Maharashtra farmers

Navnath Kaspate’s breakthrough custard apple varieties are transforming drought-prone farming, doubling yields, and inspiring thousands.

What started as a simple experiment on one farm is now helping thousands escape drought. With pits dug by hand and powered by rain, farmers are growing more, earning better, and living without tankers. The method is so simple—it’s changing entire villages without a single drop wasted.

These tribal farmers had no land rights, no irrigation, and no steady income. Today, jasmine fields have replaced uncertainty. With every bloom, their lives are transforming—offering hope, stability, and an end to forced migration.

In drought-prone Satara, Maharashtra, farmer Hrushikesh Jayasing Dhane turned adversity into success by making aloe vera products like soaps, shampoos, and juices, building a multi-crore business.

At a time when dragon fruit was not popular in Maharashtra, Mahesh Asabe set up a profitable business with dragon fruit cultivation. Today, he leads the way by earning Rs 10 lakh per acre income.

Here are some lessons in agriculture from the 'Village of Fruits' in Maharashtra.

Each part of this ‘wonder tree’ is useful. The roots, stems, leaves, seedpods, resin and flowers are considered to be healing herbs in Ayurvedic and Unani folk medicine.

Many people in Maharashtra are looking for ways to help farmers who are suffering in the drought affected regions of the state. Meet the Good Samaritans.