Guwahati: In a region once troubled by insurgency and social unrest, Dhoni Ram Chetia, a young farmer from Tekeri Gaon’s Pangeri area in Tinsukia district, has chosen a path of peace and progress through agriculture. Chetia has dedicated himself to farming, inspiring local youth to explore the potential of growing their own vegetables, fruits, and grains.Despite being recognized as a progressive farmer, Chetia recalls the financial hardships his family faced during his childhood. Many educated youths in the area turned to extremist groups in search of recognition or income, often resulting in clashes with law enforcement agencies. However, Chetia never considered joining such groups.“I lost my father at the age of six, and shouldering responsibilities at such a young age was very difficult. My family members spent more time working in the fields than at home, and I neither had the time nor the inclination to follow a path of violence. Earning a living at that age was challenging, but luckily we had kind neighbours who would pluck papayas from their garden and give them to me to sell, allowing me to keep whatever I earned from the sale,” he said.Chetia moved to Digboi during his eighth-grade year, balancing school with fieldwork. Although financial constraints prevented him from completing college, his practical experience in agriculture paved the way for his future as a farmer. He believes that many youths focus solely on job hunting and become disheartened if unsuccessful, advocating instead for greater awareness of the opportunities agriculture presents in Assam. “With social media, anyone can learn, share, and achieve something meaningful in farming,” he said.Now 38, Chetia cultivates a variety of seasonal produce, including bananas, apples, litchis, papayas, and sugarcane on his 25 bighas of land. His vision is for Assam to thrive with self-reliant farmers who no longer depend on produce from other states. Through social media, he shares his farming techniques and tips, inspiring local youth and attracting aspiring farmers nationwide eager to learn from his experience.
