Indian Chemical News, the most credible online media platform for the Chemicals, Petrochemicals, and Energy sector, is organizing the Third Edition of ‘AgroChem Summit 2024' on December 13, 2024 at The Park, Parliament Street, New Delhi. The theme of the Summit is "Capturing Value Through Collaboration, Innovation & Disruption".  

Please register for the Summit by clicking on the link (https://www.indianchemicalnews.com/agrochem-summit-third-edition/). 

The Session on Collaborative Models – R&D, Innovation, Biological and Bio pesticides will have Dr. Kamlesh Pai Fondekar, Head - Research & Development, Godrej Agrovet Ltd.; Dr. Bathini Nagendra Babu, Principal Scientist, CSIR Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad; Ms. Anuja Kadian, Government & Industry Affairs Director (Asia Pacific), Corteva Agriscience; Dr. Vishal Choudhary, Scientist 'F', Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India; Mr. Sachin Mundhe, General Manager, Meghmani Organics Ltd.; Mr. Vipin Saini, CEO, Biological Agri Solutions Association of India (BASAI); Ms. Smriti Kala, Scientist (Formulation), Institute of Pesticide Formulation Technology; and Ms. Komal Shah Bhukhanwala, Director, R&D and IP, SML Ltd as speakers. 

A collaborative model for R&D and innovation in biologicals and biopesticides is not only beneficial but essential for addressing the growing demand for sustainable and effective agricultural solutions.  

Bringing together universities, research institutions, private companies, and government agencies fosters knowledge exchange and creative synergies, leading to innovative solutions that may not arise in isolated settings. Collaboration enables access to multidisciplinary expertise, including microbiology, genetics, agronomy, and environmental science, which is essential for the effective development of biologicals and biopesticides. Also, collaborating with farmers and agronomic experts enables rigorous field testing of biopesticides and biological products in real-world conditions, ensuring their effectiveness and safety. 

Collaborative models can lead to strategic alliances for marketing and commercialization, allowing companies to leverage each other’s strengths and reach wider markets more effectively. A collaborative approach allows the sharing of funding, infrastructure, and facilities, reducing redundancy and optimizing resources for research purposes. By leveraging shared resources, expertise, and market knowledge, various stakeholders can work together to accelerate the development and adoption of innovative biological products. 

This collaborative approach can significantly contribute to sustainable agriculture, enhance food security, and mitigate the environmental impact of traditional agrochemical practices.  

Key points to be discussed during the Session are: Pooling of Resources and Expertise; Access to Funding and Resources; Fostering Innovation Culture; Enhanced Validation and Testing; Regulatory Support and Compliance; Market Access and Commercialization; and Sustainability and Environmental Impact.