In the remote tribal belts of Rajasthan, a social enterprise named Foreka is revolutionizing rural
livelihoods. Launched in 2021 by three friends Satyam Bhandari, RohitNegi, and
MohitRana—this brand has created a sustainable business around cold-pressed, chemical-free
oils. By working directly with farmers and establishing local production units, Foreka is boosting
incomes and reducing the need for rural families to migrate in search of jobs.
The Founders’ Mission
Satyam, Rohit, and Mohit—friends from Agastyamuni in Uttarakhand—chose a path less taken.
Instead of pursuing corporate careers, they returned to rural India with a mission: to ensure
farmers and their families have fair access to market opportunities. Inspired by Satyam’s
mother, who supported the family during tough times, the trio created Heart in Hills, the parent
initiative of Foreka.
Today, Foreka collaborates with over 1,200 mustard farmers in Rajasthan’s Karauli district,
helping them eliminate middlemen and earn better profits from their produce.
Sustainable Growth and Impact
In just a few years, the enterprise has seen remarkable growth. From ₹60 lakh in revenues in
FY 2023–24, they are projected to hit ₹2.5 crore by FY 2024–25. Their work has extended to
farmers in Jhansi and the Chambal Valley as well, especially for sourcing groundnuts and
mustard seeds.
Foreka ensures that all sorting and grading of oilseeds happens locally, keeping the entire value
chain within the villages. This approach not only guarantees quality but also generates rural
employment and stabilizes incomes farmers now earn around 10% more than the market price.
Why Cold-Pressed Oils Are Better
The oils produced by Foreka mustard and groundnut are extracted using traditional cold-press
techniques. Unlike refined oils that rely on heat and chemicals, cold-pressed oils retain natural
nutrients, essential fatty acids, and antioxidants. As a result, the oil maintains its strong aroma,
color, and flavor, while offering health benefits such as improved heart health and digestion.
Mustard oil, in particular, holds a special place in Indian kitchens and traditional healing
practices. It’s used for cooking, massage, skincare, and even as a remedy for colds and joint
pain.
Building Rural Livelihoods
One of Foreka’s most impactful contributions is its support for farmers through free seed testing.
This process determines the oil content in the seeds, enabling farmers to understand the true
value of their crops and negotiate fair rates.
Many farmers are now earning over ₹60,000 annually just from mustard cultivation. In addition,
local tribal youth employed in oil-processing units earn ₹25,000 per month providing stable
income close to home.
Support and Recognition
Foreka’s potential was recognized in 2020 when it was selected for a prestigious rural
entrepreneurship fellowship program, which provided mentorship, funding worth ₹25 lakh, and
marketing support. A core requirement of the program was to ensure a minimum 10% rise in
farmer incomes a goal Foreka has consistently achieved.
Product Range and Market Presence
Foreka currently sells three main oils black mustard, yellow mustard, and groundnut oil. Each
type has unique properties: black mustard oil is more pungent and thick, while yellow mustard
oil is milder in taste. All are made using cold-pressed techniques.
The products are available through Foreka’s official website as well as on popular e-commerce
platforms like Amazon and JioMart. Prices range from ₹320 to ₹500 per litre depending on the
variety.
Looking Ahead
Foreka plans to introduce sesame (til) oil next, expanding its reach into other cold-pressed oils
that are staples in Indian households. Their goal is to keep adding value to indigenous crops
while maintaining ethical sourcing and local employment.
Featured by The Marketing Mirror
At themarketingmirror.com, we’re proud to highlight purpose-driven startups and social
enterprises like Foreka, who are redefining rural economies through innovation and empathy.
The journey of Satyam, Rohit, and Mohit shows that real change doesn’t require massive capital
it begins with deep-rooted intent, community focus, and the courage to challenge the status quo.
Follow us for more stories of entrepreneurs turning local impact into lasting legacies.
