Farmers’ Day Celebrated by Amazon and ICRISAT in Palghar
On October 9, 2026, Amazon and ICRISAT honored local farmers in Palghar, Maharashtra, focusing on sustainable agriculture and water conservation.
The event recognized the contributions of tribal farmers to a water and soil conservation project.
The initiative has established 97 water-management structures, enhancing irrigation and crop yields.
Farmers are expected to see an 80% increase in household incomes during the Rabi season.
On October 9, 2026, Amazon and the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) celebrated Farmers’ Day in Abitgarh village, Palghar district. This event honored the vital role of local tribal farmers in a project aimed at improving farming practices and conserving water and soil. The gathering included farming families, field teams, and various partners, emphasizing the collaboration between Amazon and ICRISAT to promote sustainable agricultural practices.
The celebration was attended by notable figures, including Hon’ble Shri Daulat Bhika Daroda, the local MLA, and agricultural experts such as Dr. Amol V. Dahiphale from the Agricultural Research Station in Palghar. Their presence underscored the importance of the initiative, which spans 1,500 hectares and addresses critical issues like land degradation and water scarcity through community-led management.
The Amazon-ICRISAT initiative, titled “Regenerative Landscape for Transforming Smallholder Agri-Food Systems,” has made significant strides in its first year. It has successfully implemented 97 water-management structures, including farm ponds and masonry tanks, which have created a water-harvesting capacity of approximately 328,900 cubic meters. This infrastructure not only secures irrigation but also supports dry-season cropping, benefiting around 700 tribal farming families.
The impact of this initiative is expected to be substantial, with projections indicating an 80% increase in household incomes for participating families during the Rabi season. Anurag Khilnani from Amazon Web Services highlighted the project's role in replenishing the Vaitarna river system, which is crucial for Mumbai's drinking water supply, while also improving crop yields for local farmers.
Looking ahead, the project aims to further enhance water resources and agricultural productivity. By 2027, it is anticipated to replenish approximately 1,300 million liters of water annually, significantly contributing to groundwater recharge in the region. This initiative not only supports local communities but also aligns with ICRISAT’s mission of promoting climate-resilient agriculture for smallholder farmers.
