The Agri-Entrepreneur (AE) Program supported by DCM Shriram Foundation, in collaboration with Syngenta Foundation India and AEGF, continues to empower smallholder farmers in Uttar Pradesh by building a cadre of certified agri-entrepreneurs trained in technical know-how, input delivery, and extension services. The project is currently active across four mill areas—Hariyawan, Rupapur, Ajbapur, and Loni—covering nine blocks. 

The primary goal is to train and enable 200 Agri-Entrepreneurs to serve approximately 25,000 small and marginal farmers. These AEs are equipped to deliver: 

• Farm mechanization services 

• Agri-inputs and advisory 

• Linkages to credit, insurance, and government welfare entitlements 

• Promotion of inter-cropping and income diversification through business models such as mushroom cultivation, apiculture, and vermicomposting.

April 2025 – Engagements & Field Highlights 

This month focused on strengthening field-level visibility, AE performance, and exploring new technologies: 

• Technology Exploration Visit 
  A strategic field visit was conducted with Dr. Sumit Pal, Scientific Officer, SFI; Mr. Amos Shtiblman (Evergreen Innovation Platform, Israel), and Dr. Dheerendra (SFI) to explore technology gaps and opportunities that can benefit the agri-ecosystem in the region. 

• Leadership Interaction and Field Monitoring 
  A special AE field visit and meeting was conducted with Mr. Joy Mukherjee (Head – Climate Smart Agriculture, DCM Shriram Foundation) and the CSR Lead, alongside the Hardoi AEGF team. The discussion emphasized practical challenges faced by AEs, climate-resilient practices, and future avenues for scalable intervention. 
  

These engagements signal a deepening of stakeholder collaboration, field-level validation, and a commitment to bridging innovation with grassroots needs.