Farmers in Sambhal Boost Earnings by Selling Strawberries Online

Farmers in Sambhal, located in Uttar Pradesh, are significantly increasing their income by selling premium strawberries through e-commerce platforms. This innovative approach not only enhances market access but also modernizes traditional farming practices. The rising urban demand for fresh fruits delivered online is creating new economic opportunities for rural farmers.

Farmers Embrace Digital Sales

One of the key figures in this transformation is Mohammad Gulrez, who has partnered with a leading online retail company to supply strawberries to major cities, including Delhi, Lucknow, Kanpur, and Guwahati. For over a decade, Gulrez has cultivated strawberries on approximately 10 acres of land. He typically plants his crops in late September or early October and employs methods to shield them from winter’s cold and fog.

In an interview with ANI, Gulrez detailed his process: “I pack the strawberries carefully using tissue paper and send them to Delhi. I supply the fruit to Apple Agro, which then sells them online.” He emphasized his commitment to quality, stating, “I pack the strawberries myself, ensuring only the best quality goes out. The company receives the product in about 4 to 5 hours.”

Gulrez’s dedication reflects a broader trend among farmers in the region to prioritize high-quality produce. With India’s diverse climate supporting a variety of fruits, these farmers are capitalizing on the growing consumer demand for fresh, online-delivered goods.

Expanding Market Reach and Profits

The surge in online strawberry sales has led to a notable increase in orders. Farmers report a growing customer base, with shipments now reaching numerous cities across India. According to Ashok Kumar, a worker involved in the cultivation, “The produce is sold at about Rs 300 per kilogram and is shipped to markets in Delhi and Kanpur, as well as other locations.”

Another worker, Anita, explained the care that goes into strawberry farming: “After the leaves grow excessively, we remove the yellow leaves. It takes about one to one and a half months for the crop to mature.” Farmers utilize protective measures, such as plastic sheets, to safeguard their crops from adverse weather conditions.

Farmer Sumit Kumar, who has been growing strawberries for the past three years on 60 bighas of land, shared insights on their harvesting process. “The strawberries are sent to markets in cities like Lucknow, Delhi, Kanpur, Guwahati, and Assam,” Kumar noted.

The enthusiasm among farmers in Sambhal is palpable, as they look forward to the future of online strawberry sales. This trend not only promises enhanced profits but also highlights the potential of modern farming techniques in rural India. The collaboration between farmers and e-commerce platforms is paving the way for a new chapter in agricultural commerce, demonstrating how technology can empower local economies and improve livelihoods.