The heart of India’s agricultural landscape often faces unseen battles—from the harsh realities of manual labor to the dangers of pesticide exposure. For Yogesh Gawande, a young mechanical engineering student from Aurangabad, this reality struck hard in 2014 when his elder brother was hospitalized due to pesticide poisoning. This personal crisis, coupled with his father’s words, “You’re studying engineering, do something for us,” sparked a journey of innovation and impact.
The Genesis of Niyo FarmTech: A Solution Born from Empathy
While still in his first year at DIEMS, Aurangabad, Yogesh and a few like-minded classmates began reverse-engineering internal combustion engines. Their mission: to create a safer, more efficient way to spray pesticides. This initiative led to the formation of the NIYO Group—‘NI’ for Nikhil, ‘YO’ for Yogesh—and eventually, Niyo FarmTech.
They tested their early prototype, a wheel-based sprayer, directly with farmers. The positive feedback reinforced their resolve and confirmed the real-world need for their innovation.
From Student Project to Market-Ready Innovation
Turning a student project into a scalable business came with its challenges—most notably, funding and mentorship. Help came through the Bharatiya Yuva Shakti Trust (BYST), which connected Yogesh with key mentors and resources.
Mr. Milind Kank, MD of Yeshshree Press Comps Pvt. Ltd., became a game-changing mentor. He offered not just guidance but a one-year salary to help Yogesh focus full-time on Niyo FarmTech. Further support came from Sunil Raithatha and BYST, leading to a crucial Rs 5.5 lakh loan from Bank of Baroda.
The Solar Revolution: Powering Progress, Empowering Women
The original wheel-based sprayer soon evolved into a groundbreaking solar-powered solution. This was more than just a technological advancement—it was a social transformation.
Niyo FarmTech began collaborating with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation through the Indian Agritech Incubation Network (IAIN), focusing on empowering women farmers. The solar sprayers enabled women to independently operate spraying equipment—boosting safety, dignity, and economic independence.
This innovative approach caught the attention of Bill Gates himself. During a visit to India, Gates personally operated the NIYO Solar Sprayer and NIYO Bahubali Sprayer at IARI, New Delhi. His recognition provided massive confidence and visibility for the growing startup.
From Small Idea to Multi-Crore Success
Today, Niyo FarmTech stands as a model of grassroots innovation. Operating out of Aurangabad, far from traditional startup hubs, the company has:
- Sold over 5,000 units
- Empowered more than 12,000 farmers across 14 Indian states
- Created over 100 jobs
- Achieved a turnover of Rs 4.3 crore
The journey was far from easy. Funding shortages, the COVID-19 pandemic, and early resistance from farmers were major hurdles. During the pandemic, a clever pivot—using their spray pumps for municipal sanitization—kept the business afloat.
Constant feedback from farmers helped improve the design, increased trust, and drove widespread adoption.
The Gates Effect and Future Horizons
Bill Gates’ endorsement proved to be a powerful turning point. It sparked increased interest and demand for Niyo’s products. Additionally, the sprayers received approval from FMTTI Dapoli, making them eligible for government subsidies. Farmers now receive 40–50% subsidy support, further accelerating adoption.
Yogesh’s dedication was also recognized internationally—he was nominated for the Youth Business International (YBI) award and selected for a global bootcamp in London. This expanded his network and vision for Niyo’s future.
Looking ahead, Niyo FarmTech plans to expand into African markets and scale operations across India. Yogesh is also working to build stronger collaborations with government bodies to reach remote areas, simplify subsidy delivery, and raise awareness about sustainable agriculture.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Agri-Entrepreneurs
Yogesh Gawande believes India’s agricultural future depends on young entrepreneurs who innovate with empathy.
“India urgently needs automation and mechanisation in agriculture to meet the food demands of the future,” he says. “Sustainable innovations are the key to sustainable agriculture—and ultimately, a sustainable future.”
What began as a college project inspired by tragedy has now transformed into a powerful movement. Yogesh Gawande and Niyo FarmTech are not just selling sprayers—they are cultivating hope, empowering livelihoods, and shaping a greener, more equitable future for Indian agriculture.
