In today’s fast-changing economy, more people are turning towards entrepreneurship as a stable and rewarding source of income. With rising inflation and growing household expenses, depending solely on a monthly salary has become increasingly challenging. To counter this, many individuals are exploring side businesses that generate an additional stream of revenue without requiring huge investments.
If you’ve ever dreamed of boosting your income but feel limited by resources, there are several low-cost business ideas that can deliver impressive profits. With a solid plan, persistence, and smart execution, even a small business can become a steady source of financial independence and long-term security.
One such promising venture is the incense stick (agarbatti) business — a small-scale setup that’s enabling people across India to earn between ₹50,000 and ₹1,00,000 per month with minimal capital.
Starting the Incense Stick BusinessYou can begin this business with just ₹35–₹40. A single pack of agarbatti bought at this rate can be sold for anywhere between ₹120 and ₹150, depending on the fragrance and packaging quality. That means you can easily earn a profit of ₹80–₹100 per packet.
If you manage to sell around 20 packets a day, your daily income could reach ₹2,000 — translating to a monthly profit of nearly ₹60,000. It’s no wonder this small-scale idea has become a lucrative opportunity for many aspiring entrepreneurs.
What You Need to Get StartedUnlike large manufacturing setups, incense stick production doesn’t require expensive machinery or heavy investment. To begin, you’ll only need a few basic materials such as:
- Bamboo sticks
- Fragrance powder or essential oils
- Empty packets and packaging materials
- A small working space
- All of these materials are easily available at local markets or online suppliers.
Alternatively, if you prefer not to make the sticks yourself, you can source them wholesale from manufacturers, rebrand them under your own name, and sell them in the retail market. Many small traders have built consistent incomes using this simple business model.
Where and How to SellThe demand for incense sticks remains strong year-round — especially during religious festivals, daily prayers, and meditation routines. This gives you multiple avenues to sell your products both offline and online.
You can supply your brand to:- Local temples and nearby puja shops
- Kirana (grocery) and stationery stores
- Online platforms like Meesho, Flipkart, and Amazon
To stand out from competitors, focus on attractive packaging and branding. Create a unique logo, tagline, and color scheme to build recognition for your product.
Profit EstimationHere’s a simple breakdown of potential earnings:
Cost per packet: ₹40 (raw materials) + ₹10 (packaging/fragrance) = ₹50
Selling price: ₹150
Profit per packet: ₹100
If you sell 20 packets a day → ₹2,000 per day, which equals ₹60,000 per month.
Many small entrepreneurs have successfully turned this modest startup into a full-time business, with monthly revenues crossing the ₹1 lakh mark.
This incense stick business proves that you don’t always need large investments to start something profitable. With determination, quality control, and smart marketing, even a small idea can grow into a sustainable venture.
If you’re looking for a low-cost business that promises consistent returns and scalability, this could be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for. A simple ₹40 investment could be your first step toward a ₹60,000 monthly income and entrepreneurial success.