Hyd entrepreneur finds fortune in growing food without soil

The advancement of technology in agriculture has attracted many entrepreneurs towards sustainable farming practices. After witnessing the transformative power of technology in addressing traditional farming challenges, entrepreneurs have tapped into this potential to revolutionise the way food is produced. One such entrepreneur’s passion for sustainable living and pursuit of technological solutions in farming led to establishing a hydroponic farm in 2019 at Zaheerabad in Telangana. COO of Lemon Chillii Farms Pvt Ltd Rithish Babu Velkur spoke to Bizz Buzz about the prospect of growing food sustainably, and embracing modern agricultural methods, such as hydroponics, that result in not only higher yields but also contributes to a cleaner, and healthier environment.

Hydroponic market is categorised into three segments – fruits, vegetables and flowers. India’s hydroponics market is pegged to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 13.53 per cent during the forecast period, 2023 to 2030. As of 2020, the hydroponics market in India stood at $13.90 million, as per a data available in the public domain

Could you walk us through your farming journey?

My journey into farming is rooted in the belief that the future of agriculture lies in sustainable practices, and technological innovation. My passion has been to cultivate fresh and nutrient-dense produce. While my educational background may not have been directly related to farming, the pressing global challenges of food security, limited space, and the need for sustainable practices captured my attention.

Moreover, like many others, my quest for clean food, air, and water for future generations became a personal mission. The goal is to provide not just vegetables but a sustainable and innovative approach to agriculture, ensuring a brighter and healthier future for generations to come. Witnessing the challenges in traditional agriculture, we sought innovative ways such as hydroponics to contribute to a greener and healthier future.

What made you zero down on hydroponic farming?

Hydroponic farming was chosen for its resource efficiency and suitability in urban environments. While soil fertility may not be a primary concern, hydroponics minimises water usage, eliminates soil-borne diseases and offers precise nutrient control, making it an ideal solution for sustainable urban agriculture.

What are the varieties of produce grown and why did you choose these?

We specialise in Bell Peppers, Dutch Chillies, Green and Red Jalapenos, Peach Red Brown and Yellow Habaneros, Aji Limon (Lemon Chillii), and specialty tomatoes like Beefsteak, Baby Beefsteak, Yellow Baby Plum, Red Grape, Red Cherry by the vine, and Italian Marzano. These selections were made based on market demand, flavour profile, and adaptability to hydroponic systems.

With the high cost of such produce, which category of customers do you serve?

Our premium hydroponic produce caters to health-conscious consumers, high-end restaurants, and niche markets. While the cost is higher, the quality and nutritional value justify the price point, appealing to those who prioritise superior taste and sustainable practices.

What are the teething issues and following challenges one has to be aware of?

Teething issues of setting up a hydroponic farm includes system calibration, nutrient balance, and pest management. The challenges that one can face in the process involves initial setup costs, energy consumption, and a learning curve for effective system management. I would suggest that adequate training and continuous learning are essential to overcome these challenges.

What was the thought behind introducing charcuterie board?

A charcuterie board is a curated selection of cured meats, cheeses, fruits, and condiments. We introduced it as a complementary offering to showcase the versatility of our hydroponic produce in a visually appealing and delicious way, enhancing the overall culinary experience.

You had recently collaborated with a University, and later a Dutch firm. What is going to be the result of these partnerships and whom is it going to support?

Our collaborations aim to integrate cutting-edge agricultural technologies, enhance research and development, and foster sustainable practices. Partnering with the University and Dutch firm will benefit both our farm operations and contribute to advancements in hydroponic farming methods.

What are your plans going forward?

Our future plans involve expanding our hydroponic offerings, integrating advanced technologies, and establishing collaborations for sustainable farming practices. We aim to contribute to the wider adoption of hydroponics in India.

If an entrepreneur wants to take up hydroponic farming, what would be the investment, in terms of money, time, and effort?

The investment varies based on scale and technology. Generally, it involves infrastructure costs (greenhouses or indoor systems), nutrient solutions, seeds, and operational expenses. The initial investment can range from Rs 5 lakh to several crores, with ongoing time and effort for monitoring and maintenance.

By when can one expect a return on their investment and count on making profits in this model of farming?

The timeline for ROI depends on various factors, including scale, crop selection, market demand, and operational efficiency. Generally, investors can expect returns within one to five years, with profitability increasing as the business matures.

Is hydroponic farming an alternative to the current farming method or is it a solution for an issue? Could you name few produces that can be grown through this method?

Hydroponic farming complements traditional methods and can be a solution for urban agriculture, resource-efficient farming, and areas with soil challenges. Farmers interested in sustainable practices, precision farming, and high-value crops can benefit. Leafy greens, herbs, and certain vegetables thrive in hydroponic systems, while large root crops may pose challenges.

While we get to hear that a certain segment of farmers are facing losses, there is a segment of agri startups adopting new methods and cashing profits. How would you analyse this contrast?

The contrast reflects the transition phase in agriculture. Forward-thinking agri-tech entrepreneurs leveraging innovative methods and technology are positioned to capitalise on market demands for premium produce. However, challenges persist for traditional farmers due to factors like climate change, market dynamics, and resource constraints.

How are precision/hydroponics farmers faring in Hyderabad compared to other cities?

Precision/hydroponics farming is gaining traction in this city, yet challenges exist. The number of hydroponic farmers in the State is increasing, driven by awareness and support. Some techies did start off with hydroponic farming during the pandemic. They had to shut it down as they faced challenges due to operational complexities and market dynamics. Success depends on strategic planning, market research, and adapting to local consumer preferences.

How would you compare the market for these produce in India as against exporting them? Which country provides a better market opportunity?

While the Indian market is substantial, export opportunities exist, especially in the Middle East and Singapore. These regions value high-quality, and sustainable produce, hence presenting a significant market opportunity for exports of produce grown through hydroponic farming.

What is the market size of hydroponics farming, and what percentage of this opportunity can yet be tapped by Indian entrepreneurs? What is its growth prospect and future in India?

The market size of hydroponic farming is growing globally, and India has significant untapped potential. Currently representing a small percentage of overall agriculture, the future is promising. As awareness increases, Indian entrepreneurs have the opportunity to capture a more significant share of this market, contributing to the growth and sustainability of agriculture in the country.