In a remarkable shift from corporate life to agriculture, Mantaj Sidhu, a former account manager at Google in Dublin, has returned to India to launch Gill Organics. This innovative venture aims to help urban families grow their own food by allowing them to temporarily own a patch of land where fresh, organic vegetables are cultivated. By bridging the gap between demand and supply of chemical-free produce, Gill Organics is set to revolutionize the way families access healthy food.
A Unique Farming Concept
Located just two kilometers from Fatehpur village in the Patiala district, Gill Organics offers families the chance to secure their vegetable needs without the labor-intensive process of traditional farming. Customers can rent small plots of land on the farm and receive freshly harvested produce delivered to their homes. This model not only provides access to organic vegetables but also fosters a connection between families and their food sources.
Harpreet Singh, a local resident who has embraced this model, shares his experience: “We get 65 percent of our vegetable needs fulfilled from our 150-square-yard patch. The taste is incomparable to store-bought vegetables, giving me peace of mind that my children are eating chemical-free food.”During a visit last winter, Harpreet and his children enjoyed plucking vegetables together and reminisced about his childhood when his family grew their own food. “Now, we just wash them under running water, and they are good to go,” he adds with satisfaction.
Mantaj Sidhu’s Journey
Mantaj Sidhu’s decision to leave his high-paying job at Google was driven by a desire to be closer to his family and address the critical issue of food adulteration in India. “I wanted to ensure that my parents, and others, had access to safe, chemical-free food,” he explains. His experiences in Ireland highlighted the stark differences in agricultural practices and food safety regulations compared to India.
Upon returning home in 2022, Mantaj partnered with his cousin Baljit Singh Gill to create Gill Organics. Their mission is to provide urban families with access to safe, sustainably grown organic food while instilling trust in the often-misused term “organic.”
How Gill Organics Works
Gill Organics operates by inviting families to visit the farm and allocate a portion of land for their use. The farm grows 18 varieties of vegetables depending on the season, allowing families to monitor their crops and harvest them when ready. For those unable to visit regularly, fresh produce is delivered directly to their homes.The farm employs eco-friendly practices such as using cow dung and vermicompost as fertilizers and managing pests with UV lights and traditional remedies. Mantaj emphasizes that this approach not only supports sustainable farming but also enhances soil health through practices like mulching.
Growing Demand and Future Plans
Currently serving families in Patiala, Ludhiana, and Chandigarh, Gill Organics has partnered with 35 urban families and dedicated 1.5 acres of land for organic farming. With a waiting list of eager customers, Mantaj plans to expand operations to two acres next season.
For a six-month subscription, families pay between ₹30,000 and ₹35,000, which covers their share of the harvest. Mantaj reflects on his journey: “While I might not be earning as much as I did at Google, I find fulfillment in improving people’s lives through our organic vegetables.”
Challenges and Triumphs
Despite facing skepticism from friends and family about leaving a prestigious job at Google, Mantaj remains committed to his mission. “Moving ad revenue numbers for big companies doesn’t give the satisfaction I feel when someone appreciates our organic vegetables,” he states. His passion for sustainable living drives him forward as he continues to expand Gill Organics.
Mantaj’s venture also addresses broader issues related to urban living. Many city dwellers desire organic food but lack sufficient land, time, or expertise to grow it themselves. By providing an accessible solution, Gill Organics empowers families to take control of their food sources.
Conclusion
Gill Organics represents a transformative approach to urban agriculture, empowering families with the means to grow their own food while promoting sustainable practices. As Mantaj Sidhu continues his mission, he hopes to inspire more individuals to prioritize health and environmental sustainability through organic farming.
Disclaimer
This article is based on information available as of January 1, 2025. For ongoing updates regarding Gill Organics and developments in sustainable agriculture initiatives, please refer to official announcements and reputable news sources.
