Babytai Balasaheb Kolekar, once solely identified as a devoted homemaker and loving mother to her two children, found herself thrust into the role of an agripreneur after the tragic loss of her husband. With unwavering determination, she embraced the responsibility, striving to meet the expectations of her family, including her daughter and her son, her daughter is married off now while her son is currently pursuing his education in Pune while also assisting her in the agricultural endeavors.
Transformed by adversity, Babytai exemplifies resilience, her appetite for growth and learning heightened. She now owns five acres of land, each parcel equipped with cutting-edge technology designed to optimise water usage during crop cultivation. Engaging with the PepsiCo and WaterAid-supported project, she delved deeper into potato cultivation, integrating the latest farming techniques like drip irrigation, particularly crucial in water-stressed regions.
Standing out among her peers, Babytai was quick to grasp the significance of drip irrigation and other modern farming methods introduced during the training sessions. Recognising their potential to enhance productivity while conserving water, she became a trailblazer, championing the adoption of these practices within her community.
Returning from the training, Babytai took it upon herself to install the drip irrigation system on her land, setting an inspiring example for others. Her initiative not only led to increased yields but also encouraged fellow farmers to capitalise on government subsidies, making the transition to modern irrigation methods more accessible and cost-effective. Through her leadership, Babytai demonstrated that with innovation and determination, one can thrive even in the face of adversity.
Babytai fondly reflects on her lifelong interest in environmental issues, particularly the pressing concern of water conservation. She recalls a time when the rhythms of nature seemed more predictable, with timely rains ensuring a moderate climate and consistent water availability throughout the year in Pune. However, in recent years, she has observed a stark shift in the environmental landscape.
Untimely and sporadic rainfall has become the new norm, with some years experiencing below-average precipitation. The once-reliable check dams now stand as silent witnesses to the dwindling rivers, incapable of retaining the scarce water needed for groundwater replenishment. These changes have deeply affected Babytai, heightening her sensitivity to the urgent need for water conservation efforts.
As someone who has witnessed these environmental transformations firsthand, Babytai is driven to play an active role in safeguarding this precious resource. Her commitment to water conservation stems from a personal connection to the land and a profound understanding of the challenges posed by climate change. Through her actions and advocacy, she endeavors to inspire others to join her in preserving water for future generations.
