My mission is simple, to eat right and make the right things available to people." This philosophy drives his commitment to chemical-free agriculture, aiming to inspire other farmers in the region.
Broader Impact and Other Honorees
The annual Kisan Mela at PAU recognizes farmers across Punjab who demonstrate innovation, sustainability, and excellence in agriculture and allied sectors. In addition to Bimbh, another farmer from the district, Sandeep Singh of village Chakk Mallan, was honored for adopting modern agricultural machinery and promoting mechanization in farming. These awards collectively aim to inspire others to follow progressive and environmentally responsible practices.
This event highlights a significant trend towards sustainable farming in Punjab, with farmers like Surjit Singh Bimbh paving the way for a healthier and more eco-conscious agricultural future. His story serves as a testament to the potential of organic farming to transform livelihoods and promote food security in India.
