Bikramjit Singh Randhawa: From Corporate Success to a ₹100 Crore Organic Farming Empire in Punjab
Bikramjit Singh Randhawa, a 42-year-old farmer from Gehlewal village in Punjab’s Ludhiana district, has transformed India’s organic farming landscape by establishing a ₹100-crore enterprise. He embodies the values of innovation, resilience, and sustainability, which are crucial for success in modern agriculture.
Initial life journey
After completing his graduation, Bikramjit began his professional journey in the corporate world as an insurance agent. By 2010, he had earned a master’s in business administration and secured a high-paying job in the banking sector, earning an annual package of ₹13.5 lakh. However, despite his corporate success, Bikramjit was deeply drawn toward agriculture and envisioned making a meaningful impact in the sector.
Transition to Agriculture
In 2005, while still employed, Bikramjit took a step toward his agricultural dreams by starting a small farm on his 2.75-acre ancestral land. Initially, he experimented with growing lemons and pomegranates, but challenges in pomegranate farming led him to focus entirely on lemon cultivation. By 2014, confident in his vision, he resigned from his banking job to fully dedicate himself to farming.
Expansion into Organic Farming
With a strong commitment to sustainability, Bikramjit expanded his agricultural ventures by leasing 200 acres of land across multiple districts. He allocated 100 acres to fruit orchards featuring lemons, guavas, pears, and apples, while the rest was used for seasonal crops such as wheat, pulses, basmati rice, maize, turmeric, sugarcane, and vegetables. His approach to organic farming attracted many local farmers, leading to collaborations that now involve around 600 farmers who cultivate organic produce and receive prices significantly above the Minimum Support Price (MSP).
Establishment of ‘Generation of Farming’
To support farmers transitioning to organic agriculture, Bikramjit founded ‘Generation of Farming,’ an initiative dedicated to empowering farmers with knowledge, resources, and financial support. Under its motto, “For the Farmer, By the Farmer,” the company helps farmers establish their own organic farms while ensuring they receive proper certification and market access.
‘Healthy Earth’ Stores and Restaurants
Leveraging his business expertise, Bikramjit launched the ‘Healthy Earth’ brand, which includes organic grocery stores and restaurants. Currently, six ‘Healthy Earth’ grocery stores operate, offering over 216 organic products, including dairy, grains, and fresh produce, at competitive prices. In addition, he has opened four ‘Healthy Earth’ restaurants that specialize in organic, gluten-free, and vegan cuisine, with a focus on millet-based dishes known for their nutritional benefits.
Economic Impact and Future Plans
Bikramjit’s organic farming enterprise achieved a turnover of ₹100 crore within two years. Looking ahead, he plans to expand further by opening 100 franchised grocery stores and 100 organic restaurants across Punjab. Moreover, he aims to establish free health testing labs within these restaurants to promote community well-being.
Farmer Testimonials
Farmers working with Bikramjit have witnessed significant improvements in their earnings and crop quality. Kiranpreet from Manki village cultivates organic potatoes on 22 acres and sells them at ₹1100 per quintal, a higher rate than conventional market prices. Similarly, Dalveer Singh from Gehlewal has experienced increased yields and improved soil health, earning ₹4500 per quintal for Basmati rice and ₹1400 per quintal for potatoes.
Vision for Punjab’s Agriculture
Bikramjit’s long-term vision is to make Punjab self-sufficient in organic food production, reducing reliance on imports and encouraging youth to view agriculture as a viable and profitable career. By conducting regional food surveys, he aims to align crop production with demand, ensuring sustainable growth and market stability.
End Note
Bikramjit Singh Randhawa’s journey from a corporate professional to an organic farming entrepreneur highlights the power of innovation, determination, and sustainable practices. His success serves as an inspiration for aspiring farmers and agripreneurs, proving that with vision and perseverance, it is possible to cultivate both prosperity and environmental stewardship from the ground up.
