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Company News, Horticulture, India, Organic, Start ups

Company plans to continue to expand its footprint across Karnataka and South India.

 The Organic World, India’s largest organic and natural groceries retailer and the country’s number one responsible retailer unveiled its latest store in Kadubeesanahalli, Bengaluru, earlier this month. The expansive, 2000-sq-ft store is The Organic World’s 16th and largest store so far.

In keeping with the company’s value proposition, the store houses an extensive range of 2000+ groceries, completely free of harmful chemicals, in alignment with the brand’s stringent ‘Not In Our Aisle’ – featuring chemicals and harmful ingredients that do not find a spot on its store shelves, despite their industry popularity. It bears testament to the brand’s commitment to making healthier, chemical-free choices easily accessible to the community. The store design embraces sustainability, incorporating eco-friendly elements and featuring a dedicated recycling zone.

Known for delivering an authentic experience across the ‘farm to table’ value chain, The Organic World, a part of Nimida Group, invited farmers from its organic farm network, to inaugurate the store.

Gaurav Manchanda, Founder & Director, the Nimida Group, the parent company of The Organic World, said, “We are excited to bring The Organic World’s ethos of better choices across the daily and monthly consumption basket to more and more communities across Bengaluru. Kadubeesanahalli is a popular residential area that is strategically located close to the IT hubs. With our latest store, we aim to cater to the growing sustainability-focused communities in Bellandur, Whitefield, Marathahalli, and the neighbouring areas, whose lifestyle choices resonate with our brand philosophy. Our aim is to empower more individuals to make informed and better choices to support a chemical-free lifestyle.

“In the near future, The Organic World plans to continue to expand its footprint across Karnataka and South India. We will invest in company-owned stores as well as explore the franchise model to reach a wider audience and make organic choices accessible to all,” added Manchanda.

Company plans to continue to expand its

AgroPolicy, Foodgrains, India, Industry Reports / Analysis, Start ups

Let’s take stock of how impactful the International Year of Millet has been in India so far.

India is the world’s leading producer of millets accounting for over 40 per cent of global production. Andhra Pradesh stood in the first place in the country in millet productivity in 2022, as per the National Bank For Agriculture And Rural Development (NABARD) annual report 2022-23. NABARD has been promoting 22 millet-based farmer producer companies in Andhra Pradesh. These FPCs have nearly 9,970 farmers as members and are engaged in millet-based business activities such as input supply, procurement, providing custom hiring services, and processing and marketing of the millets, among others. In order to provide support to entrepreneurs for recipes and value-added products to promote millet consumption under the International Year of Millet (IYoM) 2023, the Ministry of Agriculture has funded 66 startups with more than Rs 6.25 crore.

A remarkable increase in the number of startups in the millet sector has caught the government’s attention to turn the production and promotion of millet into a mass movement in India and abroad. According to the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), India has witnessed more than 80 startups in the millet sector in the past year and a half. Let’s take stock of how impactful the International Year of Millet has been in India so far.

Plants in the ‘grass’ family are the botanical ancestors of millets. Their history may be traced all the way back to the Indus Valley Civilisation, making them one of the world’s oldest staple foods. 

Millets are the crop of the future as they provide the possibility of higher environmental sustainability and economic prosperity as the global agricultural and food production systems continue to cope with the increasing population. A nutritious alternative to wheat and rice, that doesn’t consume excess natural resources including water, millets don’t need extraneous chemical pesticides or fertilisers. Hence, smallholder farmers can afford to grow them. Millets have a stronger nutritional profile than wheat, rice, and maize, the three most widely produced grains in the world. They have a low glycemic index and are high in nutrients like fibre, protein, vitamins, and minerals.

The World Bank states that between 32 and 132 million people in Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia will be plunged into poverty by 2030. Due to their great heat tolerance, capacity to flourish in water-poor and resource-poor soils, and physiological efficiency as C4 plants, millets are ideally suited to play the role of ‘future crops’ in climate resilient agriculture (CSA).

Sharing the broader picture of the millet world, T R Kesavan, Chairman, FICCI National Agriculture Committee and Group President, TAFE stated, “Millets, often referred to as nutri cereals, stand as a beacon of health, nutrition and sustainability. India, a prominent producer and consumer of millets, has risen to the forefront on the global stage by spearheading the International Year of Millets (IYoM). Millet production in India holds multifaceted importance encompassing nutrition, environment and economics. Suited to diverse conditions, millets offer essential nutrients, manage diabetes, enhance food security, conserve biodiversity and symbolise cultural heritage.”

Elaborating further on the topic, Ravinder Balain, President – South Asia Corteva Agriscience said, “2023 is the International Year of Millets. The government’s efforts in recognising the enormous potential of millets to generate livelihoods, increase farmers’ income and ensure food & nutritional security worldwide were crucial to generating the demand of the ‘Sri Anna’. The Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare has taken a proactive multi-stakeholder engagement approach (engaging all the central government ministries, states/UTs, farmers, startups, exporters, retail businesses, hotels, Indian Embassies etc.) to achieve the aim of IYoM 2023 and taking Indian millets globally. India’s ambitious plan to increase millet cultivation, consumption, and doubling farmers’ income is a testament to the government’s effort in increasing millet cultivation through several national and state level schemes targeting millet farmers.”

“India is among the top 5 exporters of millet in the world. According to recent data by Trade Map, world export of millet has increased from    $400 million in 2020 to    $470 million in 2021. India exported millets worth    $75.46 million in 2022-23, compared with    $62.95 million in 2021-22. In the past few years and more so in 2023, there has been an increased focus on millet from many startups, large food corporations and other stakeholders in the food chain to bring innovation to this sector with the latest technologies, recipes, and products for domestic and outside consumers. Proactive efforts of the Centre in celebrating IYoM2023 has supported all these efforts from different stakeholders to make Millets a really happening industry,” he added further.

Highlighting more key points, Ajay Bhuwalka, CEO, Urban Monk Pvt. Ltd. said, “Millets are an ancient grain of India and was a staple grain before the green revolution. Most rural parts of the country still consume millet as their staple.  We are very confident that millet will definitely find its way back into urban kitchens due to its immense health benefits. Post-COVID, the consciousness of all people to lead a healthy lifestyle has gone up significantly. Thus, we are very confident that millets will be popularised.”

Echoing similar thoughts, Shashi Kant Singh, Partner, Agriculture and Food Sector, PwC India said, “Millions of farmers across the world depend on millets for livelihood, food and nutrition, with a majority of these crops tracing their origins back to Asia and Africa.” 

Sharing her views on millet cultivation, S B Anuradha, Owner, Amma’s Taste commented, “Pesticides and fertilisers are unnecessary for growing millet. So, there is essentially no harm done to the flora and fauna. There is no need to use preservatives in order to maintain the quality and freshness of millets and millet products. Increased millet cultivation provides additional organic forage for use by mulching animals. The quantity of milk produced is also expected to rise.”

To read more click on: https://agrospectrumindia.com/e-magazine

Let's take stock of how impactful the

Agrotech, India, IT, Opinions, Supply Chain

 By Milind Borgikar, Chief Technology Officer, Ayekart

In today’s rapidly evolving world, the agriculture industry stands at a critical crossroad. As global population growth and environmental concerns continue to mount, farmers and stakeholders are grappling with the need for innovative solutions to meet the growing demand for food while minimising the impact on our planet. Fortunately, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a powerful tool that holds the potential to reshape the future of agriculture, enabling farmers to optimise their practices, reduce waste, and increase productivity in ways never before imaginable.

Unlocking one of its remarkable advantages, AI revolutionises the assessment of crop quality. By employing sophisticated classification models, AI possesses the unique ability to detect defects, identify diseases, and accurately forecast yield. Through the analysis of imagery obtained from drones, cameras, and sensors, AI algorithms swiftly identify subtle changes in crop appearance, alerting farmers to potential issues before they escalate.

Anticipating Yield

AI’s predictive capabilities extend to forecasting agricultural yield with remarkable accuracy. By analysing data from diverse sources such as weather reports, soil sensors, and crop images, AI provides invaluable insights to farmers regarding optimal planting, harvesting, and crop distribution strategies. This enables farmers to avoid overproduction, reduce wastage, and enhance the profitability of their agricultural operations. With AI as their trusted companion, farmers navigate the complexities of the growing season, making well-informed decisions and reaping the rewards of increased efficiency.

Robotics

The marriage of AI and robotics is propelling agriculture into an exciting future, where precision meets productivity to shape a more sustainable and efficient farming landscape. These cutting-edge machines are revolutionising essential farming tasks, from seeding and spraying to harvesting, with unmatched accuracy. With tireless operations, they eliminate the need for breaks or rest, substantially reducing labour costs while accelerating work speed. By embracing automation, farmers can unlock a multitude of benefits, including enhanced productivity, optimised resource allocation, and streamlined operations.

Cattle Management

By leveraging a variety of sensors and tracking tools, AI algorithms continuously monitor the health and behaviour of livestock. This enables early detection of signs of illness and precise prediction of optimal birthing times. Automated livestock management brings a host of benefits to farmers, including improved animal welfare, reduced labor expenses, and enhanced overall efficiency.

Inventory Tracking

Maintaining optimal inventory management is paramount to ensure agricultural products reach consumers in their freshest state. Embracing image recognition tools, AI algorithms swiftly scan and record inventory levels. This empowers farmers to track their stocks, optimise supply chain operations, and significantly reduce waste.

Weather Prediction

Accurate weather prediction plays a pivotal role in enabling farmers to make well-informed decisions regarding planting, harvesting, and safeguarding their crops. AI-driven weather forecasting models offer farmers actionable insights into crop types and conditions based on precise weather patterns. Armed with this knowledge, farmers can optimise agricultural practices, mitigate losses due to adverse weather conditions, and enhance overall crop yields.

To read more click on: https://agrospectrumindia.com/e-magazine

 By Milind Borgikar, Chief Technology Officer, AyekartIn

Agrotech, Foodgrains, India, Interaction

Jitendra Joshi Chair, FICCI Millet Task Force shares his thoughts with Agrospectrum on the background of the International Year of Millets.

The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) has conceptualised a dedicated Task Force on Millets. The vision of the Task Force is to facilitate impactful partnerships to make the millet value chain more remunerative for farmers, beneficial to consumers, efficient and globally competitive. The Task Force works in tandem with the government’s vision of celebrating the International Year of Millets (IYOM) and organising several activities in 2023. Jitendra Joshi Chair, FICCI Millet Task Force shares his thoughts with Agrospectrum on the background of the IYOM.

What is the current status of the millet industry in India?

Millets are nutritionally rich, easy to cultivate and sustainable, farmer-friendly crops without any environmental impact.It is high time that we revive the brand of millets and foster resilient food systems. Millet is crucial for food and nutritional security, and promotes  biodiversity while empowering farmers of not just our nation but also of the entire globe.

India is among the top 5 exporters of millet in the world. According to recent data by Trade Map, world export of millet has increased from $400 million in 2020 to $470 million in 2021. India exported millets worth $75.46 million in 2022-23, against $62.95 million in 2021-22.

Millets are the pearls of India and the United Nations celebrating 2023 as the International Year of the Millets (IYOM) is a great step towards making a sustainable Indian product as a lifestyle product on a global platform.

In the past few years and more so in 2023, there has been an increased focus on Millets from many startups, large food corporations and other stakeholders in the food chain to bring innovation to this sector with the latest technologies, recipes and products for domestic and international consumers. Proactive efforts of the government in celebrating IYOM-2023 has supported all these endeavours of different stakeholders to make Millets a really happening industry.

Do you think the millet industry in India is facing any challenges?

Millets can be grown with the least resources, are climate-resilient crops and given the advantages, farmers are preferring to grow millets. The acreage and output have increased as a result of the adoption of high-yielding hybrid varieties and improved production techniques.

As for challenges, farmers are often unaware of the nutritional benefits and potential market demand for millets, which can deter them from cultivating these crops. Consumers may not be familiar with millets or their uses in daily diet, making it challenging to increase millet consumption. Farmers may face challenges in accessing markets and connecting with buyers, resulting in limited opportunities to sell their millet produce. Millet-based products often have shorter shelf lives compared to refined grains like rice or wheat, limiting their marketability. Research and innovation are needed to develop value-added millet products that meet consumer preferences and demands.

Insufficient processing and storage infrastructure for millets can hinder their efficient handling and distribution, impacting the overall supply chain. Investors may not be fully aware of the economic potential of millet-related ventures, leading to a lack of investments in the sector. The absence of suitable processing equipment for different types of millets can result in inefficiencies and higher processing costs.

Research should focus on developing millet varieties with specific attributes, such as longer shelf life or better baking qualities, to meet consumer demands. Collaborating with culinary experts can help create appealing millet recipes and products that cater to diverse consumer preferences, increasing millet adoption. Establishing quality testing labs is essential to ensure that millet grains meet quality standards, build consumer trust, and enable compliance with regulations.

Addressing these challenges will require coordinated efforts from farmers, government agencies, research institutions, investors, and the private sector to unlock the full potential of millets in agriculture and nutrition.

How is Corteva contributing to the growth of the millet industry?

Corteva hybrid millet seeds result in a 15 per cent -20 per cent higher yield and provide disease resistance and early maturity hence high stress tolerance.

These high-quality seeds assist in lowering disease pressure, resulting in increased productivity and farmers have easier access to early matured seed hybrids.

The synchronisation of the millets value chain is a critical requirement for scaling millets. Moreover, collaborative participation from all the stakeholders, starting from seed companies to farmers and chefs to markets and finally the consumers themselves.

With the government propagating millet cultivation and increasing demand, it is important to note that especially for minor millets, mostly smallholders and women farmers are involved, thereby leading to a need for skilling and capacity building.

One key issue for the industry is getting consistent quality in supplies as raw material, as farm sizes are small and most of the time, aggregation is done at the village level. This also makes the use of traceability technologies tougher.

To read more click on: https://agrospectrumindia.com/e-magazine

Jitendra Joshi Chair, FICCI Millet Task Force

Agrotech, Biostimulants, India, Interaction

Harsh Bhagchandka, President of IPL Biologicals Ltd. shared his views with AgroSpectrum on growing the biologicals market in India and the way forward.

IPL Biologicals Limited (formerly known as International Panaacea Limited), specialises in biological solutions for agricultural applications The company’s research-based innovations have been focused on inventing indigenous microbial-based solutions since 1994, to cater to the needs of the farmer’s fraternity and address the global challenges by improving soil health, yield, and quality of crops while managing pest resistance, and pesticide residue.  Recently, IPL Biologicals signed a joint venture agreement with  Uzkimyosanoat (UKS), a department of the Government of Uzbekistan for the promotion of investment and development of fertilisers and pesticides and to sell bio-fertilisers in Uzbekistan. Harsh Bhagchandka, President of IPL Biologicals Ltd. shared his views with AgroSpectrum on growing the biologicals market in India and the way forward.

How is IPL Biologicals disrupting the agriculture industry?

We are making waves in the agriculture industry through several disruptive strategies and initiatives.IPL Biologicals leverages extensive research and development efforts to introduce cutting-edge microbial products. These innovations enhance soil fertility, increase crop yields, and reduce the environmental footprint of farming. By staying ahead in technological advancements, the company sets new standards for sustainable agriculture. We actively promote the concept of carbon credits in agriculture. By helping farmers adopt sustainable practices, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and sequester carbon in their soils, the company not only enhances farm productivity but also opens up new revenue streams for farmers through carbon credit monetisation.  We collaborate with agricultural research institutions, government agencies, and international organisations to drive research and development initiatives. These partnerships help leverage expertise, share knowledge, and bring about innovative solutions to address agricultural challenges.

The company tailors its microbial products to suit specific regional and crop requirements. This customisation ensures that farmers receive solutions optimised for their unique conditions. Our expansion into new markets and regions ensures that more farmers can benefit from microbial solutions. This market diversification broadens the reach and impact of IPL Biologicals.

In essence, IPL Biologicals is disrupting the agriculture industry by combining innovative microbial products, education, carbon credit initiatives, and digital marketing to foster sustainable farming practices, empower farmers, and drive positive change across India’s agricultural landscape.

The agriculture sector has witnessed major activities in the ag-biological industry in the recent past. What is driving the ag-biological industry?

Growth Drivers of the Ag-Biological Industry include:

Environmental Sustainability: The increasing awareness of the environmental impact of conventional agricultural practices, such as excessive pesticide and chemical fertiliser use, is a significant driver. Ag-biologicals are viewed as more environmentally friendly and aligned with sustainable agriculture practices.

Government Support: Government policies and initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture and reducing the use of chemical inputs have provided a significant boost to the ag-biological industry. Subsidies, incentives, and research funding are encouraging companies to invest in this sector.

Consumer Demand: Consumers are increasingly concerned about the safety and quality of their food. This has led to a growing demand for produce that is grown using organic and sustainable methods, which often involve the use of ag-biologicals.

Resistant Pest and Disease Strains: The emergence of pesticide-resistant pests and diseases has made it imperative to explore alternative pest management strategies. Ag-biologicals offer a solution by providing effective and sustainable pest control options.

Research and Innovation: Ongoing research and innovation in the fields of microbiology, genetics, and biotechnology are leading to the development of more effective and targeted ag-biological products. New microbial strains, biostimulants, and biopesticides are continually being developed.

Farmer Education: As farmers become more aware of the benefits of ag-biologicals, there is an increased willingness to adopt these products. Education and training programs that inform farmers about the proper use and benefits of ag-biologicals are driving adoption.

What are the company’s strategies and plans for expansion in the Indian market?

We are strategically positioned for robust growth in the Indian market. With over 400 dedicated professionals and a presence in 18 states. We recognise the importance of nurturing our current market presence. In the coming years, we plan to intensify our efforts in the states we’ve already penetrated. This means strengthening relationships with our valued customers, enhancing product offerings, and ensuring superior service delivery.

Moreover, our forthcoming launch of next-generation microbial consortium products in 2024 will position us as leaders in the industry.

To read more click on: https://agrospectrumindia.com/e-magazine

Harsh Bhagchandka, President of IPL Biologicals Ltd.

Agrotech, India, Interaction

In an exclusive interview with AgroSpectrum, Prem Kumar Vislawath, Founder, Marut Drones takes us through the scope and scale of agri drone innovation and adoption in Indian agriculture. Edited excerpts:

Marut Drones has been awarded the Type Certification approvals from the Director General of Civil Aviation for the multi-utility agricultural drone in the small category (less than 25kg) called the AG-365S. This drone has undergone thorough testing and has been developed with a strong build. Only drones that have been issued a UIN number are permitted to operate within Indian airspace, as stated in the UAS Rules-2021. Certification from the DGCA is granted following an exhaustive testing procedure of unmanned aerial vehicles carried out in a number of testing labs that have been granted NABL accreditation. This certification is based on quality checks. This requires the UAV to undergo a battery of material, environmental, and operational testing to ensure that its activities are safe, secure, and reliable.

The accreditation makes it possible for the Hyderabad-based company to introduce its agricultural drone technology to users, which has the potential to completely transform agriculture in India. In an exclusive interview with AgroSpectrum, Prem Kumar Vislawath, Founder, Marut Drones takes us through the scope and scale of agri drone innovation and adoption in Indian agriculture. Edited excerpts:

Recently, your AG-365S kisan drone Multi-utility Agriculture small Category Drone has received the prestigious DGCA approved type certificate. How can development enhance your project reach?

The DGCA-approved AG-365S Kisan Drone by Marut Drones offers an impressive array of features that make it a game-changer in Indian agriculture:

a. Swappable Payloads for Multi-Utility: One of its standout features is swappable payloads, making it a multi-utility tool for farmers. This flexibility allows farmers to adapt the drone for various tasks, from pesticide spraying, granule spreading to crop monitoring, significantly increasing its value and versatility.

b. High Endurance: The AG-365S boasts high endurance, enabling it to fly 22min on a single full charge. This high flight time Minimises the need for frequent recharging or battery swaps, optimising operational efficiency.

c.  Obstacle Avoidance & Terrain Management Sensors: Equipped with advanced obstacle avoidance and terrain management sensors, the drone can navigate through complex agricultural landscapes with precision and safety. It can avoid obstacles such as trees or buildings, ensuring smooth and accident-free operations.

d. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for Crops: Marut Drones provides customised Standard Operating Procedures for 7+ crops, and SOPs for 35+ crops are under development in collaboration with renowned institues and partners such as PJTSAU, ICRISAT, NIPHM.

Incorporating these features, the AG-365S Drone redefines precision agriculture in India, offering farmers a reliable, efficient, and adaptable solution to meet their diverse agricultural needs.

What are the major challenges faced by drone manufacturers especially in agriculture sector?

Non-compliance with aviation regulations and airspace restrictions can lead to legal and operational issues. Delays or disruptions in the supply chain can impact the availability of critical components for drone operations.

While some state governments in India have initiated subsidy programs to promote the adoption of agricultural drones, there is often a lack of uniformity and consistency in these schemes. Manufacturers must navigate a complex landscape of varying subsidy policies, eligibility criteria, and application processes, making it challenging to plan and market their products effectively.

The effective use of drones for pesticide spraying depends on the availability of ULV formulations that are suitable for drone-based application. Manufacturers need to collaborate with chemical companies and regulatory bodies to develop and approve drone-compatible ULV formulations. This requires extensive research and development efforts and navigating regulatory hurdles.

To read more click on: https://agrospectrumindia.com/e-magazine

In an exclusive interview with AgroSpectrum, Prem

Agrotech, Company News, Sustainability, World

Manna MIND enables insect farming to be operated as a completely standalone setup even in rural farms, remote islands and fish farms or can be set up in a factory backyard or supermarket parking lot

Agritech company Manna Insect Oy announces Manna MIND Gen2, the world’s first technology that enables converting almost any kind of space, such as a shipping container or a warehouse, into an automatically climate-controlled and -optimised insect farming facility. The Manna MIND Gen2 also optimises power consumption, so an insect farming facility can be run even with solar panels alone, it works on all voltage levels, and enables farming insects profitably anywhere in the world, in any climate or weather conditions.

The solution’s 1st generation version is already in use with customers on five continents, and it specialises in managing the climatisation of used 20ft sea containers that are refurbished into insect-rearing facilities.
Manna Insect solves biowaste and animal feed problems with a set of solutions that are specialised in the utilisation of black soldier fly (BSF) to upcycle organic waste into cost-efficient and nutritious animal feed and organic fertiliser.

Manna MIND is a sensor and control unit that manages all equipment within an insect-rearing facility to optimise the growth or breeding conditions to be optimal at each stage of the larvae growth cycle, making the facility the perfect environment for both upcycling of biowaste at maximum efficiency and enabling the larvae to grow as much as possible during the rearing cycle, thus creating more animal feed in the form of insect protein, and better quality fertiliser as a side product.

Manna MIND enables insect farming to be operated as a completely standalone setup even in rural farms, remote islands and fish farms or can be set up in a factory backyard or supermarket parking lot. Farming of black soldier fly with Manna Insect’s solution requires minimal human input and workload, only approx. 6 hours for the 10-day growth period, which makes the whole insect production process extremely cost-efficient and thus profitable for a farmer.

Ykä Marjanen, Manna Insect’s CEO and founder comments; “The first generation of Manna MIND was tailored for 20ft sea containers, and proved that we can deploy solutions all over the world with locally available materials and equipment. We’ve shipped and installed Manna MIND units with clients on five continents during the first year of sales. Still, the cost of building the container is often too much for a chicken farmer in Kenya or a fish farmer in Indonesia, and we wanted to reach out to this enormous market segment with our new solution. The new Gen2 version is more versatile, smaller and has more features than the 1st generation MIND.”

“Manna MIND Gen2 is the world’s first of its kind from multiple aspects. First of all, it is the first such solution in the world that works on all electricity inputs from 110 to 220 to 430 V. It is extremely energy efficient and consumes less than 1kW (Manna 20ft shipping container reference setup), which allows the use of solar panels to operate the facility. It is also the first climatisation solution in the insect farming industry that is facility independent, meaning that the facility doesn’t have to be of a certain size, but can be suited to operate different size facilities efficiently. It is designed for small local operations upcycling from 5 tn to 200 tn of biowaste in a month from one site.

Manna MIND enables insect farming to be

Company News, Finance, India, Sugar industry

The funds obtained through this strategic financial move will be utilised to support the company’s ongoing capital expenditure initiatives in Bharuch, Gujarat.

DCM Shriram, a company engaged in sugar, fertiliser and chemical businesses, has secured a Sustainability Linked Loan (SLL) amounting to Rs 200 crore from HSBC India. The funds obtained through this strategic financial move will be utilised to support the company’s ongoing capital expenditure initiatives in Bharuch, Gujarat, as mentioned in an official statement.

Amit Agarwal, Executive Director & Group CFO of DCM Shriram, highlighted the significance of this loan as the company’s first Sustainability Linked Loan acquired from HSBC India. He emphasised their steadfast commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) objectives. DCM Shriram has initiated projects worth approximately Rs 3,500 crore, primarily within their sugar and chemical divisions. Notably, projects in the sugar business have already been commissioned, while those in the chemicals segment are approaching completion.

Ajay Sharma, Head of Commercial Banking at HSBC India, reaffirmed the bank’s dedication to providing financing that supports and encourages the transition toward a more sustainable economy. He emphasised that the collaboration between DCM Shriram and HSBC India underscores their shared commitment to promoting sustainability and responsible business practices, further solidifying their commitment to a greener and more responsible future.

The funds obtained through this strategic financial

Agro Universities, Award, India

The award-winning submission highlighted community-led innovations in landscape management in Central India’s Bundelkhand region.

ICRISAT clinched the ‘UNDP Mahatma Award for Biodiversity’ for its remarkable contributions to humanity, its unwavering commitment to positive change, and its transformative impact on society.

The award-winning submission highlighted community-led innovations in landscape management in Central India’s Bundelkhand region. Through a combination of rainwater harvesting structures and agroforestry measures, biodiversity in the seven Bundelkhand sites, covering approximately 40,000 hectares, experienced a significant revival.

 Mugdha Arora, the Award Director, commended the institute for making it through the rigorous evaluation process and demanding jury rounds of the Mahatma Award selection. She congratulated ICRISAT in a letter that hailed the institute’s extraordinary accomplishments.

“Your dedication to social good has set a shining example for others to emulate. Your selection for the Mahatma Award 2023 is not just a recognition of your past accomplishments but also a celebration of your vision for a greener, bio-diversified, equitable, and sustainable world. Your commitment to making positive change has touched the lives of many and serves as an inspiration for all of us,” said Mugdha Arora.

“The UNDP congratulates ICRISAT on receiving the Mahatma Award. Biodiversity especially in the agricultural realm is something we value ICRISAT’s expertise in, and we look forward to a longer-term partnership with ICRISAT in this area” said Suneel Padale, UNDP Senior Program Officer, Biodiversity Finance and Sustainable Land Management.

The Mahatma Award 2023 was formally conferred upon ICRISAT at a ceremony  on September 30, 2023. As part of this honour, ICRISAT received a certificate and a specially crafted bust of Mahatma Gandhi, designed and produced by the Aditya Birla Eternal Gandhi Initiative.

The Mahatma Award was founded and instituted by Philanthropist Amit Sachdeva, also known as ‘The CSR Man of India’. The annual award is supported by the Aditya Birla Group and the United Nations Development Programme.

The award-winning submission highlighted community-led innovations in

Company News, Environment, Sustainability

The company is launching the insurance scheme in collaboration with Blue Marble, a specialist in climate insurance

On the occasion of International Coffee Day, Nestlé announces that it is piloting a weather insurance program in Indonesia for more than 800 smallholder coffee farmers that supply coffee to its brand Nescafé. The company is launching the insurance scheme in collaboration with Blue Marble, a specialist in climate insurance. The insurance provides financial protection to help farmers cope with unpredictable weather patterns of rainfall and severe drought.

Marcelo Burity, Global Head of Nestlé’s Green Coffee Development, said: “This weather insurance helps to establish a support mechanism for smallholder coffee farmers in Indonesia. It allows them to access financial resources to re-establish their crops in the event of irregular weather conditions while building resilience in coffee farms.”

The insurance uses satellite-based climate data to determine when coffee output has been impacted by either too much or not enough rainfall during key phases of the crop cycle. Payments are issued automatically to registered coffee farmers that have been affected, according to the severity of the weather.

“Smallholder coffee farmers in Indonesia are vulnerable to climate risks and need access to insurance to protect against extreme weather events,” said Jaime de Piniés, CEO of Blue Marble. “We are proud to partner with Nestlé and its brand Nescafé to develop innovative ways to support the climate adaptation of smallholder coffee farmers and their families.”

This initiative is an integral part of the Nescafé Plan 2030, the brand’s vision to support the long-term sustainability of coffee and to help improve farmers’ livelihoods. Based on the results of the pilot, Nestlé will determine whether to expand the approach to other Nescafé sourcing locations around the world.

Changing agricultural practices requires access to knowledge and time to learn and implement. By moving to regenerative agriculture, coffee farmers can help restore soil health, reverse biodiversity loss, and strengthen ecosystems. Doing so also helps reduce the amount of greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere.

Nestlé has contributed to the ’Regenerative Agriculture for Low-Carbon and Resilient Coffee Farms – A Practical Guidebook,’ developed by the Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT). This guidebook provides field agronomists, trainers and professionals working with coffee farmers with a set of best practices that they can use and adapt to different farming contexts, helping farmers transition to regenerative agriculture. These best practices include agroforestry, intercropping, soil conservation and cover crops, integrated weed and pest management, integrated nutrient management, efficient water use, waste valorization, landscape actions and the rejuvenation of coffee trees with well-adapted varieties.

Pascal Chapot, Global Head of Sustainable Agriculture Development at Nestlé, said: “The guidebook gives coffee farmers a set of field actions they can implement tomorrow to help them become more resilient to climate change and to diversify their sources of income. Knowledge is key, and we hope that this guidebook makes these regenerative agriculture practices more accessible to farmers and supports an accelerated transition towards them. This is essential to tackling the climate challenges ahead.”

Mirjam Pulleman, senior soil ecologist and co-author of the guidebook said: “Creating real impact on the ground requires learning from real experiences with farmers in different origins and providing incentives to support farmers in their journey. The best practices highlighted in the guidebook are a starting point. Each practice will need to be tailored to the specificities of each country of origin, the different farm types, the surrounding landscapes and the resources available.”

The company is launching the insurance scheme

Company News, India, Sustainability

Deliberations during the National Conference focused on the theme “India – An Emerging Global Food Hub: Role of Sustainable Crop Protection Solutions

CropLife India; the association of leading domestic and Multinational R&D-driven crop science companies; organised a National Conference on the occasion of its 43rd AGM. The conference witnessed the congregation of two Agriculture Ministers from the key States of Andhra Pradesh and Haryana; senior Government officials, experts, academia and industry leaders. YES BANK was the Knowledge Partner for the event.

CropLife India believes that the State Governments will play an imminent role in paving a “Public-Private Pathway” for capacity building and awareness creation

India now stands as the 2nd largest exporter of agrochemicals globally, after China, making it a key participant in the global crop protection industry.

Deliberations during the National Conference focused on the theme “India – An Emerging Global Food Hub: Role of Sustainable Crop Protection Solutions”. The focus of the Inaugural Session was “The Rise of Indian Agriculture – World’s Emerging Food Basket & the Role of States”. Plenary Session I focussed on “Women driving the growth of Indian Agriculture” and Plenary Session II dwelled on “Innovations for the New-Age Farmers.” The Valedictory Session deliberated on “Role of Agrochemicals in the growth of Indian Agriculture.”

During his inaugural address Kakani Govardhan Reddy, Minister of Agriculture Government of Andhra Pradesh shared that, “The State Government is committed towards Farmers’ education for enhanced use of new technology in agriculture; which has led to multiple novel initiatives viz. ‘E-KYC Know Your Crop’ aims to provide farmers with essential digital resources. The State is considering implementing the State Minimum Support Price Act to further bolster inclusive agricultural practices.”

J. P. Dalal, Minister of Agriculture Government of Haryana said, “Farmers of Haryana are being encouraged to take up crop diversification and produce as per the market demands. Asia’s largest market, spanning over 550 acres, is under construction in Ganaur in Haryana and will be better than the markets in developed countries like Spain and France. The market would provide farmers with facilities for grading, packaging and sorting at the block and tehsil levels, thus helping in export quality products to the international market.”

Dr. K. C. Ravi, Chairman, of CropLife India said, “As India emerges as a Global Food hub, the need for a predictable, stable and science-based policy and regulatory regime for the proper growth of the crop protection sector is imperative. This would promote innovation and new product introduction to address the current and upcoming challenges faced by farmers; while paving the way with introduction of cutting-edge technologies like Artificial Intelligence and Drones.”

The crop protection industry has been making an immense contribution to Indian Agriculture in the last 77 years and is committed to continuing the same. CropLife India members are not only committed to bringing the latest and safer innovations but are equally committed to educating farmers on their safe and responsible use. CropLife and its member companies would like to continue to contribute to creating a science-based, pragmatic and stable regulatory environment.

CropLife members continue to work closely with farmers, the scientific community and policymakers to address current as well as future challenges. However, the cost of research has gone up and it is estimated that the cost of discovery and development of a new active ingredient is around INR 2000 crores. If Indian agriculture must flourish, be more competitive, quality quality-driven and reduce wastages as well as losses to enable our farmers to be more successful, it is absolutely essential that a progressive policy environment is in place that fosters innovations.

Deliberations during the National Conference focused on

Agrotech, Company News, India, Japan, Machinery – Post-harvesting

Workmen will be assigned to Mitsubishi Mahindra Agricultural Machinery in Shimane, Japan, for a year-long on-the-job training program.

Mahindra Farm Division, part of Mahindra’s Farm Equipment Sector and India’s No.1 tractor brand, marked a significant milestone in its commitment to skill development and globalisation, by dispatching its first group of ten skilled workmen to Japan under Japan’s Technical Intern Training Program (TITP).

Flagged off by Hemant Sikka, President – Farm Equipment Sector (FES), Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., and other dignitaries from Mahindra FES from the company’s facility in Kandivali, Mumbai, the 10 Mahindra workmen selected for this initiative represents Mahindra’s tractor manufacturing facilities in Zaheerabad, Nagpur, and Rudrapur.

With the support of the Government of Japan, these individuals will receive mandatory training in Nagoya, Japan, for 4-6 weeks. Subsequently, they will be assigned to Mitsubishi Mahindra Agricultural Machinery in Shimane, Japan, for a year-long on-the-job training program. The workmen also successfully completed mandatory training sessions in Japanese cultural sensitivity, encompassing 17 days of in-person classroom sessions and 370 hours of online training.

Speaking on the occasion, Hemant Sikka said “At Mahindra FES, our purpose truly drives us, and we take immense pride in fostering an inclusive workplace that empowers our people to reach their fullest potential to achieve that purpose. Japan’s TITP program is a vital channel for realizing this vision. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to our program partners, as well as the Governments of India and Japan for their support.”

 Sikka further added, “Through the meticulous selection of our first batch of ten individuals from diverse Mahindra Tractor manufacturing locations, our aim is to bolster their technical expertise and knowledge through invaluable on-the-job internships in Japan. Upon return, these workmen will implement the best Japanese shop floor practices in our plants.”

TITP initiated in 1993, is Japan’s pioneering program aimed at facilitating skills transfer and international cooperation by providing on-the-job training to individuals from developing countries. The program plays a pivotal role in promoting human resource development and fostering economic growth in participating regions.

India’s Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) with Japan’s Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare in October 2017, ushering in a new era of collaboration in the skill development sector between the two nations. Under this program, select candidates from India embark on three-to-five years of internship in Japan, followed by their return to India to apply the acquired skills for the betterment of both countries. In January 2018, MSDE entrusted the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) with the responsibility of overseeing the program.

Workmen will be assigned to Mitsubishi Mahindra

Company News, India, Oilseeds

GAVL will be investing Rs 300 Crore over the next 3-4 years in setting up the integrated palm oil complex.

Godrej Agrovet Limited’s (GAVL) Oil Palm business announced that the company will be setting up an Integrated Palm Oil Complex in the state of Telangana. To be set up in the Khammam district, it will consist of a state the of art Crude Palm Oil mill along with the provision of setting up a refinery in the near future. GAVL will be investing Rs 300 Crore over the next 3-4 years in setting up the integrated palm oil complex. Additionally, through its Samadhan Centers – a one stop solution for oil palm farmers, the company would also provide advisory services on best practices / modern technologies, farm inputs (such as fertilizers, drip irrigation, pesticides, seeds, and harvesting tools) and services under one roof. The company’s partnership with the State Bank of India would also support Oil Palm Plantation farmers during the gestation period. With 65,000 hectares of palm oil under cultivation across the country, GAVL plans to increase cultivation to 1.2 Lac hectares by 2027.

The company will also establish a nursery with a capacity of up to 7 Lac saplings per year in addition to the seed production & research unit. At the complex, GAVL will be setting up first-ever seed garden in India. This seed garden can provide seeds for the planting of 90,000 acres of area and shall help Telangana state to achieve targets for oil palm plantation.

Present on the occasion of laying the foundation stone for Crude Palm Oil mill were K. T. Rama Rao, Minister for Municipal Administration & Urban Development, Industries & Commerce, and Information Technology of Telangana; Burjis Godrej, Executive Director and COO-Crop Protection Business, GAVL; Sougata Niyogi, CEO – Oil Palm, GAVL and Rakesh Swami, Group President Corporate Affairs, Godrej Industries Limited.

“Telangana’s ambitious oil palm mission aims to bring 20 lakh acres under cultivation across the state. The mission will improve income for more than 5 lakh farm households while at the same time contributing to the nation’s deficit for edible oils. Along with being the rice bowl for the country, Telangana is all set to become the largest edible oil producer in India. We are delighted to partner with a strong and reliable partner like Godrej Agrovet in this endeavour. Their expertise in the oil palm sector will definitely help us achieve our goals of unleashing a yellow revolution”, said K. T. Rama Rao, Minister for Municipal Administration & Urban Development, Industries & Commerce, and Information Technology of Telangana.

Commenting on the announcement, Balram Singh Yadav, Managing Director, GAVL said, “Leveraging our expertise of more than three decades in the oil palm business, we intend to handhold oil palm farmers by providing them access to quality seedlings and nursery. With our plans of commissioning of Crude Palm Oil mill in the coming years, it is our honour to set up country’s first integrated palm oil complex in the state of Telangana”.

GAVL will be investing Rs 300 Crore

Agrotech, Company News, India, Inputs, Seeds, Trade

Crystal anticipates a substantial boost in its seeds business revenues, sees an increase of approximately 20 per cent.

Crystal Crop Protection Limited, one of the fast-growing R&D-based crop protection manufacturing and marketing companies in India, has strengthened its cotton seeds portfolio with the strategic acquisition of Sadanand Cotton Seeds business from Kohinoor Seeds.

The acquisition will boost Crystal’s goal of providing end-to-end innovative and progressive solutions to stakeholders in the cotton seed business. With a persistent commitment to innovation and quality, Crystal Crops has consistently demonstrated its dedication to enhancing agricultural productivity and crop yields for farmers across the country.

Commenting on the acquisition, Satyender Singh, CEO of Seeds at Crystal Crop Protection, said: “We firmly believe that this strategic acquisition will not only reinforce our market presence in the Cotton Seeds segment but will also substantially enhance our reach and accessibility within the broader Seeds industry. In a market where approximately five crore packets constitute the cotton seed sector, displaying consistent performance over recent years, the importance of cotton as a pivotal cash crop for farmers cannot be emphasized enough. Crystal’s commitment to actively collaborating with farmers to amplify their income levels remains consistent. This acquisition represents an important milestone in further solidifying Crystal’s presence within the cotton crop sector. We look forward to continuing the legacy of Sadanand and delivering exceptional value to our customers.”

Commenting on the acquisition, Pawan Kansal, Managing Director, Kohinoor Seed Fields India Private Limited said: “We are delighted that Crystal Crop Protection has acquired ‘Sadanand’. Crystal Crop Protection is a leading company in the segment and has been making giant strides in this space through focus on innovation and digitalisation. We believe that this acquisition will provide a unique synergy of strengths to build the brand further.”

Crystal’s seeds business has experienced substantial growth in recent years, driven by a combination of organic and inorganic expansion efforts. Today, Crystal occupies a formidable presence among the leading seed providers in multiple segments, including cotton, mustard, fodder, sorghum and pearl millet. With the strategic acquisition of Sadanand Cotton Seeds from Kohinoor Seeds, Crystal anticipates a substantial boost in its seeds business revenues, projecting an increase of approximately 20 percent.

This significant acquisition marks the tenth addition to Crystal’s strategic portfolio and represents the fourth investment in the Seeds business. Some notable acquisitions in the past have been the acquisition of Cotton, Pearl Millet, Mustard, and Sorghum portfolios from Bayer in 2021. In previous years, Crystal has successfully acquired a range of agrochemical and seed brands from multinational companies such as Syngenta, FMC, and Dow-Corteva etc. Additionally, the company expanded its manufacturing capabilities through the acquisition of a production facility from the Solvay group in Nagpur in 2018.

Crystal anticipates a substantial boost in its