Six Kerala Agri-Startups to Be Honoured Nationally for Innovation and Sustainability

Kerala, Jul 7 (KNN) Six promising agricultural startups fr0m Kerala are set to receive national recognition in New Delhi for their innovative contributions to the agri-sector. 

These startups were incubated under the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) through the RAFTAAR Agri-Business Incubator at Kerala Agricultural University (KAU). 

Their selection highlights Kerala’s growing footprint in sustainable and value-driven agricultural entrepreneurship.

The team will be led by K. P. Sudheer, Head of the Agri-Business Incubator and a key mentor in Kerala’s agri-startup ecosystem, according to New Indian Express. 

He expressed pride in the achievement, stating that this recognition is a milestone for the state and an opportunity to showcase Kerala’s agri-innovations on a national platform.

Among the honoured ventures is Dr Jackfruit India, founded by Manas Madhu. The startup has made a mark globally by transforming jackfruit and banana chips into premium snacks under the brand Beyond Snacks.

Zaphon Repurpose, led by Saji Varghese, creates biodegradable straws fr0m discarded coconut leaves under the brand Sunbird Straws, offering an eco-friendly alternative to plastic.

TMJ Foods India, run by T. J. Thankachan, has developed a health drink fortified with vitamin D₂ extracted fr0m mushrooms, promoting both nutrition and innovation in food science.

Other selected startups include Eatery Malabarikus, which promotes traditional Malabar cuisine, Swojas Farms, and Bio-Arya Vedic Naturals, likely involved in sustainable farming and Ayurvedic product innovation.

While details about the last three ventures remain limited, their inclusion signals strong potential in regional food and wellness entrepreneurship.

This recognition reflects the growing success of Kerala's agri-startup ecosystem, driven by mentorship, research, and programs like RKVY and RAFTAAR. 

It also emphasises the state’s commitment to blending tradition, sustainability, and innovation to solve modern agricultural challenges.

(KNN Bureau)