Pune: In a major boost to Maharashtra’s emerging agri-tech sector, the US International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) has deployed the first tranche of Rs 90 crore out of a proposed Rs 400 crore investment in Pune-based Nutrifresh Farm Tech Pvt. Ltd., marking the first major foreign capital inflow since the state’s Davos commitments.The development is seen as an endorsement of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis’ vision to transform Maharashtra’s agricultural landscape through a technology-led, climate-resilient farming model. The investment comes at a time of global geopolitical uncertainty, including tensions in West Asia, and indicates growing international confidence in Maharashtra as a stable and attractive location for long-term investment in food security and agriculture.The funding follows the Rs 2,500 crore Smart Agriculture Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the Maharashtra government, Rural Enhancers Group (REL) and NutriFresh at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2026 in Davos. Industry observers note that this is one of the first tangible results of these agreements.Ganesh Nikam, Co-Founder, NutriFresh Farms, said the capital infusion will accelerate the development of Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) infrastructure, precision farming, water efficiency, and increased crop productivity. The initiative also aims to strengthen the export-oriented agricultural supply chain, positioning the state as a hub for high-performance farming.“Our partnership with the Rural Enhancers Group under Mr. Amber Ayade is poised to yield strong on-ground results, which Maharashtra will witness in the coming months,” said Sanket Mehta, co-founder, Nutrifresh Farms.One of these projects is scheduled to go live in July 2026 in the Bhor and Purandar clusters near Pune. Once operational, it is expected to contribute to better incomes for farmers while supporting sustainable agricultural practices. Experts see DFC’s participation as a strong endorsement of structured financing models that combine global capital with local execution through public-private partnerships.He added that the investment accelerates Maharashtra’s broader strategy to leverage technology and international partnerships to modernize agriculture and enhance its global competitiveness.Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said, “DFC’s investment marks an important milestone in translating our Davos commitments into on-the-ground impact. Through partnerships like these, we are promoting precision agriculture, improving farmer incomes, and strengthening Maharashtra’s role in the global food system.”
