Dr. Kamini Singh, a former scientist from Lucknow, has emerged as a trailblazer in sustainable agriculture and women’s empowerment. In 2015, she made a bold and transformative decision to leave her position at the Central Institute for Subtropical Horticulture (CISH), a prestigious research institution, to pursue her vision of creating practical, high-impact agricultural solutions. Recognizing the untapped potential of moringa, a nutrient-rich and fast-growing plant, Dr. Singh embarked on a mission to introduce large-scale moringa cultivation in Uttar Pradesh, combining scientific knowledge with entrepreneurial insight.
Her initiative began modestly, with pilot projects that encouraged farmers to integrate moringa cultivation alongside existing crops. Dr. Singh emphasized organic and sustainable farming practices, ensuring that the crop could thrive without heavy reliance on chemical fertilizers or pesticides. Within a few years, the pilot project gained traction, as local farmers witnessed tangible benefits in both productivity and income. Seeing the potential for larger impact, she mobilized over a thousand farmers across 15 villages to form a Farmer Producer Organization (FPO) named Jaivik Vikas Krishi Sanstha. This organizational structure empowered farmers to collectively manage cultivation, processing, and marketing of moringa-based products, providing them with greater bargaining power and access to markets.
Dr. Singh placed a particular focus on involving women in every stage of the venture. Women farmers were trained in cultivation techniques, processing, and packaging, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to the supply chain. This approach not only enhanced household incomes but also instilled a sense of empowerment and ownership among women, highlighting the role of gender-inclusive practices in sustainable development. By prioritizing women’s participation, Dr. Singh demonstrated that agriculture could be a powerful tool for social as well as economic transformation.
The products under her brand, “Doctor Moringa,” reflect the value-added approach she envisioned. From moringa powders and teas to oils, soaps, and capsules, the range caters to diverse consumer needs. By creating a strong brand identity, Dr. Singh ensured that the products reached both local markets and online platforms, expanding the business’s footprint across India. Her emphasis on quality and sustainability resonated with consumers, allowing the venture to achieve an impressive annual turnover of ₹1.75 crore in FY 2024, with projections indicating growth to ₹2.5 crore in the coming year.
Dr. Singh’s work has attracted national attention and recognition. Her efforts in promoting sustainable agriculture and rural development were acknowledged by the Indian government. She was invited to Delhi to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who praised her innovative approach and the positive impact it had on rural communities. Such recognition underscores the importance of combining research expertise with entrepreneurial vision to address real-world challenges.
Beyond economic and social impact, Dr. Singh’s initiative has broader implications for sustainable development. By demonstrating that organic and low-input crops like moringa can be commercially viable, she has inspired other farmers and entrepreneurs to explore alternative crops that are environmentally friendly and nutritionally beneficial. Her work aligns with global trends emphasizing sustainable agriculture, climate-conscious farming, and empowerment of marginalized communities.
Looking ahead, Dr. Singh envisions scaling the initiative further. Plans include enhancing online and e-commerce sales channels, expanding the range of moringa-based products, and exploring export opportunities to international markets. She is also committed to further training and capacity-building programs for women farmers, ensuring that they continue to play a central role in the venture’s growth. By combining innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity, she is setting new benchmarks in the field of agripreneurship.
Dr. Kamini Singh’s journey from a research scientist to a social entrepreneur illustrates the power of vision, determination, and a deep understanding of community needs. She has successfully bridged the gap between academic knowledge and practical implementation, creating a replicable model of agricultural entrepreneurship that can be adopted across India and beyond. Her work not only enhances rural livelihoods but also empowers women, promotes sustainable farming, and strengthens local economies.
In conclusion, Dr. Kamini Singh represents a new generation of Indian women entrepreneurs who are redefining the possibilities of agriculture and social impact. Through her innovative approach to moringa cultivation and value addition, she is transforming the lives of thousands of farmers, particularly women, while championing sustainability and ethical business practices. Her journey is a testament to how science, entrepreneurship, and social responsibility can converge to create meaningful and lasting change in rural India.
