Nipun Tankha
Lead Ecopreneur
As the Ecopreneur Lead at Vaagdhara, he spearheads sustainable enterprise development in tribal and rural communities by fostering environmentally conscious business practices, organic agriculture, and equitable market access for local farmers. He identifies and mentors community ecopreneurs, builds strategic partnerships to empower young farmers and SMEs, and creates innovative approaches to sales, branding, and market engagement. Backed by 18 years of experience in sales, marketing, operations, and training facilitation across CSR and NGO sectors, he also brings expertise in Monitoring & Evaluation and advocacy with government and stakeholders. His professional background includes roles at Indiacan, ICICI RSETI, and Educate Girls, complemented by certifications in Retail Management and Entrepreneurship from MORD and other reputed institutions, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to sustainable livelihoods and community empowerment.
Prakash Dewada
Sales & Marketing Manager
As the Sales & Marketing Manager in the Ecopreneur vertical at Vaagdhara, his role is pivotal in supporting small farmers in establishing Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and fostering connections with larger FPOs through strategic marketing activities. In addition, he conducts training sessions to enhance their capacity in effectively managing FPOs/SMEs, covering aspects like marketing strategy, branding, and quality management. He actively facilitates the participation of smallholder farmers in exhibitions and seminars related to organic agriculture practices, providing them exposure. With academic qualifications including a Master's in Science (Environment Science), a Master's in Social Work (Rural and Urban Community Development), and a Bachelor's in Science (Soil Conservation and Water Management), his diverse educational background complements his role in the dynamic field of sales and marketing in sustainable agriculture.
Mahendra Kumawat
Ecological Enterprise Expert
As a Capacity Building Officer and Block Facilitator in the Ecopreneur vertical at Vaagdhara, he plays a pivotal role in enhancing the capacity of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) across various blocks in multiple states. His versatile role spans both field and office responsibilities, where he assesses the field scope for specific activities and implements core initiatives in close coordination with the team. Additionally, he conducts significant field studies to inform strategic planning for future projects. With six years of diverse experience in the social sector, covering various themes and gaining exposure across different states, he is a strong and capable asset to the organization. His academic background, holding a Master's degree in Social Work, further solidifies his technical expertise and knowledge in the field.
Chandra Kant Tiwari
Ecological Enterprise Expert
An experienced development professional currently serving as Field Officer and Block Facilitator in the Ecopreneur vertical at the organisation. His role involves assessing field needs, implementing program activities, and coordinating closely with internal teams and external stakeholders. He undertakes field studies and assessments that support effective planning and future project development. With 16 years of experience in the social sector across diverse themes and geographic regions, he brings strong expertise in field implementation, community engagement, and program coordination. He holds a Master’s degree in Social Work, which enhances his technical knowledge, analytical skills, and overall professional capacity.
Mukesh Kumar Barod
Ecological Enterprise Expert
He is currently working with the Vagdhara organization under the Ecopreneur program as a Capacity Building Officer and Block Facilitator. In this role, he works to promote sustainable enterprise development among tribal and rural communities. He actively supports environmentally responsible business practices, organic farming, and helps local farmers gain fair access to markets.
His key responsibilities include identifying community ecopreneurs, providing them with guidance and training, and building strategic partnerships to empower young farmers and small and medium enterprises (SMEs). He also develops innovative approaches to improve product sales, branding, and market participation.
With around 12 years of experience across different non-governmental organizations and development sectors, he has strong expertise in education, community development, livelihood promotion, and coordination and advocacy with government departments and other stakeholders.
He has previously worked with Educate Girls as a Block Program Officer, contributing to community and institutional development in the field of education. He also worked with Sightsavers India as a Block Facilitator, where he supported livelihood development, community empowerment, and inclusive development for persons with disabilities.