Inspiring Journey: India’s richest woman farmer, know about the inspiring journey of Nituben Patel
Inspiring Journey: Nituben Patel, also known as Nitaben Karnani, began her journey almost twenty years ago. She began as a basic farmer with a love of the outdoors rather than as an entrepreneur. She was born and raised in Harthkot village in the Rajkot district. Her curiosity with the balance of soil, water, plants, animals, and the environment in general began at an early age.
She adopted a nature-based lifestyle under the guidance of her guru, the late Shri Deepakbhai Sachade, who served as her inspiration. She developed the ability to hear from the dirt instead of using conventional methods. She believed that rather than working against nature, agriculture should cooperate with it. Over time, this idea would serve as the foundation for a revolution in agriculture.
Natural Agriculture: A Lifestyle
Nituben promoted soil health in addition to growing crops. Her techniques focused on turning organic waste into plant fertilizer and included Amrut Krushi and “Magical Mitti” techniques. It guaranteed long-term fertility and revitalized the soil. She created a thriving farm and a sustainable ecology with her approach.
In naturopathy, she has used her extensive knowledge of medicinal plants to produce a variety of health products. She has experience working on plantations and enriching soil, and she currently supports initiatives related to carbon credits, lake rehabilitation, ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance), and even the creation of biochar from invasive biomass.
Her 20-year-old farm is so well-designed and self-sufficient that it can function without human intervention for 20 years.
Giving Thousands of People Power
Sajeevan Life Pvt Ltd, a recognized non-profit organization devoted to promoting natural farming and rural development, was founded by Nituben. The whole state of Gujarat has seen significant change as a result of her endeavor.
The registration of 84 Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) in under 45 days was perhaps Sajeevan’s most noteworthy accomplishment. These FPOs not only assist in connecting farmers with government programs, but they also teach farmers cost-effective, sustainable practices.
Along with the Gujarat government, the venture also started an Internal Cluster System (ICS). Especially in hill and tribal areas, it has expedited the organic farmer certification procedure. Under her direction, 13,500 farmers in Gujarat’s Dang district received organic certification, making the district the first in the state to be entirely organic.
Online Presence and the Farm-to-Plate Model
In Rajkot, Nituben has set up a working “Farm to Plate” system where farmers sell their fresh fruit to customers directly, cutting out intermediaries. Better health for consumers and higher pricing for producers are the results of this.
She plans to introduce a rapid commerce model by the end of this month to deliver fresh organic fruits, vegetables, and dairy products straight to households. Her non-perishable products, such as ghee, mustard oil, and khapli wheat, are already being sold online via a number of websites. This action is helping her reach urban customers and build a devoted following for authentic, chemical-free goods.
A Farmer’s Heart in an Agripreneur
One of India’s greatest agricultural success stories is Nituben. However, she doesn’t aim for recognition or accolades. In actuality, Krishi Jagran and the “Khoj” show were the ones who first recognized her. Publicity didn’t even seem important to her until two years ago. She didn’t begin sharing her life narrative until her mentor advised her to promote her efforts in order to broaden her audience. Through her company, SanJeevan Life Pvt. Ltd., she is still striving today to preserve the essence of natural farming.
Function in GFBN and Prospects
Additionally, Nituben recently became a member of the Global Farmer Business Network (GFBN), a national program run by Krishi Jagran to support forward-thinking, environmentally conscious farmers throughout India. She shares her knowledge of soil health, natural farming, and inclusive rural development with a growing number of prospective agripreneurs as a mentor for GFBN. Her goals include creating a nationwide supply chain for clean, organic food, bringing natural farming to other states, and educating more female farmers.
An Example for Future Farmers to Follow
Nituben’s story is about significance rather than financial gain. Her strategy shows that farming can be sustainable and successful, that women can take the lead, and that nature may be a farmer’s greatest economic partner.
Since her journey began in Rajkot, hundreds of people have found inspiration in her. She shows that when done properly, agriculture serves society, the environment, and future generations rather than just being a source of subsistence.
“If we care for the soil, the soil will take care of everything else,” as Nituben states.