Skip to main content
Sri Sri Institute of Agricultural Sciences & Technology Trust (SSIAST)
Sri Sri Institute of Agricultural Sciences & Technology Trust (SSIAST)

Meet Dr. Prabhakar Rao (Chairman)
The seed man of India. 

A visionary landscape architect and sustainability champion, Dr. Rao has brought to life some of the world’s most iconic projects. From the luxurious Palm Island Village in Dubai and the serene Qurm Park in Oman to the scenic Volga Waterfront in Kazan and the vibrant Amochu Waterfront Township in Bhutan, his work spans continents and captures imaginations.


In India, his genius has shaped legendary landmarks like the majestic Sardar Patel Statue in Gujarat, the grand Central Vista Redevelopment in New Delhi, and the transformative Kashi Vishwanath Corridor in Varanasi.

But Dr. Rao’s journey goes beyond landscapes. During his doctoral studies in agriculture, he realized the pressing need to move away from chemical farming. This sparked his passion for promoting sustainable alternatives, leading him to champion Sri Sri Natural Farming as a trustee of the Sri Sri Institute of Agriculture and Technology since 2013-14.


His tenure as COO of the International Association for Human Values in Dubai (1997–2001) saw him spearhead projects on environmental restoration, disaster management, and sustainable ecosystems.


dedicated faculty member of the Art of Living for over 27 years, Dr. Rao blends ancient Vedic wisdom with modern solutions. His promotion of traditional techniques, like the mesmerizing Mandala Vaatika, is inspiring people worldwide.


Curious to know more? Don’t miss his TEDx talks and CNN YouTube videos, where he passionately discusses sustainable farming, saving indigenous seeds, and his dream of a greener planet.


Scroll below to watch a series of engaging videos and dive deeper into his groundbreaking work!

​Meet Sri. MSR (Trustee)

His illustrious career spans an incredible 44 years, including 25 years of leadership roles in domestic and international markets. Whether in India or Japan, MSR has consistently guided organizations through pivotal shifts, ensuring smooth transitions to new processes and technologies.


An inspiring leader and mentor, MSR has a knack for building high-performing teams, fostering innovation, and cultivating a balance of technical expertise, personal growth, and soft skills. His ability to nurture talent and lead by example has earned him a reputation as one of the most respected names in the Information Technology sector.


Beyond his professional achievements, MSR embarked on a spiritual journey in 2002 and has been wholeheartedly committed to seva with Gurudev Sri Sri Ravishankar Ji and The Art of Living since 2006.


Sri. MSR 

Trustee

a true trailblazer in India’s IT landscape! With over four decades of professional excellence, MSR has been at the forefront of technology innovation, nurturing cutting-edge solutions and driving transformational change across industries.

Smt. Archana Jha

Trustee

An inspiring changemaker with a heart dedicated to the earth and its people! With a Master’s Degree in Life Sciences from Patna University and a certification in NGO Management from Jamia Millia University, Delhi, she has devoted her life to creating a future rooted in sustainability and empowerment.

​Meet Smt. Archana Jha (Trustee)


Her passion lies in working with farmers, farming communities, and stakeholders to achieve the dream of a chemical-free, sustainable farming ecosystem and a pollution-free environment. As the National President of Women CAN NGO, she has championed the cause of empowering women to build a stronger, more developed India.


A teacher and motivator at heart, she has inspired countless individuals to embrace chemical-free sustainable farming practices. Her leadership and volunteerism have made a significant impact in initiatives like Volunteer for a Better India, the World Cultural Festival 2016, IFOAM 2018, and government programs such as Women Farmer’s Day and the Organic Women Farmer’s Festival organized by the Ministry of Women & Child Welfare. Representing Sri Sri Institute of Agriculture and Technology (SSIAST) at various ministerial platforms, she continues to advocate for the cause of natural farming.


Her message is simple yet powerful: “Nature has given us enough for our needs, but not for our greed!” She emphasizes that the intensive use of chemicals in farming and genetic modifications are causing irreversible damage to our resources and health. To restore the balance of the earth's five elements—क्षिति (soil), जल (water), पावक (fire), गगन (sky), समीर (air)—the solution lies in embracing Natural Farming.

​​Meet Sri. D.M. Shankar  (Trustee)

Sri D.M. Shankar, a highly respected coffee planter and businessman from the lush landscapes of Chikkamagaluru, Karnataka, is known for his unwavering dedication to service and sustainability. As one of the earliest and most devoted followers of Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Ji, Sri D.M Shankar ji has been actively involved with the Art of Living Foundation for over four decades. His contributions have been instrumental in transformative projects such as the Vedavati River Rejuvenation Project and the establishment of the SSRVM School in Chikkamagaluru.


In his role as a Trustee of the SSRVM School, Sri D.M. Shankar ji has been a cornerstone of its growth, offering steadfast support and generous contributions in every possible way. His commitment goes beyond financial assistance; his guidance and determination have helped the school thrive and serve the community. Additionally, as a key member of the District Development Committee for Art of Living, he plays a vital role in fostering progress and development in the region.


Sri D.M. Shankar Ji’s life is a testament to the power of dedication and selfless service. A true leader, he continues to inspire those around him with his vision for education, sustainability, and community upliftment.

Sri D.M. Shankar

Trustee

A Visionary Coffee Planter and Pillar of Community Development

​Smt. Sejal Swami

Director : Training & Community Outreach

She plays a pivotal role in connecting with local communities and beneficiaries, fostering meaningful partnerships, and championing the trust's mission. Her efforts are key in gathering support for various impactful projects and initiatives.


Sejal leads the development and execution of programs that equip trainers with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively educate farm workers, community members, and other stakeholders in sustainable agricultural practices. 


By creating a robust train-the-trainer model, she ensures that knowledge is transferred effectively, empowering new trainers to carry forward the mission of sustainable farming and community empowerment.

​Ms. Tanusree Roy 

Director - National Agri Trainer & Apex Initiatives

Use this paragraph to describe what you do. This is a great place to let your visitors know who you are. Add useful information that your users may find interesting. What makes you stand out? Why you do what you do? What is your passion? Here is where you can just let go. Now is when you let them know. Zoho Sites, your site, your story. Click here to add your story.