Once a tech professional in the United States, Madhu Chandan made a bold and life-altering decision to return to his roots in Mandya, Karnataka. Disturbed by the plight of farmers in his hometown and inspired by the possibilities of sustainable agriculture, he launched Organic Mandya—a unique model that not only promotes chemical-free farming but ensures high incomes for farmers. Today, hundreds of farmers associated with Organic Mandya are earning ₹1 lakh per month, a dream that seemed far-fetched just a few years ago. Chandan’s vision goes beyond mere farming—he’s building a self-reliant rural economy, rooted in wellness, ecology, and community support. His work has become a beacon of hope for countless rural families, transforming lives through a simple yet powerful principle: go organic and grow together.
From Silicon Valley to Mandya Fields
Transition from tech life to rural India
Madhu Chandan's journey began in the high-rise corporate world of the United States, where he worked as an IT professional. Yet, despite his success, he felt a persistent emptiness and a calling to return home. The tragic stories of farmer suicides in Karnataka deeply affected him and pushed him to think beyond personal success. In 2014, he decided to return to Mandya—a district notorious for its struggling agriculture sector—and initiate change from within. Armed with knowledge, experience, and a strong belief in sustainability, he set up Organic Mandya. The platform aimed to connect urban consumers with rural producers while transforming traditional farming practices into eco-friendly organic systems. His leap of faith wasn’t easy, but it laid the foundation for one of the most inspiring agrarian movements in India.
Building a Profitable Organic Ecosystem
Organic Mandya's sustainable business model
Organic Mandya is not just a farming movement; it is a comprehensive ecosystem. Madhu Chandan established a cooperative model that brings together farmers, provides them with training in organic practices, and links them with urban markets through dedicated organic stores and cafes. Farmers are taught composting, natural pest control, and crop diversification. Most importantly, they are offered fair prices and a share in the profits. The brand now has multiple organic outlets that sell fresh produce, organic staples, and wellness products. The revenue generated is redirected to the farmers, many of whom now earn ₹1 lakh a month. This model is proving that agriculture can be both sustainable and profitable, without dependency on government subsidies or chemical-based inputs.
Empowering Farmers, Especially Women
Women farmers contributing to Organic Mandya
A lesser-known but critical aspect of Organic Mandya’s success is the role of women farmers. Madhu Chandan believes in inclusive growth and has actively worked to include women in leadership roles within the cooperative. Women farmers are trained in value-added product creation such as ghee, pickles, and herbal health products. These are sold under the Organic Mandya brand, giving women financial independence and stronger roles in decision-making. This has led to a broader societal impact, with many families reporting better health, nutrition, and educational access for their children. By putting women at the heart of the farming revolution, Organic Mandya ensures that development is equitable and sustainable.
Scaling the Organic Mandya Movement
Expansion plans of Organic Mandya
What began as a local initiative is now growing into a larger movement. Organic Mandya is expanding into other districts of Karnataka and exploring partnerships across India. Madhu Chandan is in talks with policy-makers and NGOs to replicate this model in other agri-distressed regions. Technology plays a key role in this scale-up, with mobile apps for farmer training, digital marketplaces, and blockchain for traceability of produce. Schools and colleges are also involved in awareness campaigns to build the next generation of eco-conscious consumers and farmers. With careful planning, community ownership, and consistent support, Organic Mandya is poised to become a national model for sustainable farming and rural entrepreneurship.
A Techie Who Grew Hope From the Soil
Madhu Chandan’s story is a powerful reminder that real change begins at home. His Organic Mandya model is a shining example of how one man’s return to his roots sparked a movement that gave dignity, income, and pride back to farmers. With a mix of tradition, technology, and trust, he is growing more than just crops—he is growing hope.
