Success Stories
Veena Ben Bhimsingh Bhai
Strengthening Sustainable Farming through Organic Fertilizer Production
Veena Ben Bhimsingh Bhai, a resident of Vasedi village in Chhotaudepur district, has been an active member of SGS for the past ten years and primarily depends on agriculture for her livelihood. Like many farmers in the region, she faced challenges related to declining soil fertility and the rising cost of chemical fertilizers. Seeking a sustainable alternative, Veena Ben decided to adopt organic practices that could benefit both her farm and her household income.
Recognising the growing demand for organic inputs, she started producing Amrutpani-Brahmastra, a traditional organic bio-formulation known for improving soil health and enhancing crop growth. With support from SGS’s microfinance programme, she took a loan of ₹10,000 to purchase a small machine required for preparing the formulation, considering it a one-time investment for a long-term livelihood activity.
Through training provided by the SFT (Shroffs Foundation Trust), Veena Ben gained the necessary knowledge and technical skills to prepare and use the formulation effectively. She began producing Amrutpani-Brahmastra both for her own farm and for sale within her community.
Over the past three years, this initiative has brought positive changes to her farming and financial stability. The organic formulation helped improve soil health and crop productivity, while also creating an additional income stream. Veena Ben successfully repaid her loan within one year, demonstrating strong financial discipline.
Her earnings from the activity were ₹8,400 in the first year, ₹10,000 in the second year, and ₹8,400 in the third year. This consistent income has strengthened her household finances and enabled her to continue investing in sustainable farming practices.
Veena Ben’s journey from a traditional farmer to a successful producer of organic fertilizer is a clear example of how small changes can lead to significant improvements. By adopting new practices and making use of available resources, she was able to enhance both her farming methods and her financial situation. Her story highlights the importance of support systems like microfinance and training programs, which empower farmers to take control of their livelihoods.