Mumbai, India: Vishnu Gond, a 52-year-old farmer from Maharashtra, has rewritten his destiny through sheer determination, powered by the support from Tata Motors. Life was once a constant struggle for Vishnu,who owned four acres of land. He could only cultivate crops on two acres, leaving the remaining land barren. Despite migrating to Nashik and Thane for seasonal labour to make ends meet, Vishnu found no stability or long-term prospects.
Determined to bring about change, Vishnu decided to implement the Wadi project, a tree-based farming programme in partnership with BAIF. This initiative, designed to support farmers with sustainable practices, provided Vishnu with new resources and training for planting and nurturing trees. He actively attended training sessions, visited demonstration plots, and learned innovative farming techniques that transformed his approach to agriculture.
Enthused with the response, Vishnu got involved in Tata Motors’ Integrated Village Development Programme. An access to a lined farm pond and a drip irrigation kit enabled Vishnu to cultivate vegetables and ensure a consistent water supply.Additionally, Vishnu ventured into fish farming, rearing about 1000 fishes of species like Rohu and Katla.
By 2023-24, Vishnu’s income through additional farming activities reached ₹61,400, including the cultivation of chili, cucumber, and cashews.His once-barren land now flourishes with cashew and mango orchards, offering a steady, year-round income. In addition to financial stability, this shift has opened up new avenues for his family, ensuring a better future.
Expressing his gratitude, Vishnu said, “Initially, I was skeptical about the new methods because I had always relied on traditional rainfed farming.From struggling to feed my family, I now have surplus produce that I can sell in the market. The income has helped me provide quality education for my children and better healthcare for my family. I am no longer forced to migrate for labour work.”
Vishnu’s success has indeed sparked a change in his community, with local farmers shifting from traditional methods to sustainable practices. This shift has not only reduced migration but also enhanced educational opportunities for their children.
Vinod Kulkarni, CSR Head, Tata Motors, highlighted the broader impact of such initiatives, stating, “The success and transformation of farmers like Vishnu Gond is a gratifying testament to our approach of layering of programmes to benefit the rural communities. Our initiatives such as the Wadi project and Integrated Rural Development programme are equipping farmers like Vishnu with sustainable farming method. We are improving livelihoods while promoting environmental stewardship for the future generations.”
As India celebrates Kisan Diwas on 23rd December, Tata Motors reaffirms its dedication to supporting agricultural communities through innovative, sustainable interventions that create long-term positive change on the lives of the farmers like Vishnu and more.
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