In the face of growing environmental concerns, particularly those related to plastic waste, the need for sustainable alternatives has never been more pressing. The over-reliance on plastic products, especially during festivals and celebrations, has led to significant waste, much of which is non-biodegradable and harmful to our ecosystems. In parallel, women farmers in rural India often face financial instability during no-crop periods, as agricultural activities slow down, leaving them with limited income-generating opportunities. Adding to these challenges is the widespread practice of burning agricultural residues like rice, wheat, and jute straw, which contributes to air pollution and wastes potential raw materials.
At “Gifts in Green,” an initiative under Sri Tulasiratnam Agrotech Private Limited (STRAT) in Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh, we are tackling these interconnected challenges head-on. Our mission is to repurpose agro-residue into biodegradable, eco-friendly products while providing employment to women farmers during no-crop periods. This initiative not only addresses the issue of plastic pollution but also creates a sustainable revenue stream for rural women, empowering them economically and socially.
As someone with a postgraduate degree in Chemistry and a background rooted in a farming family, I, Yenda Keerthi, have witnessed firsthand the struggles faced by farmers, particularly women, during off-season periods. The sight of agro-residues being burned, contributing to environmental degradation, inspired me to think differently. I began exploring ways to repurpose this agricultural waste, which led to the birth of “Gifts in Green.” Our focus is on transforming what was once considered waste into valuable, eco-friendly products such as Rakhis, flag badges, coasters, biodegradable idols, and handmade invitation and marriage cards.
One of our flagship products is the Eco-Friendly Handmade Rakhi, crafted from agricultural waste. Each Rakhi is embedded with seeds, allowing it to be planted after use. With regular watering, the Rakhi will sprout into a plant, symbolizing sustainability and renewal. This innovative design not only minimizes waste but also promotes the growth of new life, making it a meaningful and eco-conscious alternative to traditional Rakhis.
Our products not only contribute to environmental preservation but also provide farmers with an additional revenue stream during off-season periods. Instead of burning their farm residues, farmers can now use them to create eco-friendly products, offering them productive employment and income during times when agricultural activities slow down. This model addresses both environmental and economic challenges, promoting a sustainable way of life.
With the unwavering support of my husband and family, I established Sri Tulasiratnam Agrotech Private Limited (STRAT Pvt. Ltd.) to bring these eco-friendly products to life. Our efforts have not gone unnoticed; we were honored with the Best Business Plan Competition Award in 2022 and received the opportunity to incubate at NIT-Rourkela, Odisha. This platform has allowed us to further develop and expand our eco-friendly solutions. Additionally, our project has received funding from the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, under the DST-NIDHI Entrepreneur in Residence program. This support has been instrumental in refining our products and expanding our impact on both the environment and the farming community.
Looking ahead, “Gifts in Green” has ambitious plans to broaden its eco-friendly product line and deepen its impact. One of our key goals is to develop bio-polymers from agricultural waste, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional plastics. This research aims to create biodegradable materials that can replace single-use plastics in various industries, further reducing environmental pollution.
Moreover, we plan to scale our operations by training and empowering women from farming communities, equipping them with the skills needed to create these eco-friendly products. By forming women-led groups, “Gifts in Green” will not only provide employment but also a steady source of income, particularly during no-crop periods. This initiative will enable women to contribute financially to their households while promoting sustainability and innovation within their local communities.
At “Gifts in Green,” we are committed to making a positive impact on both the environment and the farming community. By transforming agricultural waste into sustainable products, we are creating a brighter, greener future—one that is rooted in empowerment, sustainability, and renewal.
By
Yenda Keerthi, Founder of Gifts in Green
Sri Tulasiratnam Agrotech Private Limited (STRAT)