Grow Indigo: Regenerative farming
Year: 2018
Founders: Rajendra Badrinarayan Barwale, Kirthee Thakkar, Shirish Rajendra Barwale
Funding: $24 million (Series A & B)
Investors: Mahyco, Indigo Ag, British International Investment
Introduction
Grow Indigo is a new agritech company that is revolutionising Indian farming with regenerative farming and carbon credit options. Formed as a joint venture between US-headquartered Indigo Ag and Indian seed industry giant Mahyco, Grow Indigo marries global expertise with local talent to empower Indian farmers. Its purpose is to develop sustainable agriculture that not only enhances productivity but also recovers the soil and opens new avenues of income in carbon farm activities. Grow Indigo’s footprint today extends to over 14 states, covering millions of agricultural acres and assisting farmers in switching to climate-resilient farming.
Tackling Agricultural Challenges
Indian agriculture is plagued by severe challenges like soil erosion, chemical loading, water scarcity, and increasing greenhouse gas emissions. These are added to by conventional farming methods, which bruise long-term food safety and farmers’ livings. Grow Indigo stops these systemic problems by using regenerative agriculture—methods that enrich soil organic matter, improve water holding capacity, and minimize carbon emissions. In a focus on no-till agriculture, direct seeding of rice, and use of organic fertilizers, the company assists farmers in preserving natural resources and making them more climate-resilient.
Key Offerings
Grow Indigo has designed a comprehensive portfolio of solutions that blend science with sustainability:
- Agricultural Carbon Credit Program: India’s first science-based program that allows farmers to generate cash from carbon credits by adopting regenerative farming. The program generates a value-added source of income by bridging farmers with global voluntary carbon markets.
- Sustainable Agri-Inputs: The company produces next-generation seed treatments, biostimulants, and bio-pesticides that induce healthy crops and reduce the consumption of chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
- Partnership for Green Supply Chains: Indigo Growth collaborates with leading food and fashion businesses to lower farm-level greenhouse gas emissions, creating high-performing green supply chains.
These products enable farmers to adopt climate-friendly methods that enhance soil productivity, reduce input costs, and enhance the quality of crops.
Real Impact
Grow Indigo’s innovative model has transformed millions of acres into carbon-sequestering farmland, improving soil health and farmer incomes simultaneously. Operating in more than 14 states, the company has enriched over 4 million acres with regenerative practices, touching the lives of countless small and marginal farmers. By integrating carbon farming with market linkages, Grow Indigo has created a new financial paradigm—farmers not only grow crops but also earn from environmental stewardship. This dual benefit has led to increased adoption of sustainable agriculture and stronger rural livelihoods.
Success Story
In Maharashtra’s drylands, farmer Ramesh Patil was facing poor soil and irregular rainfall. Through Grow Indigo, he shifted to direct-seeded rice and no-till farming methods, along with the company’s biostimulants and seed treatments.. Not only did his yields improve by 20%, but Ramesh also earned additional income by participating in the carbon credit program. This steady revenue gave him the confidence to invest further in sustainable practices, inspiring his community to follow suit.
Lessons for Agri-Startups
Grow Indigo’s journey offers valuable insights for agri startups aspiring to make a lasting impact:
- Science-Backed Innovation Is Crucial: Credible research and data-driven models build trust with farmers and markets alike.
- Create Multiple Value Streams: Combining productivity gains with new income sources like carbon credits increases farmer adoption and retention.
- Partner for Scale: Collaboration with government bodies, supply chain players, and international organizations amplifies impact.
- Tailor Solutions to Local Contexts: Regional customization respecting local languages, climates, and crops is key to success.
- Focus on Sustainability as Business: Environmental benefits and profitability can go hand-in-hand, driving both impact and growth.
Stay Informed with Focus Agritech
Grow Indigo is more than an agritech company — it’s a catalyst for regenerative farming and carbon-smart agriculture in India. Learn how their innovative practices are redefining farming futures. Stay updated with Focus Agritech—sign up for our newsletter and unlock expert tips to grow your farm smarter!Explore more such stories, insights, and opportunities in the agritech ecosystem.
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