CropLife India, the association of leading domestic and multinational R&D driven crop science companies, organized a National Conference on the occasion of its 45th AGM. The conference witnessed the presence of the Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India; senior Government officials, experts, academia and industry leaders.

During his inaugural address, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India, shared that, “For me, the farmer is the soul of our nation, and serving them is a gift from God. From the days of food scarcity and dependence on imports, India has today become self-reliant and an emerging exporter—with agriculture growing by 10% in recent months. Yet, with our population set to reach 170 crore by 2050, ensuring food and nutritional security is our foremost duty. Nearly half our people depend on farming, most with less than two acres of land, and our policies must reflect this reality. To achieve a $5 trillion economy, we must increase productivity per hectare, embrace new technologies, and translate research into solutions for farmers’ real problems. Agriculture is not just an industry—it is a national responsibility. Together, the Government, scientists and industry must ensure prosperity for farmers, sustainability for our land, and nourishment for humanity."

Dr. Trilochan Mohapatra, Chairperson, PPV&FRA, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Government of India said, “It is always a pleasure to be among the leaders of the agrochemical industry. The Green Revolution, though built on borrowed technologies, gave India not just food security but also confidence and self-respect. From 65 million tons of food grains, we now produce nearly 350 million tons, with horticulture surpassing even that. This progress has been possible because of technology, policy, and the critical role of agrochemicals.

“Today, the sector is growing at 9–11% CAGR, driving productivity and exports. At the same time, we must address concerns around residues, environment, and health. India must move beyond borrowed technologies and strengthen its own intellectual property, innovations, and policies. The task is clear—balance growth with sustainability through responsible use, stronger regulation, and stewardship. With government support, industry partnership, and science-led innovation, I am confident Indian agriculture will continue to thrive while protecting farmers, consumers, and the environment."

Ankur Aggarwal, Chairman, CropLife India said, “India is today the fourth-largest producer and the second-largest exporter of agrochemicals, with CropLife India members contributing over 70% of the industry’s business and providing 95% of the world’s molecules and chemistries. Our exports, worth nearly Rs.40,000 crores, reflect the strength and global relevance of Indian agriculture. Yet, we continue to lose crops worth Rs.2 lakh crores annually to pests and diseases—even though India’s pesticide use is just 400 grams per hectare compared to the global average of 8,000 grams. This proves that Indian farmers are efficient, not excessive.

“With responsible stewardship, we can cut crop losses, raise farmer incomes, and help India move towards its $1 trillion agricultural economy goal. Our industry stands committed—to responsible innovation, natural farming support, integrated pest management, and research-driven solutions. With government partnership and sustained investment in science, we can empower farmers, feed our 150 crore people, and make in India for India and the world”.

The crop protection industry has significantly contributed to Indian agriculture over the past 78 years and remains dedicated to fostering growth and sustainability.