Growing onion seeds and knowledge for 300 farmers in Punjab

In Punjab, India, onion seed producer Bikram Singh is refining his business for the next phase of growth. With decades of experience and a strong local network, he engaged with PUM to further professionalise his production process and sharpen his market approach. The collaboration is now laying the foundation for improved quality, stronger positioning and future expansion, not only for his own company but also for the 300 farmers he works with.

Founded in 1999 in Banur, Bikram Singh’s company has grown into a recognised onion seed producer serving around 300 farmers across Punjab. The client rotates his onion cultivation with paddy rice and wheat. Furthermore, he cultivates flowers and vegetables. He carries out his business on approximately 10 to 15 hectares. Alongside his own production, Bikram Singh advises farmers on cultivation practices, contributing to knowledge sharing in the region. The company employs a predominantly female workforce, reflecting a clear commitment to women’s empowerment.

With more than 25 years of experience, Bikram Singh has developed two open-pollinated onion varieties adapted to local conditions. At the same time, increasing market opportunities and technical challenges prompted him to seek a second opinion on his entire production chain.

A second opinion across the full value chain

PUM expert Chris Kik, specialised in onion breeding and seed production, worked closely with Bikram Singh to review every step of the process. He explains: “The client identified a number of key steps in his onion seed production before the visit. These key steps were thoroughly discussed in the field and at home.” From seedbed preparation and sowing techniques to crop management, harvesting, storage and marketing, the project provided a comprehensive assessment of current practices.

The exchange combined field visits, discussions with local farmers and meetings with agricultural stakeholders. As Chris explains: “The focus was not only on technical optimisation, but also on understanding how decisions in cultivation, storage and variety selection influence overall business performance.”

From practical insights to continued development 

Building on the discussions during the visit, Chris now follows up with Bikram Singh to translate insights into practical improvements. Particular attention will be given to refining storage methods, improving monitoring of crop development and strengthening data collection for decision-making.

The project confirmed that many of Bikram Singh’s practices are already well developed, such as careful pest management and efficient irrigation. At the same time, opportunities were identified to further optimise fertilisation, improve seed storage conditions and make better use of economic data to support a targeted marketing strategy.

Strengthening position and creating impact

With a growing demand for onion seeds in Punjab, the company is well positioned to expand its production and reach more farmers in the coming years. Improved processes and stronger quality control are expected to support higher yields and more consistent seed performance.

The impact extends beyond the company itself. By supplying quality seeds and sharing knowledge with hundreds of farmers, Bikram Singh contributes to more reliable onion production in the region. In addition, the company’s focus on female employment continues to create economic opportunities at the local level.

Video

Please also watch this video by journalist Sukhwinder Singh of Green Mic Official, showing Bikram Singh’s journey from working in Italy to building a thriving onion seed business in Punjab. It also features reflections from PUM expert Chris Kik on the quality of production and potential future growth. The video highlights how local knowledge, combined with international expertise, can contribute to stronger agricultural practices and new opportunities for farmers in the region.

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