After eight years in banking, Amith Kishan followed his passion for farming, inspired by his grandfather. Facing early challenges, he pioneered natural farming techniques that revived his land and community.
- Transitioned from banking to natural farming
- Runs a 650-acre organic farm with Rs 21 crore revenue
- Employs 3,000 women from 18 local villages
What happened
Amith Kishan spent eight years working in banking with top companies in Bengaluru before deciding to pursue his childhood passion for farming. Inspired by his grandfather, a respected farmer, Amith left his corporate career and began learning about organic and natural farming methods. Starting with just 15 acres and a Rs 1.5 crore loan, he co-founded Hebbevu Farms in 2019 with his brother.
The transition was challenging, especially understanding seasonal cycles and fighting pests without chemicals. Amith innovated by deep ploughing and using organic inputs like cow dung and urine and banana plants to enrich the soil. Over time, the farm grew to 650 acres with a thriving organic ecosystem including native animals, earning Rs 21 crore a year by 2023.
Why it feels good
Beyond financial success, Amith’s farm represents a return to sustainable, earth-friendly agriculture. His use of natural methods helped restore soil health, bringing back earthworms and biodiversity while reducing dependency on harmful chemicals. This approach connects deeply with his grandfather’s legacy and personal values.
The work also empowers local communities, especially women. Hebbevu Farms provides jobs to over 3,000 women from 18 surrounding villages, each receiving daily milk quotas to produce dairy products like ghee and paneer. Amith reflects that his farming life allows him to work not just for profit but for the welfare of his village and family time.
What to enjoy or watch next
Hebbevu Farms’ success highlights the potential for organic farming to create profitable, sustainable agricultural businesses while supporting community livelihoods. For those inspired by Amith’s story, exploring natural farming techniques and locally sourced inputs may be rewarding next steps.
Keep an eye on initiatives like this in Andhra Pradesh and other regions where traditional methods are being revived and adapted to modern challenges. Stories of rural entrepreneurship and women’s empowerment in farming communities continue to offer hopeful models for a more inclusive and eco-friendly agricultural future.