My Journey into Agriculture

When I enrolled in the Diploma in Agricultural Extension Services for Input Dealers (DAESI) Program, I thought it would be another qualification in my name. A year later I realized the course had not only deepened my understanding of agriculture but had empowered me to explore agripreneurship and even consider agriculture as a possible side hustle.

As a former journalist and communications specialist from Bengaluru, agriculture always seemed distant, with limited farming exposure at my home town Kolkunda in Kalaburgi district. Now I see it as a space of innovation and purpose. I am not alone. The program is drawing people from different age groups and professions —doctors, engineers and entrepreneurs. My class of around 45 was a diverse set, who brought in new experiences and knowledge to the table.

The story of Bharat, Founder of Tranway21 Technologies Limited, showcases how the DAESI program can turn passion into a profitable venture. A seasoned entrepreneur with businesses across four countries, Bharat’s commitment to organic farming led him to enrol in DAESI to enhance his agricultural expertise. “The DAESI course connected me with experts and helped me scale my farming operations. I grow avocados and other fruits on my farm, and the program has equipped me with the knowledge to expand, diversify, and advocate for organic farming,” Bharat explains. Similarly, Nischal Gowda, an engineer turned agri-professional, found his calling in farming after completing his engineering degree. “I’ve always wanted to pursue a career in agriculture, and the DAESI program allowed me to merge my engineering background with my passion for farming. I plan to launch my agri-business soon, focusing on sustainable practices,” Nischal says.

In my case, the classroom and on-field trainings helped me understand diverse aspects of agriculture. From soil to crop patterns, plant diseases to nutrition, integrated farming to agri technology, vermicompost to poultry, piggery. Above all, I have begun to see myself as a partner of farmers, as I understand their risks and decision-making aspects. DAESI: Advancing Agriculture DAESI Program, is an initiative by the Hyderabad-based National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management (MANAGE), an autonomous organization of the Government of India. The program, conducted in partnership with agriculture universities across the country, entails classroom lectures from agri scientists and experts, on-field visits and hands-on training. Initially, the DAESI program was conceived to equip input dealers with necessary farming knowledge to ensure timely and expert guidance to farmers. Over the years, the program has evolved to include people from different streams and is serving several key purposes: supporting sustainable farming, aiding farmers in decision making, making agriculture an alternative career option. Through these objectives, it is achieving a larger goal of ensuring food security for a growing population of the country which is currently at 1.45 billion.