For decades, Sindhudurg’s farmers relied solely on mango and cashew harvests. Through Krishi Parivar’s eco-tourism program, these same families now host city travellers, offer authentic Konkan meals, and sell farm produce directly to guests. This transformation has multiplied rural income while preserving the landscape and culture that define the region.
1.1 Core Development
The Patkar family of Talawade village converted a two-acre orchard into a dual-purpose farm-stay. With guidance from Krishi Parivar:
Two laterite cottages were built under sustainable architecture norms.
Basic hospitality training was provided to family members.
Farm-fresh meals and craft workshops were added to the visitor experience.
Within eight months, 180 guests stayed at the property, generating ₹3.8 lakh in supplementary income.
1.2 Background / Context
Rural youth migration was rising as farm earnings fell. By turning farms into stay-and-experience spaces, Krishi Parivar helped families add predictable, high-margin income while engaging every generation in rural enterprise.
1.3 Impact Highlights
| Metric | Before | After |
|---|---|---|
| Annual farm income | ₹ 2.2 lakh | ₹ 5.6 lakh |
| Employment | 2 family members | 5 family members |
| Customer reach | Local mandi buyers | Direct urban tourists & online sales |
1.4 Community Reaction
“Now guests remember our farm’s name — not just our produce,” smiles Anita Patkar, farmer-host.
“This model keeps culture alive while creating cash flow,” adds CA Manish Mishra.
1.5 Challenges & Lessons
Maintaining hygiene and online reputation requires discipline. The family now uses booking-site reviews as a KPI — a new form of quality benchmarking in rural hospitality.
1.6 Way Forward
They plan to expand with two more eco rooms and a solar cooking area, aligned with Krishi Parivar’s “Green Stay 2026” initiative.
Why This Matters
Real development begins when villagers become entrepreneurs without leaving their roots. Krishi Parivar’s model turns farms into self-sustaining brands of rural prosperity.