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Pioneering Agricultural Innovation: The Journey of Rashvee-International Phytosanitary Research & Services (R-IPRS)

• ByStartupStory     |    May 16, 2024

Siddaganga Incubation Foundation (SIF) is a section 8 non-profit entity located at Siddaganga Institute of Technology, Tumakuru, Karnataka. It focuses on supporting innovations in the areas of Agritech and allied areas, Social impact sectors to nurture startup culture and to address challenges in rural India. SIF is recognised by NSTEDB, Department of Science & Technology, Startup India Seed Fund Scheme, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, Gov of India. SIF offers pre-incubation, Incubation program for early stage startups and invest in startups through SISFS scheme.  

In the realm of agriculture, innovation and sustainability intersect to address critical challenges faced by farmers worldwide. Dr. M.A. Rashmi, an esteemed alumna of the University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Bengaluru, with a rich background in entomology and over 16 years of research and teaching experience, embarked on a transformative journey with the establishment of Rashvee- International Phytosanitary Research & Services (R-IPRS).

Dr. Rashmi’s academic journey spans from completing her MSc and PhD at the University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Bengaluru, to honing her expertise through diverse roles at prestigious organizations like the Regional Plant Quarantine Station-Directorate of Plant Protection Quarantine and Storage (Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare), ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Monsanto India Ltd, and the Department of Agricultural Entomology, UAS, Bangalore. Her career, dedicated to plant protection and entomology, has been highlighted by scholarly contributions, including numerous research publications and impactful collaborations.

Driven by a deep-rooted passion for sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship, Dr. Rashmi identified a critical need to address the challenges posed by insect pests in crop production. Witnessing firsthand the detrimental impact of conventional pest control methods, which often leave toxic residues and harm ecosystems, she envisioned a startup focused on developing eco-friendly, residue-free plant protection solutions.

In 2022, Dr. Rashmi founded R-IPRS, also known as Rashvee-International Phytosanitary Research & Services, with a core mission to offer cutting-edge, climate-resilient, and environmentally viable plant protection technologies. The startup’s primary objective is to empower farmers with sustainable pest management practices and promote the production of safe, residue-free horticultural products.

R-IPRS specializes in providing residue-free, eco-friendly management solutions for stored pests in pulses, including Tur dal, Pigeon pea, Green gram, Black gram, Chickpea, and more. Residue-free, ecofriendly management of  stored grain pest in pulses through a non-insecticidal Bruchid repellant is developed under the funding of Agri-tech Ignite Grant of Rs. 5 Lakhs, supported by NSTEDB, DST, GoI given through Siddaganga Incubation Foundation. R-IPRS is proud to be a part of  Siddaganga TBI. 

The startup’s flagship product stands out in the market for its effectiveness, safety, and suitability for household and commercial use. Unlike conventional pesticides, R-IPRS’ offerings leverage biopesticides and botanicals, ensuring minimal environmental impact and enhancing food safety.

At present through the BIRAC, DBT program R-IPRS has developed an insecticide free liquid lure for fruit flies for mango guava and cucurbits this has been patented and is now on a commercial platform likewise Rashvee Herbal liquid soap as adjuvant in sprays, spreaders, stand alone spray washes is ready for market. 

The distinctiveness of R-IPRS lies in its commitment to offering holistic, eco-friendly pest management solutions tailored to the Indian agricultural landscape. Dr. Rashmi’s extensive expertise and dedication to sustainable agriculture position R-IPRS as a pioneer in the field, providing farmers with effective tools to combat pest-related challenges while prioritising environmental health.

Under Dr. Rashmi’s leadership, R-IPRS operates with a talented team comprising agricultural graduates from the University of Agricultural Sciences. Supported by the mentorship of Dr. Abraham Verghese,  a veteran in agriculture and plant protection with 45 years of experience, the team thrives on innovation and a shared commitment to serve farmers and promote ecological and climate resilience.

Looking ahead, R-IPRS envisions expanding its operations across India and exploring international markets. The startup’s goal is to contribute significantly to global efforts towards sustainable agriculture, leveraging its expertise and innovative solutions to benefit farmers and ecosystems alike.

R-IPRS has made substantial investments totaling Rs.30 lakhs into its operations. The startup has secured grant funding from prestigious institutions like DST, BIRAC, and DBT to support its growth and development. The startup also proposes to raise funds from MANAGE, NABARD. 

With a clientele of over 5000 farmers, including pomegranate, grapes, mango, and vegetable growers, R-IPRS has established a strong presence in South India. The startup’s plant health clinic sees a daily footfall of 50 to 60 farmers, offering diagnostic services and providing biocontrol inputs for sustainable crop management.

R-IPRS has navigated challenges in scaling operations and promoting eco-friendly technologies in a traditional agricultural landscape. Through strategic collaborations, farmer education programs, and innovative marketing approaches, the startup has overcome barriers to adoption and garnered positive feedback from its clientele.

Dr. Rashmi’s journey underscores the importance of integrity, innovation, and environmental responsibility in entrepreneurship. Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is to uphold honesty, integrity, and a passion for making a positive impact in both personal and professional endeavors.

Rashvee-International Phytosanitary Research & Services (R-IPRS) epitomizes a commitment to sustainable agriculture, driven by innovation and a profound dedication to transforming the future of farming. Through eco-friendly solutions and visionary leadership, R-IPRS continues to pave the way for a greener, healthier agricultural landscape.

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