About Dr. Prem Garg
Dr. Prem Garg is a renowned figure in India’s agricultural export industry, best known for his transformative leadership of the Shri Lal Mahal Group, one of India’s oldest and most respected rice export enterprises. As the National President of the Indian Rice Exporters Federation, Dr. Garg has become a key voice in shaping policy, trade dynamics, and global perception of Indian food exports, especially Basmati rice.
Dr. Garg’s inspiring journey began in 1985, when he entered the family business after completing his education. Rather than taking the inherited legacy for granted, he immersed himself fully in every aspect of the business, instilling professional leadership, modern practices, and forward-thinking strategies while preserving the traditional values on which the Shri Lal Mahal Group was founded in 1907.
What began as a modest shop in Naya Bazar, Delhi, where ledgers were handwritten and supplies were manually handled, has now become a global enterprise under Dr. Garg’s leadership—exporting rice to 44 countries, with a vision to reach 156 countries in the coming years.
Vision
Position of Indian Rice
To position Indian rice, especially Basmati, as the most trusted and preferred grain in every household across the globe.
Agri Export
To build a sustainable and socially responsible agri-export ecosystem that uplifts farmers, honors traditions, and fosters innovation.
Shri Lal Mahal
To take Shri Lal Mahal’s legacy to 156+ countries while maintaining the values of purity, quality, and heritage.
Latest Article & Blog
Dr. Prem Garg’s Philosophy on Resilience, Risk Management & Responsibility
Entrepreneurship is not about avoiding challenges; it is about facing them with clarity and courage. Dr. Prem Garg’s business philosophy—built on resilience, calculated risk-taking, and responsibility—has guided Shri Lal Mahal Group through decades of growth and adversity. Dr. Garg strongly advocates disciplined risk management. “Risk is necessary in business, but it must always be calculated. Never put all your capital into one decision,” he advises. He believes no single venture should involve more than 30–35% of total capital, and risks should be shared through partnerships wherever possible. For startups, he recommends buffer funds and a minimum planning horizon of 1.5 […]
Dr. Prem Garg & Shri Lal Mahal Group: From 1907 Grain Shop to Global Rice Exporter
The growth story of Shri Lal Mahal Group is a powerful example of how Indian family businesses can scale globally while staying rooted in tradition. Founded in 1907, the group began as a small grain trading business serving Northern India. Today, it stands among India’s leading rice exporters, reaching markets across the world. Post-independence marked a significant phase of expansion. The group diversified into flour mills, oil mills, and rice milling. In 1958, its first rice mill was established in Lakhimpur Kheri, Uttar Pradesh—an important milestone that shaped the group’s future focus on rice processing. Dr. Prem Garg believes growth […]
Leadership Across Generations – Dr. Prem Garg on Building a Legacy That Lasts
Leadership that survives generations is built on values, not shortcuts. Dr. Prem Garg, Chairman of Shri Lal Mahal Group, represents the fifth generation of a family business that began in 1907. Under his leadership, the group has evolved from a small grain trading shop into a globally respected rice export enterprise, while remaining deeply rooted in ethics, discipline, and long-term vision. According to Dr. Prem Garg, legacy businesses carry a responsibility beyond profits. “A family business does not survive because it is inherited. It survives because every generation adds value and strengthens the foundation,” he says. From its early days […]