The name of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter stands out when we think of leaders who made a mark on agriculture and rural development. He was a global statesman and also a champion for peanut farming. His connection to the crop was not superficial as he himself was a peanut farmer before stepping into politics. He passed away recently and an unexpected tribute to his legacy is emerging from a small startup in Unnao, Uttar Pradesh.
Nutty Village is a local venture that was co-founded by Aman Kumar and Sushant Berma. It is honoring Carter with two new peanut butter flavors – coffee and barbeque. It is an innovative way to celebrate the man who believed in empowering farmers.
Aman Kumar holds a degree in Social Entrepreneurship from TISS and understands the struggles of small farmers. Nutty Village ensures that farmers get a fair price for their produce. Nearly 10,000 farmers grow peanuts in the region and 2,000 of them focus on organic farming.
The company also involves self-help groups of women in processing the peanuts. The grassroots effort aligns perfectly with the vision of Carter of uplifting rural communities.
The tribute flavors are a creative nod to the versatility of peanut butter. Nutty Village is already offering dark chocolate, jaggery and unsweetened options. However, the new additions reflect a spirit of innovation that Carter himself would likely have admired.
The connection of Carter to India adds a deeper layer to the tribute. His visited India in 1978 and left a lasting impression equipped with a village in Gurugram renamed Carterpuri in his honor.
It is not just about peanut butter, but it is also about sustainability, innovation as well as the power of communities.
