Pune: Prashant and Priya Jagtap, a couple from Daund Taluka, have demonstrated the potential of innovative farming by successfully cultivating purple brinjal on one acre of murum soil. This variety, highly sought after in city hotels, is currently priced between ₹15 and ₹25 per kilogram in the market.

The couple has invested ₹2 lakh in cultivation and is expecting a yield of 50 tons. If the current market rates hold, they anticipate a net profit of ₹8 lakh.

Daund Taluka, known primarily for its sugarcane farms, saw the Jagtaps diversifying their 19-acre farmland by integrating leafy vegetables and fruit orchards alongside sugarcane. They procured 3,200 brinjal saplings from Narayangaon at ₹7 per plant.

Irrigation needs are met through a private well, with drip irrigation pipes delivering water to each plant. Bamboo sticks, wires, and threads were used to support the brinjal vines, with assistance from hired women laborers.

Harvesting began on December 1, with yields averaging 1.5 to 2 tons every three days. So far, 10 harvests have been completed. The produce is supplied to major markets like Vashi in Mumbai and Gultekdi in Pune, with each brinjal weighing between 300 and 400 grams.

The Jagtaps attribute their success to family support and guidance from mentors Kailas Takawale and Vikas More. Prashant Jagtap emphasized the importance of modernizing agriculture despite challenges, crediting family unity for their achievements.