July 9, 2025

Six agricultural start-ups incubated at the Agri-Business Incubator of Kerala Agricultural University (KAU) have been recognized among the top-performing ventures under the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana – RAFTAAR Agri Business Incubation programme. The recognition came during a high-level national review meeting chaired by the RKVY advisor to evaluate the progress and impact of agri-business incubators and their associated start-ups. The meeting brought together representatives from RKVY-RAFTAAR Agri-Business Incubators across India, as well as emerging entrepreneurs who showcased innovations supported under the scheme. The Kerala-based start-ups presented unique agri-based solutions that have made significant strides in sustainability, product innovation, and rural livelihood development. K.P. Sudheer, Head of the Agri-Business Incubator at KAU, highlighted the significance of the event, stating it provided a rare national platform for start-ups to gain visibility and recognition. Entrepreneurs from Kerala, including Vineetha A.K., Manas Madhu, Brijith Krishna, Saji Varghese, T. J. Thankachan, and Vidya K.S., shared their innovative products and business models. These start-ups have benefited from training and financial support through the Raftaar Agri Business Incubator program at KAU. Ms. Vineetha developed a cassava starch-based fabric care spray, winning the ‘Woman in Change Award’ from Startup India. Mr. Madhu, founder of Doctor Jackfruit India Pvt. Ltd., created Beyond Snacks, a jackfruit snack brand that gained national attention through Shark Tank India. Mr. Krishna of Eatery Malabarikus transformed the use of sprouted cashews into a line of healthy food products. Mr. Varghese, founder of Zaphon Repurpose, created Sunbird Straws — eco-friendly drinking straws made from coconut leaves. Mr. Thankachan of TMJ Foods India Pvt Ltd developed a mushroom-based health drink rich in Vitamin D2. Ms. Vidya, co-founder of Swojas Farms, promotes millet-based organic products. The event aimed to boost exports from local agri-business start-ups, aligning with the Central government's scheme supporting export-ready agri-food start-ups in the country. Experts and policymakers from various sectors participated in the event.

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Tags: Agriculture, Start-ups, Innovation, Recognition, Rural economy,