Archive · 31 Oct 2025
Retired Colonel Turns Organic Apple Farmer in Manali
A retired soldier named Colonel Divya Thakur decided to become a farmer after leaving the army.
He went back to his family's apple orchards in the beautiful mountains near Manali.
Instead of using chemicals like some farmers, he chose to grow apples the organic way, which is better for the earth and for people.
He uses special natural fertilizers made from things like cow dung and jaggery, and natural ways to keep bugs away from the trees.
He even learned new farming techniques and joined a group of other farmers to share knowledge.
His hard work paid off, and his first big harvest of organic apples was a success.
He believes farming is a very important way to serve, just like being a soldier.
Retired Colonel Divya Thakur has transitioned to organic apple farming in Manali after 30 years in the army.
He is revitalizing his family's orchards using a combination of traditional Indian agricultural knowledge and modern organic techniques.
Thakur focuses on soil health, using natural biofertilizers like 'jeevamrit' and rejecting chemical pesticides.
His orchard employs water conservation methods including drip irrigation and rainwater harvesting, and uses solar fencing.
The first full organic harvest in July 2025 yielded 11 tonnes of apples, with plans to expand sales through an e-commerce platform.
- Who
- Retired Colonel Divya Thakur
- What
- Transitioned from a 30-year military career to organic apple farming, revitalizing family orchards using traditional and modern sustainable methods.
- When
- Retired in 2019, with the first full organic harvest in July 2025.
- Where
- In a village near Manali, in the Kullu Valley of the Himalayas.
- Why
- To continue a sense of service beyond the army, protect the soil and people's health, and revive the family legacy and land.
Organic Farming Principles
Conventional Farming Practices
Soil Health and Fertilization
Organic Farming Principles
Emphasizes natural biofertilizers (like jeevamrit) and building soil vitality over time, viewing soil as a foundation for living organisms.
Conventional Farming Practices
Relies on chemical fertilizers to quickly provide nutrients, which can degrade soil health over the long term.
Pest and Disease Control
Organic Farming Principles
Prefers natural alternatives like neem oil, beneficial insects, and microbial agents, accepting some loss to avoid harming the environment.
Conventional Farming Practices
Utilizes chemical pesticides to control pests and diseases, aiming for maximum yield and minimal crop loss.
Environmental Impact
Organic Farming Principles
Prioritizes sustainability, protecting the ecosystem, and safeguarding the health of consumers and the land.
Conventional Farming Practices
May have negative environmental consequences due to chemical runoff and potential harm to biodiversity.
- Name
- Colonel Divya Thakur
- Previous Career
- Indian Army (Retired Colonel)
- Current Occupation
- Organic Apple Farmer
- Location
- Manali, India
- Orchard Size
- 4 acres (2 acres currently under organic cultivation)
- Apple Variety
- Gala
- First Organic Harvest (July 2025)
- 11 tonnes