Haryana-based Rajesh Kumar, born with vision impairment, overcame financial struggles to establish a successful rose farming business.

He suffers from retinitis pigmentosa and macular degeneration, which limited his employment opportunities. He worked as a security guard that fetched him a monthly income of Rs 5,000.

“Most of this amount would get exhausted clearing debts for groceries and milk. When my children would ask me for pencils and copies, I would be forced to turn down their smallest requests,” he recalls.

In 2015, he decided to venture into rose farming, inspired by a conversation with a gardener about its profitability compared to traditional crops like wheat.

He initially planted marigolds to gain market insights before transitioning to rose farming, planting 1,000 rose saplings the following year.

By selling fresh roses, Rajesh increased his monthly income to Rs 9,000, marking a significant improvement in his financial situation.

Encouraged by his children’s teachers, Rajesh expanded his business to include value-added products like gulkand and rose water.

Rajesh received formal training from Haryana Agricultural University, which helped him secure necessary licenses and validate his products.

With the support of his wife Sunita and children, Rajesh expanded his farm and now sells products under the brand ‘Parerana Flower Farm,’ earning Rs 50,000 monthly.

Despite initial scepticism from others, Rajesh emphasises that determination and positivity can lead to success, regardless of challenges faced due to disability.

“Disability should not stifle our spirit. We must continue to trust ourselves, remain dedicated, and success will eventually follow,” he remarks.