Biography of Sudhir Devkar: Founder and CEO of Kryzen Biotech- Entrepreneur
Biography of Sudhir Devkar:
Introduction to Kryzen Biotech and Its Founders
Kryzen Biotech, led by Sudhir Devkar, is a promising
agritech company focused on revolutionizing farming through vertical farming
solutions. Sudhir, who holds a degree in engineering from Rajiv Gandhi
Institute of Technology in Bengaluru, and Priya, his business partner, have
been at the forefront of introducing hydroponics—a method of growing plants
using a water-based nutrient solution instead of soil—into India. Their vision
is to tackle some of the biggest challenges in agriculture, making it more
efficient and accessible for farmers across the country.
Challenges in Traditional Farming and the Need for
Innovation
Traditional farming faces several hurdles, especially in
India, where soil health, water scarcity, and unpredictable crop prices are
common issues. Sudhir and Priya recognized the need for innovation in
agriculture. They decided to focus on controlled-environment agriculture (CEA),
particularly hydroponic farming, which uses vertical farming techniques. Their
company Kryzen Biotech aims to address three major challenges in farming: What
to grow, how to grow, and where to sell. Their solutions are designed to help
farmers increase productivity while overcoming these obstacles.
The Vertical Farming Solution
The vertical farming technique proposed by Kryzen Biotech
allows farmers to grow crops in a controlled environment with minimal use of
soil and water. This method makes it possible to achieve the production
capacity of an acre of land within just 5,000 square feet, making it ideal for
urban settings. Vertical farming can help overcome space limitations and
optimize production in areas with limited arable land, making it a scalable
solution for modern agriculture.
Introducing the Price Watcher System
To solve the challenge of deciding what to grow, Kryzen
Biotech developed a system called Price Watcher. This AI-based tool helps
farmers predict which crops are likely to see an increase in market prices. By
using real-time data and market trends, Price Watcher helps farmers make
informed decisions on which crops to grow, maximizing their potential for
profit. This tool plays a crucial role in ensuring that farmers can align their
production with market demands, improving their income.
HydroBuild: Remote Automation for Hydroponic Farms
Another innovative solution from Kryzen Biotech is
HydroBuild, a remote farm automation system designed specifically for
hydroponic systems. This system uses AI technology to monitor and manage the
entire hydroponic farming process remotely. It helps farmers maintain optimal
conditions for plant growth, reducing the need for manual labor and minimizing
human error. HydroBuild brings the future of smart farming into the present,
allowing farmers to operate their systems more efficiently and effectively.
Buyers Connect: Bridging the Gap Between Farmers and Buyers
The third key component of Kryzen Biotech’s offerings is
Buyers Connect, a platform that connects growers with agricultural commodity
buyers across India. By creating a direct link between farmers and potential
buyers, this platform reduces the need for intermediaries, ensuring better
prices for both parties. Farmers can sell their produce to a wider range of
buyers, while buyers gain access to a consistent supply of high-quality crops.
Track Record of Success and Support for Farmers
Kryzen Biotech has already made an impact in the industry,
helping over 40 farmers set up their hydroponic farms. The company’s innovative
solutions have enabled these farmers to increase their productivity and reduce
costs. With a proven track record of success, Kryzen Biotech is positioning
itself as a leader in the field of urban agriculture. The company’s commitment
to improving the livelihoods of farmers is evident in its hands-on approach and
dedication to providing the tools necessary for growth.
Biography of Sudhir Devkar: Founder and CEO of Kryzen Biotech- Entrepreneur/ hydroponics and vertical farming solution/age/net worth/investor/startup/
Pitching on Shark Tank India
Kryzen Biotech’s founders, Sudhir and Priya, took their
business idea to the popular Indian television show Shark Tank India, hoping to
secure investment to scale their operations. They presented their hydroponic
farming solutions and asked for Rs 75 lakh in exchange for 3% equity in their
company. Their pitch highlighted the potential for vertical farming to solve
many of India’s agricultural challenges while offering investors a chance to be
part of a rapidly growing agritech industry.
The Sharks’ Reactions
The sharks were initially skeptical about the potential of
predicting crop prices using AI, with Anupam Mittal questioning the accuracy of
such predictions. However, Sudhir stood firm and explained the technological
foundation behind the Price Watcher system. Despite some reservations about the
predictability of crop prices, the sharks were impressed by the innovative
nature of the business and the passion of the founders.
An Emotional Moment for Sudhir
During the pitch, Sudhir shared an emotional story about his
grandfather, who had inspired him to become an entrepreneur. His grandfather’s
last words were to be a job-giver, not a job-taker, and this message fueled
Sudhir’s desire to create a business that could help others. The sharks were
moved by this personal story, which added a layer of authenticity and
conviction to his pitch.
Valuation and Investment Offers
Kryzen Biotech’s valuation was set at Rs 25 crore based on
its innovative approach to modern farming. Although some sharks backed out due
to concerns about the niche nature of the business, others expressed admiration
for the technology and its potential. Peyush Bansal, founder of Lenskart, saw
the value in the business and made an offer. He proposed an investment of Rs 75
lakh for 15% equity in Kryzen Biotech, along with a 2% royalty until Rs 1.5
crores was recouped.
Finalizing the Deal with Peyush Bansal
After some deliberation, Sudhir and Priya agreed to Peyush
Bansal’s offer, seeing it as a strong partnership that would help take Kryzen
Biotech to the next level. They were particularly excited about Peyush’s
experience and mentorship, which would provide valuable guidance as they scaled
their business. The deal marked a significant milestone for Kryzen Biotech and
set the stage for the company’s continued growth and success.
Future Plans for Kryzen Biotech
With the investment from Peyush Bansal, Kryzen Biotech plans
to expand its operations and reach more farmers across India. The company aims
to further develop its technology, improve its existing products, and explore
new markets both locally and internationally. By continuing to innovate and
address the challenges faced by farmers, Kryzen Biotech is poised to become a
leader in the agritech space.
Conclusion: A New Era of Farming
Kryzen Biotech’s story is one of passion, innovation, and
dedication to improving the lives of farmers. Through its vertical farming
solutions, AI-based tools, and commitment to sustainability, the company is
helping farmers grow high-quality produce with greater efficiency and fewer
resources. With the backing of Peyush Bansal and the continued development of
their technologies, Sudhir and Priya are driving a new era of farming in India,
one that promises to reshape the future of agriculture.
A timeline for Kryzen Biotech’s story:
2015 – Sudhir Devkar and Priya found Kryzen Biotech to
innovate in agriculture.
2017 – Company introduces hydroponics and vertical farming
solutions in India.
2020 – Price Watcher system is developed to help farmers
predict profitable crops.
2021 – Launch of HydroBuild, an AI-driven remote automation
system for hydroponic farms.
2022 – Buyers Connect platform is created to link farmers
with buyers directly.
2023 – Kryzen Biotech helps over 40 farmers set up
hydroponic farms.
2024 (March) – Sudhir and Priya pitch Kryzen Biotech on
Shark Tank India.
2024 (March) – Peyush Bansal offers Rs 75 lakh for 15%
equity and 2% royalty.
2024 (April) – Sudhir and Priya finalize the deal with
Peyush Bansal.
2024 (Future) – Kryzen Biotech plans to expand and develop
further technological solutions.
