The idea of Shubhavni Smart Farms was born out of 64-year-old Subha Bhatnagar's deep passion for agriculture and her desire to positively impact the lives of rural women. As a housewife with grown-up children and grandchildren, Subha tried to use her time effectively.
It was Shubha's research into possible farming ideas that led them to saffron cultivation. Despite the high risks and challenges, due to climatic differences between Uttar Pradesh and Kashmir (the traditional saffron growing region), Shubha, with the support of her family, decided to start indoor saffron cultivation. Husband Sanjiv helped with infrastructure and Ankit and Manjari (son and daughter-in-law) helped with technology and automation.
According to reports, the production of saffron in Kashmir has been declining significantly over the years. Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare Arjun Munda reported that production has declined from 8 tonnes in 2010-11 to 2.6 tonnes in 2023-24 as per data from the Office of the Financial Commissioner (Revenue) of Jammu and Kashmir.
In 2023, at the age of 63, Shubha Bhatnagar, a post graduate in Hindi, started Shubhavni in Uttar Pradesh's Mainpuri district.
About Shubhavni
Shubhavni Smart Farms specializes in growing saffron using aeroponic techniques, a soil-free method that involves growing plants in a controlled environment. This innovation allows Subhavni to overcome the climatic limitations traditionally associated with saffron cultivation in Kashmir.
The 560-square-foot cold room, previously used as a storage space, is equipped with chillers, humidifiers, CO2 sensors and specialized lighting to create ideal growing conditions for saffron bulbs. This method not only ensures the production of pure and pesticide-free saffron, but also conserves water and land resources.
Originating from Pampore, Kashmir, the venture's saffron bulbs provide a high-quality start to their farming venture. Subhavni's high quality saffron cultivation yields about 800 g to 1 kg of saffron from 1000 kg of bulbs, the bulbs also increase in size and weight over time. Cultivation process takes about 3-4 months to get the fruit.
Saffron is sold directly to consumers at Rs 750 per gram through inquiries through Instagram, WhatsApp and e-commerce activities. Shubhavni operates through direct inquiries and plans to start e-commerce sales in October.
The rise of the health-conscious gift
Talking about the health benefits of saffron, the founders say that saffron compounds such as crocin, crocetin, picrocrocin and safranal are known for their medicinal and culinary properties. Its antioxidant properties, including crocin, crocetin, and safranal, help fight oxidative stress and neutralize free radicals.
Saffron supports cognitive function and memory, protects against neurodegenerative conditions, has anti-inflammatory properties, promotes eye health, aids digestion, and regulates the menstrual cycle.
The company has seen significant growth in demand due to increased interest in saffron for healthy gifts and various functions. Shubhavni currently serves major cities across India including Mumbai, Delhi and Bangalore and is exploring international markets for future expansion. The agri startup is creating awareness about the health benefits of saffron through social media to create a better customer base.
Economic growth and future plans
The agripreneur-turned housewife invested around Rs 26 lakh to set up a cold room for saffron cultivation. In the first year, Shubhavni sold saffron worth around Rs 10 lakh. The company's decision is to focus on establishing a strong domestic presence before considering international expansion. The next batch of saffron will be available in October and Shubhavni plans to double its farm area to meet the growing demand.
Shubhni has achieved notable achievements including being recognized as the Agritech Startup of the Year at the Startup Mahakumbh event in Delhi. The company provides livelihood to around 22 rural women who dry and pack saffron. They earn adequate and steady income from agricultural enterprise.
The female entrepreneur is now 64 years old but is committed to a healthy lifestyle. This inspires rural women to continue to do so with a passion to empower them.
