The initiative comes on top of the spiritual organisation's efforts to implement natural farming practices across 1.3 million hectares of agricultural land aimed at comprehensive rural development
The Art of Living Foundation, a global spiritual organisation, has launched Kisan Basket, a platform enabling direct consumer orders from farmers. The Foundation formalised this initiative through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Maharashtra state government at a ceremony witnessed by Art of Living founder Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.
In a statement, the organisation shared that it currently implements natural farming practices on over 1.3 million hectares in the state, aiming for comprehensive rural development. The release highlighted the training of more than 10,000 tribal farmers in natural and sustainable agriculture around the Sambhaji Nagar district, a project acknowledged on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Mann Ki Baat show.
Speaking at a farmer gathering in Alandi, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar called on sarpanchs to prevent farmer suicides. He appealed to the Maharashtra government to take action, offering the support of Art of Living volunteers.
The spiritual leader also urged village heads and parents to discourage youths from alcohol addiction, emphasising the interconnectedness of farmer happiness and consumer health. Notable Marathi actor and environmental activist Sayaji Shinde, who was present at the event, encouraged the audience to plant at least 500 trees. Sarpanch Hiware Bazar and Padma Shri awardee Popat Rao Pawar underscored the importance of maintaining healthy soil.
Furthermore, in collaboration with the Government of Maharashtra's MNREGA, The Art of Living Social Projects solidified their commitment through an MoU, advancing the Jal Tara project. The Jal Tara initiative, part of Art of Living, has successfully constructed 45,500 Jaltara recharge structures in 115 villages over two years, benefiting a significant population.