Seema Mishra: An Agropreneur Changing the Face of Farming 

By Shabiha Nur Khatoon 

Seema Mishra, who quit her corporate job to build a career in agriculture, aims to change the way people perceive farming. She insists that farming is not a last resort but a primary profession that can be highly profitable if done the right way. 

From a Corporate Job to the Fields 

In Odisha, many young people do not consider farming a viable career. They believe it requires too much effort for too little financial return. Most aspire to secure government jobs or high-paying corporate careers. However, Seema Mishra has proven that farming can be just as rewarding—if approached strategically. 

Seema was not always a farmer. She had a life many dream of—an MBA from Delhi University and a prestigious job at Tata Consultancy Services (TCS). She was earning well, living in the city, and had a stable future ahead of her. 

However, in 2015, everything changed when her grandfather passed away. She returned to her village, Randio, in Puri district, to be with her family. Once home, she noticed that her family owned a large piece of land that was not being used to its full potential. Instead of looking for another corporate job, she thought, Why not try farming? 

With no prior experience in agriculture, she started small—raising 200 chickens in the family’s coconut orchard. It was a modest beginning but marked the start of her journey. 

A Smarter Way to Farm 

Seema was determined not to follow traditional farming methods. She educated herself on ‘Integrated Farming,’ a system that combines multiple types of agriculture on the same land. She diversified her farm, growing vegetables, fruits, and flowers while raising cows, goats, chickens, and fish. She even introduced beekeeping and mushroom farming. 

The best part? Nothing went to waste. The byproducts of one activity benefited another. For example, animal waste was converted into organic manure for crops, and leftover greens were used as animal feed. This efficient, eco-friendly cycle optimised productivity while reducing costs. 

Helping Others Grow with Her 

Seema was not content with her own success—she wanted others to benefit too. She believed that if she could make farming profitable, others could as well. To share her knowledge, she began mentoring local farmers, especially women and young people, on how to generate a sustainable income through agriculture. 

She didn’t just offer advice—she provided hands-on training. At her Bamboo Bridge Heritage Farm, she organised workshops where farmers could learn modern techniques. Experts from Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) also contributed, making the training sessions even more effective. 

As Frank Ocean once said, “Work hard in silence, let your success be your noise.” This perfectly describes Seema, whose success has inspired many young individuals. Witnessing her achievements, people who once dismissed farming as outdated are now reconsidering it as a promising career. 

Learning to Grow 

To excel in her endeavour, Seema pursued various courses in poultry farming, horticulture, animal husbandry, vegetable cultivation, and fishery management. She ensures that no waste goes unused, turning farm waste into organic manure to enhance soil fertility and reduce expenses. 

She took specialised training in poultry farming, vegetable cultivation, and fishery management. This knowledge helped her develop innovative and sustainable farming techniques. 

Today, her farm spans 22 acres. She owns 50 beehives, 50 goats, multiple fish ponds, a large poultry farm, and a bio-floc fish farming system. She has also started cultivating dragon fruit, a high-value crop. Her hard work has paid off—she now earns approximately Rs 5 lakh per month from her farm. 

More Than a Farm—A Destination 

Seema wanted to do more than just grow crops; she wanted people to experience farming firsthand. So, she introduced ‘Eco-Agro Tourism,’ allowing visitors to explore her farm, learn about sustainable agriculture, and enjoy fresh organic produce. More than 60 visitors have toured her farm, gaining insights into modern farming practices. 

Inspiring Young Minds About Farming 

Seema is determined to transform the perception of farming. She firmly believes that farming is not a last resort but a profitable and fulfilling career when approached correctly. Her dedication has been recognized through multiple awards, and she is now a well-known speaker and trainer. Many young individuals in her village have followed her lead and taken up farming. She has also created employment opportunities for five families, helping them achieve financial independence. 

Seema Mishra is not just a farmer—she is a role model. She is proving that farming is not about struggle but about innovation, passion, and success. Through her journey, she is inspiring young people to stay connected to their roots and build a future without leaving home—but by growing one right where they are. 

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Photograph: Seema Mishra explaining about her farm practices to a visiting foreign delegate. (Inset) Seema engaged in training programme at her farmhouse.