India microgreens market expands as startups tap into growing demand for healthy diets
A shift toward healthier food choices is fuelling the growth of India’s microgreens market, particularly in coastal regions like Mangaluru, where agri-startups are increasingly catering to demand for pesticide-free, nutrient-rich greens.
One such venture, Green Monkey Farms, is emerging as a pioneer in this niche. Founded by Vijwal Vas and Rohan Raj, the Mangaluru-based startup has embraced hydroponic farming to produce organic vegetables such as kale, microgreens, baby spinach, Italian basil, and baby arugula. What began as a backyard experiment has grown into a modern farming facility in Paldane. Vijwal, who trained in hydroponics in Dharwad and worked as a head grower at a Bengaluru-based farm, spent years adapting the farming system to suit the coastal climate of Mangaluru. “We started without knowing how Mangalureans would respond,” said Vijwal.
“But over the years, we’ve found great support—especially as more people are including fresh vegetables like kale and microgreens in their daily diets.” The rise of agri-tech startups and interest in hydroponics reflects a broader trend in urban and semi-urban India, where consumers are increasingly seeking sustainable and chemical-free food options. The microgreens segment, once a niche product in upscale urban restaurants, is now finding a place in everyday Indian kitchens. As consumers grow more conscious of nutrition and environmental impact, local agri-entrepreneurs are stepping in with scalable, soil-less farming methods that require less water, land, and chemicals.
With India’s climate and population pushing for agricultural innovation, the growth of microgreens offers a fresh, green opportunity for health-conscious citizens and small-scale farmers alike.