One Assamese Woman Agripreneur Rural Revolution: Organic Farm, Oil-Free Pickles & 1000 Women Trained

Subhana Hazarika, an agripreneur from Nazira, Assam, left city life after her husband’s ONGC retirement to start an organic farm on a two-bigha plot. With Krishi Vigyan Kendra’s (KVK) support, she developed oil-free, spice-free pickles and value-added products like tomato murabba and lemon peel candies. Her eco-friendly methods promote sustainable farming and hygiene-based preservation. Subhana has trained nearly 1,000 rural women, mainly from BPL families, in post-harvest techniques and organic practices, empowering them with skills, income, and confidence.

The Innovation: Oil-Free, Spice-Free Pickles

What makes Subhana’s work stand out is her unique method of vegetable preservation. Inspired by international oil-free pickled cucumbers, she began testing methods to make pickles that didn’t require oil or regular spices. Using knowledge from KVK and through continuous trials, she finally created a formula that preserved vegetables in their natural form.

Her products include tomato murabba, lemon peel candies, and more, all made directly from her farm’s produce. These products stay fresh and safe even in Assam’s humid climate thanks to hygiene and smart preparation. In just two months, her oil-free technique has shown excellent shelf life and taste, attracting attention from local buyers.

Empowering Women Through Training

More than just being a farmer or entrepreneur, Subhana Hazarika is working to uplift rural women. She noticed how many small farmers suffer due to leftover or unsold crops. So, she began training women in post-harvest processing, teaching them how to preserve vegetables, reduce waste, and earn extra income.

She has already trained nearly 1,000 women across several villages. Women from Below Poverty Line (BPL) families receive free training and mentorship. Each workshop not only offers certification but also builds confidence and financial independence.

Subhana asks a powerful question: “If our raw produce is exported and returned as costly goods, why can’t we create value here?” Her training sessions are her answer, giving women the skills to produce value-added goods.

Celebrating Indian Herbs and Forgotten Vegetables

Assam is rich in traditional herbs and local vegetables, but many have disappeared from daily kitchens. Subhana made it her mission to bring them back. She talked to elders, read books, and did self-guided research to understand their uses and benefits.

Instead of turning these herbs into powders or capsules like commercial brands, she created natural chutneys and pastes. These are easy to use in everyday food, making traditional nutrition more accessible to modern families.

Farming Without Chemicals

Subhana’s farm is a living example of organic farming. She uses zero synthetic fertilisers or pesticides, proving that natural methods are possible and profitable. She believes that true sustainability starts with the soil.

For her, farming is not just work, it’s a lifestyle of respect for nature and health.

Profitable and Simple: A Model for Rural Women

Contrary to common belief, pickle-making can be a strong source of income. Subhana earns up to Rs 25,000 per month from her value-added farm products. Her secret is preserving vegetables at the right time, storing them safely, and selling them even when the season ends.

She doesn’t need a big factory or fancy equipment. Her method is simple and scalable and can be adopted by any woman with a small land or a kitchen garden.

Also Read: Embarking on a Sustainable Journey with @wormrani: Small Steps for Big Impact!

A Legacy Beyond Buildings

Subhana never depended on her husband’s high-status job. She chose to walk her path with conviction and courage. She handles sales and enjoys connecting with her community.

Her advice to young women is direct:

“Have confidence. Don’t be afraid to start small.”

She also believes in leaving behind a greener world, not just material wealth.

“Our children need clean air, pure soil, and trees more than buildings.”

A Role Model Rooted in Soil

Subhana Hazarika’s story is not just about pickles or farming. It’s about self-reliance, tradition, innovation, and empowerment. From homemaking to agripreneurship, she’s creating an impact with every jar of her oil-free preserves and every woman she trains.

In a fast-changing world, Subhana reminds us that progress doesn’t always mean technology; sometimes, it just means returning to our roots and doing things differently.