Vivek Raj Poojary, an entrepreneur from Mangalore, has been acknowledged by Forbes India for his revolutionary contributions to the agricultural sector. With a net worth of $700 million (around Rs 6,000 crore), Poojary has become a key figure in transforming agriculture, especially through his groundbreaking venture into hydroponic saffron farming.
Poojary’s foray into agriculture has set new benchmarks through his innovative use of hydroponics to cultivate saffron. Saffron is a labour-intensive crop with specific growing conditions, mostly confined to Kashmir and Iran. However, Poojary’s indoor farming method has changed the narrative. He has managed to control every aspect of the cultivation process, from nutrient delivery to environmental conditions, resulting in consistent, high-quality yields.
Vivek’s journey as an innovator started in 2012 when he partnered with Zimbabwe’s deputy prime minister to develop iron ore mines. His business acumen propelled him onto the international stage and by 2014, he was a participant in the World Economic Forum, engaging with top Indian business leaders like Mukesh Ambani and Anand Mahindra. In 2016, he pivoted to spice farming and trading, quickly expanding his business to become a leading supplier across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and the USA. His focus on controlled environment agriculture, especially for saffron and medicinal plants, aims to ensure steady, year-round production and reduce crop losses.
Poojary’s business vision extends beyond profits- he is deeply invested in community development. Presently, Poojary’s company stands as a global leader, dealing in 35 different minerals sourced from 72 countries, alongside more than 190 varieties of fruits and vegetables. His extensive business network and strategic foresight have helped him build a robust global trading enterprise. By continuously adapting to market demands cutting-edge technologies, he has solidified his standing as a major force in the global agricultural industry.
For over a decade, Poojary has been driven by the goal of redefining traditional agriculture. His exploration into hydroponics started in 2014 when he recognized the potential of cultivating crops in controlled, indoor environments.
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