Nestled in the verdant landscapes of Paraste village, straddling the Goa-Maharashtra border, lies a testament to sustainable living and agricultural innovation. Shekhar Parastekar, an organic farmer, has turned his property into a self-sustaining ecosystem, proving that modern technology and traditional farming practices can coexist harmoniously.
Parastekar’s journey towards self-sufficiency began with a vision to create an integrated farming system. His 5-acre farm, a short distance from Pernem, is a bustling hub of activity, with crops, a dairy, and a gobar-gas unit all coexisting in perfect harmony. The farm’s proximity to the Terekhol river ensures a steady supply of clean water, eliminating the need for chemical treatments and ensuring the crops remain fully organic.
The farm’s core lies in its waste management system. Six buffaloes provide milk for the family and the village, while their dung is collected and converted into gobar-gas using four machines. This gas powers the cooking units at the farm, reducing the need for gas cylinders to a mere two per year. The slurry from the dung is then added to the vermicompost, creating a nutrient-rich fertilizer that Parastekar sells at a nominal price.
Parastekar’s integrated approach has not only enhanced productivity but also ensured sustainability. He grows a variety of crops, including cashews, areca nuts, coconuts, and black pepper, which bring in a substantial income. The farm’s success is a testament to the power of integrated farming, where every element, from waste to water, is utilized efficiently.
The department of agriculture and the Agriculture Technology Management Agency (ATMA) North Goa have been instrumental in supporting Parastekar’s endeavors. With their help, he has embraced modern machinery, further enhancing the farm’s productivity and sustainability. His achievements have not gone unnoticed. In 2022, Parastekar was awarded the Fr Inacio Almeida Memorial Special Award for Organic Farming, recognizing his dedication and innovation in the field.
Parastekar’s farm serves as a model for sustainable and integrated farming. It demonstrates how traditional farming practices can be combined with modern technology to create a self-sustaining ecosystem. His story is an inspiration for farmers and agritech enthusiasts alike, showcasing the potential of integrated farming in creating a sustainable future. As ATMA North Goa aptly put it, Parastekar’s farm exemplifies self-sufficiency and innovation, setting a benchmark for others to follow.
