By: ICN Bureau
Last updated : October 21, 2024 2:55 pm
Ankur Aggarwal succeeds Dr. K. C. Ravi, who served as the Chairman for the past four years
CropLife India, representing leading domestic and multinational R&D-driven crop science companies, has elected Ankur Aggarwal, Managing Director, Crystal Crop Protection, as the new Chairman of the Board during the 44th Annual General Meeting.
Ankur Aggarwal succeeds Dr. K. C. Ravi, who served as the Chairman for the past four years. Anil Kakkar, Vice President, Sumitomo Chemical India, continues in his role as Vice Chairman for the fourth consecutive year. Mohan Babu, Chief Operating Officer, Bayer CropScience for India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka has been inducted as the second Vice Chairman.
Ankur's extensive experience positions him as a pivotal leader in the crop protection industry. He is committed to advancing innovative technologies that empower farmers to enhance productivity sustainably, all while addressing the crucial environmental challenges faced by the industry. His leadership will be essential in shaping a more resilient and responsible agricultural future.
On being elected, Ankur Aggarwal said, “India is confronted with a pressing challenge: decreasing agricultural landholdings alongside a growing population, which is increasing at about 0.8% annually. This scenario heightens the demand for food production, putting pressure on food systems and necessitating innovative solutions for food security. To address this, the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices, efficient resource management, and responsible use of crop protection solutions will be essential for maximizing productivity on existing farmland. We remain committed to improving the lives of Indian farmers. We are dedicated to providing them with science-based solutions that ensure effective and sustainable crop protection.”
Durgesh Chandra, Secretary General, CropLife India shared, “It will be our earnest endeavour in collaborating closely with Ankur Aggarwal and the Board of Directors, to fulfil our responsibility in delivering the latest and safest innovations. Together, we aim to educate farmers on the safe and responsible use of crop protection solutions, ensuring they can effectively protect their crops while prioritizing safety and sustainability.”
CropLife members continue to work closely with farmers, scientific community and policy makers to address current as well as future challenges. CropLife member companies have pledged 10 billion Euros to invest in precision agriculture by 2030 and another 4 billion Euros in bio pesticides development.