Global Indianstory Global Indian ExclusiveA ‘doodh’ entrepreneur: How Shraddha Dhawan grew her farm revenue 24 times

A ‘doodh’ entrepreneur: How Shraddha Dhawan grew her farm revenue 24 times

Written by: Amrita Priya

(March 20, 2022) Trailblazing into the male domain, milking buffaloes, and riding a bike to deliver milk, Shraddha Dhawan, a native of Nighoj village, near Pune, has established herself as a unique entrepreneur. The 23-year-old village entrepreneur had entered the family dairy business seven years ago as a teenager studying in class 11 when she saw her polio-afflicted father struggle to deliver milk. From a couple of buffaloes, the village entrepreneur’s relentless efforts burgeoned the small family business into a farm with over 80 buffaloes and a turnover that grew 24 times.

Village Entrepreneur | Shraddha Dhawan | Maharashtra Dairy Farmer

All set for future

The soon-to-be-married entrepreneur is now venturing into the bio-fertiliser business, CS Agro Organics, with plans to reach international markets. Juggling responsibilities with elan is her forte. When children of her age were busy with studies and play, she was working to make the family business grow. “I am confident that my new venture will reach the pinnacle,” she tells Global Indian.

Inspiring others, garnering support

When she initially started delivering milk door-to-door, Shraddha felt a bit awkward. But she soon began enjoying her work. Seeing her efforts, her parents, Satyavan and Janaki, and younger brother supported her and began helping her. Now, with the business having grown by leaps and bounds, Shraddha has employed a team of people. “With the increasing number of buffaloes, it was difficult to manage on our own and we started employing people to take care of day-to-day activities,” says the village entrepreneur, whose turnover has gone from Rs 25,000 to Rs 6 lakh per month in a span of seven years.

Village entrepreneur Shraddha Dhawan

Inspired by Shraddha, other girls in her village started driving a bike, but her entrepreneurial choice remains unique. “I was blessed. Instead of people looking down upon me for doing something that was outside a ladies’ purview, fellow villagers appreciated me for my work, calling me my father’s son. I am grateful to my father for believing in me and allowing me to do things which were not stereotypical and my mother for her constant support,” says the eldest of three siblings. While her brother, who is now in his teens, is ready to step into her shoes, her sister had not been very inclined towards dairy farming since the beginning.

The physics student is pursuing her M.Sc from a college which is 20 km away from her village. She loves trekking and finds solace in going to nearby places to recoup. The village entrepreneur is proud of her origins and says that her village has some fine trekking routes nearby. Her fiancé, Chaitanya, who is pursuing a Ph.D and researching the world of bacteria, is all set to join her new venture as a business partner. While Chaitanya will bring his in-depth knowledge to the table, Shraddha will put her entrepreneurial skills to the best use with their new venture.

Epitomising the Indian woman

With plans to create an impact with her bio-fertiliser venture, Shraddha is happy to start something afresh. “As far as my dairy business goes, I did not think about myself, the aim was to put my family of five in a comfortable position financially. I always looked at it as ours, not mine alone. The new venture is something that I would call my own. I am hoping to get good investors who would help me realise my dream of making rural farmers prosper in their lives,” says the village entrepreneur.

After her wedding, she would be relocating to Jategaon where her fiancé lives. With the experience of rising from almost nothing, she is all set to make Jategaon as popular as Nighoj through her work.

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VIKAS MAKWANA

October 12, 2023 12:19 pm

REQUEST TO PLEASE PROVIDE THE CONTACT DETAILS OF shraddha dhawan maharashtra AS I AM ASSOCIATED WITH RURAL DEPARTMENT GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

Published on 20, Mar 2022

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e.globalindian.com/youth///wp-content/uploads/2023/03/aamir-banner-cutout.jpg" alt="Aamir Qutub | Enterprise Monkey" width="511" height="511" /> Aamir Qutub[/caption]

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Alone in Geelong, Aamir had to find ways to fund his study. He applied for dozens of jobs - and got no responses. In the end, he landed a job as a janitor at the airport in Geelong. "In India, a cleaning job is looked down upon," Aamir said in an interview. "In Australia, it's like any other job. When my parents found out about work, they became quite sad. My relatives also started gossiping about me and giving the family a hard time."

Aamir remained unfazed, working the 6 am to 6 pm shift, studying during his breaks. The long hours got in the way of his work and he was forced to quit. He found himself another job and would wake up at 3 am to deliver newspapers. He continued to search for work, finally landing an internship at at IT firm and then at ICT Geelong, where he was promoted quickly and soon worked directly under the general manager. When his boss quit, he was appointed the interim GM and was promoted again, becoming the company's youngest GM. "Within a year, the revenue of the company increased by 30 percent," Aamir said.

Striking out as an entrepreneur

In 2014, the Global Indian registered Enterprise Monkey Proprietor, with an investment of AUD 4,000, which he had managed to save. He hired himself an assistant in India and began working with a team of four. Business grew and Aamir scaled up on hiring, only to find, he dind't have the money to pay them. "We were making money, but I was in debt. I took a loan of around AUD 100,000 from private lenders to maintain the cash flow," he recalled.

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This was his most troubling time as an entrepreneur. Aamir knew he had to step back and assess the situation. He realised that he had taken on small clients - that move hadn't paid off. He had also fallen into the trap of planning, taking focus off the goal itself. "The business was repositioned on profitability rather than on growth, and voila! I repaid the debt within three months."

Today, the company employs a 100 people and has a turnover of over Rs 12 crore. Enterprise Monkey Proprietor Ltd was also awarded the Australian Smartest Innovation of the Year.

Giving Back

These days, the business runs on "auto-mode," as Aamir puts it, leaving him with room for other pursuits. He set up the Aamir Qutub foundation and continues to work with students in India. This included setting up the first-ever recruitment drive in his alma mater, Aligarh Muslim University, during which 2000 students were placed in 30 companies. He also introduced free WIFI on campus and Smart classrooms, even lobbying national policies for the students.

During the pandemic, Aamir founded "Angel Next Door," an outreach program that mobilised the community, allowing citizens to ask for - and provide - help discreetly. Aamir, who was also named the Australian Young Business Leader of the Year, continues to live in Geelong with his wife, Sarah Niazi, who is a dentist. "My life has always been exploring new possibilities," he said, adding, "I always wanted to be successful, I just wanted to pursue what I loved and I had this belief in myself."

Follow Aamir Qutub on LinkedIn

Karina Samuel: Indian-American activist helping bid adieu to plastic bags

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org/awards/saying-bye-bye-to-plastic-pollution-teen-volunteers-to-help-underserved-communities/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Point of Light.

The Indian American teen activist, who is pursuing her Bachelor of Science from University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, is working with her team of volunteers across Miami, Tampa and Key West to make the Florida coast healthier. "I’ve been serving as the president of the Florida chapter of Bye Bye Plastic Bags, which is an international non-profit. It’s actually based in Bali, [Indonesia], but they have chapters all over the world. So, I founded my chapter in 2019 and I’ve been doing all sorts of different environmental projects," she told Sun Sentinel.

Impact

In the last three years, they have raised several thousand dollars to donate to different environmental organisations. Moreover, they have been focused on passing pro-environment policy reforms, banning plastic bags, organising coastal cleanups and educating the community about climate change. "We’ve done lobbying with certain candidates for the 2020 election in support of the Green New Deal, educational webinars at different schools and campuses across the state and, of course, cleanups all over the state of Florida," the Global Indian added.

[caption id="attachment_22901" align="aligncenter" width="592"] Karina Samuel is an Indian American teen activist.[/caption]

The cleanups are a constant reminder that the activist needs to continue marching forward with her volunteers. "Every time we go out for clean-ups, we see the trash and negative impact people make when they are careless. We always see plastic water bottles during the cleanups. Also, soda cans and plastic wrapping from food containers and take out," she told Point of Light.

Why giving back is important

Karina, who has been championing the cause of climate change, believes that it's important to give back to the society, and knows that the power to make the change lies with youngsters like her. "I’m not the person who will feel the majority of the negative implications from climate change, and that’s why climate justice is so important. It disproportionately affects poorer communities, people who can’t go out and volunteer for change. Those who are capable of volunteering have the responsibility to go out and address these different community problems," she added.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zwO8Wz_EThA

Moreover, she is the vice president of Beyond Resolved, a national student-run non-profit that aims to increase diversity and inclusivity in the high school speech and debate community. Her efforts have been recognised by the Points of Light Network, Children’s Environmental Health Network and the Earth Island Institute.

Karina, who is changing her community, one plastic bag at a time, loves to play volleyball and tennis. For someone who has been volunteering for years now, she finds "satisfaction" through her work. "It’s a very satisfying feeling to know we worked together to accomplish a goal and that it went well."

Follow Karina Samuel on Linkedin

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Building CITTA: How Akanksha and Tanay Sharma are shaping baby care in India

(February 21, 2024) The baby care industry in India has seen significant growth over the last few years, driven by increased consumer awareness rising disposable incomes, and is anticipated to expand at a CAGR of 14.02 percent from 2022 to 2027. Parents want safe, natural and cruelty-free products for their babies, as overall trends move towards healthier, more sustainable lifestyles. Indian brands have risen to the challenge, bringing modern innovation together with a deep understanding of local and cultural nuances, and India's age-old traditional remedies. CITTA, co-founded by 24-year-old Akanksha Sharma, her mom, Monisha Sharma and brother, Tanay Sharma, is a Pune-based baby care brand that reached a turnover of Rs 1.2 crore within two years. [caption id="attachment_36018" align="aligncenter" width="613"] Akanksha and Tanay Sharma with their mother, Monisha[/caption] ‘Nushke’ to building a brand When Akanksha was studying in the US, her mom and grandma would call her all the time, lovingly giving her advice or ‘nushke’ like 'drink turmeric milk,' and 'use rosewater when you're out in the sun'. Around this time, a well-known baby care brand received a lot of bad press for using unsafe ingredients in their baby powder. Akanksha, who was always entrepreneurial, teamed up with her

hen you're out in the sun'. Around this time, a well-known baby care brand received a lot of bad press for using unsafe ingredients in their baby powder. Akanksha, who was always entrepreneurial, teamed up with her mom and brother to create a safer alternative, and CITTA came to be. Both siblings were abroad - Akanksha was studying Apparel Industry Management at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in LA, while Tanay was doing a Bachelor's at the University of Toronto. Eventually, they returned home to build their business.

Business in their blood

"I was born and raised in a business family," Akanksha tells Global Indian. "I have witnessed their struggles, growth and expansion. Entrepreneurship is in my blood. My parents are my biggest inspiration since I saw them during their struggling years and I see them now and all that they have accomplished. It pushes me to do better everyday." A quiet and shy child, Akanksha grew into a confident young adult, going on to become head girl at Lexicon School in Pune, where she also participated in co-curricular activities, played basketball, volleyball, took part in debates, elocutions and lots more.

Akanksha and Tanay, who are currently 24 and 22 respectively, grew up in a joint family of 10 members where struggles were common in the early years. "I would see all the adults in my family work very hard till late. They made a decision to start a school together in which there were only 16 students in the first year, out of which three were me and my two sisters," she says. Today, the school has 10,000 students, and holds a valuable lesson for Akanksha and Tanay. "Anything is possible with consistent hard work and dedication," says Tanay. "It pushed me to do better. I got into the University of Toronto and did my undergrad there along with running my own small business."

CITTA began with a mission to create safe and nurturing baby care products. As they researched the industry, they found it needed gentle but effective skincare solutions for both infants and their parents. They expanded into the skincare segment too, along with baby care products. "We are proud to be free from toxins, harsh chemicals, parabens, sulphates, silicones, talc, mineral oils, allergens, petroleum jelly and other potential irritants," the duo say. "This ensures that are products are gentle on sensitive baby skin." The CITTA product range includes a Moisturizing Baby Balm which uses eight natural oils, including Shea butter and vitamin E. Their talc-free baby oil is made with corn, oats and kaolin, which prevents rashes. Their foaming baby wash and baby shampoo are soap-free and tear-free.

Made for the Indian consumer

As homegrown baby care brands now flood the market, CITTA caters to the specific demands of the Indian consumer. "Whether it's developing eco-friendly packaging, incorporating advanced technologies into our products or introducing unique formulations, we strive to set ourselves apart in a crowded market," Akanksha and Tanay explain. They invest heavily in sustainability, ensuring that every part of the supply chain is rooted in integrity, from the ethical sourcing of raw materials to minimizing their carbon footprint every step of the way.

Building CITTA came with its share of challenges and successes. "Each contributed valuable lessons that will significantly shape our plans and strategies moving forward," they say. There have also been numerous shifts in consumer preferences and lifestyles, which has taught them to invest more in R&D practices as they navigate the complexities of the global supply chain. "Disruptions brought about by external factors have emphasised the need for resilience and adaptability," say the siblings. "We have learned to proactively diversify our sourcing strategies, build strategic partnerships and implement agile inventory management systems." They are also working on enhancing their online presence, creating user-friendly interfaces and building robust e-commerce infrastructure.

The sibling journey

Akanksha and Tanay remain at the forefront of CITTA and use their sibling rapport to their advantage. "It's fun and nice," Akanksha smiles. "Tanay, as a brother and working partner, is always supportive. Whether in a meeting, during decision -making or facing any difficulties, you always know that there's support from someone who is equally invested. Despite my emotional nature, Tanay is calm, so we complement each other." Arguments are par for the course, but those are always sorted out in the end.

"Tanay agrees."I had always pictured working with my sister when I was younger and I really like doing so because she gives me immense support and strength," he smiles. "I get to be my goofy self around her and we get to laugh a lot together," he laughs. They strike a balance by talking shop only at the office and just being siblings at home.

It's a unique dynamic that has made for an exciting and fulfilling journey, bolstered by a deep understanding of each other and complementing one another's strengths and shortcomings. "There is a natural synergy that goes beyond business - it's a family affair infused with shared passion and dedication," say the siblings. "We celebrate victories together, learn from setbacks and constantly push each other to innovate. It's not just a partnership, it's a shared adventure that makes every success even sweeter."

Follow Akanksha Sharma and CITTA on Instagram

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Akarshana Sathish: Inspiring the nation, one library at a time

(September 30, 2023) As you read this, a 12-year-old Akarshana Sathish is setting up her eighth library at a Bharosa Centre in Siddipet, Telangana. The youngster, who aspires to be a space scientist when she grows up, was recognised by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his 'Mann Ki Baat', in which he emphasised the significance of education in the development of both the nation and society, expressing his admiration for Akarshana's dedicated efforts. "Akarshana Satish studying in seventh class has done wonders (sic). You may be surprised to know that at just 11 years of age, she is running not one or two, but seven libraries for children," the PM said in his address to the nation, adding, "Around six thousand books are now available in the seven libraries that this daughter has opened so far at different places for needy children." [caption id="attachment_33344" align="aligncenter" width="640"] Akarshana Sathish[/caption] As she connects with Global Indian over a call, an elated Akarshana shares, "I am so honoured that the Prime Minister noticed my work, and recognised me. It was a proud moment for me and my family. Now, as the entire nation knows about my work, I feel a lot of responsibility

/> Akarshana Sathish[/caption]

As she connects with Global Indian over a call, an elated Akarshana shares, "I am so honoured that the Prime Minister noticed my work, and recognised me. It was a proud moment for me and my family. Now, as the entire nation knows about my work, I feel a lot of responsibility on my shoulders. However, I am determined to keep helping the people around me and giving back to society as much as I can."

Cultivating a unique vision

A student of Hyderabad Public School, Akarshana has been an avid reader since she was a young kid. A cycling enthusiast, who is gearing up to represent Telangana at a National level, Akarshana says it was the chance visit to a hospital in Hyderabad that gave her the idea of starting a library at the MNJ Cancer Hospital in Hyderabad. "During the first wave of the pandemic, my father and a few of his friends decided to help the patients at MNJ Cancer Hospital by distributing food to them. My parents would visit the hospital for that weekly. One day my father asked me if I would like to accompany them, and I agreed," shares Akarshana.

[caption id="attachment_33345" align="aligncenter" width="646"] Akarshana with Hyderabad Addl DGP V.C. Sajjanar[/caption]

At the hospital, the youngster met several kids her age and a few even younger than her, who were undergoing chemotherapy as part of their treatment. Soon she befriended several patients and would go to spend time with them. "There was one girl who I had a bond with. She told me that there was nothing to do at the hospital, and asked if I could bring her some colouring books. So, the next time I went to the hospital, I took a few I had at home," recalls Akarshana.

But that wasn't enough. "There were other kids who asked me for colouring books in the hospital. So, I told my parents about it and they suggested I ask people in our colony to help. I asked my neighbours, friends, family, and others if they could donate any books, and in no time we had many fiction, non-fiction, general knowledge and colouring books piling up at our home," Akarshana shares, adding, "The initial idea was to give the books to the kids in the hospital. But, then I thought, if we set up a library, not only the patients who are in the hospital now, but those who will come later will also benefit from it."

[caption id="attachment_33346" align="aligncenter" width="639"] PM Narendra Modi's letter to Akarshana[/caption]

And thus, Akarshana set up her first library at the MNJ Cancer Hospital in 2021, with a collection of about 1,036 books. Following that, the youngster established libraries at the Sanath Nagar Police Station, featuring 825 books, the Gayathri Nagar Association in Borabanda, which housed 250 books, and the Juvenile and Observation Home for Girls in Hyderabad, boasting 625 books.

Spreading her wings

Last year, while on a social media platform, Akarshana noticed that the Coimbatore city police had decided to open a street library. The idea was quite fascinating for this youngster. Recalling the incident, "I already had some collection of books. So, when I saw that the Coimbatore city police were interested in starting a library, I immediately emailed them to offer my help. They agreed and with the help of my family living in that city, I was able to donate about 200 books to the Coimbatore City Police Street libraries."

[caption id="attachment_33347" align="aligncenter" width="645"] Akarshana has established a total of seven libraries so far[/caption]

Her fame soon reached the capital of Tamil Nadu and the then DGP of the city, Dr C. Sylendra Babu, approached the girl to set up a library in Chennai. "I again contacted my friends and family, who are living in Chennai. We already had a few books here in Hyderabad. So, with all the help, we were able to establish our biggest library at the Chennai Boys Club in the Nolambur Police Station, with about 2000 books. Interestingly, even after the library was opened we kept getting calls from people who wanted to donate books. Since we had already come back to Hyderabad, my father asked them to go to the library directly and hand over the books," shares Akarshana, adding, "When I visited one of our libraries a few months after we had opened it, I found that almost 75 percent of the books were borrowed by the kids and several shelves were empty. That really motivated me."

[caption id="attachment_33348" align="aligncenter" width="622"] Akarshana with her family[/caption]

Subsequently, Akarshana managed to open one more library in Hyderabad, at Govt High School in the Old Sanath Nagar area. While many would have found it difficult to collect books for establishing such libraries, Akarshana's troubles are quite the opposite. "We just received about 100 more books for a single donor," shares Akarshana's father, J Sathish Kumar laughing, "Right from when people got to know about Akarshana's initiatives, we have been receiving several books. We have collected over 6000 books till now and it doesn't seem to stop. But, I am very proud of my daughter and it makes me very happy that her efforts are bringing joy to so many kids."

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