Pune, India – In a move bridging sports and agritech innovation, Indian cricketer Ajinkya Rahane has invested in Canebot, a Pune-based startup developing robotic sugarcane juice vending machines. The seed funding round underscores growing interest in sustainable agricultural technology that benefits both farmers and urban consumers.
Revolutionizing Sugarcane Consumption
Founded by Kirty and Milind Datar, Canebot’s automated vending machines aim to reduce post-harvest losses for sugarcane farmers while delivering hygienic, fresh juice to consumers. The startup’s technology aligns with the increasing demand for clean, farm-to-glass beverages in urban markets.
Strategic Backing from MCCIA
The investment follows a partnership between Rahane and the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industries, and Agriculture (MCCIA), which identifies and supports high-potential agritech ventures in the state.
Prashant Girbane, Director-General of MCCIA, highlighted the initiative’s broader vision: "By funding early-stage agritech innovations, we aim to boost rural livelihoods and establish Maharashtra as a hub for agricultural technology."
Future Prospects
With this funding, Canebot plans to expand its robotic vending network, enhancing efficiency in sugarcane processing and reducing food waste. The startup represents a growing trend of AI and automation in agribusiness, offering scalable solutions for India’s farming sector.
As agritech gains momentum, collaborations between athletes, industry bodies, and entrepreneurs could pave the way for a more tech-driven agricultural future.
