New Delhi, Dec. 9 -- As India's consumer preferences shift toward wellness and naturals, Dabur India Ltd is deploying fresh capital to stay ahead of the curve. The 140-year-old fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) major has set up a Rs.500-crore venture investment platform to back fast-growing, digital-first brands in natural health, beauty and home care. Through Dabur Ventures, the company will make minority investments of Rs.25-75 crore in start-ups that align with its ayurveda- and naturals-led strategy, said Abhinav Dhall, group head of corporate strategy and executive director at Dabur India.

The push, mirroring a broader industry trend as legacy players track shifting preferences and court younger shoppers, gives Dabur both a window i...