Siddaganga Incubation Foundation (SIF)
Siddaganga Incubation Foundation (SIF), a section 8 non-profit, is based in the Siddaganga Institute of Technology in Tumakuru, Karnataka. SIF supports innovations in the Agritech and allied sectors, as well as social impact areas, startup culture development, and rural India concerns. SIF is recognized by NSTEDB, the Department of Science and Technology, the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme, and the Government of India’s Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade. It provides pre-incubation and incubation programs for early-stage entrepreneurs and invests in them through the SISFS scheme.
Dr. M.A. Rashmi’s Background and Vision
Dr. M.A. Rashmi, a distinguished alumni of the University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Bengaluru, has a strong background in entomology and over 16 years of research and teaching experience. Her academic background includes an MSc and PhD from the University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Bengaluru. Dr. Rashmi gained experience at prestigious organizations such as the Regional Plant Quarantine Station-Directorate of Plant Protection, Quarantine, and Storage (Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare), ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Monsanto India Ltd, and the Department of Agricultural Entomology, UAS, Bangalore. Her career has been distinguished by several academic publications and significant collaborations.
International Phytosanitary Research & Services (R-IPRS)
Dr. Rashmi launched Rashvee-International Phytosanitary Research & Services (R-IPRS) in 2022, motivated by a desire to promote sustainable agriculture and environmental care. Her objective was to create eco-friendly, residue-free plant protection solutions to address the problems caused by insect pests in agricultural production. R-IPRS specializes in residue-free, environmentally friendly pest management solutions for stored pulses such tur dal, pigeon pea, green gram, black gram, and chickpea. Their main product is a non-insecticidal Bruchid repellent created with a Rs. 5 lakh Agri-tech Ignite Grant from NSTEDB, DST, and the Government of India, and sponsored by the Siddaganga Incubation Foundation.
Innovative Solutions and Market Impact
R-IPRS’ services stand out for their efficacy, safety, and adaptability for both residential and commercial applications. Unlike traditional pesticides, R-IPRS uses biopesticides and botanicals to reduce environmental impact and improve food safety. Using the BIRAC, DBT program, the business created an insecticide-free liquid lure for fruit flies in mango, guava, and cucurbits. This now-patented product is commercially available. Rashvee Herbal liquid soap also works as an adjuvant in sprays, spreaders, and solo spray washes that are ready for market deployment.
Commitment to Sustainable Agriculture
R-IPRS is dedicated to providing comprehensive, environmentally friendly pest management solutions customized to the Indian agricultural landscape. Dr. Rashmi’s significant knowledge and dedication have established R-IPRS as a pioneer in the sector, offering farmers with effective solutions to address pest-related difficulties while prioritizing environmental health. The firm is led by a talented team of agricultural graduates from the University of Agricultural Sciences, who are mentored by Dr. Abraham Verghese, a 45-year industry veteran in agriculture and plant protection.
Expansion and Strategic Collaborations
Looking ahead, R-IPRS intends to grow its activities throughout India and enter foreign markets. The firm wants to make a substantial contribution to global efforts toward sustainable agriculture by using its knowledge and new solutions. R-IPRS is ready for growth, with considerable investments of Rs. 30 lakhs and grant financing from famous institutes such as DST, BIRAC, and DBT. The business also plans to seek funding from MANAGE and NABARD.
Strong Presence and Farmer Support
R-IPRS has a substantial presence in South India, serving approximately 5000 farmers who grow pomegranates, grapes, mangoes, and vegetables. The startup’s plant health clinic serves 50 to 60 farmers daily, giving diagnostic services and biocontrol inputs for sustainable crop management. R-IPRS has faced obstacles in growing operations and promoting environmentally friendly technologies in a conventional agricultural setting. Through strategic collaborations, farmer education initiatives, and unique marketing strategies, the firm has overcome adoption barriers and received great feedback from its customers.
Dr. Rashmi’s Leadership and Vision
Under Dr. Rashmi’s direction, R-IPRS exemplifies a commitment to sustainable agriculture, motivated by innovation and a deep desire to improve farming’s future. R-IPRS continues to pioneer the way for a greener, healthier agricultural landscape by implementing environmentally friendly solutions and providing visionary leadership. Dr. Rashmi’s experience demonstrates the value of integrity, innovation, and environmental responsibility in entrepreneurship. Her advise to young entrepreneurs is to maintain honesty, integrity, and a desire to make a positive difference in both personal and professional undertakings. Rashvee-International Phytosanitary Research & Services (R-IPRS) continues to grow, demonstrating a dedication to sustainable agriculture and environmental responsibility. The startup’s innovative solutions and dedicated leadership promise a bright future for the agriculture industry, highlighting the importance of environmentally friendly techniques and farmer empowerment.
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