At the AWESuM Awards 2025 event, Anjana Singh from Mirzapur shared a compelling account of grassroots entrepreneurship rooted in ambition, discipline, and scale. As the founder of Kirti Agro Seeds, she represents a growing cohort of women entrepreneurs who are reshaping rural economies through enterprise-led livelihoods.

Today, Kirti Agro Seeds generates a monthly profit of approximately INR 1 lakh and provides employment to 35 women—a number that rises to nearly 50 during peak agricultural seasons. The enterprise operates for 18–20 hours a day in two shifts, with a workforce that includes both women and men, reflecting a highly organised and demand-driven operation.

Anjana spoke candidly about the investments behind this growth. She has invested INR 35 lakh into the business through Community Level Federation (CLF) loans and support from the agriculture department. Machinery procured from Uttarakhand has enabled her to strengthen production capacity and maintain quality standards. What stood out was not just the scale of operations, but the clarity with which she described each aspect of her business—from workforce management to financing and procurement.

Looking ahead, Anjana’s vision is firmly national. She aims to expand Kirti Agro Seeds’ supply across India, positioning the enterprise beyond local markets. Her confidence, precision, and determination resonated strongly with the audience, earning spontaneous applause and reinforcing a powerful message: when women are enabled with access to capital, infrastructure, and markets, they build enterprises that are both resilient and growth oriented.

Anjana Singh’s journey is a reminder that rural women entrepreneurs are not just participants in the economy—they are architects of its future.

The AWESuM Awards honours women who are redefining leadership through enterprise—building sustainable businesses, generating livelihoods, and strengthening communities across India. This year’s awards highlighted resilience, innovation, and inclusive growth, celebrating journeys marked by courage, empowerment, and excellence.