Mohit Nijhawan abandoned a high-paying corporate career to venture into the niche market of microgreens. Starting with just ₹30,000, he has scaled his brand 'Greenu' to a turnover of ₹1.44 crore annually.
- Mohit Nijhawan left a corporate job with an annual package of ₹90 lakhs.
- Started 'Greenu' brand with a modest initial investment of ₹30,000.
- Achieved an annual turnover of ₹1.44 crore with estimated profits of ₹60 lakhs.
- Diversified revenue through production, training, kits, and franchise models.
In an era where stability is often equated with a high-paying corporate desk job, Mohit Nijhawan from Chandigarh has rewritten the script of professional success. By stepping away from a staggering ₹90 lakh annual package, Mohit pivoted toward the agricultural sector, specifically focusing on the burgeoning market of microgreens.
Microgreens are young vegetable greens that are approximately one to three inches tall with cotyledon leaves. Despite their small size, they are nutrient-dense powerhouses, making them highly desirable for health-conscious consumers and high-end culinary establishments.
The Journey from Failure to Fortune
The path to success was not linear. After leaving his job in December 2020, Mohit's first venture collapsed due to partnership disputes. However, resilience defined his approach. In May 2022, he restarted his journey in a rented 100-square-foot space in Chandigarh. With a limited budget of ₹30,000, he invested in basic racks, trays, grow lights, and seeds to create an indoor farming setup.
"The shift toward indoor urban farming represents a critical evolution in food security and personalized nutrition for the modern city dweller."
Scaling the Business Model
Starting with 21 varieties of organic, non-GMO, and pesticide-free microgreens, Mohit gradually expanded his reach. His facility has now grown to 500 square feet, featuring 60 racks with a production capacity of approximately 12,000 trays per month. Each tray is priced at roughly ₹200.
| Metric | Initial Phase (2022) | Current Phase (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Investment | ₹30,000 | Scaled Infrastructure |
| Space | 100 Sq. Ft. | 500 Sq. Ft. |
| Annual Turnover | Minimal | ₹1.44 Crore |
| Annual Profit | Negligible | ~₹60 Lakhs |
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis reveals that Mohit's success stems from his ability to create a multi-stream revenue model. Instead of relying solely on the sale of greens, he integrated training programs, DIY kits, and franchise consultancy. By training over 300 farmers and entrepreneurs and establishing footprints in cities like Gurugram and Mohali, he has transformed a simple farm into a scalable business ecosystem.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What exactly are microgreens?
A: They are young seedlings of edible vegetables and herbs, harvested shortly after germination, used primarily in salads and as garnishes.
Q2: Is this business viable for small-scale investors?
A: Yes, as demonstrated by Mohit, a basic indoor setup can be started with as little as ₹30,000 and a small room.
