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He grows export-quality dates and mangoes by installing a first-of-its-kind computer aided

technology in India. "I can feed data for a week's schedule and my system does it for the farm
right from the irrigation to fertigation," says the 30-year-old Gala, who's director of Jalbindu Agri
Tech.
After returning from Australia to his native village Ratual (near Bhuj), Gala aimed to become an
agri-entrepreneur. What helped in installing this technology was his degree in horticulture from
Queensland University in Australia. He exploited an untapped opportunity and transformed the
dynamics of methods of production.
Currently, he grows 'barhi' (a fresh variety of dates) over 12 acres of land and has sown more
than 600 date plants. Each plant is expected to produce 50-70 kg of dates, which is set for
despatch to Europe and Dubai under his brand Golden Dates. What's more surprising is that
fellow farmers near his village are getting accustomed to his technology and are increasingly
becoming e-producers.
"Agriculture is going to create huge opportunities in India. The need is dynamism and
professionalism," says Gala. Many including Reliance, Essar and Atul Group have shown interest
in his technology. "But I like to work on my own methods and a create sense of ownership among
farmers," he adds. He has already tied-up with seven super-specialty stores in Mumbai to supply
dates and mangoes and is set to invest close to Rs 6 crore in cold-storage facilities to keep his
produce fresh for exports.
Agriculture in India is transforming its practices. As young and charged-up entrepreneurs are
joining the fray, commodities are being turned into value-added products and premium prices can
be demanded from various retail outlets. With the same available resources, young
entrepreneurs are modifying their business-models and exploiting market opportunities to
improve their lifestyles. This is not only helping the entrepreneur but also encouraging farmers to
shift to a better world.