A remarkable 20-year journey by a 62-year-old surgeon, Dr. Ravi Wankhedkar, has turned 35 acres of arid land near his hometown of Dhule, Maharashtra, into a thriving green landscape. This transformation, which began in 2003, was driven by his unwavering commitment to environmental conservation despite numerous challenges, including recurring droughts. Throughout this period, Dr. Wankhedkar continued to balance his demanding medical career, earning him the prestigious ‘Green Doctor Award’ from the Maharashtra State Indian Medical Association (IMA).
The journey to revitalize the land, which Dr. Wankhedkar named ‘Ravishrusti’, was not without its challenges. After acquiring the plot in 2003, he faced severe water shortages and an uncultivated terrain that had remained untouched for over a century. However, he remained undeterred, investing substantial time and resources to rejuvenate the area. Dr. Wankhedkar recalls the initial struggles, noting, “In the face of severe droughts, it was an ongoing battle just to keep the plants alive.” Nevertheless, each tree that survived brought him closer to his dream of restoring the land.
Innovative Techniques for Water Conservation
To combat water scarcity, Dr. Wankhedkar employed various innovative techniques, including rainwater harvesting, trench digging, and the construction of water bodies. Over the years, two small lakes, a larger reservoir, and two wells, named ‘Kuber’ and ‘Laxmi’, were created to establish a sustainable water source for the land. Even during dry spells, he invested up to Rs 1,000 daily on water tankers to ensure the survival of the newly planted trees. The reforestation project has led to the growth of more than 10,000 native trees, carefully selected to preserve local biodiversity and restore the area’s ecosystem.
His dedication to this project was not limited to reforestation alone. Part of the land was allocated for organic farming, where vegetables were grown using sustainable agricultural practices. Dr. Wankhedkar’s commitment to creating an eco-friendly space allowed him to resist multiple suggestions to commercialize the land. Instead, he chose to develop it into a peaceful retreat for family and friends, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic. “The land became a refuge, offering fresh air and mental peace,” he shared.
Environmental Advocacy and Future Plans
Dr. Wankhedkar’s passion for environmental conservation was further amplified during his tenure as the Treasurer of the World Medical Association, where he witnessed the pressing health impacts of climate change on a global scale. He considers his efforts at Ravishrusti as a modest yet meaningful contribution to reducing pollution and combating the adverse effects of climate change.
Looking forward, Dr. Wankhedkar plans to establish a ‘Nature School’ on his land to educate local students on plant identification, sustainable farming practices, and conservation. His reforestation efforts have not been confined to his own property; in collaboration with various NGOs, he has also planted over 50,000 trees in the surrounding hills, extending his green initiatives beyond Ravishrusti.
The recognition of Dr. Wankhedkar’s efforts by the Maharashtra State IMA underscores his multifaceted contributions to both healthcare and environmental sustainability. An official from the IMA noted, “This award is a testament to Dr. Wankhedkar’s diverse contributions to environmental conservation and public health. We hope to inspire more doctors to engage actively in sustainable practices alongside their medical expertise.”
Community Service and Continued Dedication
Beyond his environmental work, Dr. Wankhedkar remains devoted to serving his community. He established the ‘Shet Shivar Dawakana’, a free clinic that operates every Wednesday to provide medical care to local farm laborers and farmers. This initiative reflects his enduring commitment to public health and social responsibility.
Known as a ‘Skilled Surgeon’ and ‘Leader of Doctors,’ Dr. Wankhedkar has also carved out a reputation as a ‘Climate Activist’ and ‘Progressive Farmer’. His dedication to balancing his medical career with environmental stewardship has not only earned him accolades but has also set a precedent for integrating healthcare with sustainable practices.
(Input from various sources)
(Rehash/Ankur Deka/MSM)
