Success Story: Today, we introduce Rishikesh Dhane, an educated farmer from Padali village in Satara district, Maharashtra. He has amazed neighboring farmers by earning ₹1 crore annually from aloe vera farming. His journey was challenging, but he persevered. Here is Rishikesh Dhane’s success story.

Rishikesh Dhane and his family used to grow traditional crops like jowar, bajra, and soybean, but they weren’t making much profit. Seeking better opportunities, Rishikesh pursued a B.Sc in Horticulture and then began small-scale farming and marketing of agricultural products.

Rishikesh Dhane graduated in 2001. To support his studies and help his family, he sold fertilizers and agricultural supplies to small companies. He also began growing cucumbers and tomatoes on his farm to sell in nearby markets. Soon, his company asked him to relocate to another city with a salary of ₹3,500 per month. Feeling that he couldn’t live independently on that amount and having a strong interest in farming, he decided to quit his job.

The year 2007 was a turning point for Rishikesh. He took 4,000 unused aloe vera plants from a neighboring farmer and recognized their potential, planting them on his family’s farm. Over time, the crop expanded to 3 acres. Rishikesh practices organic farming, using cow dung, poultry manure, and mushroom waste as fertilizer. He also employs sprinkler and drip irrigation systems to keep the plants healthy.

Aloe vera grows well in various soils and can be harvested year-round, making it a profitable crop for Rishikesh. He sells aloe vera to cosmetic and pharmaceutical companies in Pune and Mumbai for ₹25 per kg. Additionally, he makes and sells organic pesticides and insecticides, which boosts his income. Overall, he earns ₹1 crore annually from aloe vera cultivation.

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