Redefining agriculture: Odisha farmers harvest success with marigold cultivation

In Bhadrak, two innovative and determined farmers are redefining agriculture by cultivating marigold flowers. Uday Nanda and Madan Mohan Das have successfully turned just five acres of land into a thriving marigold hub, producing over 500 quintals of the vibrant blooms.

The vibrant yellow-orange hues of marigold flowers stretch across the fields near Chhatabar in Bhadrak district, enchanting visitors who often take a pause to admire the captivating sight. The marigold fields present a picturesque scene with green foliage resembling a paradise, providing a spectacle for visitors.

Everyone passing by the marigold garden cannot help but pause to admire the sight of the lush fields swaying in the breeze.

From YouTube to Real Success:

The journey of these enterprising farmers began on a modest note. Initially experimenting with marigold cultivation, their interest piqued by online videos, Nand and Das travelled to Kolkata to learn commercial farming techniques from experienced local growers. After returning to Bhadrak, they implemented these methods on a five-acre plot, successfully harvesting over five quintals of flowers.

Today, by utilising advanced farming techniques, they produce between 400 to 500 quintals of marigolds daily. The marigold cultivation not only has turned into a profit business but also offers employment to approximately 15 to 20 individuals.

Business Expansion and Diversification:

This initiative, which began in 2024 with seeds being imported from Nadia district in Kolkata, has become a means of fostering self-reliance. The success story of the two farmers has not only enriched the local landscape but has also expanded their reach to neighbouring districts, including Balasore, Keonjhar, Jajpur, Cuttack, and even Bhubaneswar.

Now, their marigolds are not just blooms of beauty, but a source of economic empowerment. This story of perseverance and innovation underscores the potential of adopting new agricultural practices to transform the livelihoods of farmers across India.

Lesson for Other Farmers:

“I first came to know about Marigold farming on YouTube. I was deeply interested and went for a training programme in Kolkata. Now, we are exporting our produce to almost all districts across Odisha, including Cuttack and Bhubaneswar. I want it to be a success story for other farmers too,” said an elated farmer, Madan Mohan Das.

“I have been working here for the last one year. I’m involved in the marketing of the flowers. I am elated to have got a job in my hometown and do not need to work as migrant labourer in some other state,” stated Deepak Jena, a worker.