‘This is very strong founder–market fit’: Sharks back Corel Lifecare’s aquaculture pitch on Shark Tank India

Aquaculture inputs startup Corel Lifecare secured an investment on Shark Tank India after its pitch sparked a detailed discussion around ground-level execution, farmer connect, and problem-solving in agri-led businesses. 

Founded by Nikhilesh Hajare, Abhijeet Naohate, and Rohit Patel, Corel Lifecare develops aquaculture supplements and inputs, including mineral supplements, probiotics, oxygen tablets, and related products. The company currently offers 11 products and operates on a service-led model, combining on-field consultations with product sales.

During the pitch, the founders explained that their team works directly with farmers to diagnose crop and water-quality issues before recommending solutions. Product sales happen through a dealer-distributor network, following a B2B2C model. The Sharks were pleasantly surprised by the packaging, noting it stood out in a typically utilitarian category.

Launched in 2023 and fully bootstrapped, Corel Lifecare reported that by October 2025, the company had already clocked Rs 2.3 crore, with full-year revenue estimated at Rs 6 crore and an EBITDA margin of 9.43%.

The founders sought Rs 1.2 crore for 2% equity, valuing the company at Rs 60 crore, stating the funds would be used for R&D. Anupam Mittal praised the team’s grounding, saying, “This is very strong founder–market fit,” a sentiment echoed by Kunal Bahl, who made a similar offer.

While Vineeta Singh and Varun Alagh proposed deals that included royalties, the founders countered at Rs 2 crore for 8% equity. After negotiations, the final deal was closed with Anupam Mittal and Kunal Bahl, who invested Rs 1.2 crore for 8% equity, valuing Corel Lifecare at Rs 15 crore.