Bhaskar Save Biography 
Bhaskar Save was an Indian agriculturist also referred to as 'Gandhi' of organic farming (or natural farming). He was also an educator, entrepreneur and activist from Bihar, who lived during the period, 27 January 1922 – 24 October 2015. He developed his system of natural farming after being induced to use chemical fertilizers, and when he realized that it won’t return value to him or his land. By ruining the natural fertility of the soil, we actually create artificial 'needs' resulting in more unnecessary inputs – advised the renowned farmer.
He has been honoured with more than 25 honours from different organizations during his lifetime. He received Person of the year Award from Limca Book of Records – Mumbai in 1993. Same year his name was also included in the book of records for generating the highest production and profit in the world with Mr. Save's Organic Farming System. Gram Shilpi Award from Shri Shankaracharya at Vishwa Mangal Gou Gram Yatra – Gujarat, Organic Farming God–Father Award from Maharashtra Government, Man of the Earth Award from Janirs International Residential & Junior College – Thane etc are only a few from the countless awards he received for organic farming.
Bhaskar Hiraji Save was born on 27 January 1922 in the coastal village of Dehri in Rohtas district in the state of Bihar. He was born into to the Wadval community of farm tenders. He spent his early days in Gujarat. Save’s family grew mainly rice, pulses, and some vegetables, and people often worked together on each other's fields when extra efforts are necessary. He used to go to neighbouring forest areas along with his father in bullock carts, and thus got into touch with Warli tribe. He found that the tribal people never cut trees till they are dried and shed all green leaves, as they believe that gods exist in green. It was an idea that struck a chord, and he decided to implement them in his farming techniques as well.
He studied till class 7 and also did a two-year certified course for primary training. Save married Maltiben in 1951, and since then she fully supported him in his efforts. He inspired and mentored 3 generations of organic farmers. Masanobu Fukuoka, the legendary Japanese organic farmer also praised his organic techniques. In 2006 he sent an open letter to MS Swaminathan, who was then the chairman of the National Commission on Farmers. His letter on the unrelenting wave of farmer suicides in various parts of India was widely circulated all over the world, and translated into several languages.
About 10 acres of Bhaskar Save’s farm are under a mixed organic orchard of coconut and sapota. His farm also includes fewer trees of numerous other species. Two seasonal field crops are cultivated organically in traditional rotation. He also introduced a residential Natural Farming Learning Centre in 2014.
Published: February 03, 2019
Updated: February 03, 2019
