The PepsiCo Foundation has introduced 'PRAGATI,' a nationwide program targeting 20,000 agri-entrepreneurs and 20 lakh farmers. The initiative aims to boost crop yields by up to 20% and increase farmer incomes by at least 30% through sustainable farming and financial literacy. This effort is supported by partners including the State Bank of India Foundation and the Gates Foundation.
The PepsiCo Foundation has launched 'PRAGATI,' a large-scale agricultural initiative focused on empowering 20,000 agri-entrepreneurs and supporting 20 lakh farmers across India. The program is designed to roll out across key agricultural states, including Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Assam, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan. By focusing on last-mile service delivery and training, the initiative aims to build a more resilient food supply chain.
Scaling Proven Models for Higher Yields
This new venture builds upon an existing Agri-Entrepreneurship model that has already supported more than 2.6 million farmers through 26,000 established entrepreneurs. The program aims for specific operational targets, including a 15% to 20% increase in yields for staple crops such as paddy, maize, and potato. Furthermore, the foundation is targeting a minimum 30% rise in income for participating farmers. To achieve this, the initiative will promote the adoption of regenerative agriculture and diversified income streams among at least 20% of the farmers involved.
Strategic Partnerships and Financial Literacy
The program is backed by a coalition of national and global organizations, including the State Bank of India Foundation (SBIF), the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, IDH, Heifer International, the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF), the Global Agri Entrepreneurship Academy, the Sustainable Agriculture Foundations International Association (SAFIA), and the Transform Rural India Foundation (TRIF). Beyond technical farming knowledge, a key component of PRAGATI is improving financial inclusion. The initiative intends to provide at least 50% of the associated farmers with better access to formal financial systems and improved financial literacy.
Context for Investors
For shareholders and market observers, this move reflects PepsiCo’s focus on strengthening its upstream supply chain in India. By investing in sustainable agriculture and farmer productivity, the company aims to reduce supply-side volatility for key commodities like potatoes, which are essential for its snack business. While such social impact initiatives do not provide immediate revenue, they are central to securing long-term raw material availability and regulatory goodwill in the Indian market. Investors should monitor how these partnerships evolve and whether the projected increases in crop yields translate into more stable procurement costs for the company in the coming years.