Dinesh Kumar Singh, a progressive farmer from Surguja district, has turned agricultural challenges into a blooming opportunity by shifting from traditional paddy cultivation to high-tech rose farming. Today, his two-acre polyhouse produces over 5,000 roses daily, earning him an annual profit of nearly Rs 10 lakh. Tired of the uncertainties of rice farming and erratic monsoons, Singh ventured into floriculture a year ago with the support of the Horticulture Department and NABARD under the National Horticulture Mission.

 

He invested Rs 1.30 crore in building a controlled-climate polyhouse, financed through Rs 63 lakh in subsidies and a bank loan of Rs 93 lakh. With technical assistance from horticulture officials, Singh adopted advanced farming techniques and introduced high-demand varieties like Dutch Rose, Jumeliya, and Top Secret in multiple colors. Roses are grown in raised ridges with drip irrigation and foggers to manage temperature and water usage. A technique called ‘winding’ prepares the plants for flowering, with buds appearing in 45 days. Pruning weak buds encourages the growth of stronger ones, effectively doubling production. Singh supplies roses to markets across Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and Uttar Pradesh, fulfilling bulk orders for florists and event planners. Prices range from Rs 4-5 per flower under normal demand, rising to Rs 15-20 during festivals and weddings.

 

Comparing rose cultivation with traditional farming, Singh says polyhouse floriculture is less labor-intensive, requires less water, and ensures steady year-round income. “Unlike paddy farming, where the returns were uncertain and weather-dependent, rose cultivation gives peace of mind and consistent profits,” he shared. He credits his success to timely government and institutional support. “This transformation wouldn’t have been possible without the guidance and assistance of the Horticulture Department and NABARD,” he said. As more farmers in Surguja look for sustainable alternatives, Singh’s story stands as a model of agricultural innovation and entrepreneurship, showing how floriculture can offer both financial stability and emotional satisfaction.