Pioneering Agricultural Innovation: The Journey of Rural Rise Agrinery LLP
- ByStartupStory | July 4, 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 Agritech and allied areas, and social impact sectors to nurture startup culture and address challenges in rural India. SIF is recognized by NSTEDB, Department of Science & Technology, Startup India Seed Fund Scheme, and the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, Government of India. SIF offers pre-incubation and incubation programs for early-stage startups and invests in startups through the SISFS scheme.
In the realm of agriculture, innovation and sustainability intersect to address critical challenges faced by farmers worldwide. Ashok Gorre, an inspiring young entrepreneur from an agricultural family, embarked on a transformative journey with the establishment of Rural Rise Agrinery LLP.
Ashok’s journey in innovation began early, starting in sixth grade with basic tools and progressing to designing machinery that benefits farmers. His dedication and ingenuity have earned him national and international recognition, including the prestigious Young Rural Innovator Award at the Global Indian Scientist Technocrats (GIST) event. He completed his undergraduate studies in B.A. Political Science and worked at T-Works, India’s largest prototyping center, under the Telangana government for two years. On June 19, 2023, Ashok founded Rural Rise Agrinery LLP in his village of Anjalipuram, Telangana.
The Idea Behind the Startup
up on a farm, Ashok witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by small-scale farmers, particularly in finding daily labor for fieldwork. This inspired him to create affordable and efficient tools and machinery to aid these farmers. Advanced technologies like drones are not economically or easily accessible for many rural farmers, highlighting the need for more affordable alternatives.
Realization and Launch
Ashok realized the need for such products during his work on the farm and interactions with other farmers. The difficulty in spraying and weeding for small farmers motivated him to develop a multipurpose utility vehicle (MPUV) that could address these challenges. The MPUV was launched on June 01, 2024, with Rural Rise Agrinery LLP.
Products and Services
The flagship product of Rural Rise Agrinery LLP is the Multi-Purpose Utility Vehicle (MPUV). This innovative vehicle combines weeding, spraying, irrigation, and transportation functions. It is cost-effective compared to drones and tractor-mounted sprayers, and user-friendly, requiring only a single operator and offering high ground clearance. The MPUV stands out in the market by addressing the limitations of existing solutions such as drones, tractor-mounted sprayers, and backpack sprayers.
The Team
Lavanya Gorre, Director/R&D: With 5 years of experience working with farmers and an M.COM degree, Lavanya brings invaluable expertise to the team.
Baji Baba, Sales and Operations Manager: Holding a degree in B.A. and having extensive on-field experience, Baji ensures effective sales and operations.
Lakshman, Workshop and Fabrication Manager: With hands-on experience and education up to the 10th class, Lakshman oversees the workshop and fabrication processes.
The dedicated team of Rural Rise Agrinery LLP brings a diverse range of skills and experience, ensuring the effective development, sales, and fabrication of their innovative agricultural solutions.
Market Launch and Progress
The MPUV was launched in June 2023, starting with local demonstrations and feedback sessions with farmers. Since the launch, the product has been refined based on user feedback and has expanded its reach to a broader community of farmers.
Competitors and Differentiation
The primary competitors are drones, tractor-mounted sprayers, and backpack sprayers. The MPUV differentiates itself by being more affordable, versatile, and user-friendly. It combines multiple functions, reducing the need for separate machines and labor, and offers high ground clearance for better terrain navigation.
Work Environment
Rural Rise Agrinery LLP fosters a collaborative and supportive work environment, encouraging innovation and open communication. Regular feedback sessions and team-building activities help maintain a positive and productive workplace.
Future Plans and Expansion
The startup plans to scale its operations by developing new agricultural tools and machinery, expanding market reach through strategic partnerships and marketing campaigns, and investing in research and development to continually improve their products.
Investment and Fundraising
Currently in the early stages, Rural Rise Agrinery LLP is actively seeking additional funding to support its growth and development. Fundraising plans include securing grants, forming investor partnerships, and launching crowdfunding campaigns to fuel expansion and innovation efforts.
Customer Experience and Challenges
Feedback from farmers has been overwhelmingly positive, with approximately 200 local farmers benefiting from the MPUV. Initial challenges included securing funding and market penetration, which were overcome through small grants and building a strong local network through demonstrations and farmer engagement.
Advice for Entrepreneurs
Ashok advises aspiring entrepreneurs to stay connected with their target audience and be open to feedback. He emphasizes the importance of innovation while understanding and addressing the real needs of customers. Persistence and adaptability are crucial in overcoming challenges.
Opinion on Siddaganga Incubation
Ashok expresses gratitude for the support from the Siddaganga incubation team, highlighting their valuable resources and mentorship that have been instrumental in the growth and success of Rural Rise Agrinery LLP. Their guidance has been pivotal in turning ideas into reality.
Conclusion
Rural Rise Agrinery LLP 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, the startup continues to pave the way for a greener, healthier agricultural landscape.
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