Dr. Reddy’s Empowering Farmers for a Greener Tomorrow
Guided by the purpose “Good Health Can’t Wait,” Dr. Reddy’s has extended its commitment to well-being beyond healthcare and into the heart of nature t Read more
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Guided by the purpose “Good Health Can’t Wait,” Dr. Reddy’s has extended its commitment to well-being beyond healthcare and into the heart of nature through its agroforestry initiative in Phaltan, Satara.
By partnering with farmers to plant diverse native and fruit-bearing trees, the initiative strengthens rural livelihoods, enhances soil and water health, and builds long-term climate resilience. This approach not only improves biodiversity but also creates sustainable income opportunities for farming communities.
As a global leader in APIs, generics, branded generics, biosimilars, and OTC products, Dr. Reddy’s continues to work towards better health outcomes. This agroforestry effort reinforces that mission—recognising that a healthier planet is essential for healthier lives.
With every tree planted, Dr. Reddy’s reaffirms its commitment to sustainability, environmental stewardship, and a greener future for generations to come.
Project Planning & Execution
No of Trees: 3,000
Plantation Location: Phaltan, Satara, Maharashtra - 415523
Plantation Duration: 3rd December 2025 to 25th December 2025
Name of Species: Guava, Mango, Lemon, Anjeer
Species Selection & Its Benefits
The project in Satara, Maharashtra, focuses on the plantation of climate-resilient and locally preferred horticultural species that are well suited to the region’s moderate rainfall patterns, fertile black and lateritic soils, and established fruit-growing traditions. The initiative is designed to strengthen farm-level resilience, soil health, and income security by integrating fruit trees into existing agricultural landscapes. By combining ecological enhancement with livelihood generation, the project ensures that each selected species contributes to improved soil structure, moisture conservation, biodiversity support, and sustainable long-term returns for farming communities.
Active farmer participation and informed consent are central to the project’s implementation. Plantations are planned in alignment with prevailing cropping systems, water availability, and landholding patterns, ensuring seamless integration without disrupting core agricultural activities. The project features Guava, Anjeer (Fig), Lemon, and Mango, selected for their proven adaptability, economic importance, and environmental benefits. Guava, a robust and high-yielding fruit crop, provides regular income through multiple harvest cycles while improving soil organic matter through leaf litter and offering partial canopy cover that reduces moisture loss. Its relatively low water requirement makes it well suited to Satara’s mixed rainfall conditions. Anjeer (Fig), a drought-tolerant and high-value fruit species, enhances farm resilience by performing well in well-drained soils and under moderate water stress. Its deep root system improves soil structure and aeration, while its premium market demand supports income diversification and financial stability for farmers. Lemon, known for its quick fruiting and year-round demand, plays a key role in strengthening household cash flow. The species supports pollinator activity, improves soil texture through fine root networks, and integrates easily into intercropping systems. Mango, a culturally and economically significant tree in Maharashtra, anchors long-term agroforestry value. With its extensive root system and long lifespan, mango enhances soil stability, promotes carbon sequestration, and contributes to microclimate regulation. Its high market value and diverse varietal options provide farmers with sustained income potential and intergenerational asset creation.
Collectively, these species promote soil rejuvenation, water conservation, biodiversity enhancement, and economic resilience, establishing a sustainable agroforestry model tailored to the ecological conditions and farming practices of Satara. The project demonstrates how region-appropriate fruit-based plantations can strengthen land productivity while supporting durable and inclusive rural livelihoods.
Beneficiaries Details
This agroforestry initiative involves 3 farmers collectively planting 4 carefully selected sapling species integrated into existing farmland. The project aims to enhance farm productivity, strengthen livelihoods, and promote long-term ecological resilience.
For details on each farmer and their land's geolocation,
This initiative has empowered the farmers to adopt agroforestry, allowing them to benefit from a diversified income source, improved soil fertility, enhanced water retention, and reduced erosion. This initiative not only strengthens environmental sustainability but also enhances the farmer’s economic stability, fostering a resilient farming model and contributing to the long-term well-being of the farmers of Satara, Maharashtra.
Planting Methodology and Its Advantages
Agroforestry: Dr. Reddy's adopted agroforestry, a sustainable practice that integrates trees and crops on the same land, to achieve meaningful environmental and social impact. By facilitating the plantation of fruit-bearing and timber trees, the initiative contributes to improving soil health, enhancing biodiversity, and strengthening farmers’ livelihoods through increased income opportunities. With a focus on transparency, accountability, and grassroots transformation, Dr. Reddy is cultivating a greener tomorrow while supporting resilient rural communities and promoting a sustainable future.
Advantages of Agroforestry
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Increased Farmer Incomes: This approach helps increase farmers' income by as much as 3 times. Farmers benefit from diversified income sources, lifting economic resilience.
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Sustainable Livelihoods: Farmers benefit from diversified income sources through the sale of fruits and other tree-based products, reducing dependence on a single crop.
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Enhanced Biodiversity: Agroforestry creates a diverse ecosystem by integrating trees with crops, attracting pollinators, birds, and beneficial insects that support natural pest control.
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Environmental Sustainability: This model reduces carbon emissions and promotes sustainable land management, aligning with SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 15 (Life on Land).
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Food Security & Nutritional Benefits: Fruit-bearing trees provide a direct source of food, improving local nutrition while supporting long-term agricultural productivity.
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Carbon Sequestration & Climate Resilience: Trees absorb carbon dioxide, helping mitigate climate change while providing shade and windbreaks that reduce temperature extremes and improve microclimatic conditions.
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Soil Health and Water Conservation: Tree roots prevent soil erosion, enhance water retention, and improve soil fertility by fixing nitrogen and adding organic matter. Agroforestry systems also support groundwater recharge, reduce runoff, and improve soil moisture retention, making them ideal for drought-prone regions.
Activities During Tree Plantation
The day before the plantation event, the ground team worked hard to prepare the land. Trenches were carefully dug to aid in water retention and prevent soil erosion, ensuring the ideal environment for the saplings. The saplings were then arranged in their respective spots, ready to be planted the following day. The atmosphere was filled with anticipation as we geared up for the big day.
As part of the agroforestry initiative by Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd., a tree plantation event was successfully organized to promote environmental conservation and sustainability. The event was graced by the presence of Mr. Sunil Rana - Director Marketing - API from Dr. Reddy’s. The plantation drive saw enthusiastic participation from Mr. Sunil Rana, the GBT team and the farmers and labourors, making it a collaborative and impactful step towards building a greener future.
Over the following month, the plantation activity progressed steadily as saplings were carefully planted and nurtured, ultimately completing the plantation phase of the project. Each planted sapling symbolized a shared commitment to sustainability, resilience, and ecological restoration. The initiative brought together individuals from diverse backgrounds, united by a common purpose: to create a greener, healthier future for generations to come and long-term livelihood security for rural communities.
Conclusion Elements
Direct Impact
| Parameters | Values | References |
| No. of Trees Planted | 3,000 | |
| Carbon Sequestration Potential (KG) | 20 |
Small to medium-sized trees can sequester around 10–48 kilograms (22–106 pounds) of CO₂ annually. https://growbilliontrees.com/blogs/knowledge/how-much-co2-can-one-tree-absorb |
| Carbon Sequestration by 3,000 mature trees ( Tonnes/year) | 60 | No. of Trees x Carbon Sequestration by 1 mature trees per year |
| Carbon Credit Equivalent | 60 | One carbon credit is equivalent to one tonne of carbon dioxide or the equivalent amount of another greenhouse gas. |
| Carbon Footprint of an avg Indian Citizen (Tonnes/Year) | 1.8 | https://www.iea.org/countries/india/emissions |
| Offsets Annual Carbon Footprint of (Adults) | 33 | Carbon offset by 3,000 mature trees per year / Carbon Footprint of an avg Indian Citizen per year |
*This impact analysis is forward-looking (an agroforestry project matures in 3-5 years).
Annual Production and Income Estimates of 3,000 Trees Planted
| Category | No. of Trees | Production | Total Income | Establishment Period | Income Realisation Pattern |
| Fruit | 3,000 | 64 Tonnes | ₹19,44,000 | 1-5 Years | Recurring (Annual / Multiple harvests per year) |
* Revenue/ Income outcomes in agroforestry depend on tree survival, varities, density, management quality, climate conditions, and market prices; figures shown are indicative planning estimates, not assured returns.
Detailed Assumptions for Production and Income Estimates
| Fruit Trees | |||||||
| Plant Name | Fruit Selling Price (per Kg) | Annual Production per Tree (Kg) | No. of Trees Planted | Total Production per year (Tons) | Total Revenue per year | COG's + weather/pests losses | Total Income |
| Guava | ₹35 | 20 | 1,000 | 20 | ₹7,00,000 | 40% | ₹4,20,000 |
| Fig | ₹70 | 20 | 1,400 | 28 | ₹19,60,000 | 40% | ₹11,76,000 |
| Mango | ₹40 | 25 | 400 | 10 | ₹4,00,000 | 40% | ₹2,40,000 |
| Lemon | ₹30 | 30 | 200 | 6 | ₹1,80,000 | 40% | ₹1,08,000 |
| Total | 3,000 | 64 | 32,40,000 | 2 | 19,44,000 | ||
Indirect Impact
Community Impact
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Empowerment of Farmers - By providing training and resources for sustainable farming practices, agroforestry equips farmers with skills to enhance productivity and adapt to environmental changes.
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Food Security – By integrating fruit-bearing trees into agricultural systems, the initiative ensures a stable food supply, providing nutritious produce for both consumption and market sale.
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Environmental Awareness – The project educates the local community on the importance of tree planting, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable land use.
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Enhanced Social Equity – Agroforestry initiatives foster enhanced social equity by empowering marginalized farmers with sustainable livelihoods, bridging economic gaps, and promoting inclusive community participation in environmental conservation efforts.
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Resilience to Climate Change – Agroforestry improves soil health, enhances water retention, and reduces land degradation, making farming communities more adaptable to changing climate conditions.
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Health and Well-being – Increased green cover improves air quality, reduces heat stress, and provides access to nutrient-rich fruits, contributing to the overall health of local communities.
Environmental Impact
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Carbon Sequestration: Trees act as carbon sinks, absorbing significant amounts of CO2 from the atmosphere, helping to mitigate climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
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Soil Health Improvement: Agroforestry enriches soil through organic matter from fallen leaves and roots, improving fertility, structure, and nutrient availability for crops.
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Erosion Prevention: Tree roots stabilize the soil, reducing erosion caused by wind and water while protecting nearby agricultural fields and water bodies.
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Biodiversity Conservation: By creating habitats for various species, agroforestry enhances biodiversity, supporting pollinators, beneficial insects, and native wildlife.
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Water Cycle Regulation: Trees improve water retention, recharge groundwater levels, and reduce surface runoff, contributing to a more balanced and sustainable water cycle.
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Microclimate Regulation: Agroforestry moderates temperature extremes, reduces wind speeds, and increases humidity, creating favorable conditions for crop growth and ecosystem balance.
Achievements
SDG Goals Achieved through Agroforestry
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SDG 1: No Poverty – By integrating fruit-bearing trees into farmland, Dr. Reddy’s initiative creates a sustainable income source for farmers, strengthening financial security and reducing poverty in rural areas.
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SDG 2: Zero Hunger – The agroforestry approach improves soil health, enhances agricultural productivity, and promotes sustainable farming, ensuring long-term food security for farming communities.
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SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being – Tree plantations help purify the air, enhance biodiversity, and contribute to a healthier ecosystem. By reducing carbon emissions and pollutants, Dr. Reddy’s tree plantation initiative supports respiratory health and overall well-being.
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SDG 4: Quality Education – Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd. supports knowledge-sharing on sustainable land management, empowering farmers with training on agroforestry techniques, conservation, and ecological restoration.
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SDG 5: Gender Equality – Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd. promotes women’s empowerment by engaging them in sustainability projects, fostering equal participation, and creating opportunities for inclusive community development.
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SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation – Agroforestry enhances groundwater recharge, prevents soil erosion, and reduces water runoff, contributing to better water conservation and ensuring long-term water availability.
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SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – The initiative by Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd. fosters employment opportunities in tree planting, farm management, and agro-processing, encouraging sustainable livelihoods and economic growth.
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SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd. promotes sustainable agricultural infrastructure by integrating innovative farming practices, enhancing productivity while reducing environmental impact.
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SDG 10: Reduced Inequality – By supporting marginalized farmer families, Dr. Reddy’s project promotes income diversification and economic inclusion, reducing disparities in rural communities.
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SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – Sustainable agroforestry minimizes reliance on chemical inputs, promotes eco-friendly agricultural practices, and ensures responsible resource management.
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SDG 13: Climate Action – Trees act as natural carbon sinks, mitigating climate change by absorbing CO₂, improving soil resilience, and reducing the impact of extreme weather conditions.
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SDG 15: Life on Land – This initiative enhances biodiversity, prevents deforestation, restores degraded land, and strengthens ecosystem health through sustainable afforestation efforts.
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd.’s collaboration with Grow Billion Trees highlights the significance of partnerships in driving impactful environmental and social change. Through collective expertise and community engagement, this initiative contributes to long-term sustainability and ecological restoration.
ESG Achieved through Agroforestry:
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Environmental Impact: The Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd.’s agroforestry initiative promotes sustainable afforestation, enhancing carbon sequestration, combating climate change, and improving air quality. By restoring soil fertility, preventing erosion, and supporting groundwater recharge, this initiative contributes to long-term ecological stability. Additionally, it fosters biodiversity by creating a thriving habitat for wildlife, reinforcing the company’s commitment to environmental conservation and responsible land management.
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Social Impact: This initiative uplifts rural farming communities by creating additional income opportunities, enhancing food security, and building climate resilience. By integrating fruit-bearing trees into farmlands, farmers benefit economically through diversified revenue streams while reducing their reliance on single-crop agriculture. This approach lowers farming costs through natural soil enrichment, improves air and water quality, and fosters long-term environmental sustainability. The initiative also generates local employment, with a special focus on empowering women by engaging them in plantation and maintenance activities, thereby promoting gender-inclusive growth. It further promotes community well-being by actively involving and educating farmers in sustainable practices, ultimately strengthening livelihoods and encouraging lasting environmental stewardship.
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Governance Impact: Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd.’s collaboration with Grow Billion Trees ensures ethical governance, transparency, and measurable impact. The initiative adheres to sustainable afforestation standards, with expert-led implementation and strategic execution. By embedding accountability and responsible corporate governance into its environmental efforts, the company reinforces stakeholder trust and sets a benchmark for sustainability-driven corporate leadership.
Building Communities
One of the most profound outcomes of Dr. Reddy’s agroforestry initiative, was the sense of unity and collaboration it nurtured within the local community. By actively involving farmers, stakeholders, and environmental partners, the initiative transformed from a simple tree plantation drive into a shared mission for a greener, more sustainable future.
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Empowering Farmers: The farmers were not just beneficiaries but active participants, gaining hands-on experience in sustainable agroforestry techniques. By integrating these practices into their traditional farming methods, they strengthened their economic stability and environmental resilience, ensuring long-term benefits for their livelihood and the ecosystem.
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Fostering Partnerships: The project encourages active participation from the chosen farmers throughout the plantation process, fostering a sense of ownership and collaboration in the community. Dr. Reddy’s collaboration with Grow Billion Trees and local farming communities, demonstrated the power of collective action in driving meaningful environmental change. This synergy ensured expert-led execution, long-term sustainability, and tangible positive outcomes for both people and nature.
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Creating a Ripple Effect: As farmers witnessed the economic and ecological benefits of agroforestry firsthand, their enthusiasm encouraged neighbouring communities to adopt similar sustainable practices. This cascading effect expanded the initiative’s impact, turning a single project into a widespread movement for resilient and greener landscapes.
This initiative reaffirmed that true environmental sustainability is rooted in community-driven efforts. It was not just about planting trees; it was about planting hope, fostering collaboration, and building a shared vision for a healthier planet.
Commitment by Grow Billion Trees
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Ensuring Tree Survivability: GBT prioritizes native species, continuous monitoring, and soil health improvement using organic fertilizers. These efforts ensure sustainable growth and benefit the farmers and communities.
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Transparency & Accountability: GBT provides detailed reports on tree growth, survival rates, and carbon benefits, using geo-fencing and regular updates to maintain transparency and effectiveness.
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Sustainable Plantation Efforts: GBT implements projects that balance environmental, social, and economic goals, addressing urban heat islands and degraded farmlands. These efforts promote ecological balance, livelihoods, and long-term climate resilience.
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Enhancing Ecosystem Health: By selecting native species and creating diverse habitats, GBT enhances biodiversity and ecosystem resilience, ensuring long-term ecological health and supporting wildlife.
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Long-Term Impact: GBT’s initiatives tackle environmental challenges, enhance rural livelihoods, foster climate resilience, and promote sustainable development while reducing carbon footprints.
Acknowledgment
We at Grow Billion Trees extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of the agroforestry plantation initiative in Satara, Maharashtra. This project, which harmonizes environmental sustainability with community empowerment, would not have been possible without the dedication and collective efforts of key individuals. Rooted in the shared vision of restoring ecosystems, reconnecting with nature, and regenerating agriculture, the initiative reflects our joint commitment to creating a greener, healthier, and more resilient planet for future generations.
To Dr. Reddy: We sincerely appreciate your unwavering commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. Your remarkable initiative of planting 3000 trees is not only helping mitigate climate change but also fostering economic development and resilience within local communities. Your dedication to creating a greener future while empowering people is truly commendable, and we are honoured to partner with you in this meaningful endeavour.
To the Farmers of Satara: Your willingness to embrace agroforestry and integrate fruit-bearing trees into your farming practices has been truly commendable. This initiative not only enhances soil health but also contributes to long-term agricultural sustainability. Your commitment to improving the ecosystem while securing a better future for the coming generations is inspiring. We are honoured to be part of this journey and look forward to the continued positive impact of your efforts.
To Our Ground Partners and Volunteers: Your unwavering support and commitment to environmental conservation have played a crucial role in making this project a success. Through collaboration and shared vision, we have taken a step towards a more sustainable and resilient future. Your contributions are deeply valued, and we thank you for being an essential part of this journey.
This initiative is just the beginning of our collective efforts to promote agroforestry and empower rural communities. Together, we will continue working toward a greener, more sustainable future for all.
Thank you for your unwavering commitment and support.
Closing Remarks
The successful completion of the agroforestry plantations at Satara, Maharashtra marks a significant milestone in Dr. Reddy’s ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability and rural upliftment. This meaningful green initiative reflects the company’s purpose to mitigate climate change and drive economic development of communities through thoughtful action and collaboration.
By integrating agroforestry into these regions, the project has not only enhanced the local green cover but also empowered the farmers by improving soil fertility and introducing an additional source of income through sustainable tree-based agriculture. This initiative stands as a model of how purposeful corporate action can regenerate ecosystems, restore balance in nature, and reconnect communities with the land they depend on.
With 3000 trees now thriving across both sites, the long-term benefits include carbon sequestration, biodiversity enrichment, and economic resilience for the farming communities. The plantation project embodies Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd.’s holistic approach to sustainability, aligning its environmental goals with community development.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the farmers of Satara, Maharashtra, our partners, and every individual who contributed to this transformative effort. Your collective dedication has turned this vision into a living, growing reality.
This initiative is not the end; it’s a beginning. The beginning of a shared journey toward a greener, healthier, and more sustainable world. Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories remains committed to advancing such impactful programs and inspiring others to join the movement for a better tomorrow.
Appendix
Farmer list
|
Sl No. |
Farmer Name |
Total Sapling |
Guava |
Mango |
Lemon |
Anjeer |
Farm Area(Acre) |
Village Name |
Google Map |
|
1 |
Chaya Ramdas Saste |
1000 |
1000 |
1.50 acre |
Bodkewadi |
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|
2 |
Pravin Arvind Aagawane |
600 |
400 |
200 |
1 acre |
Dhumalwadi |
|||
|
3 |
Devanand Maruti Chavan |
1400 |
1400 |
3 acre |
Bholi |