Hunger and hardship often inspire great change. This is the story of Veer Shetty Biradar, a farmer-turned-entrepreneur from Telangana who built a thriving millet-based business after experiencing hunger firsthand. From a truck driver to running a company with an annual turnover of over Rs 1 crore, his journey is very inspiring.
Early Struggles & Inspiration
Born in Gangapur village, Sangareddy district, Telangana, Veer Shetty Biradar had to drop out of school after Class 9 due to financial constraints. He took up various odd jobs, including working as a truck driver and even acting in small roles at Ramoji Film City.
However, a life-changing experience occurred in 2006 when he travelled to Beed, Maharashtra, and witnessed the severity of hunger. The lack of accessible food made him realize the need for sustainable and nutritious food sources, pushing him towards millet farming.
Turning to Agriculture & Millets
With a background in farming, Veer Shetty started cultivating sorghum, bajra, foxtail millet, and finger millet on his 18-acre farmland. He later joined the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) as a driver and assistant, where he gained insights into scientific farming techniques.
Recognizing the nutritional benefits and environmental sustainability of millets, he decided to promote them widely. His mission was to make healthy, affordable food accessible while also ensuring better livelihoods for farmers.
Building S S Bhavani Foods Pvt Ltd
In 2009, with just Rs 20,000, Veer Shetty opened his first millet roti shop in Hyderabad. Initially, people were unaware of Millet’s benefits, but with time and persistence, his shop gained popularity. This small venture evolved into S S Bhavani Foods Pvt Ltd, a company that now manufactures over 60 millet-based products, including:
- Kadak Bhakri (Hard millet bread)
- Millet Chivda & Laddus
- Millet Rava & Flour
- Millovit Health Mix (An immune-boosting millet powder)
His business expanded across eight states, employing 40+ people and supplying millet products globally, including exports to Australia.
Innovation & Impact on Farmers
Veer Shetty also introduced a roti-making machine capable of producing 500 rotis per hour, ensuring mass production of millet rotis with a six-month shelf life.
Beyond business, he founded the Swavalamban Agri Foundation in 2016, helping over 1,000 farmers in Telangana. The foundation provides quality seeds, training on millet farming, and assured buyback support to boost farmers’ incomes.
Awards & Recognition
For his contributions to millet farming and rural entrepreneurship, Veer Shetty received numerous accolades, including:
- Best Farmer Award – M S Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF)
- Dr. M.V. Rao Memorial Award – Telangana State Agricultural University
- Best Millet Misharayya Award – Indian Institute of Millets Research (IIMR), Hyderabad
These awards solidify his reputation as “The Millet Man of Telangana.”
Conclusion
Veer Shetty Biradar’s journey from a truck driver to a millet entrepreneur with a Rs 1 crore turnover is an inspiring example of perseverance, innovation, and social impact. His work continues to uplift farmers while promoting the benefits of nutritious and climate-resilient millet farming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Veer Shetty Biradar called ‘The Millet Man of Telangana’?
He is recognized for promoting millet farming and developing over 60 millet-based products, helping farmers and making millet more accessible to consumers.
What is S S Bhavani Foods Pvt Ltd?
It is Veer Shetty’s company specializing in value-added millet-based products, supplying across India and exporting globally.
How does Veer Shetty support farmers?
Through his Swavalamban Agri Foundation, he provides quality seeds and training, assuring buyback to help farmers earn better.
What are the health benefits of millet?
Millets are high in fiber, rich in protein, gluten-free, and great for digestion, making them a superfood for overall health.
Where can I buy S S Bhavani Foods’ millet products?
His products are available in select stores across eight states and are also exported internationally.
