Farmer Who Heals Through Soil: The Inspiring Journey of Pratap Nivrutti Bankar from Nashik
Pratap Nivrutti Bankar, a 48-year-old farmer from Nashik, has turned his 42-acre land into a thriving example of natural farming. Using traditional methods and indigenous cows, he now grows 40 different crops while supporting other farmers. His success has even drawn attention from agricultural experts and local communities.
Bankar’s journey began years ago, with a focus on sustainable practices. In 2008, the Institution of Electronics and Telecommunication Engineers (IETE) visited him in Bengaluru for a training programme on sustainable agriculture. Since then, he has refined his methods, using cow dung and urine to create natural inputs like Jeevamrut and Ghan Jeevamrut.
His farm now yields 100 quintals of crops per acre, earning him a daily profit of ₹1,200 from selling 50 kg of mixed produce. Beyond farming, he runs a shop in Nashik city, selling his produce and offering remedies made from his naturally grown crops. The shop also provides Nadi Pariksha sessions, blending agriculture with holistic wellness. Bankar’s techniques have improved the nutritional quality of his crops. For example, his spinach contains 20 mg of iron per 100 g—far higher than conventional varieties. He also practices multi-layer farming, which ensures a steady income and protects against climate and market changes. Beyond his own farm, Bankar mentors and trains farmers across Maharashtra. He helps them with marketing support, encouraging more to adopt natural farming methods.
Bankar’s model proves that natural farming can be both profitable and sustainable. His work has increased crop yields, improved nutrition, and inspired other farmers. With his shop and training efforts, he continues to expand his impact in Nashik and beyond.
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