agriculture innovation

Parmeshwar Thorat from Beed, Maharashtra, turned the challenges of arid conditions and water scarcity into an opportunity by pioneering avocado farming. Despite the initial doubts and harsh environment, his innovative approach has transformed his 1.75-acre farm into a profitable venture, yielding 1,200 kg of avocados in 2023 and enabling him to sell saplings to other farmers.

Over the past 30 years, Phuman Singh Kaurra from Punjab has been turning his family's fortunes around through carrot farming. He also has a seed bank that can cultivate up to 650 acres of land.

In Raebareli, Anand Mishra left his city job and took a risk few dared — growing lemons instead of wheat. Years later, he’s earning five times more than before.

From onions and mushrooms to strawberries and processing units, SumArth’s holistic model transformed farming across 500 villages — turning recurring costs into recurring income.

Meet five extraordinary changemakers transforming Indian agriculture with bold ideas, indigenous wisdom, and innovations that are quietly reshaping the way India farms, eats, and thrives. This September, Optum Presents The Better India Showcase, supported by the M3M Foundation, is honouring their impact.

Looking to boost farm income and grow sustainably? Learn how Pritpal Singh moved from traditional farming to hydroponics, built a successful high-yield setup, and now helps others do the same. Follow his step-by-step journey to start your profitable hydroponic farm.

Aprajita Bansal runs Phal Phool, a startup that sells apples and other products grown on her family orchard in Banon, Himachal Pradesh.

He’s growing avocados in a place where water is scarce — how did he crack the code?

In Vidarbha, where farmers have long struggled with hardship, Krushi Sarathi, a movement founded by a local farmer's son, is planting seeds of change. Empowering farmers with tools, technology, and knowledge, Krushi Sarathi connects them to brighter futures.

Class 12 student Suhani Chauhan has developed a solar-powered agro vehicle to help small farmers reduce costs and carbon emissions, offering an eco-friendly option for sustainable farming.