Brothers continue father’s mission of pesticide-free agriculture
01 June, 2026 – Jalandhar : What began as a family’s painful loss has today become a story of inspiration for farmers across Punjab and beyond. Brothers Amarjit Singh and Karamjit Singh of Chahrke village near Bhogpur in Jalandhar district have been practising organic farming on 17 acres of land for nearly two decades, producing sugarcane, turmeric (haldi), pulses and traditional jaggery while successfully marketing their products across Punjab, Haryana and even overseas.
The journey, however, was far from easy. “There was a time when we used insecticides and pesticides in large quantities on our fields,” recalls Amarjit Singh. “We knew chemical use was harmful, but like many others, we continued the practice until we witnessed its devastating consequences.”
The turning point came after the family lost a cousin to blood cancer, a tragedy they believe was linked to prolonged exposure to harmful chemicals. Deeply affected by the incident, their father, Avtar Singh, decided to completely abandon chemical farming and adopt natural methods for cultivating vegetables, maize, sugarcane and turmeric.
To learn the techniques of natural farming, the family turned to books written by renowned agriculturist and Padma Shri awardee Subhash Palekar. Despite criticism and scepticism from fellow farmers, they remained committed to their decision.
“People told us we would starve if we switched to natural farming. Some even mocked us,” Amarjit says with a smile. “Today, those same people see us as an example.”
According to Amarjit, one of the biggest reasons of farmers’ struggles is the indiscriminate use of pesticides. “Many farmers do not understand the difference between beneficial insects and harmful pests. When chemicals are sprayed, both are destroyed, affecting the natural balance and ultimately harming crop productivity.”
After the passing of their father Avtar Singh, who was their strength, the brothers resolved to continue and expand the vision he had started. “Everything we have today belongs to him and his teachings,” they say emotionally. “Sab kuch ohna da hai.”
Their organic products have gained a strong reputation for quality and purity. Customers from different parts of Punjab and several districts of Haryana regularly purchase their jaggery, turmeric and other farm products, while demand from overseas markets continues to grow.
The brothers also promote traditional, low-cost solutions for crop protection. Amarjit recommends using natural ingredients such as asafoetida (hing), alum (fitkari) and sour buttermilk sprays to protect crops from pests and diseases. “Kachi lassi is highly effective in preventing diseases such as blight in plants,” he explains while demonstrating the mixture used on his fields.
For Karamjit Singh, the success of their farming model is rooted not only in natural practices but also in family unity. “We have been able to continue this journey because every member of our family stands together. There is no rift among us. The values our father taught us have helped us face every challenge as one family,” he says.
Today, the legacy is being carried forward by the third generation. The sons of Amarjit and Karamjit, while pursuing their education, are actively involved in farm operations and are determined to continue the mission started by their grandfather.
From a painful personal loss to becoming pioneers of sustainable agriculture, the Singh family’s story stands as a powerful reminder that farming can be both profitable and environmentally responsible. Their 17-acre organic farm has become a beacon of hope, proving that natural farming is not only possible but can also thrive when guided by patience, knowledge and strong family values.
The Tribune