Sanand –  In a grassroots initiative to support sustainable farming practices, Gajendrasinh Vaghela, a farmer from Vinchhiya village in Sanand, has donated more than 50 cows free of cost to needy farmers practicing natural agriculture. The donation is aimed at helping farmers access key resources such as cow dung and cow urine, essential for preparing bio-inputs like jivamrut and ghanjivamrut used in natural farming.

Cowshed-based philanthropy for farmers

Vaghela, who has been operating a cowshed in Sanand for the past 15 years, observed that many small and marginal farmers were unable to adopt natural farming techniques due to the lack of access to cows. These animals are vital to the preparation of organic fertilizers and natural pesticides. “Many farmers want to switch to natural farming, but they cannot afford cows due to their poor financial condition. So, I decided to give cows from my cowshed to such farmers for free,” he said.

A cow in every farmer’s home

Driven by the vision that every natural farmer should have a cow, Vaghela has so far donated around  50 cows, and his cowshed currently shelters around 70 cows, including calves and heifers. He personally vets the beneficiaries, ensuring they are committed to natural farming practices. This contribution not only helps in agricultural production but also gives the farmer’s family access to pure milk, ghee, and buttermilk, which Vaghela describes as “green and moving hospitals.”

Upholding a family tradition

Vaghela’s philanthropic approach is rooted in his family’s values. His father and grandfather never sold cows, and he continues this tradition with the resolve that cows should serve farmers rather than be traded. “We believe in giving—not selling—because the cow supports both health and farming,” he added.

Conditional donation: A cycle of support

Each cow is donated under a clear agreement. Farmers are not allowed to sell the cow under any circumstances. If they find it financially difficult to maintain the animal, they are required to return the cow to the cowshed, where it is then reassigned to another deserving farmer. This ensures the sustainability and integrity of the initiative.

Moreover, Vaghela makes a practical decision when selecting cows for donation. Since raising calves until they begin producing milk is often unaffordable, he mostly donates mature cows. However, calves are given to capable farmers who can bear the cost of care until maturity.

A double benefit

Vaghela believes that his initiative offers dual benefits to the farmers. “Not only do they get the essential inputs for natural farming, but they also gain access to pure dairy products for their families. This reduces dependency on the market and improves both income and health,” he said.

This initiative, built on empathy and sustainability, represents a model that reflects how local leadership and traditional values can make a impact on the rural economy and environment. DeshGujarat