Pune Engineer Quits Job for Hydroponic Farming, Earns in Crores
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s not uncommon for professionals to feel unfulfilled or restless in their careers. For Shailesh Modak, a Pune-based engineer, this feeling was the catalyst for a significant change in his life. Modak, who had previously worked at Barclays, decided to leave his high-paying job in 2011 to pursue his passion for farming. Fast forward to 2019, Modak’s agri-startup, 365D Farms, has become a huge success, generating revenue in crores annually.
Modak’s journey into farming began when he was still working at Barclays. He would often spend his weekends visiting his family’s farm in Nashik, where he developed a passion for hydroponics. Hydroponics is a method of growing plants using nutrient-rich solutions rather than soil. Modak was fascinated by the potential of hydroponics to increase crop yields while reducing water consumption and land use.
After leaving Barclays, Modak spent several years researching and experimenting with hydroponics. He studied various techniques and technologies, attending workshops and seminars to learn more about the subject. In 2019, he finally established 365D Farms, a unique container farm in Pune that uses vertical farming to grow a variety of crops, including saffron, vegetables, and mushrooms.
Modak’s container farm is an innovative setup that divides an 8×40 sq ft shipping container into sections. Each section is designed to optimize growth conditions for a specific crop. The farm uses a combination of hydroponics, aeroponics, and LED lighting to create a controlled environment that promotes healthy plant growth.
The success of 365D Farms can be attributed to Modak’s extensive research and attention to detail. He has developed a proprietary system that ensures consistent crop yields and minimizes waste. The farm also uses advanced technology, including sensors and data analytics, to monitor and control the growing conditions.
Modak’s decision to leave his high-paying job at Barclays was not without its challenges. He faced skepticism and even ridicule from some quarters, with many people questioning his decision to give up a lucrative career in IT to pursue farming. However, Modak remained committed to his vision and worked tirelessly to build his business.
Today, 365D Farms is a thriving agri-startup that has gained recognition for its innovative approach to farming. Modak’s farm is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world who are interested in learning more about hydroponics and vertical farming. The farm also supplies its produce to high-end restaurants and hotels in Pune and Mumbai.
Modak’s success story is an inspiration to many young entrepreneurs who are looking to break away from traditional career paths. His journey is a testament to the power of innovation and perseverance, and a reminder that success is often the result of taking calculated risks and following one’s passion.
In conclusion, Shailesh Modak’s story is a remarkable one that highlights the potential of alternative careers and the importance of following one’s passion. From leaving a high-paying job to start a new venture, Modak’s journey is a reminder that success is often the result of taking calculated risks and being open to new opportunities.
