#Kheyti #Greenhouse-in-a-Box #smallfarmers #climatechange #agriculture #irrigation #pests #waterconservation #cropselection #marketaccess #foodsecurity
Climate change is a growing threat to small farmers in rural India, who suffer from losses every year due to extreme weather conditions and pest attacks. In response, startup Kheyti has developed a ‘Greenhouse-in-a-Box’ innovation to address these challenges and boost farmers’ profits. By reducing excess heat, pests, and saving up to 98% water compared to conventional irrigation, the greenhouse model offers a climate-controlled environment that allows crops to thrive. With two variants available at affordable prices, the solution also includes training on what to grow, how to grow, and when to grow.
According to the World Bank, around 50% of India’s workforce is employed in agriculture. However, small farmers face various challenges, including droughts, floods, heatwaves, and pest attacks. These factors significantly affect crop yield and quality, leading to losses that affect farmers’ livelihoods. In this context, Kheyti’s ‘Greenhouse-in-a-Box’ offers a solution that addresses these challenges and improves farmers’ incomes.
The greenhouse model reduces excess heat and pests by 2-4 degrees Celsius and 90%, respectively. Furthermore, it saves up to 98% water compared to conventional irrigation methods, which is crucial in water-scarce regions. This technology provides a climate-controlled environment that allows farmers to grow crops throughout the year, regardless of the external weather conditions. With the greenhouse model, farmers can also grow high-value crops, such as fruits and vegetables, which fetch a higher price in the market.
Kheyti’s ‘Greenhouse-in-a-Box’ is available in two variants, costing around Rs 2 lakh (for 320 sq mts) and Rs 3.35 lakh (for 462 sq mts). These kits are affordable for small farmers, who can purchase them on credit through Kheyti’s financing partners. The solution also includes training on crop selection, growing techniques, and market access, enabling farmers to optimize their production and increase their incomes.
Kheyti’s ‘Greenhouse-in-a-Box’ is a promising solution for small farmers in India to combat climate change and improve their livelihoods. By offering a climate-controlled environment that reduces excess heat, pests, and saves water, the greenhouse model enables farmers to grow high-value crops throughout the year. With affordable prices and training on crop selection and growing techniques, Kheyti is helping small farmers increase their profits and achieve food security.
