Transforming Tomato Farming in Beed 

Farmer: Sanjay Mandvi 
Village: Dongarkhni  

Block: Patoda  

Location: Beed, Maharashtra 

In a region where tomato farming faced challenges of low productivity, erratic rainfall, and high cultivation costs, AEGF under the ABF-supported project introduced an innovative demonstration (demo) plot model to drive climate-smart and sustainable cultivation. Sanjay Mandvi, guided by AEGF team, became an early adopter of this model in Dongarkhni village, showcasing how technology and best practices can transform farming outcomes even in rainfed conditions. 

The demo plot integrated a suite of modern technologies and practices: 

• New High-Yielding Variety of tomato suited to the region’s climate. 

• Drip Irrigation for efficient water use and uniform soil moisture. 

• Mulching to prevent weeds, retain moisture, and improve soil temperature. 

• Pheromone & Sticky Traps for pest monitoring and reduction in pesticide sprays. 

• Integrated Pest Management (IPM) emphasizing biological and cultural controls. 

• Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) using organic manures, biofertilizers, and balanced fertilizers to maintain soil health. 

Together, these interventions turned the plot into a live demonstration of precision agriculture tailored for smallholders. 

Key Outcomes & Impact 

• Higher Yield, Lower Cost: The demo plot achieved a 25–30% higher yield compared to traditional tomato cultivation, while efficient irrigation and pest management significantly reduced input costs. 

• Better Market Returns: The improved fruit quality, uniform size, bright color, and longer shelf life helped the farmer secure premium market prices. 

• Knowledge Transfer: The success attracted farmers from surrounding villages who attended exposure visits during various crop stages. Many expressed intent to replicate drip irrigation, mulching, and IPM practices in their own fields. 

• Environmental Gains: Reduced chemical usage, protected beneficial insects, and enhanced soil biodiversity, contributing to safer, eco-friendly farming. 

“Earlier, we struggled to get a good yield in our rainfed fields. With drip irrigation and mulching, water is used efficiently, and the plants are healthier. This approach has given me confidence to expand tomato cultivation next season.” 
— Sanjay Mandvi, Dongarkhni Village 

Encouraged by these results, neighboring farmers are adopting similar methods, turning the demo plot into a model learning center that promotes sustainable tomato cultivation across Beed district. 

The success of Mandvi’s tomato demo plot underlines how scientific interventions, when demonstrated locally, can inspire widespread adoption and long-term change. By bridging modern practices with traditional wisdom, the ABF project is nurturing a new generation of informed, entrepreneurial, and climate-resilient farmers across Maharashtra.