Mohit Nijhawan's journey from a high-paying corporate career to a successful entrepreneur in the microgreens industry is a testament to passion and perseverance. Formerly a regional head in the pharmaceutical sector, Nijhawan commanded an annual salary of approximately ₹90 lakh. However, a personal tragedy involving the loss of close family members to cancer prompted him to re-evaluate his lifestyle and dietary choices, leading him towards the world of healthy, chemical-free nutrition.
From Corporate Ladder to Cultivating Greens
A B.Tech Computer Science graduate, Nijhawan’s professional path initially seemed set in the corporate world. By 2020, he had ascended to a significant role at Sanofi-Genzyme. Yet, driven by a desire for healthier living, he made the bold decision to resign in December 2020 and explore microgreens farming.
His initial foray into the microgreens business in early 2021 faced a setback due to a partnership issue. Undeterred, Nijhawan relaunched his venture, Greenu Microgreens, in May 2022. He began with a modest investment of ₹30,000 and a rented 100 sq ft space in Chandigarh.
Greenu Microgreens: A Model of Sustainable Growth
Greenu Microgreens started as a vertical indoor farm, utilizing three racks, grow lights, and seeds to cultivate 21 organic, non-GMO, and pesticide-free microgreen varieties. The operation has since expanded significantly, now occupying a 500 sq ft facility equipped with around 60 racks, capable of producing 12,000 trays of microgreens monthly.
This expansion has translated into substantial financial success. Greenu Microgreens boasts an annual revenue of ₹1.44 crore, with an approximate annual profit of ₹60 lakh. The business serves a diverse clientele, including health-conscious consumers, restaurants, gyms, cafes, and even oncologists who recommend the nutrient-dense produce to their patients.
The company's commitment to freshness is evident in its distribution method, often delivering microgreens live with their roots intact to preserve their nutritional value. Greenu employs advanced vertical farming techniques and organic media like cocopeat and coco fiber, meticulously controlling environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and airflow.
Empowering Others Through Training and Franchising
Beyond cultivation and sales, Mohit Nijhawan extends his expertise through Greenu Microgreens' training programs. He has successfully trained over 300 farmers and aspiring entrepreneurs across India, providing them with essential kits and seeds for microgreens cultivation at minimal fees. Greenu also supports franchise setups in various cities, including Ambala, Gurugram, Mohali, and Panchkula, fostering a wider adoption of sustainable farming practices.
Nijhawan's mission, under the umbrella of Embryonic Greens Pvt. Ltd., is to make nutrient-dense, chemical-free microgreens accessible to households and to empower others to replicate his successful model with limited space and investment.