By Jayashree Sakpale, District Manager, Nandurbar
I used to believe that entrepreneurship was only for the young and that starting a business required energy, quick thinking, and modern ideas. However, my perspective changed after meeting one of our beneficiaries during a recent monitoring visit. The story of Mr. Batusing Limaji Padavi from Ranipur village, Shahada block, Nandurbar district, proved that with determination and the proper guidance, anyone can become a successful entrepreneur. He showed me that entrepreneurship is not defined by age or education, but by mindset, perseverance, and the willingness to succeed.
CYDA is implementing the Samruddha Kisan Project in the region to promote sustainable livelihoods and improve the economic condition of small and marginal farmers. The project focuses on introducing modern farming techniques, entrepreneurship, and market-oriented practices to help farmers increase their income.
Mr. Padavi, aged 42, studied only up to the 4th standard. He owns three acres of rainfed land and supports a family of seven. Despite leasing irrigated land, his income was insufficient to meet household needs. Recognizing his potential, CYDA encouraged him to participate in the Entrepreneurship Development Programme (EDP), a three-day training designed to build business and management skills among farmers.
During the training, participants learned about market surveys, customer relations, and business planning. Mr. Padavi actively participated in all sessions and developed his own business plan. Based on his commitment and readiness to work hard, CYDA provided seed capital to help him start his enterprise.
After completing the EDP, he began buying rice locally and selling it at the nearby market. Gradually, he began purchasing raw rice from Visarwadi, processing it, and selling the cleaned rice in different areas. To reduce transportation costs, he collaborated with a Farmer Producer Organisation (FPO) that provided free dehusking services in exchange for broken rice and husk. This arrangement helped him save costs and increase profits.
Over time, he has expanded his business by selling various rice varieties, including Indrayani, Khushabu, and Desi. He sells his produce at weekly markets in Mhasawad, Toranmal, and Khetiya (Madhya Pradesh), and also sets up a small roadside stall to attract tourists visiting the nearby Toranmal hill station.
With consistent effort, Mr Padavi has increased his monthly sales to around 32 quintals. He now earns between ₹45,000 and ₹48,000 per month, compared to his earlier income of ₹10,000–₹12,000. Encouraged by his progress, he has also started processing and selling toor dal purchased from Gujarat.
As his business expanded, he needed reliable transport for timely delivery. Earlier, he rented vehicles, but frequent delays caused losses. To address this challenge, he purchased a Bolero vehicle for ₹5.5 lakh, marking a significant and progressive step for him. Mr. Batusing Padavi’s story reflects how training, guidance, and small financial support can transform a farmer’s life. Under the Samruddha Kisan Project, his journey from a small farmer to a successful entrepreneur stands as an inspiring example for others in his community. Reflecting on his journey, he said with confidence, “I have found the key to success and learned to grab opportunities.”
