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Agribusiness, AgroPolicy, India, Trade

This guidebook outlines essential agri-export procedures, from setting up a legal business to making Indian agricultural products available on the global market.

The National Bank for Agriculture & Rural Development (NABARD) supported Agri Export Facilitation Centre (AEFC) has prepared a comprehensive guidebook on agri-export which was officially released by Manju Rajpal, IAS, Secretary, Cooperative Department RCS, Government of Rajasthan during the 55th High Level Committee (HLC)/ State Level Task Force (SLTF) meeting on Cooperative Credit Structure organized by NABARD RO in Jaipur.

The National Bank for Agriculture & Rural Development (NABARD) has established an initiative titled & setting up of Agri-Export Facilitation Centre (AEFC) at Jodhpur, Rajasthan, funded through its Farm Sector Promotion Fund (FSPF) and implemented by South Asia Biotechnology Centre (SABC), Jodhpur.

The AEFC with support from NABARD, aims to boost Rajasthan’s agricultural exports and serve as a resource centre for various stakeholders viz., agripreneurs, agri-business entities, and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs). The centre is also aimed to equip exporters with the tools and insights they need to succeed in international trade of agricultural commodities and value-added products.

As a significant outcome of this project, the project implementing agency has developed an insightful Agri-Export guidebook titled “From Local to Global: The Agri Exporter’s Roadmap”, authored by Bhagirath Choudhary and Sapna Bohra of South Asia Biotechnology Centre.

The agri-export guidebook ‘From Local to Global: The Agri-Exporter’s Roadmap’ is an attempt to assist key stakeholders to explore and navigate through the complexity of trade in food, said Dr Rajiv Siwach, Chief General Manager (CGM), NABARD, RO Jaipur Rajasthan.

“ I am confident that this guidebook will stand as a steadfast ally to key in the chain, the clarity and essential for navigating through the realm of agricultural exports, emphasized Dr Siwach. This guidebook outlines essential agri-export procedures, from setting up a legal business to making Indian agricultural products available on the global market. It provides practical information designed to inspire young agripreneurs to start their ventures and explore opportunities in the global marketplace. Additionally, a Hindi version of the guidebook is under preparation for improved accessibility and better outreach to the rural community.

With this agri-export guidebook, NABARD aims at empowering aspiring agri-exporters to reach their goals and contribute to our nation’s growth in the global export market.

Keeping in view the bountiful production of high value crops in Rajasthan, the potential for processing, value addition and agri exports has never been more promising, said Dr Bhagirath Choudhary, author of the guidebook and coordinator of NABARD Agri Export Facilitation Centre (AEFC). The agri-export guidebook is meticulously curated with practical information to facilitate the journey from local small farms & farmer producer organization (FPOs) to the global marketplace, asserted Dr Choudhary.

Pushphas Pandey, General Manager, NABARD, representatives from Regional Office of RBI, MD of Rajasthan State Cooperative Bank Ltd. (RStCB), MDs of Jaipur, Ganganagar and Jaisalmer District Central Co-operative Banks, officials from RStCB and other officials from NABARD, RO were also present during the release of the agri-export guidebook.

This guidebook outlines essential agri-export procedures, from

Climate, Company News, Environment, India, Interaction, Sustainability

The summit brought together experts and practitioners to explore partnerships, programmes, and practical technologies for enhancing climate resilience in the agricultural sector.

Arya.ag, India’s largest integrated grain commerce platform, in strategic partnership with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, successfully hosted the second edition of the Rith Summit on 3rd October 2024 at the India Habitat Centre in New Delhi.

Rith Summit 2.0: Building Climate Resilience Together brought together leading agribusinesses, technology providers, international experts, and development institutions to explore partnerships, programmes, and practical technologies that can enhance climate resilience within the agricultural sector. The summit provided a platform for experts to connect, share knowledge, and discover innovative solutions to help secure a sustainable future for farming communities.

The summit featured three insightful panel discussions, covering topics such as bridging corporate objectives with practical realities, key learnings from early adopters of sustainable practices, and maximising impact through technical assistance. The panels were moderated by esteemed industry leaders and featured panellists from renowned organisations, including Khedut, Bayer, Olam, LD, BMGF, IDH, UNDP India, Rainmatter Foundation, IFC, Omnivore, responsAbility, Rabo Foundation, and Tata Trusts.

The summit commenced with a welcome note from Anand Chandra, Arya.ag’s Co-Founder and Executive Director, who emphasised the importance of a market-led model that benefits every stakeholder to make agriculture climate-resilient.

Chattanathan Devarajan, Co-Founder of Arya.ag, shared the significant progress made on the actionable points from Rith 1.0, including establishing Public-Private Partnerships to reduce food loss, fostering multi-stakeholder collaborations for climate action, and developing a digital platform for sustainable sourcing. “In the backdrop of Rith 1.0, we enabled Public-Private Partnership (PPP) models in collaboration with the state governments of Uttar Pradesh and Assam to contribute to climate action. These initiatives have reduced food loss by 7%, enabled the conservation of 12 million litres of water, and saved 48,000 kgs of fertilisers,” he shared.

Siddharth Chaturvedi from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation highlighted Arya’s proactive approach to action, stating, “Reflection and action are crucial, and gatherings like Rith are essential. Adaptation is constant and applies universally, especially in the context of climate change—it is at the core of Arya’s ethos. The language of adaptation must shift from beneficiaries to encompass business people who are both producers and consumers.”

Raman Wadhwa, Director of DAY-NRLM at the Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India, emphasised the importance of collaboration in driving climate action. “Collaboration is key to making our efforts more climate-resilient. No one can tackle this alone; we need multi stakeholder partnerships to drive climate action. The climate crisis is an urgent threat, and the economic cost will be enormous if we don’t act. However, we can turn this challenge into an opportunity,” he said.

Sangeeta Dawar from Bayer Crop Science stressed the need for substantial funding to drive large-scale market transformation.  Subhadeep Sanyal from Omnivore highlighted the urgency of implementing new solutions in the

The summit brought together experts and practitioners

Agribusiness, Company News, Finance, India, Inputs

Out of the IPO proceeds, Rs 100 Crore will be used for working capital, Rs 40 Crore for debt repayment, and Rs 14 Crore for setting up a dry flowable plant at Sonipat, Haryana.

Delhi based Indogulf Cropsciences, a manufacturer of crop protection products, plant nutrients, and biologicals, has filed papers with SEBI for an Initial Public Offering (IPO). The IPO consists of a fresh issue worth Rs 200 Crore and an offer-for-sale (OFS) of 38.54 lakh equity shares by existing shareholders. Om Prakash Aggarwal (HUF) and Sanjay Aggarwal (HUF) will sell 15.4 lakh and 23.13 lakh shares, respectively, through the OFS.

The company operates four manufacturing facilities in Jammu and Kashmir and Haryana, producing various formulations like water-dispersible granules, suspension concentrates, and emulsions. Indogulf exports its products to over 34 countries, with key customers including Krishi Rasayan Exports, Parijat Industries, and Crystal Crop Protection.

Out of the IPO proceeds, Rs 100 Crore will be used for working capital, Rs 40 Crore for debt repayment, and Rs 14 Crore for setting up a dry flowable plant at Sonipat, Haryana.

The company’s crop protection segment accounted for 91 per cent of revenue in FY24, with a net profit of Rs 28.2 Crore, a 25.9 per cent increase from the previous year. Systematix Corporate Services is the sole merchant banker for the issue.

Out of the IPO proceeds, Rs 100

AgroPolicy, India, Supply Chain, Warehousing

Approximately 23,750 cameras would be installed across 561 FCI-owned depots.

The Food Corporation of India (FCI) has initiated the upgradation of the current analog CCTV surveillance system to a modern IP-based CCTV surveillance system in its storage depots. Approximately 23,750 cameras would be installed across 561 FCI-owned depots. This transition is based on a successful Proof of Concept (POC) conducted by the Quality Council of India (QCI) at FSD Shyamanagar. The implementation of this new IP-based system will significantly enhance monitoring capabilities through high-resolution imaging, improved scalability, and remote access.

The Food Corporation of India is crucial to India’s foodgrain management, playing a key role in the procurement, storage, and distribution of food grains. This efficiency not only bolsters the nation’s food security but also supports agricultural development. Among its many functions, storage is vital for fulfilling the needs of the Public Distribution System and various welfare schemes initiated by the Government of India, ensuring that buffer stocks are maintained nationwide. With over 500 FCI-owned depots scattered across the country, effective surveillance of these storage operations is essential at all times.

Over the years, FCI has installed CCTV cameras across various depots to ensure their effective surveillance. In 2013-14 CCTV cameras were installed in 61 depots, with their number increasing to 67 in 2014-15 and extending to 446 own depots by 2018. Currently, a total of 516 FCI depots are under CCTV surveillance. Live Web Feed of these cameras is available on FCI website in “See your depot” tab.

CCTV Cameras installed in the new surveillance system will support onboard analytics features like camera tempering, camera field of view change, camera blur/out of focus, motion detection and trip wire etc. This new Surveillance system will feature the establishment of a centralized Command Control Centre (CCC) and a Network Operating Centre (NoC) at FCI Headquarters.

The health of the installed system will be centrally monitored through the Command Control Centre (CCC), along with a provision for storing incidental data on demand basis. It will also offer advanced video analytics and strengthened security measures, enabling FCI to effectively oversee and manage day-to-day operations across its depots. The proposed system will also include environmental and humidity sensors on pilot basis, which will further enhance its functionality. These sensors will enable the monitoring of environmental conditions, providing valuable data for assessing their impact and ensuring optimal conditions for the system’s performance in the future.

Approximately 23,750 cameras would be installed across

Agribusiness, Agro chems – Pesticides, India, Sustainability

 The industry is increasingly incorporating sustainability in their operations, product offerings and adopting sustainable methods like integrated pest management.

today emphasized on the need of sustainability in agriculture sector, especially in the area of crop protection. “Sustainability is the need of the hour, and our Indian system of agriculture is based on sustainability,” he added.

Addressing the 12th edition of ‘FICCI Crop Protection Summit’, on the theme – ‘Diversity & Inclusion in Sustainability & Crop Protection’, Dr Singh said that the starting of green revolution saw the advent of fertilizers and agro-chemicals use. “It is now going to be the new seed varieties which will help in reduction of chemical and fertilizers use. Varieties are the key to the success of sustainability in future,” he added.

FICCI-PwC knowledge report – ‘The role of crop protection industry in driving sustainability in the agriculture sector’, was released during the session.

Key highlights of the report:

The agriculture sector has been a driving force of the Indian economy since the country’s independence accounting for over 18 per cent of the gross domestic product (GDP) and sustaining the livelihoods of around 42.3 per cent of the population.

As the world’s fourth-largest crop-protection chemicals producer, the Indian crop-protection industry plays a significant role in the country’s economy by boosting agricultural production for both domestic markets as well as for export

The Indian crop-protection industry is the second largest exporter of crop-protection chemicals with USD 5.5 billion worth of exports in 2022

Crop-protection chemicals are often perceived in a negative light attributed to the non-judicious use of majority of crop protection products. However, the industry is increasingly incorporating sustainability in their operations, product offerings and adopting sustainable methods like integrated pest management and the development of biopesticides.

India’s crop-protection sector is incorporating sustainability in its manufacturing, supply chain operations and product development processes

As the crop-protection industry continues to grow, the government needs to implement measures to provide education and training to farmers on safe and sustainable agriculture practices to promote the use of crop-protection chemicals

A collaborative approach is required by both the Government and the Private Sector to solve the challenges of the crop protection industry to work together to develop a safe, high-yielding and sustainable agriculture sector for the country.

Simon T Wiebusch, Chairman, FICCI Crop Protection Committee & Executive Director, Bayer Crop Science Ltd & Country Division Head – Crop Science Division- India, Bangladesh & Sri Lanka said, “Sustainability in the crop protection industry starts at the manufacturing unit and stretches through the entire supply chain, including working with farmers to promote and help them adopt best practices. I laud the Indian crop protection sector for taking the lead adopting sustainable practices, including laying emphasis on including a more diverse workforce, water conservation and renewable energy. It also stretches to responsible packaging and working with farmers on best crop protection practices to ensure global compliance and realize yield, contributing towards our nation’s mission of being Viksit Bharat by 2047.”

Shashi K Singh, Partner, PwC India said that sustainability holds the key to bring balance between food security and environmental security.

N K Rajavelu, Co-Chair, FICCI Crop Protection Committee & CEO – Crop Protection Business, Godrej Agrovet Ltd said crop protection sector plays an important role in food security along with sustainable agriculture practices. The crop protection chemicals industry has the potential to implement sustainable practices and developing eco-friendly solutions.

 The industry is increasingly incorporating sustainability in

Agribusiness, Agrotech, Company News, India, R&D

The facility is designed to conduct pot experiments and advanced trials using soilless media, including hydroponics and cocopeat systems.

Coromandel International Limited, India’s leading agri solutions provider, has inaugurated a state-of-the-art Hi-Tech Polyhouse at its Research & Development (R&D) Farm in Shamirpet, Siddipet district, Telangana, further advancing its leadership in precision agriculture and new product development. This new facility strengthens Coromandel’s commitment to advancing precision agriculture and accelerating innovation in new product development.

The inauguration event was presided over by S Sankarasubramanian, Managing Director and CEO, and was graced by the presence of senior leadership team Amir Alvi, Chief Operating Officer, Amit Rastogi, EVP and Chief Technology Officer, Madhab Adhikari, VP & Head of Sales and Marketing, Babu G, VP and Head Retail Business.

The event also saw the participation of dignitaries from the Department of Horticulture, including Venkat Ramireddy, former Commissioner of Horticulture, Suvarna Devi, Deputy Director of Horticulture, emphasising the significance of this initiative in fostering agricultural innovation. Their participation highlights the growing collaboration between Coromandel International and government bodies in fostering agricultural innovation for the benefit of farmers.

The newly inaugurated Hi-Tech Polyhouse is equipped with the latest technology, enabling Coromandel to conduct advanced field trials of its innovative range of agri-inputs and solutions. The facility is designed to conduct pot experiments and advanced trials using soilless media, including hydroponics and cocopeat systems. These trials will be focused on the precise calibration of nutrients, making the polyhouse a critical testing ground for breakthrough products such as nano fertilizers, biostimulants, liquid fertilizers, slow and controlled release fertilizers, customized and coated fertilizers, plant growth regulators (PGRs), etc.

Over 100 high-net-worth (HNI) farmers and channel partners attended the event, gaining firsthand experience of the polyhouse’s advanced capabilities, live demonstrations of hydroponics, cocoponics, and advanced crop diagnostic tools such as Green Seeker, SPAD meter, K-meter and Refractometer.

Adding to the momentum of innovation, the event also included discussions on the latest advancements in autonomous robotic farm machinery developed by X Machines, a company in which Coromandel has recently made a strategic investment. Attendees observed live demonstrations of this cutting-edge technology and gained valuable insights into how autonomous machinery is transforming the future of agriculture. The use of robotics aims to increase farm efficiency and reduce labour dependency, highlighting Coromandel’s commitment to integrating advanced technology into farming practices.

 S Sankarasubramanian, Managing Director and CEO, Coromandel International Limited emphasized Coromandel’s commitment to supporting the agricultural sector, stating, “We are dedicated to serving the farming community to the fullest extent. With our farmer-first approach, our goal is to provide high-quality inputs and services that enhance the livelihoods of farmers and drive sustainable growth in the sector. The launch of the Hi-Tech Polyhouse underscores Coromandel’s vision for the future of agriculture. We are focused on driving innovation in every aspect of farming from the development of high-efficiency products to incorporating smart technologies that will revolutionize field operations and reduce environmental impact.”

The facility is designed to conduct pot

Agribusiness, Company News, Farm Mechanisation, Finance, India, Machinery - Pre-harvesting, Machinery – Post-harvesting

Total tractor sales (Domestic + Exports) during September 2024 were at 44256 units, as against 43210 units for the same period last year.

Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd.’s Farm Equipment Sector (FES), part of the Mahindra Group, today announced its tractor sales numbers for September 2024.Domestic sales in September 2024 were at 43201 units, as against 42034 units during September 2023.Total tractor sales (Domestic + Exports) during September 2024 were at 44256 units, as against 43210 units for the same period last year. Exports for the month stood at 1055 units.

Commenting on the performance, Hemant Sikka, President – Farm Equipment Sector, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. said “We have sold 43201 tractors in the domestic market during September, a growth of 3 per cent over last year. Monsoon rainfall has seen an increase of 7.5 per cent over LPA and this has helped increase in Kharif sowing of all crops except cotton. Reservoir levels have recovered very well and are now at 13 per cent higher than LPA, which augurs very well for a bumper Rabi crop. On the back of good kharif crop and likely strong Rabi crop, rural sentiments are positive. With positive terms of trade for farmers and upcoming festivals, we expect robust demand for tractors going forward.   In the exports market, we have sold 1055 tractors.”

Total tractor sales (Domestic + Exports) during

Agribusiness, Finance, India, Start ups

Company records a remarkable 55 per cent growth in revenue from the previous year, with industry-leading EBITDA margins of 11.08 per cent.

Nashik based Sahyadri Farms, India’s largest fully integrated farmer-producer company, continues to make significant strides in transforming the horticulture sector and scaling its global presence. Despite global headwinds and challenges posed by geopolitical uncertainties, rising input costs, and climate change, Sahyadri Farms demonstrated robust growth during FY 2023-24. The company achieved a turnover of Rs 15,489 million, a remarkable 55 per cent increase from the previous year, with industry-leading EBITDA margins of 11.08 per cent. Leveraging its integrated value chain, Sahyadri Farms successfully procured and processed over 300,000 MT of crops from 26,000+ farmers, up by 25per cent. The company’s ongoing investment in R&D, operational efficiency, and sustainable practices ensured that it continued to navigate global challenges while contributing to India’s economic growth and food security.

Global Presence and Market Leadership

Sahyadri Farms has positioned itself as a leader in the global fresh produce market. With exports to over 40 countries, including major markets in Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia, Sahyadri Farms holds a dominant position as India’s largest exporter of table grapes.

Beyond grapes, Sahyadri has expanded its portfolio to include bananas, pomegranates, and other fruits, which are now gaining a foothold in lucrative global markets.

The company’s focus on quality, traceability, and sustainability has been key to its success. Sahyadri Farms has invested heavily in research and development (R&D), trialling new fruit varieties that are more climate-resilient and easier to cultivate, ensuring higher yields and reduced costs for farmers. The company’s global reputation for excellence is built on its ability to provide premium-grade produce, meeting the strictest quality standards set by international buyers.

Robust Infrastructure for Growth

Sahyadri Farms operates state-of-the-art processing facilities across two campuses, with a combined land area of 170 acres in Nashik and Nanded. Together, these facilities have a processing capacity of 3,500 MT of horticultural produce daily, supported by cutting-edge packhouses, cold storage units, and value-added product lines. These facilities not only extend the shelf life of fresh produce but also ensure minimal post-harvest losses, creating a more sustainable and profitable system for farmers.

To further consolidate its leadership in the global market, Sahyadri Farms has developed multiple Strategic Business Units (SBUs) focused on fresh exports, processed products, and domestic supply chain management. Each SBU operates with a clear objective – whether it is increasing the export share, or ensuring that domestic consumers receive fresh, quality produce year-round. These SBUs are key to Sahyadri Farms’ strategy of delivering end-to-end solutions for both farmers and consumers.

Investments and Expansion Plans

In recent years, Sahyadri Farms has attracted significant investments from marquee global investors, positioning the company for accelerated growth and expansion. These investments have allowed Sahyadri Farms to upgrade its infrastructure, enhance its digital platforms, and strengthen its global distribution network. This infusion of capital is preparing the company for its next phase of growth, as it seeks to deepen its presence in existing markets and enter new international arenas.

Speaking at the Company’s Annual General Meeting, Vilas Shinde, Chairman and Managing Director of Sahyadri Farms, said, “For over a decade, we have focused on empowering farmers while creating sustainable value across the supply chain. As we continue to innovate, scale, and expand our reach into global markets, we remain committed to ensuring that our growth benefits not only our farmers but also consumers and the environment.”

By creating a strong farmer-owned brand, Sahyadri Farms is establishing itself as a trusted name in fresh and processed produce, known for quality, sustainability, and innovation. This brand, driven by the collective strength of thousands of farmers, is poised to become a household name not just in India, but globally.

Poised for Global Leadership

As Sahyadri Farms looks to the future, it is well-positioned to lead the global fresh produce industry. With its focus on innovation, sustainability, and farmer empowerment, the company is setting new benchmarks in the agrifood sector. By leveraging its extensive farmer network, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and strong brand, Sahyadri Farms is on a path to becoming a dominant force in international trade.

The company’s continued investment in R&D, digital transformation, and brand-building will further enable it to meet the rising global demand for safe, high-quality, and traceable produce. As Sahyadri Farms continues to expand its footprint globally, it remains committed to delivering value at every stage of the supply chain.

Commitment to Sustainability

Sustainability lies at the core of Sahyadri Farms’ operations. The company has implemented a range of eco-friendly initiatives, including solar energy generation, biogas production, and micro-algae-based water treatment systems.

In FY 2023-24 alone, Sahyadri Farms generated over 1,098 MWh of solar power and 374,200 kWh from biogas, reducing its carbon footprint significantly. These initiatives reflect Sahyadri Farm’s dedication to environmental stewardship, ensuring that its growth is aligned with long-term sustainability goals.

Additionally, Sahyadri Farms has embraced a circular economy approach by developing systems that repurpose agricultural by-products into high-value goods. Through its BioActives unit, Sahyadri Farms extracts valuable compounds from waste, such as seeds and peels, to create products for industries like cosmetics, nutraceuticals, and animal feed.

Company records a remarkable 55 per cent

Agbiologicals, Biofertilizers, Fungicides, Herbicides, Opinions, World

By Dr Minshad Ansari, CEO and Founder, Bionema Group, Wales, United Kingdom

The agricultural landscape is profoundly transforming as the global drive toward sustainability accelerates. The sector’s projected growth to a staggering $1.2 trillion by 2034 signals immense economic potential and underscores a significant shift toward environmentally responsible farming practices. With the agricultural biologicals market forecasted to surge from $16.7 billion in 2024 to $31.8 billion by 2029 (Markets and Markets, 2024), alongside significant expansions in agrochemicals and organic food markets, we are on the brink of a revolution in how food is grown, protected, and consumed.

Unprecedented Growth in Agricultural Biologicals

The global agricultural biological market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.5 per cent, reaching $31.8 billion by 2029. Agricultural biologicals—including biopesticides, biofertilisers, and biostimulants—are essential to sustainable farming practices. These products enhance crop protection, improve nutrient efficiency, and restore soil health while avoiding the environmental damage associated with synthetic chemicals.

Several key factors are driving this shift:

•Consumer Demand for Organic Produce: Globally, consumers increasingly seek natural, chemical-free products, pushing farmers to adopt biological alternatives.

•Stricter Regulations: Governments in Europe, North America, and other regions are implementing stricter controls on chemical inputs, speeding up the transition to biologicals.

•Environmental Awareness: The adverse effects of chemical-intensive farming on ecosystems are becoming more apparent. Biologicals offer a sustainable solution with minimal environmental harm.

Regional Drivers of Growth

The Asia-Pacific region is set to be a significant growth engine for agricultural biologicals. Countries like India and China, with vast agricultural sectors and growing populations, are increasingly focusing on sustainable farming practices. Thanks to its stringent regulatory environment, Europe continues to play a leading role, mainly through the EU’s Farm to Fork strategy, which aims for a 50 per cent reduction in pesticide use by 2030.

The U.S. market is expanding rapidly in North America due to increased investment in biological research and innovation. Latin America, especially Brazil, is emerging as a critical player in biologicals, driven by its leadership in organic farming and alternatives to agrochemicals.

Agrochemicals: A Market in Transition

Despite the rise of biologicals, the agrochemicals market is expected to grow from $365.6 billion in 2024 to $491.69 billion by 2032 (Market Research Future, 2024). However, the narrative surrounding agrochemicals is shifting. Farmers are increasingly adopting integrated pest management (IPM) strategies that combine biologicals with synthetic chemicals, balancing yield targets with environmental sustainability.

Agrochemicals will still play a role in global food production, but their use will increasingly be complemented by biological solutions to reduce environmental impact. This hybrid approach is critical in regions where fully transitioning to biological methods is not feasible due to scale, cost, or other constraints.

Organic Food: A Powerhouse Market

The global organic food market is forecasted to rise from $228.35 billion in 2024 to $658.38 billion by 2034 (Precedence Research, 2024). This reflects a significant shift in consumer preferences toward healthier, environmentally friendly food choices.

Organic farming emphasises sustainability, biodiversity, and soil health, making agricultural biologicals a natural fit for this market. Biopesticides, biofertilisers, and biostimulants are at the core of organic farming systems, replacing chemical inputs with natural solutions aligned with organic certification principles. Countries like Germany, the U.S., and France lead this trend, with robust organic farming sectors and consumers willing to pay premiums for organic products.

Regulatory frameworks shaping the market

The regulatory landscape is pivotal to the growth of agricultural biologicals. In the European Union, the regulatory framework has become increasingly favourable for biologicals, particularly with the implementation of the European Green Deal and the Farm to Fork strategy, which promote sustainable food systems and aim to reduce pesticide use significantly. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has also streamlined the biopesticide registration process, encouraging faster adoption.

In Brazil, one of the world’s largest agricultural markets, regulatory reforms have accelerated the approval of biological products. The country’s leadership in organic farming and favourable policy environment make it a key player in driving biological adoption in Latin America. Similarly, India has introduced initiatives through the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and its Farm Science Centres (KVKs) network to promote biological products.

However, challenges remain, particularly in harmonising regulations across regions. Global regulatory collaboration is necessary to establish consistent standards, reduce registration bottlenecks, and foster innovation.

Key trends driving growth

1.Innovations in Microbial Technology: Microbial research advances enable the development of highly effective biological products that target specific pests, improve nutrient uptake, and enhance plant resilience. Innovations in formulation technologies, such as encapsulation and controlled-release systems, are improving the stability and efficacy of biologicals, making them more viable for large-scale farming.

2.Consumer Awareness and Organic Certification: As consumers become more conscious of the environmental impact of their food choices, demand for organic and sustainably produced food is rising. This shift drives the need for biological inputs that meet organic certification standards, further boosting the adoption of biological solutions.

3.Climate-Smart Agriculture: Agriculture significantly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Agricultural biologicals, particularly soil microbes, play a crucial role in mitigating climate change by enhancing carbon sequestration, improving soil health, and reducing the carbon footprint of farming practices.

Despite rapid growth, the agricultural biologicals market faces several challenges:

•Regulatory Hurdles: Fragmented regulatory environments across regions slow the approval process for new biological products. Harmonising regulations will be vital in accelerating innovation and adoption.

•Farmer Education and Confidence: Many farmers remain sceptical of biological products due to a lack of knowledge or previous experiences with ineffective or ingenuine products. Education and field demonstrations are essential for building farmer confidence and ensuring widespread adoption.

• Supply Chain and Scalability: The infrastructure needed to produce, store, and distribute biological products at scale is still developing. Investments in supply chain logistics, cold storage, and distribution networks will be critical to meeting future demand.

The Future of Sustainable Agriculture

The $1.2 trillion surge in the agricultural biologicals, agrochemicals, and organic food markets reflects more than just economic growth—it signals a global commitment to transforming agriculture into a sustainable, eco-friendly industry. As the world grapples with climate change, food security, and environmental degradation, the rise of agricultural biologicals offers a pathway to a healthier and more sustainable future.

Innovations in microbial technology, growing consumer demand for organic products, and favourable regulatory frameworks are positioning agricultural biologicals as a cornerstone of global food production. By investing in these sustainable solutions today, we are laying the foundation for a future where agriculture feeds the world and preserves the planet for generations to come.

Agriculture is no longer just about yields; it’s about balancing productivity with responsibility. As the agricultural biological sector evolves, it is poised to create a future where farming is both economically viable and ecologically sound.

By Dr Minshad Ansari, CEO and Founder,

Agribusiness, India, Oilseeds, Opinions

 By Dr Anupam Barik, Former Additional Commissioner (Oilseeds), Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India.

Around 50 per cent of the products that we find in our neighbourhood shops include palm oil. These products range from cooking oil to personal care items. Palm oil is a modern-day marvel. It is widely used in a broad variety of items, both culinary and non-food, all over the world because of its versatility and affordability, which contribute to its appeal.

India imports over 9 million tonnes of palm oil per year, making it one of the top users of palm oil in the world, according to reports. The use of edible oil in India increased by 24 per cent during the fiscal year 2022-23, despite the fact that India’s import bill for edible oil reached Rs 1.57 trillion by October 2022. The country is therefore susceptible to variations in international markets, geopolitical conflicts, and shifts in global demand as a result of these circumstances. There is a direct correlation between the fluctuations in palm oil prices and the prices of these consumer items.

Palm oil accounts for around 38 per cent of our total consumption of edible oils. Acquiring self-sufficiency in domestic production can help us get closer to lessening our dependency on goods imported from other countries. The initiation of the National Mission on Edible Oils-Oil Palm (NMEO-OP) by the Indian government in the year 2021 is a significant and encouraging move in this regard. The expansion of oil palm cultivation to a total of 1.67 million hectares by 2029-30 and 1 million hectares by 2025-26 is the objective of this proposal. The objective of the mission is to increase India’s palm oil production to 11 lakh metric tonnes by 2025-26 and then to 28 lakh tonnes by 2028-29. This would be accomplished via an investment of more than $ 1 billion (Rs 11,040 crore).

It is anticipated that the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, along with seven states in the northeastern region, will be the primary locations for the cultivation that falls under the NMEO-OP. Additionally, the government has provided financial assistance for the building of oil palm processing mills, particularly in places that are hilly and located in the northeast. Viability Price (VP) is the name given to the price guarantee that the government of India has provided to oil palm growers for the first time. This guarantee is for the FFBs, which are also known as fresh fruit bunches.

No viable alternative to palm oil

In terms of its yield and the variety of distinctive qualities it possesses, there is really no viable alternative to palm oil, with the exception of, of course, sustainable palm oil. The European Palm Oil Alliance reports that palm oil accounts for 6.6 per cent of the land that is farmed for oils and fats, while it is responsible for 38.7 per cent of the total output. Making the switch to sustainable palm oil is a more effective solution. Furthermore, if companies were to move to alternative vegetable oils like rapeseed, olive oil, and soybean, it would possibly imply nine times as much cropland, which would contribute to the loss of biodiversity and possible deforestation. India has the ability to link itself with international sustainability standards, such as the Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil Accreditation, to extend its efforts to promote sustainability.

Additionally, there is a growing awareness among consumers as well as a preference for products that are sourced in an ethical manner, which is where sustainable palm oil comes into play. Because of this need, fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) companies may be encouraged to implement environmentally responsible business practices and establish a price environment that is stable. It is essential to cultivate palm oil in a sustainable manner since doing so helps to limit the amount of environmental degradation, which in turn lowers the expenditures that will be incurred in the future for the control of environmental damage.

In comparison to sugarcane and rice, palm oil requires far less water, which enables farmers to generate a consistent income. Additionally, it requires less energy, fertilisers, and pesticides to be used. It is advised that palm oil be grown on only cultivable land in India, and not on forest territory. Rice is being replaced by palm oil in areas that are suited for its development. It is a well-known fact that palm oil is an exceptionally productive crop. It has the capacity to produce between four and five tonnes of oil per hectare per year, which is more than any other vegetable oil production. In the event that manufacturers were to transition to alternative vegetable oils such as soybean, olive, or rapeseed oil, the costs would skyrocket, resulting in a large increase in the cost of things that are commonly used.

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

 By Dr Anupam Barik, Former Additional Commissioner

Agribusiness, E-commerce, India, Opinions, Trade

 By Bilal Khimji, Co-Founder, TradeBridge

The global B2B e-commerce in the agriculture market was valued at $6.90 billion in 2021 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.4 per cent from 2022 to 2030. Polaris Market Research & Consulting, Inc noted that factors such as increased penetration of the internet along with the growing usage of mobile phones and the benefits of these platforms are driving the B2B e-commerce in agriculture market growth. According to Tracxn Technologies report there are over 712 companies in India in B2B Farm Produce E-Commerce space as on September 12, 2024. Over 1389 mandis of 23 states and four union territories have been integrated into the National Agriculture Market (eNAM), a platform that was launched in 2016 and has over 1.77 crore registered farmers, 2.53 lakh registered traders and 3510 FPOs onboarded as on February 11, 2024.

The agricultural sector is the backbone of the global economy, contributing significantly to food security, employment, and overall economic growth. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the global food market is expected to reach a staggering $8 trillion by 2030. This immense growth presents a wealth of opportunities, particularly for trade, supply-chain, Agri-Tech and B2B trade platforms. While there are a growing number of players in the market for perishable commodities, no one has been able to crack the code for non-perishable agricultural commodities yet.

Challenge: Fragmented Mandis Hinder Efficiency

India’s traditional agricultural market relies on a network of mandis, which while crucial, suffer from inefficiencies:

Multiple Intermediaries: Layers of middlemen chip away at farmer profits and inflate consumer prices.

Limited Transparency: Opaque pricing leaves farmers vulnerable to exploitation.

Restricted Market Reach: Local mandis limit farmers’ access to broader markets and potentially better pricing.

Poor Infrastructure: Lack of proper storage facilities leads to spoilage and reduces profits.

Limited Information Access: Farmers lack real-time data on market trends, hindering informed decision-making.

These inefficiencies have a domino effect.

Reduced Farmer Income: Intermediary commissions deplete profits, discouraging investment in better practices and hindering overall agricultural productivity.

Higher Consumer Prices: Supply chain inefficiencies lead to higher costs for fresh produce.

Post-Harvest Losses: Inadequate infrastructure and handling practices cause significant losses, impacting food security.

Opportunity: Non-Perishables and B2B Platforms

Unlike perishable goods, non-perishables like dried fruits, spices, cereals, and oilseeds offer greater flexibility in storage and transportation, opening doors for international trade. B2B platforms can revolutionise this market by:

Streamlining Trade: Replacing complex networks with direct connections between buyers and sellers increases transparency and simplifies transactions.

Enhanced Market Access: Platforms connect businesses with a wider pool of potential partners, both locally and globally, empowering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to compete internationally.

Improved Price Discovery: By aggregating data on supply, demand, and market trends, platforms provide valuable insights for both buyers and sellers, leading to fairer pricing for farmers and competitive prices for buyers.

Reduced Transaction Costs: Eliminating unnecessary intermediaries and automating processes leads to significant cost reductions for businesses, boosting profitability for all parties.

Increased Farmer Empowerment: By removing middlemen, B2B platforms allow farmers to sell at their own pricing, increasing their profit margins.

Power of Technology: Transforming Supply Chains

Technology is fueling the rise of B2B trade platforms. Some key advancements include:

Blockchain Technology: Ensures secure and transparent tracking of products throughout the supply chain, fostering trust, reducing fraud, and enabling efficient logistics management.

Big Data Analytics: Provides valuable insights into market trends, consumer preferences, and production patterns, enabling better demand forecasting, inventory management, and risk mitigation strategies.

Artificial Intelligence (AI): Automates tasks like order processing, logistics planning, and credit risk assessment, increasing efficiency, streamlining processes, and minimising human error.

Beyond Technology: Importance of Distribution

Effective distribution is crucial. A robust network of warehouses, transportation facilities, and logistics providers ensures timely delivery of non-perishable goods. Platforms that can seamlessly integrate with existing networks or develop their own efficient systems will have a significant competitive edge.

Niche of Efficiency: Perishables vs Non-Perishables

B2B platforms need to differentiate between perishables and non-perishables. Perishables, like fruits and vegetables, have short shelf lives and require specialised cold-chain management. Non-perishables require a different approach. B2B platforms focusing on non-perishables can carve out a niche by offering:

Standardised Quality Assessments: Ensure consistent product quality for buyers.

Flexible Warehousing Options: Cater to the specific storage needs of various non-perishable commodities.

Efficient Transportation Solutions: Designed for longer shelf-life products.

Why the Lag?

Despite its potential, the non-perishable B2B trade space remains underutilised. Fragmented supply chains and an opaque environment due to intermediaries hinder direct interaction between buyers and sellers.

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

 By Bilal Khimji, Co-Founder, TradeBridgeThe global B2B

Agribusiness, Floriculture, India, Opinions

Co-authored by Amit Patjoshi, CEO, Palladium India and Biswajit Behera, Associate Director, Palladium India

India’s export economy has great potential in the floriculture sector, and FPOs are leading the way in harnessing this potential. India’s floriculture FPOs can have a significant impact on increasing exports and empowering smallholder farmers, particularly women in rural areas, by embracing climate-smart practices, improving infrastructure, and strengthening market connections.

Floriculture is a rapidly emerging sector in India, commonly referred to as a “sunrise sector” due to its immense potential for income generation and employment creation, especially for small and marginal farmers, many of whom are women. The Indian floriculture market is projected to reach a volume of approximately $5.9 billion by 2030, growing at a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 7-8 per cent. The sector primarily deals with two types of flowers: cut flowers and loose flowers, with a significant portion of sales occurring through organised retail.

India’s export performance in floriculture has been commendable, though there is still much-untapped potential. In 2023, India exported around 19,600 metric tonnes of floriculture products, worth approximately $86 million. Major export destinations include the United States, UAE, Germany, Canada, Japan, and Malaysia. However, despite the promising figures, the volume of floriculture exports remains modest in comparison to the country’s production capacity.

Geographically, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu lead the country’s floriculture production, accounting for more than 35 per cent of total production. Other key states include Karnataka, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Odisha. These latter states not only produce significant quantities of flowers but also have the potential to serve international markets if supported by improved infrastructure, value chains, and export-oriented business models.

Odisha: Strengthening FPOs Value Chain

Odisha has been an emerging player in India’s floriculture sector, with key districts such as Sambalpur, Rayagada, Ganjam, Puri, Bhadrak, and Angul being major centres for flower cultivation. Farmers in these districts primarily grow marigolds and roses, catering to the local market. However, the state’s floriculture potential extends beyond domestic sales, particularly through the involvement of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs).

FPOs have become essential in strengthening the floriculture value chain in Odisha. The first floriculture FPO in the state was established in 2021 by Palladium, in collaboration with NABARD. This initiative trained around 650 women farmers in enhanced production techniques, post-harvest practices, and business planning to cater to local market demands. However, to meet export market requirements, significant challenges remain, particularly related to climate variability, market fluctuations, and a lack of infrastructure.

The floriculture value chain in Odisha involves multiple stakeholders, including smallholder farmers, FPOs, research institutions, and government agencies. FPOs play a critical role by aggregating the produce of small and marginal farmers, helping them achieve economies of scale, access to markets, and technical support. By working collectively, farmers under FPOs can reduce production costs, adopt advanced technologies for post-harvest management, processing and value-addition in floriculture value chains and negotiate better prices in both local and international markets. Furthermore, FPOs can facilitate partnerships with research institutes to drive innovation and improve yields, while also ensuring that sustainable practices are adopted to combat climate-related challenges.

Business models through FPOs

The business model for floriculture exports through FPOs hinges on the role of FPOs, which serve as the link between small farmers and the broader market. The aggregation of products through FPOs ensures that smallholder farmers, who individually may lack the resources or scale to export, can still participate in international markets.

The primary steps in the floriculture export business model include:

1. Production: FPOs provide access to high-quality seeds, fertilisers, and technical knowledge to improve yield and ensure the quality of flowers meets export standards.

2. Aggregation and Processing: FPOs collect the flowers from member farmers and handle post-harvest processing such as grading, packaging, and storage. This ensures that the flowers are of a uniform standard, which is critical for export.

3. Logistics: FPOs manage the transportation of flowers to international markets. In the case of cut flowers, this often involves specialised cold storage and transportation to maintain freshness.

4. Marketing and Export: FPOs, in collaboration with export agencies, identify international markets, negotiate prices, and handle the regulatory requirements of different countries.

FPOs also play a crucial role in ensuring that farmers receive fair prices for their produce by eliminating intermediaries and improving their bargaining power. In the case of Odisha, where floriculture is still in its developmental phase, the business model emphasises capacity building, market linkages, and scientific research to enhance production and ensure that smallholder farmers can access international markets.

Recently, Palladium has successfully facilitated an agreement between the Sabuja Sanatanpali Farmer Producer Company Limited and the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), National Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow. This partnership focuses on promoting scientific research in floriculture, including plant-environment interactions and biotechnological approaches for improving plant quality. Such collaborations are pivotal in helping FPOs adapt to climate challenges and improve production levels, ensuring the competitiveness of Odisha’s floriculture in export markets.

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

Co-authored by Amit Patjoshi, CEO, Palladium India

Agribusiness, AgroPolicy, India, Industry Reports / Analysis, Trade

India’s agricultural exports touched $48.9 billion in 2023-24, registering an 8 per cent decline from $53.2 billion in 2022-23. The drop in agricultural exports was mainly due to the export ban on wheat, rice, sugar and onions. Meanwhile, out of 24 principal commodities of the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) 17 have recorded positive growth during the period, which included fresh fruit, buffalo meat, processed vegetables, basmati rice and banana. APEDA contributes a significant 51 per cent of agri-exports. From its modest beginnings with annual exports of $0.6 billion in 1987-88, proactive interventions by the APEDA have taken agricultural exports to a remarkable figure of $26.7 billion in 2022-23. This journey of exponential growth is underscored by expanding the export basket to over 200 countries, showcasing a commendable Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 12 per cent. To further increase India’s share in agri export in the global market, the government has identified 20 farm products whose global imports are over $405 billion for a focussed push in the coming years. The strategy entails an action plan for the next five years to capture 10 per cent of the world trade in the 20 shortlisted products. India can achieve this provided the government addresses the issues of the agriculture industry. 

On September 14, 2024, in a significant step to boost the export of basmati rice, a premier GI variety of rice of India, the Government of India decided to remove the floor price on the export of basmati rice. This decision was taken in response to ongoing trade concerns and adequate domestic availability of rice. The APEDA will closely monitor export contracts to prevent any non-realistic pricing of basmati rice and ensure transparency in export practices.

It may be noted that, in August 2023, a floor price of $1,200 per metric tonne (MT) was introduced as a temporary measure in response to rising domestic rice prices in the wake of tight domestic supply situation of rice and to curb any possible misclassification of non-basmati rice as basmati rice during exports, given the export prohibition on non-basmati white rice. Following representations from trade bodies and stakeholders, the government then rationalised the floor price to $950 per MT in October 2023.

Besides, to boost exports of onions, the government has decided to remove the Minimum Export Price (MEP) on onions and reduce the export duty from 40 to 20 per cent. This will increase onion exports, resulting in a rise in income for onion-producing farmers. The government has also decided to remove the MEP on basmati rice, enabling basmati rice-producing farmers to export and earn higher profits. Sharing this on ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) on September 14,  the Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Amit Shah, said that this will boost exports to ensure that farmers receive a fair price for their crops, allowing them to earn maximum value for their produce.

Hailing the government’s decision, Akshay Gupta, Head – Bulk Exports, KRBL Limited said, “We greatly welcome the government’s resolution to remove the MEP on basmati rice. The timing of this strategic move coincided favourably with the imminent harvest of the new crop. With the removal of MEP, Indian exporters now have the power to offer basmati rice at far more competitive rates on a global scale, seemingly primed to drive a huge surge in export volumes.”

He further said “With new crop sales and export orders set to be finalised, this decision provides greater clarity for importers worldwide regarding India’s policy direction. Moreover, this change is expected to benefit farmers by boosting income and price realisations, as increased demand in the short term is likely due to the competitive pricing from Indian exporters.”

Reacting to this announcement, Pankaj Khandelwal, President – Output business, AgroStar Group, said that the recent policy adjustments, such as removing the MEP on basmati rice and onions, will make Indian produce a lot more competitive in the global market and enable better price realisation for the farmer.

Khandelwal however maintained that India’s role as a major global food supplier continues to gain recognition, with its agricultural products being well-received in international markets. Consistent trade policies will enable global buyers to plan their supply chains more predictably, making India an attractive destination for sourcing fresh produce. For farmers, this consistency allows for better planning, as they can shift their focus toward growing export-quality crops, confident that there will be a reliable demand and fair pricing in global markets. In the medium term, it also encourages greater investment in supply chain capabilities across the value chain.

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

India’s agricultural exports touched $48.9 billion in