In recent years, the global agricultural landscape has witnessed a paradigm shift towards sustainability, driven by environmental concerns and the need for long-term food security. Efforts are being made to raise awareness among farmers about the benefits of eco-friendly agricultural practices. Training programs and workshops are conducted to educate farmers on sustainable farming methods.

The leading experts discussed the latest trends at the inaugural session, ‘Sustainable Agriculture and Need for Eco-friendly Agrochemicals’ of AgroChem Summit 2023 organized by the Indian Chemical News in New Delhi on December 15, 2023. The session was moderated by Pravin Prashant, Executive Editor, Indian Chemical News.

Sharing his perspective on the need for environment friendly chemicals, Deepak Shah, Chairman, SML Ltd said, “India is the largest consumer of urea due to subsidy and home delivery of bags at farmers’ place. While input cost is Rs 1500 per bag, it is subsidized at Rs 200 per bag. There is a dire need to find replacement for nitrogenous fertilizers as these are the source of nitrous oxide which is the cause of major pollution and global warming. Since soil health is a critical factor for better productivity and sustainability, as a country we must work on the problem. Micro-encapsulation is one of the technologies that could be helpful. Devising environment-friendly technologies is only possible when we find ways through research.”

R. G. Agarwal, Group Chairman, Dhanuka Agritech Ltd. pointed out the lack of awareness and unavailability of genuine pesticides to a large chunk of farmer population. “Despite potential and opportunities, the young farmers don’t have the access to right pesticides and technologies. India’ former finance minister, P Chidambaram had once famously stated that the extension system had collapsed. Alternatively, TNV certification system could play a better role besides awareness among the farmers, fair prices, access of technologies to market. It is often said that pesticides are causing huge harm to Indians but interestingly the use of pesticides in India is minimum. The fake pesticides and smuggled pesticides are a major concern that require attention. Raids by the pharma department in recent times led to curbing the menace to some extent but it is just the tip of an iceberg.”

Pradip Dave, President, Pesticides Manufacturers & Formulators Association of India (PMFAI) bets big on the huge potential offered by the Indian agrochemical industry. “The enormous scientific talent and low cost manufacturing facilities present mega expansion opportunities for the agrochemical industry. Precision agriculture technologies, which optimize the use of inputs including agrochemicals, are being introduced in some parts of India. This helps in efficient resource management and minimizes environmental impact. Research institutions and agricultural universities in India are actively involved in research and development activities related to eco-friendly agrochemicals. This includes the study of natural enemies of pests, development of resistant crop varieties, and the formulation of environmentally friendly pesticides.”

Prof. V.N. Rajasekharan Pillai, Vice Chancellor, Somaiya Vidyavihar University emphasized the need for industry-academia collaborations and efforts towards innovating green agrochemicals. “Farmers are intelligent enough to use the technologies but the industry must connect with them and make it accessible. The green agrochemical must be designed in such a way so as to reduce the chemical footprint on earth. These are biologically important yet easily degradable agrochemicals. Digital data driven agriculture is shaping the future of industry. Integrated Pest Management practices are being promoted to reduce the reliance on chemical pesticides. Addressing evolving needs and streamlining regulatory issues is required apart from changing public perception.”

The AgroChem Summit 2023 themed, ‘Boosting Production Through Sustainable Agriculture Practices’, witnessed attendance by stalwarts and other stakeholders from the agrochemical sector across India.

The Summit was supported by the Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, Government of India. Gold partners are: Godrej Agrovet Ltd., SML Ltd., and Somaiya Vidyavihar University. Industry association supporting AgroChem Summit 2023 are: Agro Chem Federation of India (ACFI); Crop Care Federation of India (CCFI); Crop Life India (CLI); Pesticides Manufacturers & Formulators Association of India (PFFAI); and Biological Agri Solutions Association of India (BASAI).