💬 Interview Experience

IIM Ahmedabad FABM interview experience

Real IIM Ahmedabad FABM interview experience of a Food Tech graduate with IT experience. Learn how to tackle agribusiness, Farm Laws, and entrepreneurship questions.

by

Table of Contents

1 Overview & Stats 2 Challenge Yourself 4 Candidate Profile 5 Interview Timeline 6 Readiness Quiz 7 Preparation Checklist 8 Key Takeaways 9 FAQs
From IT to Agri-Tech Dreams: How a Food Tech Graduate Tackled IIM Ahmedabad’s FABM Interview. This comprehensive interview experience reveals how a B.Tech Food Technology graduate with 1 year of IT experience navigated IIM-A’s Food and Agribusiness Management (FABM) program interview—facing questions spanning food chemistry, beer manufacturing, Farm Laws, regional agriculture, and even community lineage history. Discover how to bridge technical knowledge with agri-policy awareness and defend your entrepreneurial vision against industry giants.

📊 Interview at a Glance

Institute IIM Ahmedabad
Program FABM (Food & Agribusiness Management)
Profile Food Tech Graduate (1 year IT exp)
Academic Background B.Tech in Food Technology
Interview Format VCNow, Gurgaon (~30 min)
Key Focus Areas Food Tech, Agriculture Policy, Geography, Entrepreneurship

🔥 Challenge Yourself First!

Before reading further, pause and think—how would YOU answer these actual interview questions?

1 The Sector Shift Question

“Why FABM after working in IT? How is your startup idea different from existing Agri-tech players like Cropin?”

This tests your career clarity and whether you’ve researched the competitive landscape in agribusiness.

✅ Success Strategy

Structure your answer in three parts: First, connect your academic background (Food Tech) to your passion for agribusiness—IT was a detour, not your destination. Second, explain how FABM specifically bridges the gap between technical knowledge and business acumen. Third, for differentiation from players like Cropin, show industry awareness and emphasize your niche—perhaps focus on a specific crop, region, or value chain segment they don’t address. Be specific about your unique value proposition and implementation approach.

2 The Food Chemistry Deep-Dive

“What chemical reaction occurs during frying? Can olive oil be used for frying?”

FABM panels test if Food Tech graduates truly understand their domain—be ready for technical deep-dives.

✅ Success Strategy

Demonstrate solid food chemistry knowledge: The Maillard reaction (amino acids + reducing sugars = browning and flavor) occurs during frying, along with lipid oxidation at high temperatures. For olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil has a lower smoke point (~375°F) making it less suitable for deep frying, but refined olive oil has higher smoke point (~465°F) and can be used. Discuss health implications: oils breaking down at high temperatures produce harmful compounds. This shows you understand both the science and practical applications—exactly what FABM wants.

3 The Policy Opinion Question

“What’s your opinion on the Farm Laws?”

For FABM aspirants, agricultural policy awareness is non-negotiable—and you need a balanced perspective.

✅ Success Strategy

Offer a balanced perspective highlighting both farmer concerns and modernization needs. Cover: The three farm laws (contract farming, APMC bypass, essential commodities), farmer concerns (MSP guarantee fears, corporate exploitation), potential benefits (market access, investment, efficiency), and implementation challenges (trust deficit, lack of safety nets). Don’t take extreme positions—acknowledge complexity. Show you understand the ground reality while appreciating reform intent. This demonstrates the nuanced thinking FABM panels value in future agribusiness leaders.

4 The Regional Agriculture Question

“Discuss agriculture patterns in Haryana, challenges, and solutions.”

FABM expects state-wise agricultural knowledge—especially for states in your background.

✅ Success Strategy

Demonstrate state-specific agricultural knowledge: Haryana’s patterns—wheat-rice cycle dominance, MSP dependency. Challenges—depleting water table (one of India’s worst), stubble burning, soil degradation, lack of crop diversification, small landholdings. Solutions—micro-irrigation promotion, crop diversification incentives (horticulture, pulses), organic farming push, farmer producer organizations (FPOs), and technology adoption. Connect to policy initiatives like PM-KUSUM, Haryana Meri Fasal Mera Byora. Show you understand ground-level challenges, not just textbook answers.

🎥 Video Walkthrough

Video content coming soon.

👤 Candidate Profile

Understanding the candidate’s background helps contextualize the interview questions and strategies.

🎓

Background

  • Education B.Tech in Food Technology
  • Work Experience 1 year at Infosys (IT Sector)
  • Aspirations Agri-tech entrepreneurship
  • Location Haryana background
📊

Program Details

  • Program FABM (Food & Agribusiness Management)
  • Focus Agribusiness, Food Supply Chain
  • AWT Topic Toxic friendships & relationship imbalance
  • Interview Mode VCNow, Gurgaon
🎤

Interview Panel

  • Format Video Conference
  • Duration ~30 minutes
  • Style Comprehensive—technical, policy, personal
  • Tone Engaging but thorough

🗺️ Interview Journey

Follow the complete interview flow with all questions asked and strategic insights.

1
Pre-Interview

AWT (Analytical Writing Test)

“A friendship becomes toxic when one person gives and the other only takes—discuss imbalance in relationships.”
Tests analytical thinking and personal reflection
💡 Strategy

Structure your essay with a clear thesis. Explore different perspectives: psychological impact on the giver, reasons for imbalance (personality, circumstances), signs of toxicity, and when to address vs. end such relationships. Use examples from personal, professional, or social contexts. Show maturity in understanding relationship dynamics—panels value emotional intelligence alongside analytical skills.

2
Phase 1

Career Motivation & Sector Shift

“Why FABM after working in IT?”
Tests career clarity and genuine interest in agribusiness
💡 Strategy

When shifting domains, clearly articulate your passion for agribusiness, link it to your academic background (Food Technology), and explain how FABM aligns with long-term goals. IT experience can be positioned as gaining structured thinking, technology exposure useful for agri-tech, or simply as a stepping stone while preparing for your true calling.

“How will FABM help you? How is your startup idea different from existing Agri-tech players like Cropin?”
Tests industry awareness and differentiation thinking
💡 Strategy

Show awareness of industry leaders like Cropin, DeHaat, Ninjacart, and emphasize innovation or niche approaches in your entrepreneurial vision. FABM value addition: industry network, agri-finance understanding, policy insights, and supply chain expertise. Be specific about your differentiation—what gap are you addressing that others aren’t?

3
Phase 2

Technical Knowledge — Food Technology & Processes

“What did you study in Food Tech?”
Opens door for technical deep-dive
💡 Strategy

Give a structured overview: food chemistry, food microbiology, processing technologies, preservation methods, quality control, and food engineering. Highlight subjects you’re most confident discussing—panels often follow up on what you mention. Connect curriculum to industry applications.

“What is [specific] compound?”
Tests technical depth
💡 Strategy

Be prepared for specific questions on compounds you studied—food additives, preservatives, enzymes, vitamins, or processing chemicals. If you don’t know, acknowledge honestly but show related knowledge. Don’t bluff on technical questions.

“Define healthy vs unhealthy foods in technical terms.”
Tests ability to explain concepts precisely
💡 Strategy

Avoid vague definitions. Use technical parameters: macronutrient balance, micronutrient density, glycemic index, trans fats, sodium levels, processing degree (whole vs. ultra-processed). Mention FSSAI guidelines, food labeling standards. Show you can be scientific about nutrition claims.

“Difference between Lays and home-cooked chips? How is Kurkure better? Benefits of eating Kurkure?”
Tests food composition and market positioning knowledge
💡 Strategy

Be ready to discuss food composition, processing techniques, nutritional aspects, and market positioning of packaged foods. Lays: potato-based, higher fat absorption. Kurkure: extruded snack, different texture/composition. Be objective about “benefits”—perhaps portion control, consistent quality, convenience. Don’t be afraid to note limitations of processed snacks while being balanced.

“What chemical reaction occurs during frying? Can olive oil be used for frying?”
Tests food chemistry fundamentals
💡 Strategy

Revise core food chemistry concepts like Maillard reaction, smoke points of oils, and health implications. Maillard reaction (browning), lipid oxidation occur during frying. Olive oil: smoke point considerations—EVOO lower (~375°F), refined higher (~465°F). Discuss formation of harmful compounds at high temperatures.

“Discussion on beer manufacturing—factors affecting taste, types of beer.”
Tests fermentation and beverage knowledge
💡 Strategy

If beverages or fermentation were part of your curriculum, expect detailed discussions on processes and industry trends. Cover: raw materials (malt, hops, yeast, water), fermentation process, factors affecting taste (yeast strain, fermentation temperature, hop varieties), types (lager, ale, stout), and quality parameters. Connect to Indian craft beer industry trends if possible.

4
Phase 3

General Awareness & Geography

“Name southern states and their capitals.”
Basic geography test
💡 Strategy

Know all Indian states and capitals—especially for FABM where state-wise agriculture patterns matter. Southern states: Andhra Pradesh (Amaravati), Telangana (Hyderabad), Karnataka (Bengaluru), Tamil Nadu (Chennai), Kerala (Thiruvananthapuram). Don’t fumble on basics.

“Why is West Bengal called ‘West’ when it’s in the East?”
Tests historical awareness
💡 Strategy

Show historical knowledge: Bengal Presidency was partitioned in 1947 during independence. East Bengal became East Pakistan (later Bangladesh), West Bengal remained with India. The “West” refers to its position relative to the original Bengal province, not India’s geography. Such questions test if you understand context beyond current maps.

“Who is the Chief Minister of Haryana? What’s the political scenario and climate like?”
Tests awareness of your home state’s politics
💡 Strategy

Always stay sharp on Indian geography, polity, and regional climates—especially if you’re appearing for FABM where agri-context matters. Know current CM, ruling party, recent political developments, and how they affect agriculture. For Haryana: farmer movements, water policies, crop diversification initiatives are all relevant.

5
Phase 4

Agriculture & Policy Insights

“Discuss agriculture patterns in Haryana, challenges, and solutions.”
Tests state-specific agricultural knowledge
💡 Strategy

Be prepared to discuss agri-policies, regional farming practices, and reforms. Cover Haryana specifics: wheat-rice monoculture, water depletion, MSP dependency, stubble burning. Solutions: diversification, micro-irrigation, organic farming, FPOs. Show ground-level understanding relevant to FABM.

“What’s your opinion on the Farm Laws?”
Tests policy awareness and balanced thinking
💡 Strategy

Offer balanced perspectives—highlight both farmer concerns and modernization needs. Cover: the three laws, APMC implications, MSP fears, contract farming potential, implementation challenges. Don’t be politically partisan; show nuanced understanding of a complex issue affecting India’s agribusiness landscape.

6
Phase 5

Culture & History

“What is Aggarwal? Tell us about Maharaja Agrasen’s lineage.”
Tests personal and cultural awareness
💡 Strategy

Unexpected cultural or community-based questions test your general awareness and personal identity knowledge. Aggarwal community traces lineage to Maharaja Agrasen, a legendary Kshatriya king who founded Agroha (Haryana). Known for promoting vaishya (merchant) way of life, community cooperation. Answer with composure even if caught off-guard—show you know your roots.

7
Phase 6

Academics, Projects & Extracurriculars

“Did you do any projects in college?”
Tests academic engagement and application
💡 Strategy

Be ready to explain academic projects, especially if they align with food tech or agri-business. Cover: project objective, methodology, your contribution, findings, and real-world applications. Connect to FABM relevance if possible.

“What are your interests beyond academics? Any sports hobbies? Why didn’t you pursue sports in school?”
Tests personality depth and self-awareness
💡 Strategy

Personal questions gauge personality depth—answer honestly while showing a proactive attitude towards holistic development. If you didn’t pursue sports, don’t make excuses; acknowledge and mention what you did instead. Show self-awareness about strengths and areas you’re developing.

📝 Interview Readiness Quiz

Test how prepared you are for your FABM interview with these 5 quick questions.

1. What chemical reaction is primarily responsible for the browning and flavor development during frying?

✅ Interview Preparation Checklist

Track your preparation progress with this comprehensive checklist.

Your Preparation Progress 0%

Career Narrative & Motivation

Technical & Domain Knowledge

Agriculture & Policy Awareness

General Awareness & Geography

🎯 Key Takeaways for Future Candidates

The most important lessons from this interview experience.

1

Link Your Technical Background to Agribusiness Management

For FABM aspirants, your academic background is a strength—not a question mark. Whether Food Tech, Agriculture, or related fields, show clarity in how this connects to agribusiness management and your career transition story.

Action Item Write a 2-minute pitch connecting your education → IT experience → FABM goals → entrepreneurial vision. Practice until it flows naturally.
2

Revise Core Technical Concepts Thoroughly

FABM panels will test your Food Technology knowledge in depth—from Maillard reaction to beer manufacturing, from oil smoke points to packaged food composition. Don’t assume they’ll only ask business questions.

Action Item Create flashcards for key food chemistry concepts, processing techniques, and industry practices from your curriculum. Review 10 cards daily.
3

Stay Informed on State-Wise Agriculture and Policy

FABM expects you to know regional farming patterns, challenges, and political scenarios impacting agriculture—especially for states in your background. The Farm Laws question requires nuanced, balanced perspectives.

Action Item Research 5 major agricultural states: crops, challenges, solutions, and government initiatives. Prepare balanced talking points on Farm Laws covering all perspectives.
4

Be Ready for Cultural and Personal Curveballs

Questions about community lineage (like Maharaja Agrasen) or personal interests test general awareness and composure. These aren’t traps—they gauge your personality depth and cultural awareness.

Action Item Research your community/family background, hometown history, and cultural significance. Be prepared to discuss personal interests beyond academics with genuine enthusiasm.
5

Discuss Startups with Focus on Differentiation

If you mention entrepreneurial aspirations, expect comparison with existing players like Cropin, DeHaat, or Ninjacart. Panels want to see industry awareness and realistic differentiation—not naive optimism.

Action Item Research 5 major agri-tech startups: their business model, funding, target segment, and limitations. Identify specific gaps your idea could address.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about IIM Ahmedabad FABM interviews answered by experts.

What questions are asked in FABM interviews?

FABM interviews cover a diverse range of topics:

  • Career Motivation: Why FABM, why shift from current sector, startup plans
  • Technical Knowledge: Food chemistry, processing, preservation (based on your background)
  • Agriculture & Policy: State-wise farming patterns, Farm Laws, MSP debates
  • Geography & Politics: States-capitals, current CMs, political scenarios
  • Personal & Cultural: Community history, hobbies, personality depth
See complete question timeline →

How should Food Tech graduates prepare for FABM?

Food Tech graduates have a natural advantage but need comprehensive preparation:

  • Technical Revision: Food chemistry, processing, fermentation, preservation
  • Industry Knowledge: Packaged food market, FSSAI regulations, food safety
  • Agri-Linkage: Farm-to-fork supply chains, cold storage, food processing zones
  • Policy Awareness: Food processing schemes, PLI for food, organic certification
Use preparation checklist →

What is the AWT topic format for FABM?

AWT topics for FABM can be diverse:

  • This topic: “A friendship becomes toxic when one person gives and the other only takes”
  • Format: Personal reflection, social commentary, or analytical topics
  • Approach: Structure clearly, explore multiple perspectives, show maturity
  • Not always agri-related: Tests general analytical and writing abilities
See AWT details →

Do I need to know about Farm Laws for FABM interview?

Absolutely—agricultural policy awareness is essential for FABM:

  • Three Laws: Contract farming, APMC bypass, essential commodities amendments
  • Farmer Concerns: MSP guarantee fears, corporate exploitation worries
  • Reform Intent: Market access, investment, efficiency improvements
  • Balanced View: Acknowledge complexity, avoid extreme positions
Practice policy questions →

How to handle questions about existing agri-tech players?

Show industry awareness and clear differentiation strategy:

  • Know the players: Cropin (farm analytics), DeHaat (input supply), Ninjacart (supply chain)
  • Acknowledge strengths: Don’t dismiss competition
  • Identify gaps: What are they not addressing?
  • Articulate niche: Specific region, crop, or value chain segment
Read startup advice →

Why do FABM panels ask about personal/cultural background?

Cultural and personal questions serve multiple purposes:

  • General Awareness: Do you know your roots and history?
  • Composure Test: Can you handle unexpected questions gracefully?
  • Personality Depth: Are you a well-rounded individual?
  • Regional Context: Understanding community dynamics matters in agribusiness
View candidate profile →

What’s the FABM interview duration and format?

FABM interview structure:

  • Duration: 25-35 minutes (this interview: ~30 minutes)
  • Format: Video conference (VCNow) or in-person
  • AWT: Written assessment before PI
  • Style: Comprehensive—technical, policy, general awareness, personal
See interview details →
📋 Disclaimer: The above interview experience is based on real candidate interactions collected from various sources. To ensure privacy, some details such as location, industry specifics, and numerical figures have been altered. However, the core questions and insights remain authentic. These stories are intended for educational purposes and do not claim to represent official views of any institution. Any resemblance to actual individuals is purely coincidental.

Ready to Ace Your Interview?

Get access to 50+ more interview experiences, personalized mock interviews, and expert feedback.

Explore More Experiences View Our Courses

Leave a Comment