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Agbiologicals, Agribusiness, Company News, Fungicides, Herbicides, India

Velzo® fungicide, Vayobel® herbicide and Ambriva® herbicide will help fruits & vegetables, paddy and wheat farmers tackle challenging diseases and weeds.

FMC Corporation, a leading agricultural sciences company, announced the launch of three cutting-edge crop protection solutions in India today. The new herbicides and fungicide complement FMC’s current robust portfolio of insecticides and reaffirms the company’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of Indian farmers with science and innovation-driven crop solutions.

Ronaldo Pereira, President of the FMC Corporation, Pramod Thota, President of the FMC Asia Pacific region and Ravi Annavarapu, President of FMC India, were present at a launch event for Velzo® fungicide, Vayobel® herbicide and Ambriva® herbicide, and to celebrate this significant milestone in FMC’s journey in India. The activities included field visits where the team interacted with farmers and a ceremony in Hyderabad where FMC’s top channel partners in India were honoured by the company’s senior leaders for their resolute commitment to work together for the introduction of innovative products and new services.

Velzo® fungicide, a specialty fungicide designed to combat Oomycete diseases in grapes, tomatoes, and potatoes, will help grapes farmers in Maharashtra and Karnataka address the challenge of Downy mildew. Additionally, it will help control Late blight for potato and tomato farmers across the country. Vayobel® herbicide, a pre-emergent and broad-spectrum weed control solution for transplanted rice farmers nationwide, will help to establish a robust crop foundation. Lastly, Ambriva® herbicide, powered by Isoflex® active, features a novel mode of action to tackle the issue of resistant Phalaris minor weeds, giving wheat farmers in the Indo-Gangetic plains a new tool for resistance management.

“Technology forms the backbone of agricultural growth, and FMC’s focus remains on investing in innovative, science-based solutions that not only enhance crop productivity and resilience but also support sustainable farming practices,” said Ravi Annavarapu, President of FMC India. “Providing Indian farmers with these latest advancements in crop care emphasizes our commitment to empowering them with solutions tailored to their regional needs. We look forward to launching additional innovative products in the near future.”

India is a top market for FMC globally. Powered by its strong research and development pipeline, the introduction of Velzo® fungicide, Vayobel® herbicide and Ambriva® herbicide is a testimony to FMC’s commitment to delivering innovation excellence to address the evolving challenges faced by Indian growers. By supporting farmers with sustainable technologies, FMC is contributing to a safe, secure, and sustainable food supply, with minimal impact on the planet.

Velzo® fungicide, Vayobel® herbicide and Ambriva® herbicide

AgroPolicy, India, Industry Reports / Analysis, Oilseeds

The report comprehensively explores the current state of the country’s edible oil sector and its future potential.

The report titled “Pathways and Strategies for Accelerating Growth in Edible Oils Towards the Goal of Atmanirbharta” was released by Suman Bery, Vice-Chairman, in the presence of Prof. Ramesh Chand, Member, NITI Aayog, along with senior officials from the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare (MoA&FW), ICAR institutes, and industry players yesterday. The report was presented by Dr Neelam Patel, Senior Advisor (Agriculture), NITI Aayog.

The report highlights that over the past decades, per capita consumption of edible oil in the country has seen a dramatic rise, reaching 19.7 kg/year. This surge in demand has significantly outpaced domestic production, leading to a heavy reliance on imports to meet both domestic and industrial needs. In 2022-23, India imported 16.5 million tonnes (MT) of edible oils, with domestic production fulfilling only 40-45 per cent of the country’s requirements. This situation presents a substantial challenge to the country’s goal of achieving self-sufficiency in edible oils.

The report comprehensively explores the current state of the country’s edible oil sector and its future potential. It presents a detailed roadmap to address existing challenges, focusing on bridging the demand-supply gap and developing new approaches to attain self-sufficiency. Under a Business-As-Usual (BAU) scenario, the national supply of edible oil is projected to increase to 16 MT by 2030 and 26.7 MT by 2047.

The report considers three distinct approaches for demand forecasting to gain a multifaceted understanding of future edible oil needs: (i) ‘Static/Household Approach’ utilizing population projections and baseline per capita consumption data, assuming a short-term static pattern in consumption behavior; (ii) ‘Normative Approach’ based on the recommended healthy intake levels established by the ICMR-National Institute of Nutrition (ICMR-NIN); and (iii) ‘Behavioristic Approach’ recognizing the potential for behavioral shifts in food consumption patterns due to evolving lifestyles and dietary habits driven by increasing income levels and price fluctuations under two scenarios: in Scenario I, where consumption is capped at 25.3 kg per capita (the average of developed countries), the demand-supply gap is projected to be 22.3 MT by 2030 and 15.20 MT by 2047. In Scenario II, which considers a higher consumption level of 40.3 kg per capita (comparable to the USA), the gap widens to 29.5 MT by 2030 and 40 MT by 2047. In the BAU situation, the country’s edible oil demand will reach Scenario-I by 2028 and Scenario-II by 2038 where under the high-income growth circumstance, assuming an estimated 8 per cent annual growth, The country’s edible oil demand is expected to Scenario-I as early as 2025, a three-year advancement compared to the BAU situation and Scenario-II by 2031, seven years earlier than anticipated in the BAU situation, showcasing even higher demand due to accelerated economic growth.

The report comprehensively explores the current state

Agrotech, Collaborations, Company News, Drones, India, Start ups

The partnership will be implemented in phases, starting with key agricultural regions and expanding to cover the entire country.

 AVPL International, a leading name in the Indian drone ecosystem and a pioneer in revamping the agricultural landscape through technology, has formalised a strategic partnership with DeHaat, a prominent agri-tech platform in India. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in efforts to modernise the agricultural sector by merging advanced technology with grassroots agricultural expertise.

The initiative will see AVPL International’s advanced agricultural technologies being integrated with DeHaat’s well-established network, providing farmers with improved tools and resources. Additionally, AVPL International will provide training to create Dronepreneurs who will be appointed at DeHaat stores to offer drone services to farmers. These Dronepreneurs will be responsible for providing Drone-as-a-Service (DaaS) at each DeHaat store, including data sharing and precision farming initiatives over the next three years. The partnership will be implemented in phases, starting with key agricultural regions and expanding to cover the entire country.

Moreover, the partnership will focus on opening stores in agricultural mandis owned by state governments, in association with the National Council of State Agriculture Boards. AVPL International will also provide DaaS services across 70 locations for conducting non-agri training and deploy one drone entrepreneur for DaaS at each DeHaat store.

AVPL International, with a presence across 12 states, also has a collaboration with the Indian Farmers Fertilizer Cooperative Limited (IFFCO) to conduct drone spray operations across an expansive 50 lakh acres, spanning eight states including Gujarat, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, West Bengal, and Uttar Pradesh.

Amrendra Singh, DeHaat’s Co-Founder, commented, “This partnership with AVPL International aligns perfectly with our mission to empower farmers through cutting-edge technology. By integrating AVPL’s drone and agri-tech solutions with our established network, we aim to significantly enhance the productivity and efficiency of our existing farmer base. This collaboration will not only improve yield but also contribute to the long-term sustainability of the farming practices across our vast network.”

DeHaat is one of the fastest-growing start-ups in the Agri-Tech sector and one of the few companies providing end-to-end solutions and services to the farming community in India. DeHaat is building AI-enabled technologies to revolutionise supply chain and production efficiency in the farming sector. Currently, it operates in 12 Indian agrarian states with an extensive network of over 15,000+ DeHaat Centres and 503 FPOs, serving more than 2.7 million farmers. Additionally, DeHaat offers AI-enabled crop advisory for over 30 crops in regional languages.

Preet Sandhuu, Founder of AVPL International, added, “We are pleased to support DeHaat in its endeavour to empower farmers and make agriculture sustainable in India using advanced technology. Our collaboration with DeHaat is a major step forward in our mission to transform agriculture in India. Together, we aim to provide farmers with the tools and support needed to excel in today’s competitive environment.”

By integrating DeHaat’s extensive farmer network with AVPL International’s innovative technological solutions, the alliance aims to enhance productivity, efficiency, and sustainability in farming practices across India.

To further strengthen this collaboration, AVPL International will establish a Project Management Unit dedicated to training and skilling 140,000 candidates. These efforts will focus on promoting candidates as agri-entrepreneurs, equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills to adopt new technologies and innovative farming practices. The training will encompass a wide range of areas including drone training, drone manufacturing, agri-trainings, agri-retail, and multi-sector skill development, all aimed at creating “Dronepreneurs” and agri-entrepreneurs.

Farmer City International Pvt Ltd (FC), a subsidiary of AVPL International, is also a crucial part of this partnership. FC is dedicated to empowering farmers and enhancing economic opportunities through a unique phygital model that integrates physical stores with digital platforms. As an aggregator of agri-tech start-ups, FC aims to transform Indian agriculture by providing farmers with training, certification, market linkages, and a wide range of agricultural services and products.

The partnership will be implemented in phases,

Acquaculture, Agribusiness, Agro Universities, Agrotech, Animal Health, Collaborations, Company News, India, Live Stock

The VNN vaccine developed by CIBA can prevent vertical transmission of the disease to the offsprings and prevent mortality in fingerlings.

Indian Immunologicals Limited (IIL), a leading vaccine manufacturer, has announced partnership with Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture (CIBA), Chennai, an Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) Institute for the commercial development of a recombinant monovalent viral nervous necrosis vaccine for finfish developed by CIBA.

IIL ventured into aqua business in October 2022 by launching products for aquaculture health market dealing with pond management and fish or shrimp gut management and subsequently announced commercial development of fish vaccines with ICAR’s CIFE, Mumbai and CIFA, Bhubaneswar. India is the 3rd largest fish producer in the global sphere and more than 65 per cent of India’s fish is through Inland Fisheries and Aquaculture. The main constraint to aquaculture globally, however, is disease with an estimate that 20 per cent of all cultured aquatic animals are lost because of infectious diseases, amounting to >10 billion USD in losses annually on a global scale.

Viral nervous necrosis (VNN) or viral encephalopathy and retinopathy (VER) is an acute viral disease affecting several species of marine, brackishwater and freshwater fishes. The disease causes up to 100 per cent mortality in larval and early juvenile stages. Adult fish when infected, is asymptomatic, but can transmit the virus to the offspring through eggs and gonadal fluids.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr K Anand Kumar, Managing Director, Indian Immunologicals Limited said, “IIL is the first in India to get to fish vaccines. We are covering different kind of fishes (fresh water, brackish water, etc.) and culture conditions (pond, cage culture, etc.) and are aware of the challenges associated with being the first, having been in similar situations for many other livestock vaccines. We are working at multiple fronts in defining pathways for commercial development of fish vaccines in India”.

Dr. Priyabrata Pattnaik, Deputy Managing Director, Indian Immunologicals Limited added “IIL as a leading “One Health” organization is committed to developing vaccines for different fish pathogens with a long-term strategic objective of reducing use of antibiotics in aquaculture there by antimicrobial resistance in environment”.

Dr. Kuldeep K. Lal, Director, ICAR-CIBA said “viral nervous necrosis is a major threat for brackishwater aquaculture. The VNN vaccine developed by CIBA can prevent vertical transmission of the disease to the offsprings and prevent mortality in fingerlings. The vaccine can play a significant role in controlling the loss due to VNN in India and other Asian countries”.

Aquaculture in India suffers economic losses due to infections caused by several bacterial, viral, fungal, and other aetiological agents. Currently these infections are being managed by anti-infectives and other conventional measures with varying degree of success. With the rising concern pertaining on anti-microbial resistance (AMR) and chemical free food products both at global and domestic platforms, there is a growing need for better control measures against these infections. Currently there is no fish vaccines available in India on a commercial scale to prevent aquaculture infections.

The VNN vaccine developed by CIBA can

AgroPolicy, India, Sugar industry, Sustainable Energy

The government has approved the allocation of 23 lakh tonnes of rice from the Food Corporation of India (FCI) stock for ethanol production.

The central government has allowed sugar mills and distilleries to produce ethanol from sugarcane juice, syrup, and B-heavy molasses for the ethanol supply year 2024-25. This decision reverses a previous ban imposed on December 15, 2023. The Director of Sugar in the Union Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food, and Public Distribution issued the order lifting the restriction. This decision aligns with agreements between the Food Ministry, the Petroleum and Natural Gas Ministry, and oil marketing companies (OMCs). Both ministries will closely monitor the diversion of sugar for ethanol production to balance it with domestic sugar supply needs.

In addition to this, the government has approved the allocation of 23 lakh tonnes of rice from the Food Corporation of India (FCI) stock for ethanol production. Ethanol producers will be able to participate in FCI auctions to purchase this rice, which can be used as feedstock.

Last year, due to low sugar production estimates and rising prices of sugar, government banned the production of ethanol from sugarcane juice, syrup and B-heavy molasses production at sugar mills. Earlier FCI stopped selling rice for ethanol production due to rising prices. The government has set a target of 20 percent ethanol blending in petrol to 20 by 2025., which is at the level of 13 per cent as per the latest data.

To ensure sufficient domestic sugar supplies, the government has also maintained a ban on sugar exports, despite industry claims that there is adequate stock for export. The industry has called for the export ban to be lifted, citing expectations of better sugar production in the upcoming season.

 Government has also announced that he Food Ministry will continue to monitor sugar production in collaboration with the Petroleum Ministry to ensure a balanced approach to ethanol production and sugar supply.

Welcoming Decision

The sugar mills body, Indian Sugar and Bio-Energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA), has welcomed the decision made by the government. Deepak Ballani, Director General of ISMA, said, “We welcome the decision taken by the government to lift the restriction on ethanol production. On behalf of the industry, ISMA would like to thank the Government of India. Lifting the restriction and allowing unrestricted ethanol production from sugarcane juice, B-Heavy Molasses, and C-Heavy Molasses for ESY 2024-25 is a significant relief for the industry.”

The government has approved the allocation of

Acquaculture, AgroPolicy, India, Live Stock, Schemes - Govt

These initiatives are expected to generate more than five lakh employment opportunities in the fisheries sector.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Mumbai and Palghar in Maharashtra on 30th August 2024. PM will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of various development projects at CIDCO ground, Palghar.

 During his visit, PM will also inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of 218 fisheries projects worth around Rs 1,564 crores, aimed at bolstering the sector’s infrastructure and productivity across the nation. These initiatives are expected to generate more than five lakh employment opportunities in the fisheries sector.

Prime Minister will launch the National Roll Out of Vessel Communication and Support system at a cost of around Rs. 360 crores. Under this project, 1 lakh transponders will be installed in a phased manner on mechanised and motorised fishing vessels in 13 coastal States and Union Territories. The vessel communication and support system are indigenous technology developed by ISRO, which will help in establishing two-way communication while fishermen are at sea and also help in rescue operations as well as ensure safety of our fishermen.

Other initiatives to be inaugurated by the Prime Minister include the development of fishing harbours and Integrated Aquaparks, alongside the adoption of advanced technologies such as the Recirculatory Aquaculture System and Biofloc. These projects will be implemented across multiple states and will provide crucial infrastructure and high-quality inputs to enhance fish production, improve post-harvest management, and create sustainable livelihoods for millions involved in the fisheries sector.

Prime Minister will also lay the foundation stone for important fishery infrastructure projects including development, upgradation and modernization of fishing harbours, fish landing centres and construction of fish markets. This is expected to provide necessary facilities and hygienic conditions for post-harvest management of fish and seafood.

These initiatives are expected to generate more

Agribusiness, Biofuel industry, Company News, Funding, India, Start ups, Sustainable Energy

The company plans to develop advanced Bio-CBG plants, invest in research and development, and create more green jobs in the bioenergy and solid waste management sector.

Biofics Private Limited, a leading company in Bio-CNG Plant Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) and decentralized waste management solutions, has successfully raised Rs 10.4 crore in a Pre-Series A funding round. The round was led by renowned investor Gunavanth Vaid, with additional participation from Upaya Social Ventures.

The newly raised capital will be strategically allocated to scale operations, advance technology, and expand Biofics’ market reach. The company plans to develop advanced Bio-CBG plants, invest in research and development, and create more green jobs in the bioenergy and solid waste management sector.

Commenting on the investment, Gunavanth Vaid expressed his enthusiasm for Biofics’ potential, stating, “Biofics Private Limited is at the forefront of sustainable energy solutions. Their expertise in Bio-CBG technology addresses environmental challenges while generating economic benefits. I am thrilled to be a part of their journey and to see the remarkable impact they will continue to make in the industry.”

Biofics Private Limited has established itself as a leader in waste management and bioenergy, diverting 100 million tonnes of waste away from landfills through innovative solutions. With over 500 projects installed across India and current order book close to Rs 500 crore, Biofics is poised for significant growth in the renewable energy market.

Sunil Mahapatra and Vikas Mishra, promoters of Biofics Private Limited, shared their excitement about the successful funding round, saying, “We are honoured to have the support of Gunavanth Vaid and Upaya Social Ventures in this pivotal stage of our growth. This investment marks a significant milestone in our journey to revolutionize the bioenergy and solid waste management sector. With this support, we are ready to accelerate our growth, enhance technological innovations, and expand our footprint in the renewable energy market.”

Biofics Private Limited, headquartered in Surat, is a leader in the waste management and bioenergy sector. The company specialises in the development and maintenance of Bio-CBG plants and decentralized waste management solutions, with a strong commitment to its mission of “Zero Waste to Landfill” & developing a closed loop “Circular Economy Ecosystem”. Their subsidiary, Biofics Organics, is a trusted developer of high-quality biofertilizers and biopesticides.

The company plans to develop advanced Bio-CBG

AgroPolicy, Finance, India, Schemes - Govt

These initiatives aim at expanding the scope of eligible projects and integrate additional supportive measures to foster a robust agricultural infrastructure ecosystem.

The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, approved the progressive expansion in Central Sector Scheme of financing facility under ‘Agriculture Infrastructure Fund’ to make it more attractive, impactful and inclusive.

In a significant move to enhance and strengthen the agricultural infrastructure in the country and support the farming community, the Government has announced a series of measures to expand the scope of Agricultural Infrastructure Fund (AIF) scheme. These initiatives aim at expanding the scope of eligible projects and integrate additional supportive measures to foster a robust agricultural infrastructure ecosystem.

Viable Farming Assets: To allow all eligible beneficiaries of scheme for creation of infrastructure covered under ‘viable projects for building community farming assets’. This move is expected to facilitate the development of viable projects that will enhance community farming capabilities, thereby improving productivity and sustainability in the sector.

Integrated Processing projects: To include integrated primary secondary processing projects in list of eligible activities under AIF. However standalone secondary projects would not be eligible and would be covered under MoFPI schemes.

PM KUSUM Component-A: To allow convergence of Component-A of PM-KUSUM with AIF for farmer/group of farmers/ Farmer Producer Organizations/ Cooperatives/ Panchayats. The alignment of these initiatives aims to promote sustainable clean energy solutions alongside the development of agricultural infrastructure.

NABSanrakshan: In addition to CGTMSE, it is proposed to extend AIF credit guarantee coverage of FPOs through the NABSanrakshan Trustee Company Pvt. Ltd. also. This expansion of credit guarantee options is intended to enhance the financial security and creditworthiness of FPOs, thereby encouraging more investments in agricultural infrastructure projects.

The expansion in the scope of AIF scheme is poised to further drive the growth, improve productivity, enhance farm incomes and contribute to the overall sustainability of agriculture in the country. These measures also underscore the Government’s commitment to strengthening the agricultural sector through holistic development of farm infrastructure in the country.

Since its launch by the Prime Minister in 2020, AIF has been instrumental in supporting creation of 6623 warehouses, 688 cold stores and 21 silos projects, resulting in additional storage capacity of about 500 LMT in the country. This includes 465 LMT of dry storage and 35 LMT of cold storage capacity. With this additional storage capacity 18.6 LMT of food grains and 3.44 LMT of horticulture produce can be saved annually. Rs. 47,575 Crore has been sanctioned for 74,508 projects under AIF till date. These sanctioned projects have mobilized an investment of Rs 78,596 Crore in agriculture sector, out of which Rs.78,433 Crore has been mobilised from private entities. In addition, infrastructure projects sanctioned under AIF have helped in generating more than 8.19 Lakh rural employment opportunities in the agriculture sector.

These initiatives aim at expanding the scope

Agbiologicals, Company News, Europe, People

With over 20 years of experience, Stephen Ford is a seasoned innovator and plant pathologist with a strong background in mycology and phytopathogenic diseases.

UK based Bionema Group Ltd, announced the appointment of Stephen Ford as Chief Technology Officer (CTO). Ford brings a wealth of expertise in agricultural biotechnology and pathology, particularly in developing eco-friendly solutions for crop protection and sustainable farming practices.

With over 20 years of experience, Stephen Ford is a seasoned innovator and plant pathologist with a strong background in mycology and phytopathogenic diseases. He has an impressive track record in founding and leading companies focused on sustainable agriculture across New Zealand, Australia, and Papua New Guinea. His expertise spans agricultural biotechnology, research and development, pest and disease management, and product commercialisation.

Stephen Ford holds a Master’s in Plant Pathology and a Bachelor’s in Horticulture Science from Massey University, New Zealand. He has been recognised for contributing to the agricultural biotechnology industry with several awards, including the prestigious Auckland University Entrepreneurs Challenge and the NZ Bio Award.

In his new role as CTO at Bionema, Ford will drive the company’s technological vision and strategy. He will establish a centre of excellence in biocontrol in Wales, leading a team of 10 skilled scientists and researchers. His leadership will be crucial in overseeing the development of innovative biotechnology products and ensuring the company’s technology development aligns with its strategic goals. Stephen will also play a key role in managing the build-out of a new research facility in Wales and production facilities overseas. These facilities will be instrumental in ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and the successful commercialisation of Bionema’s products.

Prof. Dylan Jones, Chairman of Bionema Group Ltd, expressed his confidence in Stephen Ford’s ability to lead the company’s technological advancements. He stated, “We are thrilled to have Stephen join our executive team. His vast experience in biotechnology and sustainable agriculture and his proven leadership in bringing innovative products to market make him the ideal person to drive Bionema’s technological advancements. We are confident that our research and development efforts will reach new heights under his leadership, further solidifying Bionema’s position as a leader in sustainable crop protection.”

Dr. Minshad Ansari, CEO and Founder of Bionema Group Ltd, added, “Stephen’s appointment as CTO marks a significant milestone for Bionema. His deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities in our industry, coupled with his passion for sustainable farming, will be instrumental in achieving our mission to develop environmentally friendly solutions for crop protection. We look forward to working closely with Stephen to bring our innovative products to market and make a lasting impact on global agriculture.”

Stephen Ford commented on his new role: “I am excited to join Bionema and contribute to the company’s mission of promoting sustainable farming practices. The opportunity to lead a talented R&D team and work on pioneering biotechnology solutions aligns perfectly with my passion for developing sustainable alternatives to traditional agricultural chemicals. I look forward to driving innovation and helping Bionema deliver on its commitment to enhancing crop protection and plant health”.

With over 20 years of experience, Stephen

Agribusiness, Company News, R&D, Start ups, World

Within the new Golden Ticket program of Bayer, Genvor to receive fully funded access to lab space and equipment in California

Bayer today announced that the company has selected Genvor Inc., a US-based crop protection business, as the recipient of its first Golden Ticket award. Genvor will receive year-long access to lab space and equipment at Bayer’s LifeHub California @AgStart, one of the premier U.S. AgriFoodTech innovation ecosystems. This will allow Genvor to connect with Bayer mentors and experts in Bayer’s global innovator network.

In addition to their work with biological sprays, Genvor is working with antimicrobial peptide (AMP) technology to make small changes within a genome that could amplify disease resistance and enhance nutrition, from seed to sprout. These seed traits are another way that Genvor is working to provide increased disease resistance and nutrition for crops.

“We’re excited that Genvor has been selected as the winner of our Golden Ticket program, and that we will be working with them to scale and grow their innovations,” said Phil Taylor, Director of Open Innovation and Outreach for Bayer’s Crop Science Division. “Genvor’s proprietary use of antimicrobial peptide technology takes advantage of pathways built-in to crops and has the potential to deliver broad spectrum biological sprays for effective controls of many plant diseases.”

The Golden Ticket program is one of the many ways that Bayer is working with start-ups from around the world to accelerate the delivery of agricultural innovation to farmers. In its first year, it focuses on areas of regenerative agriculture, novel crop protection and efficiency approaches, advanced breeding technologies, and applications of synthetic biology. From a broad field of applicants representing 34 cutting edge technologies and approaches, Genvor was selected to receive the award for their ground-breaking approach to crop protection. Through Bayer’s LifeHub California @AgStart, Genvor will also gain access to excellent equipment, resources, and mentorship as they bring their technologies to market.

“Receiving Bayer’s Golden Ticket is a pivotal moment for us, propelling our pioneering peptide design innovations in crop protection,” said Chad Pawlak, CEO of Genvor. “This support will accelerate our journey towards commercialization, enhancing agricultural sustainability and delivering tangible benefits for farmers and the environment globally.”

Bayer’s global network of LifeHubs is located in hotspots of innovation including Monheim, Lyon, Barcelona, California, and Bangalore. In support of the Crop Science mission, they focus on areas of critical innovation in agriculture such as solutions for smallholder farmers, transparency, and sustainability.

Bayer’s LifeHub California @AgStart focuses on innovations within food production systems, including bringing food to market and new technologies. As a part of the larger AgStart facility which hosts the largest wet-lab incubator for startup companies in California’s Central Valley region, the LifeHub also connects the knowledge and experience of Bayer scientists to the leading innovators of the area to assist in developing new technologies.

Within the new Golden Ticket program of

Agribusiness, Agro Universities, Agrotech, Company News, Drones, India

Approval grants IoTechWorld the authority to provide comprehensive training for both small and medium-class drones, marking a significant leap in the company’s capabilities.

IoTechWorld Avigation, a pioneering drone manufacturer in India announced that it has received approval from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to establish a Remote Pilot Training Organization (RPTO). This landmark achievement underscores IoTechWorld’s commitment to advancing drone technology and training in India, positioning the company at the forefront of the rapidly evolving unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) industry.

The RPTO approval grants IoTechWorld the authority to provide comprehensive training for both small and medium-class drones, marking a significant leap in the company’s capabilities. The training programs will be conducted by DGCA-certified instructors, ensuring adherence to the highest standards of safety and proficiency. What sets IoTechWorld’s RPTO apart is its innovative approach to training, which combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on, application-based drone flying experience.

The state-of-the-art RPTO facility is strategically located at Dhumaspur Road, near Delhi Public School, Sector 67A, Badshahpur, Gurugram. This location provides easy access for trainees while offering an ideal environment for both theoretical learning and practical flying exercises & real-time application-based training.

Deepak Bhardwaj, Co-Founder and Director, of IoTechWorld Avigation, expressed his enthusiasm about this development, saying, “This DGCA approval for our RPTO is a game-changer for IoTechWorld and the Indian drone industry as a whole. It empowers us to deliver comprehensive, high-quality training to aspiring drone pilots, further solidifying our position as industry leaders. Our goal is to create a new generation of skilled drone operators who can harness the full potential of this technology across various sectors, particularly in agriculture where our focus lies.”

The newly established RPTO boasts an impressive annual training capacity of approximately 800 individuals. IoTechWorld will offer a diverse range of training programs tailored to meet different needs and drone classifications. These include Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC) courses for both small and medium drones, as well as specialized RPC+OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) courses that provide in-depth knowledge of specific drone models and their applications.

Anoop Upadhyay director & co-founder of IoTech World said “This DGCA approval for our RPTO is a testament to IoTechWorld Avigation’s dedication to pioneering excellence in the drone industry. Beyond building drones, we are also building the future of drone operations in India. By offering comprehensive, hands-on training at our state-of-the-art facility, we are empowering a new generation of drone operators to lead the way in innovative, technology-driven solutions. We look forward to further expanding our drone ecosystem in India with more such facilities.”

One of the standout features of IoTechWorld’s training approach is the integration of real-time, application-based flying exercises. This practical component ensures that trainees not only understand the theoretical aspects of drone operation but also gain valuable hands-on experience in real-world scenarios. The duration of these courses will vary based on factors such as the number of candidates, drone class, and weather conditions, with the shortest program lasting 8 days.

The RPTO license, authorized by DGCA, carries a validity of 10 years from the date of issuance, reflecting the regulatory body’s confidence in IoTechWorld’s long-term commitment to quality training. Similarly, the Remote Pilot Certificates (RPCs) issued by IoTechWorld’s RPTO will be valid for 10 years from the date of issuance, providing graduates with long-term professional credentials.

This DGCA approval marks a significant milestone in IoTechWorld Avigation’s mission to build a robust drone ecosystem in India. By providing high-quality training and certification, IoTechWorld aims to bridge the skills gap in the drone industry, empowering its customers, farmers, and Drone-as-a-Service (DaaS) partners to fully leverage UAV technology.

Approval grants IoTechWorld the authority to provide

Agribusiness, Agro chems – Pesticides, Company News, India

Proclaim XTRA delivers swift, long-lasting control over all damaging lepidopteran insect stages which provide greener and healthier crops with more yield.

Crystal Crop Protection Limited, a leading agrochemical organization, has launched Proclaim XTRA, its latest insecticide specifically formulated for maize and soybean. Proclaim XTRA is designed to provide effective protection against all kinds of caterpillar especially Spodoptera spp. like Fall Army worm. This ensures prolonged crop safety and help farmers to maximise yield during the crop cycle. This innovative solution promises to enhance crop health and productivity, contributing to the success and sustainability of farmers’ produce.

Proclaim XTRA is a contact, systemic and translaminar insecticide that works to paralyze and kill caterpillars. It is an EC formulation that enables efficient control on a wide range of caterpillar pests on crops. The caterpillar rapidly ceases damage to crops after its application, provides rapid control with long duration. It inhibits the metamorphosis of insect which prevents insect to convert into another damaging stage. Farmers should apply Proclaim XTRA at the stage of 30-60 Days and 60-90 Days after sowing of soybean.

Commenting on the launch, Ankur Aggarwal, Managing Director of Crystal Crop Protection Limited said “Crystal’s mission to work closely with the farming community and improve farm profitability and sustainability in crop protection stands at the core where we conceived Proclaim Xtra. This unique formulation not only controls a wide array of caterpillars but will contribute to ensure a better yield for Soybean and Maize farmers. Proclaim Xtra is an amplification for our efforts to build profitable farms for all. Crystal’s legacy of innovative R&D capability is committed to provide sustainable farming solutions to Indian farmers and Proclaim Xtra establishes our endeavour further,”.

“At Crystal, we’re thrilled to introduce Proclaim Xtra—a game-changer in crop protection designed to boost farm profitability and sustainability. This unique formulation effectively targets caterpillars, ensuring higher yields for Soybean and Maize farmers. Proclaim Xtra embodies our commitment to deliver innovative solutions that empower Indian farmers,” added Sohit Satyawali, Sales & Marketing Head of Crystal Crop Protection Limited.

Explaining the impact of the product, Praveen Gour, Portfolio Head Insecticide Crystal Crop Protection Limited said, “We are excited to introduce Proclaim XTRA, a breakthrough insecticide poised to redefine pest management in agriculture. Designed as an EC formulation, Proclaim XTRA delivers comprehensive control against caterpillar through its unique contact, systemic, and translaminar properties. By hampering insect metamorphosis, this solution not only prevents crop damage but also ensures sustained efficacy over time.

The product uniqueness imparts control over the three life stages of the caterpillar i.e. egg, larva as well as adult making it a holistic product for difficult pests like Spodoptera spp,”.

Proclaim XTRA delivers swift, long-lasting control over

Agribusiness, Company News, Finance, Foodgrains, India, Trade

The E-commerce ecosystem has delivered a staggering 75 per cent revenue growth (vs. STLY) * for KRBL, solidifying its position as a pivotal strategic channel for the company’s business expansion.

KRBL Limited, renowned for its flagship range- India Gate Basmati Rice, the World’s No. 1 Basmati Rice brand, has reported robust growth in the domestic market for Q1 FY25, with revenue of Rs 925 crore, marking a 9 per cent year-on-year increase. This growth is underpinned by a significant rise in both volume and realisation for branded Basmati rice, as well as a 23 per cent surge in sales of non-Basmati branded rice.

KRBL has achieved a record-breaking market share of 37.1 per cent (+460 bps*, STLY) in general trade, 44.9 per cent (+280 bps*, STLY) in modern trade, and 42.0 per cent (+350 bps*, STLY) in e-commerce, significantly strengthening its leadership across all market categories in Q1 FY25. The E-commerce ecosystem has delivered a staggering 75 per cent revenue growth (vs. STLY) * for KRBL, solidifying its position as a pivotal strategic channel for the company’s business expansion.

The company’s unwavering efforts to enhance product availability and densify its distribution network are credited with this achievement. Currently, the brand is present in over 1.1 crore households nationwide, with a 10 per cent penetration (8 per cent increase* over STLY) and a retail outlet presence of 3.8 lac outlets.

The company has also received a positive response to its regional rice offerings and the India Gate Classic Biryani Masala. The regional rice segment, featuring aged varieties such as Surti Kolam, Jeera Rice, Sona Masoorie, Wada Kolam, and Gobindo Bhog, has grown by 23 per cent, reflecting strong consumer demand. Similarly, the India Gate Classic Biryani Masala has gained traction across E-commerce and Modern Trade platforms, further enhancing KRBL’s presence in the domestic market.

Ayush Gupta, Domestic Business Head, KRBL, commented on the performance, saying, “Our recipe for success is built on three essential pillars: Consumer, Category, and Channel. We place the consumer at the core of everything we do, constantly evolving with their preferences and translating these insights into impactful initiatives. Our passion goes beyond selling rice; we’re committed to elevating the entire basmati category. By expanding the market, educating both consumers and retailers and preserving Basmati’s heritage, we ensure an uncompromised experience. Additionally, a robust omnichannel presence has been crucial in connecting with the right customers at the right time, driving our growth strategy forward”

As KRBL continues to build on its market leadership, the company remains dedicated to expanding its reach and strengthening its product offerings in the domestic market, ensuring sustained growth and value for its stakeholders.

The E-commerce ecosystem has delivered a staggering

Acquaculture, Agro Universities, Collaborations, India

MoU will explore new opportunities in the area of Fish, Fish cooperative and Fisheries ecosystem from the perspective of education, research, capacity building and consultancy.

In a significant stride towards fostering collaboration in the field of cooperative management within the fisheries sector, the Central Institute of Fisheries Education (ICAR-CIFE) and the Vaikunth Mehta National Institute of Cooperative Management (VAMNICOM) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This is an important step forward in realisation of the vision of establishment of 2 lakh PACS, Dairy and Fishery Cooperatives in every Panchayat.

The signing of this MoU marks the beginning of a strategic alliance aimed at achieving sustainable livelihood development and operational excellence in the fisheries sector through enhanced cooperative management. Both institutions are committed to leveraging their combined strengths to address key challenges and drive progress in this vital field.

Fisheries in India provides livelihood to 14.46 million people and this strategic partnership aims to enhance integration and reach of advanced technology as well as promotion of value addition in fishery cooperatives. VAMNICOM and ICAR-CIFE will together explore new opportunities in the area of Fish, Fish cooperative and Fisheries ecosystem from the perspective of education, research, capacity building and consultancy.

The ceremony, held at the ICAR-CIFE campus in Mumbai, was graced by Dr Ravishankar CN, Director and Vice Chancellor of ICAR-CIFE, and Dr Hema Yadav, Director of VAMNICOM. Scientists, faculty members, and key team members from both institutions were also present on the occasion.

The MoU aims to bolster the synergies between ICAR-CIFE and VAMNICOM, paving the way for enhanced cooperative management practices in fisheries. Through this partnership, the institutions will collaborate on research, training and development initiatives that are expected to significantly impact the fisheries sector by improving cooperative management strategies and practices.

Dr Ravishankar CN expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, noting that the MoU represents a pivotal moment for advancing the shared goals of both institutions. “This partnership will not only strengthen our research capabilities but also extend our reach in delivering impactful training programs. We are excited about the potential advancements in cooperative management that will emerge from this collaboration,” he stated.

Dr Hema Yadav echoed these sentiments, highlighting the mutual benefits and opportunities that the MoU brings. “By joining forces with ICAR-CIFE, we are taking a monumental step towards integrating cooperative management principles into the fisheries sector. This collaboration will enable us to leverage each other’s expertise and resources to drive innovation and improve practices across the board.”

MoU will explore new opportunities in the