In a major step toward reshaping the future of food and farming, global food leader Kellanova has partnered with Varaha, Asia’s leading carbon removal project developer, to roll out a large-scale, five-year insetting regenerative corn program in Maharashtra. The initiative will bring 5,000 smallholder farmers and 12,500 acres of corn farmland under sustainable practices over the next five years.
Strengthening India’s Role in Global Sustainability
This project positions India as a key geography in Kellanova’s global sustainability agenda. It reinforces the company’s commitment to climate action and regenerative sourcing from smallholder farmers. By helping corn growers transition to practices that improve soil health, reduce fertilizer use, and improve yields, the program aims to sequester and reduce nearly 100,000 tons of CO₂e emissions. This impact directly supports Kellanova’s goal of lowering its supply chain carbon footprint.
Insetting Approach for Real Climate Impact
A standout feature of the program is its insetting approach. Instead of offsetting emissions elsewhere, the project generates climate benefits within Kellanova’s own supply chains. The initiative aligns with the Greenhouse Gas Protocol and major global carbon standards. To ensure transparency, Varaha will use its scientifically robust digital MRV systems to monitor every acre. This technology brings accuracy, credibility, and accountability to the program’s climate outcomes.
Boosting Farmer Livelihoods Through Regenerative Practices
Beyond climate action, the program focuses on improving farmer livelihoods. By encouraging practices such as:
*In-situ residue management
*Raised-bed planting
*Cover cropping
*Improved nitrogen-use efficiency
Farmers are expected to experience lower fertilizer costs, healthier soils, and more resilient harvests. The program also takes a proactive approach to food safety. Through partnerships with scientific organizations and improved farm management, Varaha and Kellanova aim to address aflatoxin contamination, a major challenge in corn production.
Industry Leaders Highlight Shared Vision
“We believe that a key to running a good business is doing good for our communities, planet and people. Kellanova is proud to continue the Better Days Promise™ social and environmental purpose strategy. Our program with Varaha proves that climate action and farmer prosperity can go hand in hand,” said Shaughan Kennedy, Vice President, AMEA Supply Chain at Kellanova. “Consumers today expect the food they eat to be responsibly sourced, and this program sets a model that others in the industry can follow.”
For Varaha, the initiative highlights India’s leadership in regenerative agriculture. “With this project, we’re combining strong science, cutting-edge digital tools, and deep farmer engagement to deliver measurable climate and livelihood impact,” said Madhur Jain, Co-founder and CEO, Varaha.
Scalable Regenerative Agriculture
As per the press release, the program is built on a multi-stakeholder model that brings together farmers, Farmer Producer Organizations, local NGOs, and scientific partners. Kellanova is placing regenerative corn at the core of its supply chain, advancing its Scope 3 emissions goals. The company is signaling to the global food industry that regenerative agriculture at scale is possible, replicable, and urgently needed.
