With the realization that cultivating just one crop won’t be sufficient, Vasudha today has transformed her farm into a well-established business. Vasudha, a graduate degree holder, and Dattatray, a retired professional from Amri farms, are known as the innovative and transformative couple in Pimpri-Rolas, Nashik.
From having no exposure to farming before marriage to being bestowed with all the responsibility of the farm’s management Vasudha has made a long and challenging journey. Carrying out all the farm activities was not an easy task, but Vasudha saw an opportunity to explore new technological innovation in this challenge. Her willingness to experiment and learn helped her cultivate her love for agriculture.
Dattatray’s family already owned 6 acres of inherited land. They also got an opportunity to buy an additional 2 acres of land just next to their existing land. They decided to buy this land though it meant an additional financial burden on the entire family. In order to increase their income Vasudha and her family cultivated various vegetables in their farm and themselves went to the market to sell the harvest. Soon they started a dairy in addition to farming and purchased 7 cows for the same. From milking the cow to managing the finances, Vasudha had to look after all of it.
In 2010, Vasudha became a part of Sahiyadri Farms. Soon, Vasudha began exporting grapes to Europe. In 2017, Vasudha witnessed a major turn of events with a raging storm that spoiled over 3 acres of vineyard in just 3 days. Vasudha turned the crop that they could salvage into raisins with the help of sun-drying equipment. This technique was cost-effective and efficient.
Using innovative techniques and technology helps save costs and makes farming profitable. This resourceful and innovative approach has helped Vasudha turn her farms into a profitable venture. Vasudha believes, “Farming is a business, and one must think like an entrepreneur to grow.”
Vasudha continues her experiment with different crops. She has also experimented with sun-drying crops like onions and tomatoes to create processed foods. Her curiosity and willingness to try new things is what makes farming a challenge worth taking up. Vasudha says she draws inspiration from Sahiyadri farms. We commend Vasudha's passion and feel fortunate to be a part of her journey.