19-year-old Anirban Das, who hails from Kharagpur town in West Bengal’s West Midnapore district, has set an example in his age that gives a new direction to agriculture and health. He has founded an agri-startup called ‘Millet Nation’, which aims to popularise nutrition-rich millet-based products and increase the income of farmers.
Inception: How did the idea of Millet Nation come about?
Anirban explains,
Nutrition deficiency and instability in farmers’ income are two major problems in our country. I realised that millets (jowar, bajra, ragi) can be the solution to both these problems.”
Millets are not only rich in nutrition, but can also be grown in arid areas with less water. Anirban decided to give this idea a commercial shape, so that it is beneficial for both farmers and consumers.
Objective and working of the startup
Anirban’s startup ‘Millet Nation’ makes millet-based snacks and products, which are a great option for health-conscious consumers.
Key goals of the startup:
1. Providing healthy food options:
• Creating millet-based nutritious products for diabetics, children and fitness enthusiasts.
2. Promoting local agriculture:
• Encouraging local farmers to cultivate millets and buying their produce at a fair price.
3. Promoting sustainable and sustainable lifestyle:
• Promoting environmental sustainability and food security through millet cultivation.
Anirban’s products: A new beginning
The products of ‘Millet Nation’ are a wonderful combination of taste and health.
Key products:
1. Millet snacks:
• Low-calorie and high-protein snacks.
2. Millet biscuits and bread:
• As an alternative to traditional wheat.
3. Millet Powder:
• Easy to use product that is ideal for kids and fitness enthusiasts.
“We want people to make millets a part of their daily diet plan. This will not only improve their health, but will also help increase the income of farmers,” says Anirban.
Technological innovations and business strategies
Anirban has incorporated technological innovations in his startup.
Key innovations:
1. Processing units:
• Use of advanced processing techniques to keep millets pure and nutritious.
2. Use of online platforms:
• Use of e-commerce platforms to sell and promote his products.
3. Consultation with agricultural scientists and technical experts:
• Providing training and guidance to farmers for millet cultivation.
Market success
Anirban’s startup has gained recognition at the local and national level.
Their marketing strategy:
Participation in local fairs and exhibitions:
Displaying millet products and interacting directly with customers.
Presence on online platforms:
Selling their products on platforms like Amazon and Flipkart.
• Awareness campaigns on health and nutrition:
• Educating people about the benefits of millets.
Anirban explains,
“Our aim is not just to sell products but to inspire people to lead a healthy lifestyle.”
Impact on farmers and community
Anirban’s efforts have not only improved his economic condition but also benefited the farmers and community in his region.
Key impacts:
1. Increase in farmers’ income:
• Motivated farmers to cultivate millets and brought their produce to the market.
2. Promoting sustainable agriculture:
• Millet farming promotes environmental sustainability.
3. Employment Generation:
• His startup provided employment opportunities to the local youth.
Honours and Achievements
Anirban’s hard work and his innovative approach have been appreciated at the national level.
Major Honours:
1. Best Poster Award in 7th Agrivision-2023.
2. Research Paper Presentation in National Convention held at ICAR, New Delhi.
Benefits and Suggestions of Government Schemes
So far Anirban has not availed any government scheme, but many schemes can be helpful for him.
Proposed Schemes:
1. Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY):
• To make millet cultivation safe.
2. Millet Mission:
• Financial and technical assistance for the promotion of millet products.
3. Startup India:
• To promote his startup at the national level.
Future Plans
Anirban is planning to expand his startup further.
His main plans:
1. Entering the international market.
2. Starting a millet-based food chain.
3. Establishing a training and consultancy centre for farmers.
Anirban Das: An inspiration
Anirban’s story is a proof that the youth can bring about big changes in society and agriculture with the right direction and hard work. His hard work and vision have established a balance between agriculture, health and environment.
His message is,
“Millet is not just a grain, but a solution – for health, agriculture and environment.”
Conclusion
Anirban Das’s ‘Millet Nation’ is not just a successful startup but a model that promotes sustainable agriculture and a healthy lifestyle. His story proves that every challenge can be turned into an opportunity with innovation, hard work and dedication.
“Anirban’s dream is – millet in every plate and a smile on every farmer’s face.”
Contact details: If farmers want to share information or experiences related to farming with us, then they can do this by calling us on the phone number 9599273766 or by writing an email to [email protected] or by sending your recording. Through Kisan of India, we will convey your message to the people, because we believe that if the farmers are advanced then the country is happy.