Roots in Rural Rajasthan
In the evolving landscape of Indian agriculture, Surendra Awana stands as a symbol of dedication to sustainability and indigenous livestock preservation. Born and raised in Bhairana village in Rajasthan, his early life was closely connected to the land and traditional rural practices. Growing up in a farming environment shaped his understanding of soil, seasons, and ecological balance, forming the foundation of his lifelong agricultural journey.
Choosing Sustainability Over Industrial Farming
During a period when industrial farming models were rapidly expanding, Surendra Awana chose a different direction. For over forty years, he has consistently practiced sustainable agriculture rooted in natural methods and long-term environmental care. His approach emphasizes soil health, biodiversity, and harmony with nature rather than short-term productivity. Through patience and disciplined farming, he has demonstrated that agriculture can remain productive without compromising ecological stability.
Founding Vision Behind TharPure
Surendra Awana founded TharPure Organic Farms Private Limited with a clear purpose — to preserve indigenous cow heritage while promoting sustainable farming practices. His work reflects a strong belief that purity is created through natural processes, not artificial intervention. Expressing his philosophy, he often says, “Real purity is not made in a lab, but it’s grown in the soil and nurtured by tradition.” This principle has guided his efforts in livestock conservation, natural farming, and ecosystem development.
National Recognition and Honors
Awana’s contributions to agriculture and indigenous breed preservation have earned him recognition at the national level. In 2021, he received the prestigious Gopal Ratna Award from the Government of India for excellence in dairy farming and his work in protecting indigenous cattle breeds. The same year, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) honored him with the Ragjivan Ram Innovative Farmer Award for his achievements in integrated farming innovations.
His dedication to agricultural science was further acknowledged in 2023 when he received the IARI Fellow Farmer Award from the Indian Agricultural Research Institute. Over multiple years, from 2020 to 2023, ICAR-NBAGR recognized his efforts in breed preservation through several Breed Conservation Awards, particularly for his work with Gir cattle and the Bikaneri camel. Earlier, in 2019, he was honored with the Haldhar Organic Farmer Award for his commitment to organic agriculture. His environmental work also earned him the NISA Tree Man Award, recognizing his large-scale tree plantation efforts in Rajasthan.
Building a Self-Sustaining Farm Ecosystem
Surendra Awana’s farm reflects thoughtful planning and ecological design. More than 14,000 trees have been cultivated across the farm, creating a balanced and sustainable natural environment. He has successfully raised over 350 high-breed female calves, contributing to the strengthening of indigenous livestock populations. The farm produces 25 varieties of perennial fodder, ensuring consistent organic nutrition for animals throughout the year without reliance on external inputs.
Water Conservation and Natural Farming
Efficient resource management plays a central role in Awana’s agricultural philosophy. His entire farming system operates on rainwater, demonstrating how agriculture can remain viable even in water-sensitive regions. This rain-fed model supports groundwater conservation and long-term ecological sustainability. The farm also follows strict zero-chemical farming practices, protecting soil fertility and preserving natural biodiversity.
Preserving Traditional Agricultural Wisdom
Traditional knowledge remains deeply integrated into Awana’s methods. From livestock care to natural farming techniques, his work reflects respect for inherited agricultural practices. By blending traditional wisdom with disciplined farming management, he has created a self-reliant agricultural ecosystem that supports both environmental balance and rural resilience.
A Legacy of Sustainable Agriculture
Over four decades, Surendra Awana has emerged as more than a farmer — he is a custodian of indigenous agriculture and ecological responsibility. His journey reflects commitment, patience, and a long-term vision for sustainable farming. Through his work, he continues to inspire farmers and agricultural communities to adopt practices that respect nature while ensuring productivity and stability.
Surendra Awana’s legacy stands as a powerful reminder that sustainable agriculture is not just a philosophy but a practical and necessary path forward. His life’s work reflects dedication to tradition, biodiversity, and environmental balance — values that continue to guide his efforts and influence the future of responsible farming.
