In recent years, organic farming has evolved from being a niche lifestyle choice to a viable career path, particularly for young people seeking to combine sustainability with entrepreneurship. According to a survey about 79.8% of youth said they’re interested in farming. (This includes conventional farming; not exclusively organic, but signals openness. ) With rising awareness about healthy eating, environmental concerns, and demand for chemical-free produce, the sector is witnessing steady growth in India and globally.

Unlike traditional farming, organic farming offers opportunities not only on the field but also in allied areas like agritech, food processing, marketing, and eco-tourism. For youngsters, it represents a chance to build a meaningful career that balances profitability with purpose, while contributing to the larger movement of sustainable living. India Today spoke to Mr. Karan Singh Tomar, Founder & CEO of Nutriorg, who is pioneering India’s organic revolution.

CAREER AND BEYOND

Organic farming is no longer just about lifestyle choices; it’s a viable business opportunity. With growing demand for chemical-free food, anyone-from students to working professionals can enter this sector. Even a small piece of land can generate income through smart crop selection, organic produce, or value-added products like oils, juices, and cereals.

HOW TO START?

Absolutely. Small plots can be transformed into high-yield, high-value farms. The key is to choose crops wisely, focus on quality over quantity, and integrate modern techniques with traditional practices. Starting with organic vegetables, herbs, or superfoods allows for faster turnover. Once stable, one can expand into processed or packaged organic products. Partnerships with companies like Nutriorg can help new farmers access markets, training, and fair pricing.

What skills or knowledge are essential for someone entering this field?

Passion for sustainability is a must, but practical skills matter too. Knowledge of soil health, organic fertilizers, crop rotation, and pest management is essential. Business skills like marketing, branding, and basic accounting help turn farming into a profitable venture. Technology adoption, such as AI-driven yield prediction or online marketplaces, can dramatically scale small operations.

GOVERNMENT SUPPORT

Policy reforms make a huge difference. Lower GST rates on agricultural inputs and organic foods reduce costs, increase affordability, and improve margins for small farmers. This means even a small farm can invest in better seeds, equipment, and storage facilities-ultimately making it more profitable and sustainable.

How can aspiring farmers align with market demand while staying organic?

Market research is critical. Focus on crops that are in demand for health and wellness-herbs, superfoods, and immunity-boosting produce are excellent choices. Certifications like India Organic or USDA Organic enhance trust and fetch premium pricing. Direct-to-consumer channels, farmer cooperatives, or tie-ups with wellness brands also help in achieving higher returns.

Technology playing a role for small-scale organic farms?

Absolutely. Technology democratizes access. Even small farmers can use AI-based tools to monitor soil health, predict crop yields, and plan harvests efficiently. E-commerce platforms can help reach a larger market. In the near future, technology will allow small farms to operate with the efficiency of large-scale operations, making them highly competitive.

ADVICE FOR ASPIRANTS

Start small, focus on quality, and be patient. Understand your land, choose crops wisely, and embrace organic principles. Partner with experts, leverage government schemes, and use technology wherever possible. Most importantly, approach farming with a long-term vision: you are not just growing crops, but wellness, livelihoods, and sustainability.

CASE STUDIES & EXAMPLES

Ayush and Rishabh Gupta, Mushroom Business, Agra

• Two brothers who returned to India during COVID and started A3R Mushroom Farms & Gupta Organic Farms.
• They now grow ~40 tonnes of organic mushrooms every month.
• Their business scaled rapidly; they combined organic methods + demand forecasting
• 21-yo Student Farmer” & Friend in Kota – Soil-less Oyster Mushrooms

Yashraj Sahu (21) and Rahul Meena started a small soil-less farm in a ~625 sq ft area.

• They produced ~1000 kg of oyster mushrooms in a batch.
• They are final-year agriculture students; used hands-on learning + investment of time (working after college).

Damask Rose Farmers in Kumaon Hills (Uttarakhand)

• Returnees (people who moved back from cities) have started rose oil, rose water, perfumes etc.
• Low water needs, modest investment, market demand for fragrance / herbal uses are key draws.

Inputs from Mr. Karan Singh Tomar, Founder & CEO of Nutriorg.

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