Late Shamraoji Peje, former MP from Ratnagiri, was the guiding force and steadfast supporter of our organization. His timely interventions helped the institution overcome many challenges. It is thanks to his efforts that the Maharashtra Government granted the organization 7 acres of land from the Forest Department—land which now houses the Krishi Kendra, one of our major sources of income.
To honor his memory, the organization launched a new agricultural development project near Kolbandre village, 10 km from Dapoli, by purchasing 12.5 acres of land. Here, a orchard of mother plants of various fruit trees has been established along with fruit plant nursary. A dug well provides water for the orchards through pumps and modern irrigation like drip and micro-sprinkler systems.
Our vision is to expand this area to 25–50 acres by acquiring adjacent land. Plans include cultivating orchards, forest trees, and spice crops. This project is designed not only to meet the future financial needs of the organization but also to serve as a center for introducing innovative agricultural technologies to rural farmers—fostering a fresh, progressive outlook in agriculture.
This project stands as a living tribute to Shamraoji Peje’s legacy and contributions to the rural community.
Prof. Prabhakar Shinde, son of the late Pandurang Shinde Guruji, is the architect and driving force behind this project. A determined and visionary young agriculturist, he has planted a variety of crops including mango, coconut, sapota, cashew, guava, amla, and jamun etc.A nursery for mango and sapota has also been established to make the project economically sustainable.
A notable demonstration of ultra-high-density mango farming (UHDP) has been created by planting Kesar and Alphonso mangoes using 4m x 2m spacing on one hectare. Teak trees orchard have been planted at a distance of 2.5 meters.
Due to the effects of climate change, amla production has declined. To compensate, black pepper has been intercropped on amla and teak trees. This ambitious project requires support, especially financial aid. We humbly appeal to all admirers of Shamraoji Peje, education advocates, philanthropists, alumni of Navbharat Chhatralaya, and members of the Navbharat Parivar to donate generously.