In the picturesque landscapes of Nashik lies a tale of triumph and perseverance – the story of Sangeeta Borasate. At 46, not only does she expertly cultivate grapes but she’s also a leading exporter, with half her yield making its way to international shores.
International Exporter from Nashik:
In the grape cultivation hub of Niphad taluka, Nashik, Sangeeta Borasate’s name shines bright. Her grape produce doesn’t just satisfy local demand but also garners a significant price in international markets.
Early Beginnings:
Life for Sangeeta took a significant turn in 1990 when she married at just 15. Her husband, Arun, was then employed with a bank, a seemingly stable foundation for their future.
A Shift to Farming:
Life threw its first curveball when a domestic dispute led to a division, granting them 10 acres of land. Passionate about farming, Arun resigned from his bank position to till the land.
Initial Hurdles:
However, transitioning from banking to farming without adequate knowledge proved disastrous. The losses they incurred were so severe that they had to sell 2.5 acres of their inheritance.
The Silver Lining:
2014 marked a turning point. Their relentless efforts began bearing fruit, quite literally. Their farm started yielding promising crops, and the specter of debt seemed to be fading.
A Heart-Wrenching Setback:
Fate, however, had other plans. Just when things seemed to stabilize, tragedy struck. Sangeeta’s support system, her husband Arun, passed away, leaving her with the dual challenges of managing the farm and raising their three daughters and son.
The Weight of Debt:
Overwhelmed but undeterred, Sangeeta was now confronted with the mammoth task of repaying the Rs 30 lakh debt her husband had left behind.
Learning the Ropes:
Initially, her farming knowledge was rudimentary at best. She knew labor was required but was clueless about the intricacies of cultivation. Reliance on relatives for farming guidance became her initial strategy.
Gaining Independence:
Time, however, is a great teacher. Gradually, with experience and resolve, Sangeeta mastered the nuances of grape farming, even as her family braved numerous challenges.
Quality Above All:
She recognized the importance of grape quality for overseas exports. Prioritizing quality enhancements ensured that a significant portion of her produce met international standards, paving the way for successful exports.
Triumph Over Trials:
Today, Sangeeta stands tall, having cleared her debts. With an annual turnover touching Rs 40 lakh, she enjoys a profit of Rs 15 lakh, reinvesting the remainder for farm upkeep.
Sangeeta Borasate’s journey, riddled with challenges, serves as an inspiration, proving that with grit and determination, one can turn even the bleakest situations around.
Image Creadit – The Better India – Hindi