Imagine leaving a lucrative corporate job for farming.

Chandigarh-based entrepreneur and MBA grad Pritpal Singh left a corporate job to pursue farming, launching his agri startup, Farmcult, in 2021.

His deep-rooted love for farming began in childhood, spending time with his grandfather on the farm.

What is Farmcult?

Farmcult is a startup specializing in hydroponics and protected cultivation based in Chandigarh, India. They have conducted extensive research to tailor these methods to India's diverse topography and climate, recognizing that not all structures or techniques suit every location.

After years of research, the startup has developed two models to offer its clients:

Setup and Support Model: They offer comprehensive support for clients entering the hydroponics business, including farm setup, agronomy support, consultancy, guidance, etc., for successful sales.

End-to-End Management Model: It offers a full-service solution for clients with land and capital but without the time to manage operations and handle everything from farm setup to daily operations.

Educational Outreach and Advocacy: Farmcult provides workshops and training to the community about the benefits of hydroponic farming, including sustainability, water efficiency, and chemical-free produce.

Farmcult Workshop: Farmcult offers workshops on protected cultivation and hydroponics. The hands-on
workshops provide in-depth knowledge of soilless farming techniques suitable for various climatic and topographical conditions in India. Workshops are available in both online and offline formats.

What is hydroponics?

Hydroponics is a method of growing plants using water as the primary medium instead of soil. The term "hydroponics" combines "hydro," meaning water, and "ponics," meaning a system. Essentially, any system that grows plants in water without soil is considered hydroponics.

Journey of Farmcult:

Between 2013 and 2016, Pritpal farmed part-time while working full-time. In 2016, he shifted to growing exotic flowers in a greenhouse, investing Rs 50 lakh per acre.

After realizing a declining demand for fresh flowers, he switched to growing seedless cucumbers and other vegetables.

This change tripled his returns and profits. By 2021, he fully embraced hydroponics within the protected cultivation domain and found a niche market of wholesale buyers interested in hydroponically grown produce.

Financial Growth of Farmcult:

From 2016 to 2018, Farmcult's profits were around Rs. 6-7 lakhs per acre annually. After transitioning to hydroponics, profits increased to approximately Rs. 30-35 lakhs annually.