Every year on June 5th, the world comes together to celebrate World Environment Day—a day dedicated to raising awareness about environmental protection and inspiring global action to preserve our planet. At World Farmer Story, we believe this day holds a special significance for the very people who nurture and sustain the earth every day: our farmers.
Farmers: The Unsung Heroes of Environmental Conservation
Farmers are more than just food producers; they are the true guardians of the environment. Their daily work with the soil, water, and crops has a profound impact on the health of our ecosystems. Through sustainable farming practices, farmers help maintain soil fertility, conserve water resources, reduce pollution, and protect biodiversity.
In a world facing climate change, deforestation, and water scarcity, the role of farmers in environmental stewardship has never been more critical. Many farmers around the globe are adopting eco-friendly techniques such as organic farming, crop rotation, agroforestry, and integrated pest management to reduce their ecological footprint and promote a healthier planet.
The Link Between Farming and a Healthy Environment
Sustainable agriculture and environmental protection go hand in hand. When farmers care for the land responsibly, it results in:
Cleaner air and water through reduced use of harmful chemicals
Improved soil health, which increases crop yields naturally
Carbon sequestration by maintaining trees and cover crops on farms
Greater biodiversity, supporting pollinators and beneficial wildlife
By protecting the environment, farmers not only secure their own livelihoods but also ensure food security for generations to come.
What Can We Learn from Farmers This World Environment Day?
On this World Environment Day, let’s take inspiration from the resilience and dedication of farmers worldwide. Here are some simple yet powerful lessons we can all apply:
Respect natural resources: Use water wisely and avoid wastage.
Support organic and local farming: Choose food that’s grown sustainably.
Reduce waste: Compost organic material and recycle plastics.
Plant trees and greenery: Help restore natural habitats.
Join Us in Supporting Our Farmers and Our Planet
At World Farmer Story, we celebrate the stories of farmers who are making a difference by adopting sustainable farming and protecting the environment. Their efforts show us that agriculture and environmental care can go hand in hand to build a greener, healthier future.
This World Environment Day, let’s honor our farmers by committing to actions that safeguard our planet. Together, we can nurture the earth just as farmers nurture their fields — with care, respect, and hope.
Brewing Change with Every Bean: A Filipino Coffee Farmer’s Journey
In the quiet countryside of Sultan Kudarat, Philippines, a determined and resilient woman stands tall among her coffee trees. Meet Elizabeth Javier, a hands-on farmer, community leader, and single mother, who has spent over two decades turning her land into a beacon of hope, sustainability, and success.
With a lifetime dedicated to farming and nearly 14 hectares of land, Elizabeth’s journey is more than just about crops—it is a testament to perseverance, innovation, and her unshakable will to provide a better life for her family and her community.
A Life Rooted in Farming
Elizabeth’s integrated farm is divided into two halves. One half is dedicated to coffee, which is her primary source of income. The other half is used for cash crops like corn, rice, squash, and peanuts—helping her maintain cash flow throughout the year.
While these short-term crops round out her income, it is coffee that she truly depends on. And in crop year 2019–2020, her success in coffee farming brought her not only a good income but a deep sense of accomplishment and stability.
Rising as a Role Model
With over 23 years of farming experience, Elizabeth has become a respected figure among her fellow farmers. Her vast knowledge of coffee farming has earned her the reputation of being a local expert, with many in her community turning to her for advice and guidance.
But like many smallholder farmers, Elizabeth has faced numerous challenges. From the high cost of fertilizers, seeds, herbicides, and jute sacks, to the need for dehulling machines and reliable transportation for harvested crops, farming in rural Philippines is no easy task.
Turning to Solutions, Not Surrender
Instead of being overwhelmed, Elizabeth chose to take action. She became the first coffee farmer in her municipality to secure support through the Land Bank’s Agricultural Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (ACEF). This fund gave her access to a low-interest loan with a moratorium on initial payments—a lifeline that allowed her to invest in her farm confidently.
She also enrolled in the Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA), giving her access to government services tailored to farmers and fishers. These steps empowered her to strengthen her farming practices and opened the door to new opportunities.
☕ NESCAFÉ: Brewing a Better Future for Farmers
One of the most significant milestones in Elizabeth’s journey has been her partnership with the NESCAFÉ Plan, a long-term program by Nestlé Philippines that supports smallholder Robusta coffee farmers.
The NESCAFÉ Plan offers:
Training in Better Farming Practices (NBFP)
Access to sustainable techniques through the 4C Code (Common Code for the Coffee Community)
Direct buying systems that eliminate middlemen
Ongoing support from Nestlé’s agricultural services team
Elizabeth says,
“Hindi lang kami magkapartner sa sakahan ng kape – kasambuhay ng magsasakang Pilipino ang NESCAFÉ.” (“We are not just partners in coffee farming—NESCAFÉ is a true companion to Filipino farmers.”)
Her relationship with NESCAFÉ has empowered her to improve her farm’s productivity and encouraged her to share her knowledge with others.
Teaching and Leading by Example
Elizabeth takes pride in her identity as a farmer. But more than that, she sees herself as a mentor and advocate for her fellow farmers.
“Ipinagmamalaki ko na magsasaka ako. Misyon ko ang makatulong sa kapwa ko magsasaka kaya binabahagi ko ang kaalaman ko sa pagkakape.” (“I am proud to be a farmer. My mission is to help fellow farmers by sharing what I know about coffee production.”)
Because of her outstanding commitment, she was chosen as a NESCAFÉ Plan Coffee Ambassador. In this role, she connects Nestlé with other farmers, guiding them to adopt sustainable and profitable farming practices.
Real Impact, Real Results
From 2012 to 2019, the NESCAFÉ Plan has supported:
Over 8,500 Filipino farmers trained every year
Around 1,500 participants in Project Coffee+, a three-year yield-boosting initiative in partnership with the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ)
Productivity improvements from 235 kg/ha in 2018 to 477 kg/ha in 2019
Net income increases from ₱30,000 in 2018 to ₱90,000 in 2019
With this transformation, farmers like Elizabeth are proving that coffee farming can be profitable and sustainable.
Empowering the Filipino Coffee Industry
Despite having favorable land and climate conditions, the Philippines’ coffee production has declined—from 8.8% to just 3.5% in recent years. Meanwhile, local coffee consumption continues to grow, reaching over 100,000 metric tons per year.
To help close this gap, Nestlé has committed to buying more local coffee, particularly from Mindanao, where 65% of the nation’s coffee is grown. NESCAFÉ’s dedication to buying directly from Filipino farmers ensures that growers like Elizabeth receive fair compensation and consistent demand.
A Global Message from a Local Hero
Elizabeth Javier’s story is more than a local success—it’s a global message. Her journey shows that when farmers are given access to education, tools, and direct market support, they can thrive. More importantly, they become leaders who empower others.
Through her commitment, knowledge-sharing, and unrelenting passion, Elizabeth has turned her farm into a model of agripreneurship, community leadership, and sustainable coffee farming.
Her story is a reminder that every cup of coffee begins with a farmer’s dream—and with the right support, those dreams can become a reality.
In a world where success is often associated with city life, corporate jobs, and glamor—Hannah Neeleman chose something radically different. A classically trained ballerina, she left behind the lights of New York City to raise her family on a farm in rural Utah. Today, her business Ballerina Farm is a global sensation, with millions of followers and a booming farm-to-table brand.
Let’s dive deep into the real story of Hannah, her challenges, success, and the powerful message she brings to the modern world.
Humble Beginnings: Childhood in Utah
Hannah was born and raised in Utah, USA, in a large family with nine siblings. Her parents owned a small flower shop where her dad arranged flowers and her mom handled customers and bookkeeping. From a young age, she learned the value of hard work, small business, and resilience.
Dance Dreams: Juilliard and Beyond
At 17, Hannah was accepted into the prestigious Juilliard School in New York City—a dream for any aspiring artist. She pursued ballet full-time while juggling odd jobs and competitions to support her education. This time in New York helped her develop focus, patience, and discipline.
❤️ Marriage and Motherhood
During college, she met Daniel Neeleman, a young lacrosse player at BYU. They fell in love, married, and Daniel moved to NYC to support Hannah’s career. While studying at Juilliard, Hannah gave birth to their first son, Henry—becoming the first-ever undergraduate mother at the school.
Brazil: Where the Farming Dream Was Planted
After graduation, the couple moved to São Paulo, Brazil, for Daniel’s business. While others relaxed on beaches on weekends, Hannah and Daniel visited farm stays—rural retreats where guests could interact with animals, eat fresh food, and learn about farming. That’s where the couple fell in love with the slow, natural rhythm of farm life.
They started raising small animals and learned basic agricultural practices.
Back to the USA: Birth of Ballerina Farm
After four years in Brazil, they returned to the US and bought a large property in the mountains of Utah. They started Ballerina Farm—a unique name that reflected Hannah’s ballet background and new rural life.
She began posting simple, aesthetic farm content on Instagram—milking cows, baking sourdough, working with her kids in the barn—all with elegance and authenticity. Her content went viral.
What Ballerina Farm Sells
Today, Ballerina Farm is not just a farm—it’s a thriving DTC (direct-to-consumer) business with fans all over the world.
They sell:
Pasture-raised beef & pork
Handcrafted sourdough starter kits
Organic ghee and farm butter
Sourdough baking tools
Flower and farmhouse décor
Protein supplements
Kitchen essentials (cutting boards, aprons, rolling pins)
Their products reflect both authentic farm life and high-end branding—a rare combination.
How Much Does Ballerina Farm Earn?
While exact financials are private, here’s a solid estimate based on public data and market analysis:
Estimated Revenue (2024):
Income Stream Estimated Monthly Income Estimated Yearly Income
From Homegrown Herbal Farming to a Profitable Medicinal Mushroom Business
Introduction
In today’s modern world, farming is no longer confined to vast fields or farmlands. With the right knowledge and technology, farming medicinal herbs and mushrooms at home can open doors to lucrative income streams. One such inspiring story is that of Suman Sukhija from Delhi, who has turned her home into a thriving business by cultivating Cordyceps mushrooms — popularly known in Hindi as ‘Kida Jadi’ (literally “insect herb”). This mushroom is famous for its medicinal properties and commands a high market demand. Here is how Suman transformed her idle time and space into an enterprise earning millions every year.
How It All Started
Suman, a resident of Delhi, used to spend most of her time at home with idle hours. Wanting to use her time productively and do something unique, she explored growing medicinal herbs rather than common vegetables. In 2018, she enrolled for professional training in mushroom cultivation at HAIC (Haryana Agricultural and Industrial Corporation) Mushroom and Agricultural Development Center, Murthal, Haryana.
During her training on button mushrooms, she also learned about Cordyceps militaris — a medicinal fungus found naturally in the Himalayan region but increasingly cultivated under controlled laboratory conditions. This fungus is known for its potent health benefits and has a growing demand in herbal and pharmaceutical markets.
Setting Up a Lab at Home and Initial Investment
After completing her training, Suman converted a 200 sq ft room in her house into a small cultivation lab. The setup cost approximately ₹4 lakh, including infrastructure and equipment. She imported the Cordyceps culture (the mushroom “seed”) from Thailand — the culture comes in small 3-inch petri dishes, which form the base for growing mushrooms.
The initial investment was significant but carefully planned. Suman now sells the Cordyceps culture at ₹93,000 per kilogram and earns around ₹30 lakh annually from this business alone.
Cultivation Process and Workload
Growing Cordyceps mushrooms does not require excessive labor or constant attention. Suman explains that maintaining optimal temperature and humidity is essential, but once set up, the process is fairly manageable. To start cultivation, a minimum of 100 sq ft space is needed.
One of the biggest advantages of Cordyceps mushrooms is their long shelf life, which means sellers don’t have to rush to sell them fresh immediately — making the business more flexible.
Medicinal Benefits and Market Demand
Cordyceps mushrooms are rich in antioxidants and known to help with:
Autoimmune diseases
Respiratory issues
Diabetes control
Lowering cholesterol
Kidney health maintenance
Due to these health benefits, Cordyceps is in high demand among pharmaceutical companies, Ayurvedic product manufacturers, and health food markets, making it a highly profitable crop.
Training Others and Expanding the Business
Suman did not stop at just growing mushrooms herself. She started training 20-30 people every month on how to cultivate Cordyceps mushrooms successfully. She charges ₹15,000 per person for these training sessions and also assists interested farmers in setting up their own labs and sourcing quality cultures.
Through this, she has empowered many budding entrepreneurs, especially women, to start their own medicinal mushroom farming business.
Lessons and Inspiration
Suman’s story clearly demonstrates that with the right knowledge, effort, and vision, even home-based farming can turn into a million-rupee business. Her journey inspires those looking to diversify farming or start agribusiness without large landholdings.
This success also highlights the growing potential of medicinal plants and mushrooms, an emerging sector with increasing global demand.
How You Can Start Your Own Cordyceps Farming Business
Get professional training from a recognized institute or agricultural center.
Ensure you have at least 100 sq ft of clean, controlled space for setting up a cultivation lab.
Be prepared for an initial investment of around ₹3-4 lakh for infrastructure and culture procurement.
Source quality Cordyceps culture from reliable suppliers.
Keep yourself updated on best cultivation practices and market trends.
Conclusion
From a small home lab to earning over ₹30 lakh annually, Suman Sukhija’s journey is a testament to how determination and innovation can unlock new opportunities in agriculture. If you are interested in medicinal herb farming, Cordyceps cultivation offers a promising path to success.
After 14 years, mechanical engineer Tukaram Sonvane and his industrial engineer wife Sonali Veljali returned to their ancestral village, Andarsul. Witnessing the struggles of local farmers firsthand, they invented a unique device — the Electric Bull — that helps small farmers by making agricultural work easier, affordable, and more efficient.
Lockdown Inspired Innovation
During the nationwide COVID-19 lockdown, many people returned to their villages. Tukaram and Sonali, both working in Pune as engineers, also came back to their village for the first extended period in 14 years.
While staying there, Tukaram observed the persistent challenges farmers faced. Despite advancements, small farmers were still dependent on animals and manual labor for many farming tasks. Modern machinery was either unaffordable or unsuitable for their needs, resulting in high costs and delayed farming activities.
Understanding the Farmers’ Challenges
Tukaram noticed that farmers relied heavily on bulls and laborers for plowing, sowing, and spraying pesticides. However, the number of bulls was declining due to high maintenance costs, and hired labor was expensive and unreliable.
Sonali also observed how these inefficiencies were increasing production costs and affecting the quality of harvests.
Tukaram explains, “Farmers face difficulties in completing tasks on time because of reliance on animals and labor. This impacts crop quality and their income.”
Together, they decided to develop a cost-effective, electric-powered tool that could perform multiple tasks traditionally done by bulls — and thus, the idea of the Electric Bull was born.
What is the Electric Bull and How Does it Work?
Using their engineering skills, Tukaram designed the Electric Bull during the lockdown with parts sourced from outside and local fabrication support.
The Electric Bull is a compact, electric-powered device that can be used for plowing, sowing seeds, pesticide spraying, trimming, and other farm tasks. It runs on a rechargeable battery that lasts up to 4 hours per charge, with a full charge taking just about 2 hours from a single-phase electrical connection available in rural homes.
Tukaram says, “Tasks such as seed sowing and pesticide spraying require precision, which bulls cannot provide. Our Electric Bull can perform these tasks efficiently and at a fraction of the cost.”
Benefits for Farmers
Traditionally, managing 2 acres of farmland could cost a farmer nearly ₹50,000 due to labor and animal expenses. With the Electric Bull, the cost reduces dramatically to just ₹5,000, a tenfold decrease.
Farmer Subhash Chavan from Ahmednagar district shared, “Earlier, I needed 12 laborers and 3 days to finish the work. Now, it takes only a few hours and is much cheaper.”
This device is especially beneficial for small and marginal farmers who cannot afford tractors or large machines.
Growing Demand and Future Plans
Tukaram and Sonali have established a startup named Krishigati Private Limited to manufacture and promote the Electric Bull. Interest is growing rapidly from Maharashtra and other states such as Andhra Pradesh.
So far, they have received over 300 inquiries and booked more than 10 units. They are also in talks with seven dealers to expand distribution.
Sonali shares, “We are developing six more devices to meet varied farming needs. Our vision is to help farmers not just in India but across the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Europe.”
Commitment to Farmers and Innovation
Both engineers are deeply connected to farming communities through family and personal experiences. Sonali says, “We understand farmers’ pain points closely. The lockdown gave us an opportunity to innovate and contribute meaningfully.”
They believe engineering can solve agricultural problems and are dedicated to improving the livelihoods of farmers through smart technology.
Conclusion
The Electric Bull invented by Tukaram Sonvane and Sonali Veljali represents a significant breakthrough for Indian agriculture. By providing an affordable, eco-friendly, and efficient alternative to traditional bulls and expensive machines, this device empowers small farmers to boost productivity and reduce costs.
Innovations like these can transform farming and help India achieve sustainable agricultural growth.
In the remote, green valley of Tungal in Himachal Pradesh, where mountains kiss the clouds and life moves at a peaceful pace, a quiet revolution is taking place—led by a young woman named Sakina Thakur. What started as a simple dream to provide quality milk has grown into a thriving dairy business earning her ₹2 lakh per month, inspiring not just her village but rural communities across India.
A Scholar with an Unconventional Dream
Sakina was never afraid to dream differently. A master’s degree holder in History from Vallabh Government College, Mandi, she could have easily pursued a government job or a career in academia. But while many sought office jobs, Sakina saw an opportunity where few did: in dairy farming.
What triggered the change? Dissatisfaction with the low quality of milk available in Mandi city. She believed that healthy, high-quality milk should be accessible to everyone. While her interests included fitness, modeling, and even boxing, she chose to challenge the stereotype of what an “educated woman” should do.
The First Step: Starting with Passion and Purpose
Sakina’s family comes from a modest background in Kun village, in the Kotli subdivision of Mandi district. Choosing to work with cattle was met with skepticism and even ridicule—especially for a woman with a postgraduate degree.
But her determination only grew stronger. She found inspiration in local dairy farmer Chinta Devi, and began learning from YouTube videos and online platforms. Sakina combined traditional knowledge with modern techniques, and set out on a mission.
With ₹1.25 lakh in personal savings and a ₹2 lakh loan from a rural bank, she officially launched Sakina Dairy Farm in July 2024.
Building the Dairy Empire
Sakina began her venture with Holstein Friesian (HF) cows, a high-yield breed known for its protein-rich milk. She sourced them from a reputable dairy farm in Bathinda, Punjab.
Over the months, her dairy farm grew into a model of sustainable agriculture:
14 Holstein Friesian cows
Producing 112 liters of milk per day
Modern shed built with ₹4.5 lakh investment
Installed milking machines, fodder cutters, and other equipment
Utilizes cow dung as organic fertilizer
Provides employment to locals
This mix of modern technology, eco-friendly practices, and business sense turned her dairy into a success story.
Leading a Women’s Dairy Revolution
Sakina’s achievements didn’t stop at her own farm. In November 2024, she played a key role in establishing a women-led milk producers’ cooperative—the Koon Mahila Dugdh Utpadak Sahkari Samiti.
Supported by the Himachal Pradesh State Milk Producers Federation, the cooperative was equipped with:
A bulk milk cooler
SNF (Solids-Not-Fat) analyzer
Computerized data management systems
The cooperative now supports around 70 families from nearby villages like Kun, Kot, Lambidhar, Drubbal, Traihar, and Mahan, and together they generate nearly ₹2 lakh per month.
Sakina alone contributes significantly to that income, making around ₹1.25 lakh per month just from her farm.
Income Breakdown & Business Model
Details Amount
Daily Milk Production 112 liters Selling Price Per Liter ₹41–₹44 (based on quality) Monthly Income from Milk Sales ₹1.25 lakh approx. Total Initial Investment ₹6.75 lakh (including shed, cows, machines) Cooperative Total Monthly Earnings ₹2 lakh (from all members)
Sakina’s income was further boosted by the Himachal government’s decision to increase the minimum support price (MSP) for milk to ₹51/litre. She thanks Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, saying,
The improved rates have truly boosted our income and morale. We now get ₹41–₹44 per litre depending on the quality
Recognition & Impact
Local leaders and farmers have praised Sakina’s efforts. Vijay Kumar, the Gram Panchayat up-pradhan, said,
She has proven that no job is small or inferior. Through determination and vision, even traditional occupations can be transformed into modern success stories.
Beyond numbers, Sakina has become a role model for rural women, proving that even in the farthest corners of India, a woman with courage and purpose can change the world around her.
Final Thoughts
Sakina Thakur’s story isn’t just about cows and milk—it’s about vision, resilience, and revolution. She turned criticism into courage, a small loan into a thriving business, and a quiet village into a model of rural development.
She is not only milking cows—she’s milking opportunity, empowerment, and change.
✅ Key Takeaways for Aspiring Dairy Entrepreneurs
Start small but think big. Sakina began with just a few cows.
Learn constantly—use YouTube, books, and real-life mentors.
Combine technology with traditional farming.
Build cooperatives to empower more families.
Don’t be afraid to break social barriers.
Sakina thakur
Inspired by true events from Mandi, Himachal Pradesh. Sakina’s journey reminds us: farming isn’t just a livelihood—it’s a legacy.
In a world increasingly aware of health, sustainability, and ethical consumption, entrepreneurs like Vaishavi Sinha Bhasin are redefining the way India farms and consumes. From the professional golf courses of international arenas to the lush fields of Greater Noida, Vaishavi’s journey from elite athlete to visionary agripreneur is an inspiring testament to passion, purpose, and innovation.
From Golf Greens to Green Fields
Vaishavi Sinha Bhasin spent years representing India as a professional golfer, competing on global stages with precision, discipline, and resilience. Yet beneath the drive to win was a growing curiosity — a deepening understanding of how nutrition and well-being impact performance. This curiosity soon blossomed into a passion for organic, chemical-free farming and a commitment to supporting the backbone of Indian agriculture — the farmers.
Making a bold leap from sports to sustainability, Vaishavi founded Shoonya Farms and co-founded Walabha Industries, ventures rooted in the belief that farming can be both profitable and responsible.
Shoonya Farms: Cultivating Ethical and Sustainable Agriculture
Named after the Sanskrit word “Shoonya,” meaning zero or nothingness, Shoonya Farms embodies the principle of zero waste and mindful consumption. The farm in Greater Noida is not just a place for growing crops — it is a living ecosystem designed to restore environmental balance and nurture indigenous breeds.
At Shoonya Farms, majestic native Indian cow breeds like Gir, Sahiwal, Tharparkar, and Hariyanvi graze in natural harmony alongside desi Kadaknath chickens. These animals are not merely livestock but valued members of a sustainable system where the health of the soil, plants, and animals is interdependent.
Shoonya Farms offers over 50 organic products, ranging from A2 Bilona ghee — prized for its purity and health benefits — to cold-pressed mustard and wellness oils, raw nectar honey, hand-milled pulses, artisanal jams, biscuits, and aromatherapy oils. Beyond serving individual consumers, Shoonya Farms also pioneers luxury organic gifting — collaborating with corporate clients to create bespoke, sustainable gift boxes that bring farm freshness and ethical values to urban markets.
Empowering Farmers through FPOs
A key pillar of Shoonya Farms is its support for Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs). By linking small-scale farmers directly with markets, Shoonya Farms ensures fair pricing, steady incomes, and knowledge sharing of sustainable farming techniques. This grassroots approach uplifts rural communities while strengthening India’s organic produce ecosystem.
Walabha Industries: Revolutionizing Agricultural Waste into Clean Energy
Vaishavi’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond organic farming. Recognizing the environmental challenges caused by agricultural residue burning and fossil fuel dependence, she co-founded Walabha Industries to transform farm waste into an eco-friendly energy source.
Walabha Industries specializes in manufacturing biomass briquettes and pellets from mustard stalks, groundnut shells, sawdust, and other residues. These briquettes serve as a cleaner, cost-effective alternative to coal, reducing carbon emissions and industrial pollution.
With a large facility in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, Walabha Industries has produced over 1.85 million briquettes, working with more than 7,700 farmers to source agricultural residues. Their clientele includes major corporations such as Hindustan Unilever and Mankind Pharma, showcasing the industrial demand for sustainable fuel solutions.
Triple Impact: Environment, Economy, and Energy
Environmental: Significantly cuts down fossil fuel use and greenhouse gases.
Economic: Provides farmers with an additional income stream from residues otherwise wasted or burned.
Energy: Offers industries a high-efficiency, affordable biomass fuel option, improving energy sustainability.
A Vision for India’s Agricultural Future
Vaishavi Sinha Bhasin embodies the new-age agripreneur — one who merges passion with purpose, business with sustainability, and innovation with tradition. Her work is reshaping India’s organic farming landscape, proving that ecological stewardship and economic viability can thrive hand in hand.
Her message to future agripreneurs is inspiring and clear:
> “Agriculture is a vast field that needs innovation and critical minds dedicated to the betterment of agriculture and farmers. It must be driven by a strong purpose. I encourage more people to work in this sector, identify challenges, and drive improvements.”
Conclusion
The story of Vaishavi and her ventures Shoonya Farms and Walabha Industries highlights the power of mindful entrepreneurship — one that nurtures the environment, uplifts communities, and creates sustainable livelihoods. As India marches toward a future demanding ethical food systems and green energy, leaders like Vaishavi are lighting the path.
By choosing sustainability without compromise, she reminds us that farming is not just about yields or profits — it’s about nourishing lives, preserving nature, and honoring the roots that feed us all.
In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, when the world was grappling with uncertainty and health concerns, a quiet revolution was taking shape in the Indian food industry. Anchal Saxena, co-founder of Mad Over Millets, embarked on an inspiring journey to transform ancient grains into modern, nutritious, and delicious snacks that fit seamlessly into today’s fast-paced lifestyle. What started as a personal mission from her home kitchen has today blossomed into a promising brand that champions wellness, sustainability, and the revival of traditional Indian ingredients.
The Spark: Why Millets?
Anchal’s story began during the global lockdown when people everywhere were forced to rethink their food habits and overall well-being. Observing a clear gap in the snack market—where most options were either overly processed or lacking in real nutritional value—she turned to millets, an age-old, nutrient-dense group of grains long overlooked in modern diets.
Millets like ragi, jowar, and bajra are not only rich in fiber, iron, calcium, and essential micronutrients but are also environmentally friendly crops, requiring minimal water and thriving in poor soils. Recognizing their immense health and ecological benefits, Anchal started experimenting with these grains, combining them with wholesome ingredients such as chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, organic jaggery, and desi ghee.
Her experiments produced snacks that were flavorful and nourishing—snacks she personally felt good about eating.
Partnership and Foundation: Bringing Passion and Strategy Together
Realizing the potential of her idea, Anchal teamed up with her longtime friend Himanshu Mishra, who brought complementary business acumen and operational expertise. Together, their shared vision was clear: make millets cool again by turning them into tasty, accessible snacks that could appeal to the modern consumer without compromising on health.
This partnership fused Anchal’s culinary creativity—sharpened by her experience at the prestigious Oberoi Group—with Himanshu’s strategic insight, laying a strong foundation for Mad Over Millets.
Tackling the Awareness Challenge
Despite recent government efforts and global recognition of millets, such as Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s promotion of “Shree Anna,” many consumers in India remain unfamiliar with millets and their benefits. To overcome this awareness gap, Mad Over Millets adopted a multi-pronged approach focused on education and direct experience:
Leveraging digital marketing and social media campaigns to share the benefits of millets.
Collaborating with influencers and participating in health and food forums.
Offering free product samples in gyms, organic stores, and corporate offices to convert skeptics into believers.
These efforts earned Mad Over Millets not only consumer trust but also recognition from NutriHub, the world’s only dedicated millet institute based in Hyderabad.
Products Where Taste Meets Nutrition
Mad Over Millets prides itself on creating snacks where health and flavor go hand in hand. Their product range includes millet-based super cookies and savory snacks made with natural sweeteners like jaggery instead of refined sugar, and desi ghee in place of butter, keeping the offerings true to Indian culinary heritage while catering to modern nutritional needs.
The snacks are rich in fiber, iron, calcium, and essential nutrients, supporting digestion and overall wellness. Anchal describes their products as something “you’ll feel good about eating,” and the positive consumer feedback reflects this sentiment.
Innovation and Technology: Raising the Bar
Innovation is central to Mad Over Millets’ growth and quality strategy. The team works closely with government-backed incubation centers to refine their recipes and scale production.
One notable innovation is low-heat baking, a technique that preserves the fiber and nutrient content of the snacks while achieving the perfect crunch. Another is vacuum packaging, which extends shelf life and protects nutritional integrity without the use of preservatives.
These technological advancements help Mad Over Millets deliver products that are consistently safe, tasty, and wholesome.
Commitment to Sustainability and Farmer Empowerment
Sustainability runs deep in the brand’s ethos. Millets themselves are eco-friendly crops that require less water and chemical inputs, thus conserving natural resources and reducing agricultural carbon footprints.
Moreover, Mad Over Millets sources grains directly from Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) at fair prices, ensuring farmers receive a good livelihood while maintaining premium quality inputs. This approach strengthens rural agricultural ecosystems and promotes sustainable farming practices.
Looking Ahead: Growth, Expansion, and Diversification
Though still a relatively young brand, Mad Over Millets has ambitious plans for the next five years:
International Expansion: Targeting markets in the Middle East and South Asia where demand for gluten-free, nutritious snacks is rising.
Corporate Partnerships: Introducing healthy snacking options at workplaces to replace unhealthy food habits.
Product Diversification: Developing granolas, energy bars, and quick meal solutions to widen their consumer base.
Collaborations: Exploring white-label partnerships with larger food brands to scale millet-based innovations.
Every new product and initiative will continue to emphasize the brand’s core values of health, taste, and sustainability.
Empowering Women Entrepreneurs in Agribusiness
As a woman entrepreneur in the food sector, Anchal understands the challenges female agripreneurs face. She shares practical advice and encouragement for aspiring women leaders:
Educate Yourself: Stay abreast of market trends, consumer behavior, and emerging food technologies.
Start Small, Test Often: Use customer feedback to refine and improve products continuously.
Leverage Digital Tools: Harness the power of digital marketing to reach wider audiences cost-effectively.
Be Patient and Believe in Your Vision: Resilience and adaptability are crucial to overcoming setbacks.
Anchal believes women bring unique strengths such as emotional intelligence, attention to detail, and determination to entrepreneurship. Even a “half-hearted” effort can go far when driven by passion and purpose.
Conclusion: More Than Just a Brand — A Movement
Mad Over Millets is not just another food startup; it is a movement that is redefining snacking habits across India by blending ancient wisdom with modern innovation. Through consumer education, sustainable sourcing, and continuous innovation, Anchal Saxena and her team are building a profitable business that also contributes positively to health, tradition, and the environment.
As Anchal puts it simply and powerfully, “Let’s just do it.”
Pabitra Khatri, from the village of Dharapani in Ilam district, Nepal, is a remarkable woman who has not only succeeded in organic tea farming but has also become a leader and role model for women in her community. As a board member of the Barboteli Tea Producer Cooperative Society Ltd., Pabitra has played a vital role in empowering women and driving social and economic progress.
Beginning with Social Engagement
Pabitra lives with her family of five — herself, her husband, two daughters, and one son. They also own a cow and a calf. In 2011, after connecting with board members and other members of the Barboteli Tea Producer Cooperative Society Ltd., Pabitra became a member of the cooperative. With a lifelong passion for learning, her primary motivation to join was to become socially active and to contribute meaningfully to her community.
Gaining Strength through Training and Knowledge
Through participation in programs, training, and workshops conducted by the Central Tea Cooperative Federation Ltd (CTCF), Pabitra acquired extensive knowledge about cooperative management, organic tea farming techniques, tea plucking, and occupational health and safety. This training not only improved her farming practices but also led to better economic outcomes and a healthier lifestyle.
Historically, women were confined mainly to household duties, but now women like Pabitra are actively participating in cooperatives and contributing equally to their families’ and communities’ development. They have grown into active leaders, sharing economic responsibilities alongside men.
Increased Productivity and Leadership Role
With increased productivity, Pabitra expanded her tea plantation and is recognized as a tea farmer producing high-quality and high-quantity tea leaves on relatively small land through good agricultural practices and organic farming.
As a board member of her cooperative, she now facilitates and empowers other members, especially women, helping them enhance their skills and leadership abilities. Since joining the cooperative, Pabitra has seen the price of green tea leaves increase by 3 NPR per kilogram due to improved collective bargaining power. This has benefited not just her but the entire cooperative community economically.
A New Identity for Women in Society
Pabitra’s story demonstrates that women can successfully manage farming, cooperative work, and leadership roles. Women in her cooperative balance household responsibilities with economic contributions through qualitative and sustainable tea farming.
Participation in occupational safety and health training has equipped members to minimize hazards and maintain safety at the workplace. The cooperative’s own tea processing factory also creates employment opportunities and raises awareness about tea processing technology.
The most significant social change has been the growing belief in the community that “women can do this too” — a major milestone in a country like Nepal.
Pabitra’s Message
I became a member of the cooperative to connect with people, learn more about cooperatives and tea, and to empower women. My participation has made me stronger. I feel I can overcome any difficulty — whether in farming, cooperative work, or family responsibilities
Conclusion
Pabitra Khatri’s journey is a shining example of women’s empowerment through education, training, and community engagement. Her story shows how women can be powerful agents of change in agriculture and social development when given the right knowledge and opportunities.
If you are inspired by Pabitra’s story and want to make a difference in farming or women’s empowerment, remember that continuous learning and taking initiative are key.
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Background: María López is from a small village in Andalusia, Spain. Her family owned a small piece of land, but María wanted to think of farming as a serious business rather than just a tradition.
Challenge: The soil in her village was not very fertile, and most farmers relied heavily on chemical farming methods, which harmed both health and the environment. María decided to focus on organic farming instead.
What María Did:
1. Certified Organic Farming: She got her farm certified as organic, which increased the value of her products.
2. Focus on Mediterranean Crops: María started organically growing olives, almonds, and saffron, crops well-suited to the Mediterranean climate and in good demand.
3. Started Agri-Tourism: She began offering small farm tours, workshops, and farm stays, where visitors could learn about farming and enjoy fresh organic food.
4. Local Branding and Export: María marketed her products under a local brand and started exporting some to other European countries.
Results:
Her farm became a successful organic business and earned additional income from agri-tourism.
María helped other farmers in her village understand the benefits of organic farming and built a local community around sustainable agriculture.
The farm improved the local environment, and the demand for her products grew both locally and internationally.
In María’s Own Words: “Organic farming is not just about seeds and water; it’s a way of life. When people visit our farm and see how we care for the land, they feel connected to farming in a new way.”
