Grow Indigo has raised USD 10 million (~INR 85.72 crore) from British International Investment (BII), the UK’s development finance institution. The funding will support the company’s push to scale carbon farming and sustainability initiatives across India.
Focus on Regenerative Agriculture
Established in 2018, Grow Indigo promotes regenerative farming methods, including direct-seeded rice and no-tillage practices. These approaches improve soil health, reduce erosion, and enhance water efficiency. They also lower labor requirements, benefiting women farmers.
The company currently works across 16 states, with over 2,000 distribution partners and 600 field staff. More than 2.5 million acres of smallholder farmland are already part of its network.
Carbon Farming: Revenue and Climate Impact
Carbon farming forms the core of Grow Indigo’s business model. The company is working to connect Indian farmers with voluntary carbon markets. By adopting carbon capture practices, farmers can earn from carbon credits and sustainable produce certifications.
India’s agriculture sector emits around 400 million tonnes of CO₂ annually. Grow Indigo sees this as an opportunity to turn emissions reduction into farmer income. The company believes carbon farming could become a major agricultural export commodity by 2030.
Systems and Partnerships for Scale
Grow Indigo has developed measurement, reporting, and verification (MRV) systems to maintain transparency and accuracy in carbon credit projects. These systems are designed to give corporations confidence in meeting Scope 3 emission reduction goals while supporting rural livelihoods.
The company partners with large food and fashion brands, helping them source sustainably and cut supply chain emissions.
Leadership Commentary
Dr. Usha Barwale Zehr, Executive Director at Grow Indigo, stated: “Regenerative agriculture improves soil health and water efficiency while creating new income opportunities for smallholder farmers. With this funding, we will increase farmer enrollment and scale carbon farming efforts.”
Srini Nagarajan, Managing Director and Head of Asia at BII, added: “Smallholder farmers are crucial for India’s food security, yet face climate risks. Our investment in Grow Indigo supports an innovative solution that reduces emissions and raises farmer incomes.”
Jennifer Kaul, Deputy Director of Investments, South Asia, at the British Deputy High Commission, commented: “BII’s support for Grow Indigo underscores the UK–India partnership built on growth and sustainability.”
Outlook
Grow Indigo has four carbon farming projects in development and expects to issue its first carbon credits soon. The company aims to expand quickly, enrolling more farmers and land over the next two years.
As India advances toward sustainable farming, Grow Indigo is positioning itself as a key player in transforming agriculture into both a climate solution and a source of additional income for farmers.
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