When fertiliser costs crossed over ₹1 lakh a year, Ramesh Khangoudar knew something had to change. Farming had become more expensive than rewarding, and the rising input costs were eating into both his profits and peace of mind. Instead of giving up, Ramesh decided to reinvent the way he farmed—and today, his story is inspiring thousands across Karnataka.
From Chemical to Organic
Ramesh began by moving away from chemical fertilisers and pesticides. He adopted organic practices, using natural compost, bio-fertilisers, and crop diversification. Not only did this reduce his expenses drastically, but it also improved soil fertility and boosted crop health.
The results were clear: healthier produce, lower costs, and a farming method that could be sustained for generations. But Ramesh didn’t stop there.
Training Over 10,000 Farmers
Seeing the benefits firsthand, Ramesh took it upon himself to share this knowledge. Over the years, he has trained more than 10,000 farmers in sustainable agricultural practices. His sessions focus on practical techniques that small and marginal farmers can easily adopt without heavy investments.
By building a community of organic farmers, Ramesh is helping to create an ecosystem where knowledge, seeds, and resources are shared—making farming both collaborative and resilient.
Bringing AI-Powered Robots to Small Farms
Innovation plays a huge role in Ramesh’s journey. With support from SELCO Foundation and the Karnataka State Agriculture Department, he introduced AI-powered robots to assist small farmers. These robots help with tasks like weeding, spraying, and monitoring crops—work that usually requires high labor costs.
By making technology accessible to rural communities, Ramesh is proving that even small farms can harness the power of modern tools without losing their traditional roots.
A Self-Sustaining Farm and Mobile Sales Unit
Beyond cultivation, Ramesh has built a self-sustaining farm that produces its own inputs and recycles resources efficiently. He also launched a mobile sales unit, directly connecting farmers to customers. This reduces middlemen, ensures fair prices for farmers, and provides consumers with clean, organic food at affordable rates.
The Bigger Mission
For Ramesh, this journey isn’t just about his own farm—it’s about transforming agriculture into a cleaner, more affordable, and more sustainable livelihood. His mission is simple but powerful: make farming accessible for all, without burdening farmers with debt or dependency on costly inputs.
A Story of Innovation and Impact
Ramesh Khangoudar’s story is a testament to what happens when tradition meets innovation. By combining organic farming with modern technology, he is not only improving his own life but also empowering thousands of farmers to take control of theirs.
As fertiliser prices continue to rise and climate challenges grow, his model shows a way forward—one that is affordable, sustainable, and full of hope.
Source: The Better India
