Jaipur: Nearly a decade ago, when Santosh Devi Khedar brought apple and pomegranate saplings to her small farm in Beri village of Sikar district, she was met with laughter, disbelief and quiet mockery. Neighbours and even agriculture experts dismissed the idea of growing apples in the arid land, where water is scarce and summers ruthless. But Santosh Devi held on to that impossible dream — and today, it has taken her all the way to Rashtrapati Bhavan.Recognised several times as an innovative farmer by the state govt, Santosh Devi has now received one of the most emotional honours of her life. She has been invited as a distinguished participant for this year’s Republic Day celebrations, following an invitation from the President of India.The moment the letter arrived, her family and village were overcome with joy, turning years of struggle into tears of pride. Speaking to TOI, her son Rahul Khedar said the invitation came three days ago. “My mother couldn’t stop smiling. She worked silently for years, facing failures, doubts and financial stress. Today, her hard work has finally been recognised at the highest level,” he said.Santosh Devi’s journey from the dry, cracked earth of Beri village to national recognition is yet another story of faith and perseverance. For nearly 10 years, she experimented with horticulture in harsh conditions, refusing to give up despite water scarcity, poor soil and repeated scepticism.“I grew pomegranates, apples and mosambi for the past 10 years,” she said, her voice filled with emotion. “There were days when I felt exhausted, but I kept changing methods — the soil, watering, everything. I believed the land would respond one day.”That belief paid off. Her apple trees began bearing fruit where none thought they would. The people who once laughed now watch in awe. “Jo maanya konya, ve ib poonchhe hai,” she says softly — “those who didn’t believe now come asking for guidance”.
She dreamt of apples & pomegranates in Sikar, it has now got her an invite from Prez | Jaipur News
