Ahmednagar – 2025: Bosco Gramin Vikas Kendra (BGVK), under the Watershed Development Fund (WDF) project supported by NABARD and Tata Power Community Development Trust (TPCDT), has been actively promoting mulching techniques among farmers in Mathani–Balewadi village, Ahmednagar district. This initiative aims to foster sustainable and climate-resilient agricultural practices in the region.

Through a series of awareness sessions and practical field demonstrations, BGVK introduced the benefits of mulching—an effective method of covering soil surfaces with organic or synthetic materials such as straw, dried leaves, plastic sheets, or agricultural residues. This technique plays a vital role in conserving soil moisture, minimizing weed growth, preventing soil erosion, and regulating soil temperature.

Farmers in the village have enthusiastically adopted mulching, particularly in vegetable cultivation, where it has significantly reduced the need for frequent irrigation, lowered labor costs, and improved both the quality and quantity of produce. The reduction in dependency on chemical inputs has also contributed to more environmentally friendly farming practices.

The growing acceptance and implementation of mulching reflect the farmers' increasing awareness and willingness to embrace sustainable methods that enhance productivity while preserving natural resources. This transformation marks a significant step toward building a more resilient and prosperous agricultural community in Mathani–Balewadi.