New Delhi, October 2024.
To celebrate Mahila Kisan Diwas, Coca-Cola India has collaborated with renowned illustrator PS Rathour to pay tribute to the remarkable contributions of women farmers and their journeys toward sustainable agriculture.The artist’s canvas highlights five women farmers —Regina, Rani, Suvarna, Preethi, and Basanti—from diverseIndian states brought to life through captivating illustration.
At the heart of this initiative are inspiring stories of resilience and transformation. In Kodagu, Rani revitalized barren land into a flourishing coffee plantation, turning her personal loss into a thriving enterprise while earning a steady income. Her dedication and leadership earned her a position as a board director for the Madikeri Highlands Farmers Producers Company. Meanwhile, in Kolhapur, Suvarna’s journey from smallholder farmer to successful entrepreneur showcases the power of sustainable practices. Her innovative use of vermicomposting enhanced soil fertility, significantly boosting her sugarcane and vegetable yields and ensuring economic stability for her family.
These women are not only leaders in sustainable farming; they are vital agents of change in their communities. By adopting good agricultural practices (GAPs), they enhance food security, improve the well-being of their families, create jobs, and drive local entrepreneurship, illustrating the profound impact women have in agriculture.
Reflecting on the project, illustrator P.S. Rathour shared, “Creating these sketches was more than an artistic challenge; it was a chance to capture the courage and innovation these women embody. I hope my work reflects their strength and the vital role they play in shaping a sustainable future for Indian agriculture.”
Rajesh Ayapilla, Senior Director-CSR and Sustainability, Coca-Cola India & Southwest Asia (INSWA),stated, “Women farmers play a crucial role in our communities, and we’re proud to support their vital contributions to agriculture. Through our work over the last decade with Anandana, The Coca-Cola India Foundation we have witnessed firsthand how empowered these women are in fostering innovation and resilience in farming practices. Their dedication not only sustains families but also paves the way for abrighter future for the community in their ecosystem.”
Coca-Cola India’s #SheTheDifference campaign, in partnership with Anandana, The Coca-Cola India Foundation, reflects and shares stories of our long-standing commitment to empowering women farmers through initiatives like Project Unnati. This program has been instrumental in supportingfarmers, providing them with the resources and training needed to thrive.
