Today’s feature takes us to the picturesque hills of Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, where Kanika Sood, an agrotech entrepreneur and sustainability educator, is weaving tradition and innovation into a narrative of agricultural transformation. Kanika’s journey, from the bustling streets of Delhi to the serene valleys of her ancestral home, is as compelling as it is inspiring.
“I’ve always felt a deep connection to the land,” Kanika Sood shares, adding “growing up in Shimla, surrounded by stories of farming from my maternal side, shaped my perspective.”
But it wasn’t until the disruptions of COVID-19 that she decided to return to her roots, driven by a vision to empower farmers and advocate for sustainable practices.
With her venture Humans of Hemp, Kanika is championing the cause of organic farming and exploring the untapped potential of hemp cultivation in Himachal Pradesh. Her enthusiasm is palpable as she discusses the possibilities of hemp as a sustainable crop for Indian agriculturists.
“Hemp is more than a plant,” she says. “It’s a solution to multiple challenges—economic, ecological, and even technological. The versatility of this crop is unmatched, and I see immense potential in its cultivation for the farmers of Himachal.”
Kanika Sood: Cultivating Change
But Kanika’s journey is not just about crops; it’s about cultivating change. She’s brought cutting-edge technology into the hands of farmers through her subscription services for soil testing and organic pest control. Her rapid soil testing kit, developed in collaboration with Farmfluence and ICL, has been a game changer, delivering real-time data that enables farmers to make informed decisions.
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“Understanding your soil is like understanding the soul of your farm,” she explains. “When farmers can see the direct impact of their decisions, it builds confidence and encourages sustainable practices.”
One of the most notable impacts of Kanika’s work has been the reduction in chemical pesticide usage in Himachal Pradesh. This shift has not only improved fruit quality but also restored the ecological balance of local farmlands. “The feedback from farmers is incredibly motivating,” she beams. “They tell me about the sweeter apples, richer soil, and healthier yields. It’s heartwarming to see technology fostering such tangible changes.”
Kanika’s collaborations with local communities further amplify her mission.
“Agrotech tools are not just about innovation; they’re about inclusivity,” she insists. “By involving farmers in the process, we’re creating a sense of ownership and shared purpose.”
When asked about the challenges she faces, Kanika Sood is candid. “Promoting organic farming isn’t easy,” she admits. “There’s resistance to change and a lack of awareness. But every small victory, like a farmer transitioning to organic practices or trying out our soil kits, feels like a step forward.”
Looking ahead, Kanika’s vision is clear: to revolutionize sustainable agriculture in India, with a special focus on hemp cultivation.
“My dream is to make organic farming accessible and profitable, not just for farmers in Himachal Pradesh, but across India. Agrotech is the bridge between traditional wisdom and modern efficiency.”
As the conversation winds down, Kanika leaves us with a nugget of wisdom:
“To my younger self, I’d say—don’t rush the process. Every challenge teaches you resilience, and every failure brings you closer to innovation. And never let the learning stop”
Kanika Sood’s story is a testament to the transformative power of passion and technology. It’s a journey rooted in tradition yet boldly charting new territories in sustainability and agrotech.
Stay tuned for her full video interview and more stories like these—where we grow ideas and harvest change.
