Madhya Pradesh: Burhanpur, a small yet historically rich district in Madhya Pradesh, is making waves beyond its lush green fields and architectural heritage. Known for its banana cultivation, the district is now a shining example of innovation under the "One District-One Product" initiative. The transformation of its iconic banana crop into a thriving entrepreneurial venture has brought newfound prosperity to the region and is setting a benchmark for others to follow.
Entrepreneurial Revolution
In February 2024, Burhanpur hosted the "Banana Festival," a significant event where farmers and entrepreneurs collaborated to explore the potential of banana-based products.
Inspired by the festival, local entrepreneur Ritesh Agarwal, with the support of the district administration and the horticulture department, established a banana powder manufacturing unit in Dhaba village, Khaknar. His venture is branded as "Bananify," and is a testament to the district’s ingenuity.
Nutritional Goldmine: Bananify's Product Range
The banana powder produced by Bananify is rich in nutrients and caters to both children and adults. Three distinct types of powder are crafted in the unit:
Edible Banana Pulp Powder: Made from pure banana pulp, it is a high-quality, nutritious product.
Banana Peel-Enriched Powder: This variant includes banana peels, making it a fiber-rich, edible supplement.
Organic Fertilizer Powder: Produced from banana peels, this powder is utilized as manure, enhancing soil quality and agricultural yield.
These products serve dual purposes, promoting both health and sustainability, while ensuring that no part of the banana goes to waste.
Financial Support and Modern Technology
The venture received a subsidy of Rs 10 lakh under the "Pradhan Mantri Micro Food Enterprise Upgradation Scheme". Equipped with state-of-the-art machinery from Ahmedabad, the unit operates efficiently, showcasing the integration of traditional agriculture with modern technology.
Expanding Market Reach
Bananify’s products are not only popular in Madhya Pradesh but are also reaching markets in Maharashtra, Haryana, Punjab, and Delhi. Packaged in 250-gram and 500-gram sizes, priced at Rs 280 and Rs 480 respectively, these products are gaining recognition for their quality and health benefits.
A Model of Environmental Sustainability
One of the standout features of the Bananifi unit is its zero-waste approach. Even banana peels are processed into fertilizer, which is used in nurseries and horticultural farms. \
Sweet Success on a Global Stage
Burhanpur’s banana powder journey illustrates how vision, collaboration, and government support can transform a traditional crop into an international success story.
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