Kisan Long March: Thinking ahead, farmer carries solar charger

Nathu Udav, a farmer from Ganesh village in Trimbak taluka, stood out among the many farmers who participated in the long march. He was also one of the most wanted persons for his fellow farmers. Udav was one of those who came prepared to ensure that he stays connected and so do his comrades. With a solar panel on his red cap, Udav charged nearly 250 mobile phones in the six days of the long march. 

“I bought this in my village almost three years ago. We have a minimum of four hours of load shedding. Back home the panel helps us light our house for preparing food and studies,” said Udav.

“When we decided to come for this long march, I knew that we would require something for charging and hence carried this. Everyday almost 25 to 30 phones are charged through the day,” said Udav, as he held a smart phone and feature phone in both his hands. 

Though the city welcomed them with an open heart, farmers also made sure they were prepared. From carrying food to ensuring that they do not stop come what may, they were mentally prepared. “We carried food for six days because we knew that there will be some help,” said Lakshman Dhule, who had come from Borawan village along with his brother.