From Local to Global: The Ishaq Ali Story
At Abu Saunf 440™, our legacy is built on the vision and perseverance of Ishaq Ali—the “Saunf King.” With nearly three decades of experience, Ishaq transformed traditional fennel seed farming into a global success story, turning a local passion into an international benchmark.

1. Early Life & Roots in Agriculture

• A Family Tradition:
  Born into an agricultural family in the Sirohi district of Rajasthan, Ishaq Ali’s love for farming started early. After completing his Class 12 examinations, he eagerly joined his father and grandfather in cultivating traditional crops like cotton, mustard, and wheat.
• Deep Community Ties:
  His early experiences grounded him in the realities of rural life, instilling a strong work ethic and a passion for sustainable agriculture.

2. Recognizing the Potential of Fennel Seed

• A Shift in Perspective:
  Nearly fifty years ago, when most local farmers abandoned fennel seed due to low success rates, Ishaq Ali saw an untapped opportunity.
• Early Experiments:
  While others returned to conventional crops, he began to explore innovative techniques specifically tailored for fennel seed cultivation, anticipating growing demand in export markets.

3. Innovation & Breakthrough

• The Birth of Abu Saunf 440™:
  After years of dedication and experimentation, Ishaq Ali developed a revolutionary new variety of fennel seed—Abu Saunf 440™. This breakthrough addressed several longstanding challenges:
  • Less Seed Requirement: Optimized sowing practices to reduce seed use.
  • Disease Control: Mitigated major diseases without relying on chemicals.
  • Enhanced Yield: Achieved significant improvements in production.
  • Reduced Labour & Ploughing Costs: Streamlined operations with lower overall costs.
  • Water Efficiency: Cut water usage by up to 55% even before the advent of modern drip irrigation.
  • Lower Pesticide Use: Promoted a more sustainable approach with minimal chemical intervention.

4. Local Success to Global Impact

• The Saunf King’s Legacy:
  Today, on just fifteen acres, Ishaq Ali produces over twenty-five tonnes of fennel seed annually, generating nearly INR thirty lakhs.
• Global Recognition:
  Abu Saunf 440™ stands as a testament to his innovative spirit, demonstrating how local expertise and dedication can resonate on a global scale.
• Our Mission:
  We continue to uphold Ishaq Ali’s legacy by providing high-quality, sustainably produced fennel seed products to a worldwide market.