Phule Bakers, a unique bakehouse nestled within the College of Agriculture Pune (CoAP) campus, has been making waves in the city’s culinary scene. Established in May 2023, this unusual venture has not only been satisfying the taste buds of Punekars but has also turned profitable within two years, with receipts amounting to Rs 43 lakh as of March this year. This success has set the stage for an expansion, with plans to introduce baking technology courses at CoAP.
The bakery, which produces around 400 kg of baked goods daily, has been a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit of the college. It has been using the university’s own ‘Phule Satawik’ wheat variety and fat-free milk from the Indigenous Cattle Research cum Training Centre (ICRTC) dairy to create a range of products, with a focus on healthier options like multi-grain breads and millet biscuits. The business has been thriving through online food delivery platforms, bulk sales to retailers, and corporate firms, as well as temporary exhibition-cum-sales avenues.
The implications of Phule Bakers’ success are far-reaching. For one, it has demonstrated a viable business model that can be replicated, providing a source of income for others, including homemakers. Moreover, it has highlighted the potential of agricultural businesses in contributing to the central government’s vision of doubling farmers’ income.
Encouraged by this success, CoAP is planning to introduce baking technology courses, possibly from the upcoming academic year. These courses, which could cost around Rs 30,000, will be designed to equip students with practical skills and entrepreneurial aptitude, addressing the struggle of agriculture graduates to find jobs after their education. The college is also planning to tie up with the nearby Maharashtra State Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology to run the technical aspects of the courses.
The introduction of baking technology courses at CoAP is a significant development. It reflects the changing dynamics of agriculture education in India, where research and extension activities are becoming integral parts of the curriculum. It also underscores the importance of equipping students with practical skills and entrepreneurial aptitude, as emphasized by the new National Education Policy 2020-aligned curriculum prepared by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research’s (ICAR) Sixth Deans’ Committee.
Phule Bakers is also planning to expand its business by investing in larger machines to increase cookie production. They also plan to grow various herbs, zucchini, and foxtail millet on campus to use as ingredients in new products. Additionally, a digital marketing team is set to be hired to promote the brand further.
This initiative by CoAP and Phule Bakers is a shining example of how agricultural institutes can drive innovation and entrepreneurship, contributing to the growth of the sector and the economy as a whole. It is a testament to the potential of agricultural businesses and the importance of equipping students with the skills and knowledge to succeed in this field.