CSR initiative by Cummins India and Green Thumb Environment Protection Group to help local landless farmers to overcome vagaries of agriculture

Pune: Mr Ashish Aggarwal, Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) of Cummins India recently inaugurated fish ponds near the backwater of Khadakwasla dam near remote Khanapur village located 25 kms from Pune. Aggarwal also visited the ecological restoration site of the dam and omgoing desilting project by the NGO, green thumb led by Col Suresh Patil.  

Speaking on the occasion, Aggarwal appreciated the efforts of fishpond, the integrated farming system meant to increase the profitability and livelihood security of the local farmers. He also hailed the efforts of Green Thumb for taking the activities to the next level. 

During the formal ceremony, Col Patil explained to the visitors about the initiative meant to built to harvest rainwater, fisheries and irrigate rain-fed fields. 

Ms Saujanya Veguru, Amit Lele amongst other representatives from Cummins India Foundation were part of this ceremony.

While explaining the initiative Col Patil said, "Such ponds will create an ecosystem in our backyard. These features create a place for different types of plants, insects, and can be a place for birds as well. The pond is open for all the farmers free of cost," he mentioned.   

The Green Thumb is an NGO comprising former servicemen who work towards ecological restoration led by Founder President and Veteran Col Patil. The Khadakwasla dam desilting model has already emerged as a role model for water augmentation and the holding capacity of dams, stated a press release.