Image Source: Global Agriculture

In a decisive move that signals the next chapter of its evolution, SML Limited—formerly Sulphur Mills Limited—has announced the formal entry of its biologicals division with the launch of two significant innovations: StellarOn and Rootiva. These aren’t just new products. They represent a strategic pivot from traditional agri-inputs to a future-oriented, biology-driven model of sustainable agriculture.

StellarOn, a patented microalgae-based biostimulant, has received regulatory approval and is positioned as a climate-smart input that offers high nutrient load efficiency and hydrolyzed protein delivery. SML is betting on this novel formulation to deliver resilience and productivity across a variety of cropping systems, under the stress of climate volatility. The product is emblematic of a deeper transformation underway at the company—one that integrates cutting-edge biotechnology with field-level pragmatism.

Complementing this is the launch of Rootiva, a biofertilizer developed in collaboration with Novonesis, a global leader in microbial science. Unveiled in Vietnam before SML’s elite global business partners, Rootiva is built on proprietary endomycorrhizal strains that improve phosphorus and water uptake, thereby strengthening root systems and increasing yield potential. For farmers confronting poor soil biology and irregular monsoons, this is more than a new input—it’s a possible inflection point.

SML’s biologicals journey isn’t happening in a vacuum. The launch dovetails with the Indian government’s BioB3 policy, which calls for a dramatic shift toward biological inputs that are safer, smarter, and more in tune with ecological needs. It also reflects global trends where regenerative agriculture, carbon sequestration, and soil health are no longer buzzwords but investor priorities.

“We view the registration of StellarOn not just as a regulatory milestone, but as a foundational step in redefining the role of inputs in modern agriculture,” said Komal Shah, Director – R&D, IP, and Portfolio Strategy at SML Group. “Rootiva brings to market a biological edge that complements our strengths in soil nutrition and crop protection.”

Bimal D. Shah, Managing Director, noted that biosolutions are becoming central to both climate resilience and farm-level economics, especially in the context of India’s evolving agri-policy. Chairman Deepak Shah emphasized that this transition is built on SML’s legacy of research and its deep-rooted commitment to soil health, farmer incomes, and long-term sustainability. The strategic partnership with Novonesis adds another layer of scientific rigor and global scale.

As the $40 billion Indian agri-inputs market begins to tilt toward nature-positive, residue-free, and microbe-led solutions, SML Biologicals arrives with the advantage of incumbency, innovation, and intent. Its success may well define how legacy input companies can lead—not lag—in the global race for climate-smart farming.