CropLife India 43rd AGM Discusses Farmer Centric Sustainable Tech Adoption For Better Agricultural Growth

CropLife India, comprising 16 research and development-focused crop protection companies, is dedicated to promoting sustainable agriculture. They collectively represent 70% of the market and introduce 95% of agricultural molecules in India.

With an annual global R&D budget of 6 billion USD, these companies collaborate with farmers to ensure food security. Since the 1950s, they've partnered with the government, investing in manufacturing, job creation, and agricultural innovations, contributing to the sector's growth and enhancing agricultural productivity.

Mr Kakani Govardhan Reddy, Andhra Pradesh's Agriculture Minister, emphasized farmer education on new agricultural technologies during his inaugural address. He highlighted initiatives like 'E-KYC Know Your Crop' and the State Minimum Support Price Act for inclusive agriculture.

Mr J. P. Dalal, the Minister of Agriculture in Haryana, encouraged the diversification of crops and aligning production with market demands. He also mentioned the construction of Asia's largest market in Ganaur, Haryana, spanning over 550 acres, which would offer grading, packaging, and sorting facilities at the block and tehsil levels to enhance the quality of products for international markets.

Dr. Ashok Dalwai, Chairman of the Empowered Committee on Doubling Farmers’ Income at the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Government of India, participated in an interaction with industry leaders. He emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships in providing advanced technologies to farmers for increasing productivity and production, emphasizing the need for data-driven research.

Dr. P. K. Singh, Agriculture Commissioner at the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Government of India, stressed the "One Health" approach to balance and optimize the health of people, animals, and the environment. He highlighted the role of technology in enabling multiple crop cycles in the same field, educating farmers, and changing perceptions about agrochemicals for the nation's growth.

Dr. Vishal Choudhary, Deputy Industry Advisor at the Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilisers, mentioned that the Ministry has established an Industry Facilitation Cell to handle industry-related concerns. Furthermore, efforts are underway to create specialized courses focused on agrochemicals, which would promote their responsible use.

Dr. S. C. Dubey, Assistant Director General (Plant Protection) at the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India, stressed the importance of agrochemicals in minimizing crop losses, enhancing productivity, and managing nutrients and water efficiently. He emphasized the need for increased investment in research and development to ensure sustainable agriculture. He also called for policies that prioritize environmental sustainability, farmer well-being, and long-term profitability.

Dr. K. C. Ravi, Chairman of CropLife India, highlighted the necessity of a predictable, stable, and science-based policy and regulatory framework as India evolves into a global food hub. Such a framework would facilitate innovation and the introduction of new products to address the challenges faced by farmers. Dr. Ravi also mentioned the potential of cutting-edge technologies like Artificial Intelligence and Drones in agriculture.

The "Women driving the growth of Indian Agriculture" session featured prominent figures, including Ms. Chhavi Rajawat, the first MBA Sarpanch, Ms. Sangeeta Bojappa, Dr. Anupama Singh from IARI, and Ms. Nisha Solanki, Haryana's First Woman Drone Pilot, highlighting the vital role of women in agriculture.

CropLife India and its member companies have played a significant role in Indian agriculture for 77 years, committed to introducing safe innovations and educating farmers responsibly. They aim to foster a science-based, stable regulatory environment, collaborating closely with farmers, scientists, and policymakers. However, rising research costs, estimated at Rs 2000 crores for a new active ingredient, necessitate a forward-thinking policy framework to ensure agricultural success, reduce waste, and promote innovation in India.

About CropLife India:

CropLife India is dedicated to promoting sustainable agriculture and comprises a group of 16 research and development-focused companies in crop protection. Collectively, CropLife India represents approximately 70% of the market and is responsible for introducing 95% of the molecules used in the country. The member companies allocate an annual global budget of 6 billion USD to research and development and are strongly committed to collaborating with the farming community to ensure a safe and reliable food supply.

The member companies have been operating in India since the 1950s, and continue to closely collaborate with the government to support the agricultural sector. This involvement includes direct investment in building factories, generating employment opportunities, introducing agricultural innovations, and working tirelessly over the years with various stakeholders to enhance agricultural productivity.