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Agbiologicals, Agrotech, Company News, Trade, World

As part of the agreement, which is expected to close on June 1st, Syngenta will also lease the Novartis fermentation pilot plant and science laboratories located in Basel, Switzerland.

Syngenta, a world leader in developing the next generation of biologicals products for agricultural use, is significantly expanding its biologicals research and development capabilities. Company announced that it has acquired the Novartis repository of natural compounds and genetic strains for agricultural use, while Novartis maintains exclusive rights to repository for pharmaceutical use. The transaction also includes transfer of the Novartis Natural Products and Biomolecular Chemistry team to Syngenta.

The move gives Syngenta access to an important source of novel leads for agricultural research, and offers Syngenta integrated capabilities in bioengineering, data science, fermentation, downstream processing, as well as analytics. As part of the agreement, which is expected to close on June 1st, Syngenta will also lease the Novartis fermentation pilot plant and science laboratories located in Basel, Switzerland. The acquisition builds upon a successful research collaboration between Syngenta and Novartis since 2019.

This acquisition follows the start-up of Syngenta’s new biologicals production facility in Orangeburg, South Carolina, US. The facility is Syngenta’s first world-scale production facility for agricultural biologicals in the US and will support growing demand for science-based and novel biological solutions in both the North and Latin American markets.

These developments come as Syngenta forges multiple collaborations to accelerate the pace of biologicals innovation, as well as fortify its position in key growth areas such as nutrient use efficiency. Over the past months Syngenta has announced various collaborations, including with: 

  • Provivi for new pheromone solutions, targeting devastating pests in key crops across Asia
  • Ginkgo Bioworks to accelerate the launch of innovative biologicals
  • Intrinsyx Bio in the fast growth area of nutrient use efficiency Lavie Bio to discover and develop novel bio-insecticide
  • Lithos Crop Protect for sprayable pheromone targeting the Western Corn Rootworm pest
  • TraitSeq to leverage AI to accelerate the development of innovative biologicals.

Camilla Corsi, Syngenta’s Global Head of Crop Protection Research and Development, said: “We invest significantly to offer the industry’s most advanced pipeline of innovative agricultural solutions. The integration of these world-class assets opens a new chapter on our ability to develop cutting-edge biological solutions for farmers and reflects our commitment to drive solutions that continue to elevate the sustainability of agriculture.”

Jonathan Brown, Global Head of Syngenta’s Seedcare and Biologicals business, said: “With the broadest and most comprehensive portfolio across all segments of biological products, we have established ourselves as a leader in the industry. In a constantly growing market, it is important to ensure a pipeline capable of supporting continuous evolutions. I am convinced that this acquisition will allow us to maintain our capacity to innovate.”

As part of the agreement, which is

Agribusiness, Agrotech, Digital Technologies, Japan

Yamaha Agriculture, Inc. acquires Robotics Plus and The Yield to enable precision agriculture for growers.

 Japan based Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. announced the launch of Yamaha Agriculture, Inc., a new company focused on delivering autonomous equipment and AI-powered digital solutions that help growers in the specialty crop market become more sustainable, profitable and resilient in the face of scarcer resources and climate change. Through the strategic acquisitions of Robotics Plus1 and The Yield, Yamaha Agriculture will provide robotics solutions for spraying, weeding and other field operations, while leveraging advanced data analytics and AI to enable precision farming and data-driven decision making for growers of wine grapes, apples and other specialty crops in North America, Australia and New Zealand.

“Establishing Yamaha Agriculture is a pivotal milestone in our Long-Term Vision 2030, ART for Human Possibilities. This initiative embodies the three core pillars we aim to achieve in our 2030 Long-Term Vision: Advancing Robotics, Rethinking Solutions and Transforming Mobility,” said Jim Aota, Chief Strategy Officer for Yamaha Motor. “It also aligns with Yamaha’s global technology roadmap, focusing on advanced energy management, intelligent systems and software-driven solutions. With the launch of this new company, we aim to leverage Yamaha’s technological expertise to contribute to sustainable and profitable farming using a customer-centric approach. Growers will be able to better address challenges around labor shortages, resource scarcity and impacts from climate change.”

Robotics Plus provides an autonomous hybrid vehicle capable of multiple activities including spraying and weed control, addressing key labor challenges faced by growers. The Yield brings advanced data analytics and AI-powered models to deliver yield predictions and optimize on and off-farm operations. Leveraging Yamaha’s long heritage as a trusted manufacturer of high-performance products, the new agriculture business will scale these two innovative solutions with a focus on quality, reliability and safety. These complementary technologies will be integrated to create a comprehensive platform that enables precision farming for growers. By combining autonomous equipment with intelligent data insights, Yamaha Agriculture helps growers reduce input costs, optimize resource utilization and improve overall farm productivity and sustainability.

“Guided by our mission to ensure growers are sustainable, profitable and resilient, Yamaha Agriculture recognizes that the challenges facing specialty crop growers require thoughtful solutions that will take time to develop,” said Nolan Paul, Group CEO of Yamaha Agriculture, Inc. “We believe meaningful innovation in agriculture emerges through close collaboration with growers and industry partners. The capabilities of Robotics Plus in robotics and automation and The Yield in AI-powered analytics represent two important building blocks in addressing these challenges. As we work to bring these technologies together, we are committed to a deliberate approach that prioritizes creating real value for growers while maintaining the high standards of quality and reliability for which Yamaha is known.”

Yamaha Agriculture, Inc. acquires Robotics Plus and

Agro Universities, India, Nature, Sustainability

The program brought together 24 participants from 14 countries—Ghana, Tajikistan, South Sudan, Myanmar, Morocco, Ethiopia, Cambodia, Liberia, Mali, Chad, Sri Lanka, Lesotho, Iran, and the Philippines.

A transformative three-week International Training on Landscape Resource Conservation concluded today at the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), strengthening south-south collaboration in the global fight against land degradation and climate change.

The program brought together 24 participants from 14 countries—Ghana, Tajikistan, South Sudan, Myanmar, Morocco, Ethiopia, Cambodia, Liberia, Mali, Chad, Sri Lanka, Lesotho, Iran, and the Philippines—to tackle critical challenges such as land restoration, carbon neutrality, and smallholder farming sustainability.

Organized by ICRISAT, under the aegis of the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Program of the Government of India and supported by ICRISAT’s Dryland Academy, the program provided a platform for sharing global best practices.

Addressing participants, Dr Stanford Blade, Director General-Interim of ICRISAT, highlighted the importance of two-way knowledge exchange and encouraged continued collaboration beyond the workshop.

“This training is not just an academic exercise; it embodies the spirit of South-South collaboration. I urge you to stay connected and build on this resource base to drive meaningful change,” Dr Blade emphasized. He also acknowledged the support of the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, for facilitating the program.

Dr ML Jat, Deputy Director General-Research (Acting) and Global Program Director, Resilient Farm and Food Systems, ICRISAT, encouraged participants to translate their learnings into tangible actions.

“When you return to your countries, consider how you can apply these insights to benefit your communities. We deeply appreciate the support of your governments and institutions in sponsoring your participation,” said Dr Jat.

At the inaugural session, Dr Ramesh Singh, Principal Scientist & Cluster Lead-ICRISAT Development Center, provided an overview of the course, while ICRISAT’s Global Research Program Directors, Dr Sean Mayes and Dr Victor Afari-Sefa, emphasized the role of collaborative research in addressing global challenges.

The training covered key themes such as landscape hydrology, land resource inventory, natural resource management (NRM) structures, digital tools for landscape management, water budgeting, climate-resilient agriculture, sustainable farming practices, and nutrient management.

The program brought together 24 participants from

Company News

The Udaiti Foundation has released a study showcasing the remarkable strides made by Mahindra’s Swaraj Division and Swaraj Engines Limited (Swaraj) in fostering gender diversity on shop floors

The study highlights the efforts of Swaraj in increasing women representation – growing from just 1.5 per cent in 2013 to over 10 per cent in 2024, thereby setting a benchmark for India’s tractor manufacturing sector. Women employees have lower absenteeism and higher retention rates, contributing to enhanced productivity and operational efficiency, hence making a strong case for their inclusion in the manufacturing sector.

Despite challenges such as limited enrolment in technical trades, cultural resistance, and safety concerns, Swaraj has implemented targeted initiatives to overcome these barriers.

One notable achievement is the integration of women into their foundry facilities, a traditionally male-dominated area requiring physical endurance and technical precision.

Key reasons for this transformation are-

· Workplace redesigns have played a pivotal role in making manufacturing roles more inclusive. Ergonomic adjustments, including robotics, raised platforms, and gravity mechanisms, have minimized physical strain while improving efficiency.

· Collaborations with 15 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs), 5 polytechnics, and Advanced Technical Institutes have helped create a robust talent pipeline.

· Tailored training programs such as dexterity modules and on-the-job training have equipped women with the skills needed to excel.

· Safety measures such as GPS-enabled transport, buddy systems, and women security guards ensure a secure and supportive environment.

Swaraj has also actively engaged with communities by conducting parental counseling and organizing shop floor visits, addressing cultural concerns, and encouraging women to explore careers in manufacturing. Pooja Goyal, Founding CEO of The Udaiti Foundation, commended the efforts, saying, “Swaraj’s journey underscores the transformative impact of investing in skills, infrastructure, and community engagement. It offers a replicable model for the manufacturing sector to drive women’s economic empowerment and significantly contribute to India’s growth story.”

Despite these successes, challenges persist. Women remain under-represented in technical education, with only 400 out of 17,000 students in Punjab’s ITIs enrolled in trades like diesel mechanics and machinists. Furthermore, the reliance on contractual roles limits long-term career growth for women in the sector. Addressing these gaps will require sustained efforts and systemic changes.

Swaraj’s achievements demonstrate that prioritizing gender diversity strengthens workforce resilience and drives operational excellence. This progress serves as an inspiration for companies across industries to create equitable workplaces and unlock the potential of women in India’s economic landscape.

The Udaiti Foundation has released a study

AgroPolicy, Finance, India, Start ups

A flagship initiative to support early and growth-stage startups across 11 key sectors.

The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), in collaboration with Avaana Capital, LetsVenture, Karnataka Digital Economy Mission (KDEM), IVCA, HDFC, among others, announced the launch of the Startup Maha Rathi challenge as part of the second edition of Startup Mahakumbh. A flagship initiative aimed at empowering Indian startups through every nook and corner of the country with funding, mentorship, and strategic guidance, this challenge aligns with India’s long-term vision of becoming a developed economy (Viksit Bharat) by 2047. The challenge is set to provide access to up to a Rs 30 crore fund, mentorship from industry experts, and networking opportunities with global investors. In addition, it will also entail special awards for innovative startups from emerging states and union territories through a dedicated program.

Startup Maha Rathi – Rising towards Viksit Bharat – is designed to open doors for budding entrepreneurs across 11 key sectors, including AI & DeepTech, BioTech & Healthtech, Gaming & Sports, Fintech, Incubators & Accelerators, Mobility, Agritech, B2B & Precision Manufacturing, D2C, ClimateTech, and Defence & SpaceTech. The program would be awarded by the Honourable Minister of Commerce and Industry and is aimed at equipping startups with the necessary resources to scale their operations and contribute to India’s technological and economic advancement. Startups selected through this initiative will gain exposure to global markets through Startup India, access to mentorship from industry veterans, investor networking opportunities, and national-level recognition by DPIIT.

The competition will follow a structured, multi-phase selection process, beginning with the application launch on February 26, 2025, and culminate after a 4-step process in an exclusive live pitching finale from April 3-5, 2025, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. While each startup shortlisted for the grand jury round receive a guaranteed Rs 1 Lakh, top two startups from each sector will be awarded Rs 10 lakh respectively, while the next five will receive Rs 5 lakh each. Next 5 startups in each track will gain access to Rs 3 lakhs each in addition to financial grants, participating startups will receive expert guidance and investor access through a jury comprising 100+ leading VCs, angel investors, and domain specialists from Starup India and organizations such as Avaana Capital, LetsVenture, KDEM, IVCA, HDFC among many others.

Sharing his thoughts on the launch, Piyush Goyal, Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, said, “The Startup Maha Rathi initiative marks a pivotal stride toward achieving India’s vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047.’ By offering strategic financial support and expert mentorship, this initiative will empower the nation’s most promising startups to scale, innovate, and drive transformative change, strengthening India’s position as a global leader in entrepreneurship and innovation.”

Amardeep Singh Bhatia, Secretary, DPIIT, added, “India’s startup ecosystem is at an inflection point, and initiatives like this are crucial in ensuring that high-potential ventures receive the right support to thrive. By enabling a strong innovation-driven culture, the initiative will play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of disruptive entrepreneurs.”

Anjali Bansal, Founding Partner, Avaana Capital, stated, “Initiatives like Startup Maha Rathi provide catalytic support to entrepreneurs solving for India’s critical priorities—green growth, sustainability, energy transition, food systems, agriculture, and deep tech. The programs not only showcase India’s entrepreneurial strength but also reinforces our ability to develop scalable solutions aligned with national priorities and position India as a global leader to accelerate towards a sustainable, inclusive and globally competitive Viksit Bharat.”

Applications for Startup Maha Rathi 2025 will open on February 26, 2025, with a deadline of March 7, 2025. The next round for startups that are shortlisted after an initial screening, will need to present virtually a jury panel between March 15 – 25th. Eligible startups must be DPIIT-recognized entities in their early or growth stages, operating in India as a Private Limited Company, LLP, or Partnership Firm. Startups can apply through the official website: https://www.startupindia.gov.in/content/sih/en/ams-application/challenge.html?applicationId=67bdbb76e4b0c167e9f99da2

A flagship initiative to support early and

Agribusiness, India, Supply Chain, Trade, Transportation

This year, BLR Airport expanded its floriculture footprint by adding new destinations like Abu Dhabi, Jeddah, Beirut, Tokyo, Bahrain, and Dammam.

With increasing global demand for fresh roses on the occasion of Valentine’s Day, BLR Airport has set a new record, processing 44 million rose stems weighing 1,649 metric tonnes (MT) for 22 international and 38 domestic destinations in February. This marks a remarkable 50 per cent year-on-year surge in stems processing, and a 35 per cent YoY increase in tonnage, reaffirming BLR Airport’s status as India’s number oneairport for perishable exports for the fourth consecutive year. This year, BLR Airport expanded its floriculture footprint by adding new destinations like Abu Dhabi, Jeddah, Beirut, Tokyo, Bahrain, and Dammam.

With global demand at an all-time high, international rose shipments saw a 51 per cent increase in tonnage and an 86 per cent rise in stem count, with key destinations including Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Sharjah, Kuwait, Auckland, Amman, Manila, Riyadh, Colombo, and Abu Dhabi. Domestically, 1,344 MT of roses were transported — a 32 per cent increase, with major shipments heading to Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Jaipur, Bagdogra, Udaipur, Ahmedabad, Agartala, and Chandigarh.

At BLR Airport, ensuring freshness, speed, and temperature precision is paramount. The state-of-the-art Coolport facility, equipped with real-time tracking and advanced cold chain technology, safeguards every shipment, proactively managing temperature fluctuations for seamless storage, handling, and transport.

With faster turnaround times, enhanced security, and minimal wastage, BLR Airport ensures that every bloom reaches its destination at peak freshness, meeting the soaring Valentine’s Day demand and keeping the spirit of love alive across the globe.

This year, BLR Airport expanded its floriculture

AgroPolicy, Finance, India, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation

Under the MoU, NMDC Group PJSC will invest in developing the offshore land of Vadhvan coast, involving dredging, reclamation, and shore protection.

NMDC Group PJSC, headquartered in Abu Dhabi, has inked an investment proposal worth Rs 21,000 crore with Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) for the upcoming greenfield Vadhvan Port project in Palghar district of Maharashtra.

Under the memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between JNPA Chairman and Managing Director Unmesh Sharad Wagh and NMDC Group Chief Executive Officer Yasser Zaghloul, the latter would make this investment for the development of the land offshore of Vadhvan coast by dredging, reclamation and shore protection of the to-be-built facility.

NMDC Group PJSC, headquartered in Abu Dhabi, UAE, operates across the Middle East and beyond, focusing on engineering, marine dredging, procurement, and construction. Under the MoU, NMDC Group PJSC will invest in developing the offshore land of Vadhvan coast, involving dredging, reclamation, and shore protection.

Unmesh Sharad Wagh, chairman, JNPA, and chief managing director, Vadhvan Port Project Ltd (VPPL), said, “The MoU between JNPA and NMDC Group PJSC is a significant step towards developing Vadhvan Port as a world-class maritime hub. This collaboration brings global expertise to one of India’s most ambitious port projects, ensuring its strategic and sustainable development. With progress ahead of schedule, we are committed to accelerating infrastructure development and enhancing India’s port capabilities to meet future trade demands.”

Under the MoU, NMDC Group PJSC will

Agribusiness, Collaborations, India, Oilseeds, Trade

This MoU aims at improving food safety, regulatory compliance, and promoting the adoption of best practices within the spice industry.

All-India Spice Exporters Forum signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the American Spice Trade Association (AASTA) which marks a significant step forward in fostering global cooperation in the spice industry.

This agreement, finalised at the International Spice Conference – 2025 in Bangalore, is designed to strengthen the relationship between India and the United States in the spice business.

This MoU aims at improving food safety, regulatory compliance, and promoting the adoption of best practices within the spice industry. Special attention will be paid to areas such as information exchange, technical cooperation, and industry promotion.

By keeping each other informed on changes in government policies, market needs, food safety standards, and trade regulations, both organizations aim to enhance communication and ensure that stakeholders in the spice trade stay up-to-date with the latest developments.

The agreement also focuses on the exchange of key market insights. For instance, AASTA will provide the Indian Forum with information regarding the demand and specific requirements for spices in the American market.

In return, AASTA will receive updates on the production and stock status of Indian spices, allowing both sides to adapt their strategies accordingly.

Additionally, India has the potential to assist the United States in improving the quality of various spices, conducting joint research, and enhancing microbiological safety and residue control.

This collaboration is expected to be highly beneficial for India’s spice exports, particularly since the American market presents significant opportunities for growth.

By fostering stronger ties and promoting higher standards in production and trade, this partnership will likely lead to greater success for both nations in the global spice industry

This MoU aims at improving food safety,

Agbiologicals, Agribusiness, New Zealand, R&D, Seeds

This innovative seed treatment will be available for maize, cereals, brassicas and pasture seed, helping growers reduce nitrogen losses and environmental impact while maintaining yield.

BioConsortia, Inc., a California based leader in agricultural technology, specializing in advanced microbial solutions to enhance crop productivity and reduce agriculture’s ecological impact, has announced a commercial agreement with New Zealand-based seed company Hodder and Taylors Ltd (H&T).  H&T, known for improving crop and forage systems on New Zealand farms, will introduce BioConsortia’s AlwaysN microbial seed treatment during the 2025 season. This innovative seed treatment will be available for maize, cereals, brassicas and pasture seed, helping growers reduce nitrogen losses and environmental impact while maintaining yield.

Since 2023, BioConsortia and H&T have conducted successful field trials in New Zealand, demonstrating nitrogen-replacement results consistent with earlier trials conducted since 2021 in the U.S., Canada, Brazil, and Europe.

Paul Oliver, H&T Managing Director, stated, “This technology offers a new opportunity to reduce nitrogen fertiliser use in New Zealand agriculture, delivering both economic and environmental benefits while maintaining crop performance.”

Marcus Meadows-Smith, CEO of BioConsortia, added, “Our proprietary microbes effectively colonise crop roots, ensuring there is always nitrogen available to influence crop yield. These microbes remain active in the root zone throughout the growing season, converting atmospheric nitrogen into plant-accessible forms even after synthetic fertilisers dissipate.”

Setting a New Standard for Shelf Stability and Seed LifeBioConsortia’s nitrogen-fixing seed treatments boast a shelf life exceeding two years and maintain on-seed stability for an additional two years, far surpassing industry norms.

“Our use of Gram-positive microbes, known for their inherent stability and reliability as root colonisers, underpins this breakthrough,” explained Dr. Hong Zhu, Senior VP of R&D at BioConsortia. “Through our proprietary R&D platform, we’ve unlocked the nitrogen-fixing potential of these microbes, creating ideal candidates for seed treatment products.”

BioConsortia’s flexible microbe discovery platform played a pivotal role in this innovation. Given New Zealand’s regulatory restrictions on gene-edited organisms, BioConsortia identified wild-type microbes from its extensive library that naturally fix nitrogen. These microbes, with intrinsic genetic traits enabling nitrogen fixation, deliver reliable yield performance.

Combining cutting-edge discovery and advanced gene-editing capabilities, BioConsortia’s platform represents a breakthrough in microbial seed and fertiliser treatments. “Our seed-applied products offer unmatched ease of use for growers, ensuring strong yields without relying on increased synthetic nitrogen,” said Meadows-Smith.

The collaboration between BioConsortia and H&T marks a significant step forward in sustainable agriculture, providing New Zealand farmers with tools to achieve higher productivity and reduced environmental impact.

This innovative seed treatment will be available

Agribusiness, Agrotech, Collaborations, Company News, Digital Technologies, India

This collaboration aims at helping farmers unlock the full potential of their harvested produce by leveraging cutting-edge innovation.

Gujarat-based HyFun Foods, one of India’s leading potato processors and a big player in the frozen potato products industry, has formed a strategic partnership with UK-based pioneering crop insights company HarvestEye to introduce its advanced artificial intelligence (AI) technology in India.

This collaboration aims at helping farmers unlock the full potential of their harvested produce by leveraging cutting-edge innovation, according to release by the company

Haresh Karamchandani, MD and CEO of the HyFun Group, said, “This strategic collaboration aligns with our vision of revolutionising the fresh-produce linked food industry by bringing state-of-the-art advancements to potato farming through HyFarm, the agribusiness unit of HyFun Group.”

HyFarm has always focused on embracing the latest digital technologies and using precision agriculture tools to improve productivity, profitability and quality of potato crops. It helps in streamlining and strengthening the entire potato value chain integration, while minimising crop losses, the release mentioned.

HarvestEye will utilise vision systems powered by advanced machine learning (AML) and AI to provide real-time insights into potato crops including size, count and weight.

This collaboration also enables the integration of HarvestEye with HyFarm’s industry-leading farmer-connect digital ecosystem Farmoji. Farmoji offers potato farmers access to crop advisories, soil health analysis, water efficiency guidance, weather and disease alerts, drone spraying and mechanisation.

The partnership with HarvestEye will increase transparency regarding the product profile and quality of potatoes farmers supply to the processing plant. This will ensure better value realisation for potato growers for ensuring high-quality and in turn enable delivering superior frozen products to global consumers.

S Soundararadjane, CEO, HyFarm, said, “The introduction of HarvestEye in India will be a game-changer for HyFarm’s potato farmers by ensuring transparency, and sustaining quality supplies, while enhancing productivity and profitability.”

India’s processing industry, which is at the cusp of breaking new ground, this collaboration provides data-driven insights, optimises raw material utilisation and improves sustainability for finished products such as French fries, hash browns and other varieties of snacks, according  the release.

Vee Gururajan, CEO, HarvestEye, said, “With this joining of hands, we are extending the benefits of innovation to key markets, transforming potato farming and driving efficient food processing.”

Today, India is the second- largest producer of potatoes globally and this joining of hands by two leaders in the segment underscores the country’s commitment to leverage technology for a more resilient, efficient and farmer-friendly agricultural ecosystem.

This collaboration aims at helping farmers unlock

AgroPolicy, Foodgrains, Fruits, Horticulture, India, Seeds, Vegetables

The Union Minister of Cooperation emphasised on preparing a comprehensive database of all traditional seeds of fruits, vegetables and food grains across the country.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah chaired a review meeting regarding traditional/sweet seeds of the Bharatiya Beej Sahkari Samiti Limited (BBSSL) in New Delhi. During the meeting, the Union Minister of Cooperation said, Bharatiya Beej Sahkari Samiti Limited (BBSSL) is making continuous efforts to conserve and promote traditional seeds.

During the meeting, Union Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah directed to ensure organic production of some selected traditional seeds from different regions of the country and their wide availability in the market from Kharif-2025. The major seeds among these seeds are- Amreli millet (Gujarat), Uttarakhand Gahat (Horse Gram), Uttarakhand Mandua (Finger Millet), Bundelkhand Methi (Fenugreek), Kathia wheat, Munsiyari Rajma, Kala Bhatt, four varieties of Kala Namak paddy, Juhi paddy (Bengal) and Gopal Bhog paddy (Bengal).

The Union Minister of Cooperation, Amit Shah emphasised on preparing a comprehensive database of all traditional seeds of fruits, vegetables and food grains across the country and implementing a comprehensive action plan for their conservation and promotion

The Union Minister of Cooperation emphasised on

Agribusiness, Collaborations

Anupam Rasayan expects a 30-35 per cent revenue increase in the financial year ending in March 2026 (FY26), driven by rising demand across pharmaceuticals, polymers, and a recovering agrochemical segment

Demand circumstances have greatly improved, according to Deputy CFO Vishal Thakur, especially in agrochemicals, where volumes are increasing. He stated, “We anticipate growth to continue in Q4 and into FY26 as well. The revenue uptake is largely based on volume.”

Agrochemicals made up 49 per cent of overall sales during the nine months that ended in December 2024, with pharmaceuticals coming in second at 23 per cent, personal care at 17 per cent, and performance materials at 11 per cent. It is anticipated that margins will stay steady between 26-28 per cent.

With revenues increasing 32 per cent year over year (YoY) to Rs 390 crore and profits before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA) up 57 per cent YoY to Rs 124 crore, the company had a good third quarter. A positive product mix and consistent demand helped margins grow by 500 basis points (bps) to 31.8 per cent. However, compared to the same period last year, revenue was down 13 for the first nine months of the current fiscal year, while profit was down 24 per cent and the margin was 27.5 per cent. Around 9,000 crore worth of orders have been placed by Anupam Rasayan, and fresh contracts are anticipated to begin contributing in 2025.

Projects signed in 2022 are being commercialized by the corporation, and over the next two years, more recent deals will start to ramp up. According to him, it usually takes 18 to 24 months for a letter of intent to become a commercial product, and an additional two to three years for it to achieve full volume. Additionally, Anupam Rasayan is closely monitoring its working capital cycle, which had experienced some upswing earlier this year. Thakur stated that the medium-term goal is still 180–200 days.

Anupam Rasayan expects a 30-35 per cent

Collaborations

Gromax Agri Equipment Ltd. (erstwhile Mahindra Gujarat Tractor Ltd.), a joint venture between Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd and the Government of Gujarat celebrates its 25th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in the tractor makers journey towards empowering Indian farmers with affordable mechanized solutions

Rechristened to Mahindra Gujarat Tractor Ltd. with Mahindra acquiring a major stake in the company 1999 and renamed to Gromax Agri Equipment Ltd. in 2017, this signaled a strategic shift for the brand towards providing a distinctive and affordable range of mechanization solutions for India’s farming community. In the last 25 years Gromax has expanded its tractor range from about only 4 tractor models to over 40 variants in the 20-50HP segment under the TRAKSTAR (launched in 2017) and HINDUSTAN brand of tractors, and farm implements under the TRAKMATE brand.

To commemorate the company’s 25th anniversary Gromax has launched all-new 4WD tractor models – the Trakstar 525 and Trakstar 536 during the year. The company has also introduced new 2WD tractor variants under the 24HP, 31HP and 36HP categories to cater to the specific needs of the orchard segment. To attract young farmers and drive differentiation, Gromax has also introduced tractors in saffron and black colour themes.

Commenting on 25 years of Gromax, Mr. Hemant Sikka – President, Farm Equipment Sector, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd said, “A milestone year for us at Mahindra & Mahindra, we are extremely proud of Gromax’s remarkable journey of 25 years. A reflection of our shared commitment to ‘Transform Farming and Enrich Lives’, Gromax is a brand defined to serve the farmers of our nation with the best farm equipment that are both affordable and accessible. We express our sincere gratitude to our customers, partners and the Government of Gujarat, as well as our employees who have supported us through this journey. As we move forward, we look forward to the next chapter of growth with Gromax, as we further aim to enable Indian farmers in mechanising their farms.”

Gromax Agri Equipment Ltd. is a jointly owned company between Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. and the Government of Gujarat with an equity ratio of 60:40 respectively. The company’s manufacturing plant is based out of Vadodara.

Gromax Agri Equipment Ltd. (erstwhile Mahindra Gujarat

Herbicides, Inputs

FMC Corporation has achieved an important milestone in bringing the first new mode of action herbicide to growers in over three decades. This month, FMC successfully manufactured its first commercial batch of Dodhylex™ active (tetflupyrolimet), a pre-emergence and early post-emergence herbicide with excellent crop safety and broad utility in rice globally

“The successful production of our first commercial batch of Dodhylex™ active represents a pivotal milestone in FMC’s innovation journey,” said Ronaldo Pereira, President. “This achievement validates our manufacturing capabilities and also moves us closer to delivering this breakthrough molecule to market.”

This production signals the molecule’s transition from development to the commercialization phase, demonstrating the company’s commitment to innovation and disciplined approach to advancing the most promising new molecules. The progress in commercialization is further evidenced by regulatory dossiers submitted in India, Brazil, the United States, the Philippines, Colombia, South Korea, Peru, Taiwan, Japan, and Malaysia, which account for approximately 35% of the estimated 165 million hectares of planted rice globally. Notably, FMC recently received conditional regulatory approval in the Philippines, and we expect to make initial sales there later this year. First full product launches are anticipated in 2026.

“This marks the beginning of the final steps in bringing this innovative solution to market,” said Pereira. “With manufacturing capabilities now demonstrated and regulatory submissions advancing in key markets, we are well positioned to begin commercial launches in 2026. This molecule represents a significant market opportunity, particularly given the growing challenge of herbicide resistance in rice production, and we expect it to maximize growers’ productivity and be a meaningful contributor to FMC’s growth objectives.”

Discovered at FMC’s Stine Research Center, the R&D process leveraged cutting-edge scientific approaches, including high-volume screening, chemical genomics, and target-based design methods, resulting in a solution that provides season-long control of resistant and yield-robbing grass weeds. Beyond its initial focus on rice, FMC is exploring the use of Dodhylex™ active in other crops including soybean, sunflower, sugarcane and corn.

This manufacturing milestone represents another step forward in FMC’s commitment to delivering innovative and sustainable crop protection solutions that address critical challenges in global agriculture.

FMC Corporation has achieved an important milestone