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Agribusiness, AgroPolicy, Company News, Finance, India, Schemes - Govt, Seeds

NSC’s revenue from operations increased to Rs 1,143.26 Crores from Rs1,078.23 Crores in the previous year, while the total income rose to Rs 1,182.48 Crores (ever highest) compared to Rs 1,112.13 Crores in 2022-23.

National Seeds Corporation Limited (NSC), a Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, has announced the declaration of final Dividend of Rs 35.30 Crores for the Financial Year 2023-24, representing 5 per cent of its net worth, in compliance with Department of Investment and Public Asset Management-DIPAM guidelines. This highest ever dividend underscores NSC’s commitment to contributing to National Agricultural Development while ensuring financial sustainability.

The Dividend cheque was presented to the Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan by Dr. Maninder Kaur Dwivedi, Chairperson cum Managing Director of NSC, in a ceremony held at Krishi Bhawan in New Delhi today. Speaking on the occasion, Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said that it should be ensured that farmers always get good quality seeds.

NSC is a Schedule ‘B’-Mini Ratna Category-I company wholly owned by the Government of India under the administrative control of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. Established in 1963, NSC is engaged in the production and distribution of certified seeds to enhance agricultural productivity and ensure food security in India.

During FY 2023-24, NSC recorded significant growth in its financial performance. The revenue from operations increased to Rs 1,143.26 Crores from Rs1,078.23 Crores in the previous year, while the total income rose to Rs 1,182.48 Crores (ever highest) compared to Rs 1,112.13 Crores in 2022-23. The company’s profitability also witnessed a substantial increase, with Profit Before Tax (PBT) surging by 64.74 per cent to Rs 86.81 Crores and ever highest Profit After Tax (PAT) growing by 38.15 per cent to Rs 73.64 Crores.

NSC’s operational efficiency and strategic market expansion contributed to this growth. The company achieved seed sales revenue of ₹1005 Crores, marking an increase from Rs 947 Crores in the previous year. Notably, non-subsidized seed sales reached Rs 920 Crores, up from Rs 847.83 Crores. Online seed sales also saw a remarkable rise, reflecting NSC’s efforts in digital transformation. The company strengthened its market presence by appointing 992 new dealers, bringing the total dealer network to 4,665. The Company also appointed 2,126 no. of Farmers Producers Organisations (FPOs) and PACs and LAMPs.

On the production front, NSC continued to enhance its capabilities, with raw seed production/procurement reaching 17.10 lakh quintals. The seed processing capacity increased to 25.67 Lakhs quintal, supported by infrastructure improvements. Additionally, NSC played a crucial role in Government agricultural initiatives, supplying seeds to the Government, State Governments, dealers and also selling online via ONDC platform.

NSC is producing seeds in its five big Farms located at Sardargarh, Suratgarh, Jetsar in Rajasthan, Hisar in Haryana and Raichur in Karnataka with total area of 21,841 Ha. and through 14,166 Registered growers. The Company produces Test seeds to Breeder Seeds to Foundation seeds to Certified seeds, chronologically. The Company operates from 11 Regional Offices, 48 Area Offices, 29 Production Centres, 75 Seed processing plants, having 7 Air-conditioned seed storage facilities, and 180 seed storage godowns. The company has 4 Quality control labs and 1 DNA Finger printing lab.

NSC’s revenue from operations increased to Rs

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

This cutting-edge global engine has been localised in India to deliver a robust and reliable solution for the Indian market.

CNH, a global leader in agriculture and construction equipment, announces the commencement of production at its new engine plant in Greater Noida, marking a significant milestone in the company’s dedication to innovation and localization. The facility manufactures the advanced 2.8l Trem V engine (namely F28), designed to power the company’s product line up with exceptional performance and efficiency. This cutting-edge global engine has been localised in India to deliver a robust and reliable solution for the Indian market.

Narinder Mittal, President and Managing Director, CNH India, said, “The launch of the 2.8l TREM V engine from the state-of-the-art Noida engine plant, underscores our dedication to delivering solutions engineered and manufactured in India. This achievement both enhances our product offerings and reaffirms CNH’s commitment to innovation and sustainable productivity. This highlights our strategic focus on producing reliable, efficient and environmentally compliant powertrain solutions that will set new benchmarks for the industry.”

The new 2.8l engine is licensed to CNH by FPT Industrial, the powertrain division of Iveco Group, reflecting the strong synergy between the two entities in driving innovation and sustainability in powertrain technologies. Designed for under-hood applications, its compact design improves engine balance, reduces vibration, and minimizes friction for improved fuel efficiency. Located within CNH’s 60-acre Greater Noida facility, the advanced engine plant spans 7,000 Square meters and is designed for scalable production, with an annual capacity up to 20,000 units. Currently the 2.8l F28 TremV compliant engine is manufactured for construction equipment (with CEV V norms), with plans to expand it to agriculture once TREM V emission norms are introduced.  The state-of-the-art plant features digital and AI-driven technologies, including an advanced operator guidance system and a robotic component cleaning, ensuring precision, efficiency, and high-quality output.

For over 25 years, CNH India has been delivering world-class products through its ‘Made in India’ operations. The company operates in the country through its Case IH, New Holland, and CASE Construction Equipment brands, as well as its financial arm CNH Capital and Global Technology Center.

This cutting-edge global engine has been localised

Agribusiness, India, Inputs, Oilseeds, Sustainability

More than 9,000 hectares of mostly semi-arid land repeatedly farmed according to the SuCCESS® sustainability code

 Pragati, the world’s first sustainable castor bean program, completed eight years of operation in the 2023/2024 season. More than 8,000 farmers are now certified under the program, and individual farmer yields have increased significantly. The program has grown to more than 9,000 hectares of mostly semi-arid land under the SuCCESS® sustainability code (see www.castorsuccess.org). BASF, Arkema, Jayant Agro-Organics and the project implementing organization Solidaridad jointly launched the project in May 2016. The program members updated the results and impacts of the program for 2024:

  • More than 10,000 farmers have been trained, and more than 8,000 of them certified.
  • About 100,000 metric tons of certified castor seeds have been under cultivation, a significant increase over the previous year (74,500 metric tons). This growth ensures a continuous supply of sustainable castor beans to the global supply chain.
  • In the crop cycle 2023/2024, SuCCESS-certified farmers realized 57 percent higher yields than that published by the local government for the region.
  • Over 9,000 hectares were farmed according to the SuCCESS code in 2023/2024, for a total of more than 36,000 hectares since the start of the program. Pragati farmers are increasing the amount of land devoted to castor farming as it is seen as a profitable crop.
  • The practices adopted in the Pragati program have resulted in a lower water consumption compared with conventional practices. Data measured in the demonstration plots for these practices showed about 33 percent less water consumption.
  • Over 8,200 personal protective equipment (PPE) kits and 5,500 crop protection storage boxes were distributed free of charge.

In 2024, more than 100 medical camps organized in all project villages monitored the health of over 6,000 project and 2,300 non-project farmers, workers and their family members. Nearly 50 percent of those monitored were women.

During the year, more than 420 capacity-building training sessions were conducted with the farmers.

Over 700 lead farmers were identified and trained to provide leadership to certified farmer groups.

In accordance with the strategy for the current phase, the project placed a particular emphasis on gender. This year, more than 1,100 women from 17 project villages enrolled in the program and received in-depth training on good agricultural practices. This training aims to raise productivity while fostering safe, sustainable and regenerative agriculture. All participants also took part in the program’s digital and financial literacy module.

Next year, the Pragati program will celebrate its tenth anniversary. Launched following the completion of a baseline survey of over 1,000 castor oil farmers in Gujarat, India, the initiative identified the profitability and ease of cultivation of castor oil as key factors. Since then, the project has aimed to increase yields and farmer incomes by adopting sustainable agricultural practices, promoting good waste management practices, ensuring efficient water use, maintaining soil fertility, and implementing better health and safety measures while respecting human rights. In 2025, the achievements made over the past xears will continue to drive progress in sustainable castor oil production.

More than 9,000 hectares of mostly semi-arid

Agribusiness, Agro chems – Chemicals, Agro chems – Fertilizers, Company News, Finance, India

Company’s Crop Nutrition Business (CNB) continue to out-perform, revenue up by 55 per cent YOY, driven by good monsoon and execution of crop focus value added strategy.

Deepak Fertilisers and Petrochemicals Corporation Limited, one of India’s leading producers of industrial & mining chemicals and fertilisers (DFPCL) announced its results for the quarter ended December 31, 2024.

Key Highlights for Q3FY25:

Consolidated Revenues:  Company saw a strong 39 per cent growth, reaching Rs. 2,579 crores for the Q3 FY25. Company witnessed a remarkable 72 per cent increase in EBITDA, bringing it to Rs. 486 crores with a sustainable EBITDA margin improved from 15 per cent to 19 per cent. Company registered a phenomenal 318 per cent jump in Net profit reaching Rs. 253 crores.

Crop Nutrition Business (Fertilisers) Review

In Q3 FY25, manufactured bulk fertilizer achieved robust sales of 231 KMT, marking a 64% year-over-year increase. For the first 9 months, sales rose by 52 per cent, driven by above-normal monsoon rains in the operating region.

Company’s flagship products, Smartek and Croptek, saw exceptional sales growth, with volumes rising by 186 per cent and 56 per cent, respectively. This performance was driven by the successful execution of our Go-To-Market strategy and strong demand-generation initiatives. Both products focus on Nutrient Unlocking Technology, which helps improve yield per acre. Sale of specialty fertilizer Bensulf and water-soluble fertilizers was 19 KMT, up 8 per cent YoY.

Reflecting on the company’s performance, S.C. Mehta, Chairman and Managing Director of DFPCL, stated, “India faced a slightly slower start to the year, but with the government’s ongoing focus on investment-led growth and strong structural drivers, we remain confident about the future of the chemical and fertilizer industries. Our Q3 FY25 results reflect the strength of this confidence, highlighting the success of our strategic transition from commodity products to high-value specialty offerings, moving from customer to end consumers supported by effective backward integration and innovation.

Company’s Crop Nutrition Business (CNB) continue to

AgroPolicy, Collaborations, India, Sustainability

The project is set to benefit 2,000 farmers who will be trained at two dedicated centers located in Khadiya and Serendagh Hall.

 Roots Foundation, a non-profit organisation committed to creating sustainable solutions for rural development, has joined hands with Coal India Ltd. (CIL), under the Ministry of Coal, to launch CIL’s Harit Samriddhi project as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility CSR) initiative to enhance farmers’ income and promote inclusive growth in the agrarian economy of Chatra district, Jharkhand. The project is initially being implemented in the Tandwa and Simaria blocks of the district. This initiative aims to provide farmers with essential training and support, improving agricultural practices and enabling better livelihoods.

The project is set to benefit 2,000 farmers who will be trained at two dedicated centers located in Khadiya and Serendagh Hall. Over 1,000 farmers have already undergone training, certified by the Agricultural Skill Council of India (ASCI). The training equips farmers with modern farming techniques and introduces them to the latest agricultural tools, ensuring they can address crop-related challenges effectively and enhance their productivity.

In addition to the model farm, 60 demonstration farms are being developed across 60 villages in Tandwa and Simaria. These demonstration farms will serve as hubs for knowledge and practical support throughout the crop cycle, offering farmers access to crucial inputs like seeds and fertilizers. The Harit Samriddhi project continues to focus on empowering farmers, providing them with the skills, tools, and resources they need to succeed in an evolving agricultural landscape.

On the occasion, Amresh Kumar Singh, General Manager of the Amrapali Chandragupt Area, CCL, said, “A lack of awareness among farmers often limits their access to technological advancements. Those who are informed are already cultivating high-quality crops, underscoring the need for greater outreach and education to bridge this gap. A key aspect of the project is the establishment of a one-acre model farm, maintained by the Roots Foundation, to provide practical exposure to the farmers. The model farm is equipped with modern agricultural techniques such as greenhouses, polyhouses, drip irrigation systems, and a vermicompost unit. These technologies aim to improve crop productivity and resource efficiency. Farmers will also have access to discussions on subsidies, helping them maximize the potential of these advancements.”

The project is set to benefit 2,000

Agribusiness, Agrotech, Drones, India, Start ups, Trade

Both the companies plan to accelerate drone manufacturing innovations and ensure that cutting-edge drone technology becomes accessible in industries including agriculture, logistics, infrastructure, and defence.

DroneAcharya Aerial Innovations announced that the company has entered into a term sheet agreement for a strategic merger with AVPL International. The financial details of the merger are not declared by the company.

The companies jointly announced that the merger is a significant step in enhancing India’s standing as a leader in drone technology and innovation. The partnership aims to reshape the Indian drone landscape by combining DroneAcharya’s research and development strengths with AVPL’s expansive infrastructure and expertise in talent development.

Together, they plan to accelerate drone manufacturing innovations and ensure that cutting-edge drone technology becomes accessible in industries including agriculture, logistics, infrastructure, and defence.

Preet Sandhuu, Founder and Managing Director of AVPL International, called the merger a “game-changing move” for the technology and drone sectors in India. He highlighted that the collaboration will not only scale operations but also push the boundaries of what’s possible for India’s drone ecosystem.

The two companies will focus on creating advanced drones with integrated technologies such as AI, IoT, blockchain, and robotics, while also strengthening the Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) sector through a skilled workforce.

Prateek Srivastava, Founder of DroneAcharya Aerial Innovations, emphasised that the merger combines innovation, technology, and human capital. By merging DroneAcharya’s technological expertise with AVPL’s operational capabilities and incubation centers, they are set to transform India’s drone industry and create solutions for a range of sectors from agriculture to defence.

DroneAcharya is a pioneering company in the drone and geospatial technology sector, committed to transforming industries with innovative UAV solutions. The company specialises in drone pilot training, UAV manufacturing, and comprehensive drone-based services across sectors such as agriculture, mining, urban planning, and infrastructure.

Founded in 2016 by Preet Sandhuu and Deep Sihag Sesai, AVPL International specializes in drone technology and skill development, with the mission of “Empowering rural youth, transforming lives.” Headquartered in Gurgaon, the company has established 70+ Skill and Incubation Hubs across 12 states, becoming India’s largest drone training institute.

Both the companies plan to accelerate drone

Agribusiness, AgroPolicy, Agrotech, Digital Technologies, IT, R&D, Start ups

AgriHub aims to empower farmers, researchers, and businesses, fostering a self-sustaining agritech ecosystem through innovation, startup incubation, and industry partnerships.

The Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) and IIT Indore have launched AgriHub, an AI-driven Centre of Excellence (CoE), to foster technological innovation, startup incubation, and industry collaboration in agritech.

 This collaborative platform will integrate AI, ML, and DL with agricultural practices to address drought and low productivity challenges. AgriHub aims to empower farmers, researchers, and businesses, fostering a self-sustaining agritech ecosystem through innovation, startup incubation, and industry partnerships. The Madhya Pradesh government, ICAR-IISR Indore, ICAR-CIAE Bhopal, and C-DAC Pune support this landmark initiative.

As a transdisciplinary and multi-institutional collaborative platform, AgriHub aims to empower farmers, researchers, and breeders with AI-driven agritech solutions. The Center will focus on integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and Deep Learning (DL) with agricultural practices to address critical challenges such as drought, floods, and low productivity.

AgriHub will streamline research and technology deployment by fostering cross-sectoral collaboration, ensuring that innovations are aligned with the real-world needs of farmers, NGOs, and agribusinesses. Over the next five years, it will establish a self-sustaining agritech ecosystem through job creation, startup incubation, patents, publications, industry partnerships, student mentorship, and entrepreneurship workshops.

AI-Driven Agricultural Growth

At the launch, S. Krishnan, Secretary, MeitY highlighted AI’s transformative potential in agriculture, emphasizing its role in high-performance computing, big data analytics, and precision farming. He underscored the importance of fostering an AI-driven startup culture while advocating for strategic partnerships with established industries to drive innovation and maximize agricultural productivity.

 K.K. Singh, Joint Secretary, Innovation and IPR Division, MeitY acknowledged the operational challenges involved in managing a multi-agency initiative like AgriHub and stressed the need for seamless collaboration between Principal Investigators (PIs) and Co-Principal Investigators (Co-PIs) to achieve the project’s objectives within the stipulated timeline.

AgriHub aims to empower farmers, researchers, and

Agribusiness, Agro chems – Chemicals, Agro chems – Fertilizers, Agro chems – Pesticides, Company News, Finance, India

 Company’s PAT for Q3 was Rs. 525 Cr vs Rs. 243 Cr for the corresponding quarter of last year, registering a growth of 116 per cent.

 Coromandel International Limited India’s leading Agri solutions provider has reported the financial results for the quarter ended 31st December 2024. Company’s Total Income in Q3 FY25 was at Rs. 7,038 Cr vs Rs. 5,510 Cr for the corresponding quarter of last year, registering a growth of 28 per cent. Total Income for YTD Dec’24 was at Rs. 19,315 Cr vs Rs. 18,281 Cr for the corresponding period of last year, registering a growth of 6 per cent.

Company registered PAT of Rs 525 Crores in Q3 vs Rs. 243 Crore for the corresponding quarter of last year, registering a growth of 116 per cent. Company’s PAT for YTD Dec’24 was Rs 1,552 Cr vs Rs. 1,510 Cr for the corresponding period of last year, registering a growth of 3 per cent.

Company’s EBITDA for Q3 was Rs. 727 Cr vs. Rs. 358 Cr for the corresponding quarter of last year, registering a growth of 103 per cent. EBITDA for YTD Dec’24 was Rs. 2,218 Cr vs. Rs. 2,132 Cr for the corresponding period of last year, registering a growth of 4 per cent.

Review of Businesses:

Nutrient and Allied Business

The Revenue for the quarter ended Dec’24 was at Rs. 6,363 Cr as against Rs. 4,892 Cr for the quarter ended Dec’23. Profit before interest and tax was Rs. 635 Cr vs. Rs. 257 Cr in the corresponding period of the previous year.

The Revenue for YTD Dec’24 was at Rs. 17,307 Cr compared with Rs. 16,391 Cr for YTD Dec’23. Profit before interest and tax was Rs. 1,932 Cr vs. Rs. 1,928 Cr in the corresponding period of the previous year.

Crop Protection Business

The Revenue for the quarter ended Dec’24 was at Rs. 631 Cr as against Rs. 612 Cr for the quarter ended Dec’23. Profit before interest and tax was Rs. 91 Cr vs. Rs. 82 Cr in the corresponding period of the previous year.

The Revenue for YTD Dec’24 was at Rs. 1,937 Cr compared with Rs. 1,890 Cr for YTD Dec’23. Profit before interest and tax was Rs. 264 Cr vs. Rs. 225 Cr in the corresponding period of the previous year.

Consolidated Results

Coromandel’s Total income for the quarter ended Dec’24 was at Rs. 7,049 Cr vs. Rs. 5,523 Cr for the quarter ended Dec’23. The profit after tax was at Rs. 508 Cr as against Rs. 228 Cr in the corresponding period of the previous year.

Coromandel’s Total income for YTD Dec’24 was at Rs. 19,330 Cr vs. Rs. 18,294 Cr for YTD Dec’23. The profit after tax was at Rs. 1,476 Cr as against Rs. 1,477 Cr in the corresponding period of the previous year.

Commenting on the financial results, S. Sankarasubramanian, Managing Director & CEO, Coromandel International Limited, said, “We are pleased to report robust performance in Q3 FY25, driven by strong sales volumes in Nutrients and crop protection segments, operational excellence across businesses and continued execution of our strategic initiatives. This was further aided by strong tailwinds such as good monsoon, higher reservoir levels and increased crop sowing in our target markets. Recovery in global agrochemicals market, coupled with strong performance of innovative, in-licensing products have supported growth in Crop Protection segment.

The recent Bhumi Pooja for the new 750,000 MT per annum of NPK granulation train at Kakinada marks another significant milestone in our journey to strengthen fertiliser manufacturing capabilities. This project, alongside the ongoing Phosphoric Acid and Sulphuric Acid plants at Kakinada, is progressing well and is expected to bolster our domestic phosphatic fertiliser capacities”.

 Company’s PAT for Q3 was Rs. 525

Agribusiness, Biofuel industry, Collaborations, Company News, India

The partnership leverages Advanta Seeds’ expertise in high-yield maize hybrids and Baidyanath’s ethanol production capabilities.

Advanta Seeds, a UPL group company, and Baidyanath Biofuels Private Ltd, both renowned for their expertise in their respective fields, are set to revolutionise India’s renewable energy sector with their strategic partnership.

Advanta Seeds and Baidyanath Biofuels Private Ltd are fully committed to India’s National Biofuels Policy goal of achieving 20 per cent ethanol blending with petrol by 2025-26. Their collaboration is a significant step towards accelerating the sustainable energy sector.

“Advanta is very eager to boost the renewable energy industry in India. This collaboration will benefit the bioethanol production and rural community income while promoting sustainable agriculture,” shares Bhupen Dubey, Global CEO of Advanta Seeds.

The partnership leverages Advanta Seeds’ expertise in high-yield maize hybrids and Baidyanath’s ethanol production capabilities. Advanta management team visited the trial fields and Baidyanath’s state-of-the-art 250 KLPD Grain-Based Ethanol Plant located at Butibori Industrial Area in Nagpur. The initial trials demonstrated that Advanta’s maize can significantly boost the ethanol yield, paving the way for commercial-scale implementation.

“This partnership will provide stable incomes for maize farmers within a 50-100 km radius of the distillery. It is a significant step towards improving the livelihood of these farmers, a cause to which we are deeply committed. Advanta will support the growers in succeeding by offering agronomy training, technical assistance, and access to advanced sustainable farming practices for hybrid maize. Aligned with India’s National Policy on Biofuels, I believe this partnership is poised to boost maize-based ethanol supply while supporting rural community income significantly,’ shares Prashant Belgamwar, Regional Lead for Asia & Africa at Advanta Seeds.

‘We have tested Advanta’s seeds, and I have seen the benefit of having genetically superior seeds. Advanta maize hybrids’ high starch content and good moisture are essential for good ethanol production and high yield. We are happy that we can grow the grain locally and avoid importing since it is counterproductive to India’s indigenous ethanol manufacturing goals,’ stresses Abhishek Jha, CEO of Baidyanath Biofuels Private Ltd.

The partnership leverages Advanta Seeds' expertise in

Agro Universities, Award, India, People, R&D

A visionary in agricultural innovation, Dr Paroda is credited as the architect of India’s National Gene Bank, one of the world’s largest, housing over 250,000 germplasm accessions.

Renowned agricultural scientist Dr Rajendra Singh Paroda has been conferred with the prestigious Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Lifetime Achievement Award by the National Academy of Biological Sciences (NABS). The honor was presented during the 14th NABS National Conference on Innovations in Biology and Biotechnology for Agriculture and Animal Sciences, held at the Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Kudumiyanmalai.

Dr Paroda, the founding Chairman of the Trust for Advancement of Agricultural Sciences (TAAS), has made significant contributions to India’s agricultural research and development. A distinguished scientist and administrator, he held key positions, including Director General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and Secretary of the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE), Government of India.

Dr Paroda’s contributions to agriculture, particularly in plant breeding and genetic resource management, are globally recognized. Under his leadership from 1994 to 2001, India’s National Agricultural Research System (NARS) was modernized, resulting in the establishment of over 30 national institutions across diverse sectors, including crops, horticulture, livestock, natural resource management, fisheries, agricultural engineering, and social sciences.

A visionary in agricultural innovation, Dr Paroda is credited as the architect of India’s National Gene Bank, one of the world’s largest, housing over 250,000 germplasm accessions. The National Agricultural Science Centre (NASC) Complex in New Delhi stands as another testament to his vision and leadership.

Dr Paroda’s remarkable career has earned him numerous accolades, including the Padma Bhushan in 1998 and the Norman Borlaug Award in 2006, which was presented by then-President Dr APJ Abdul Kalam at the 93rd Indian Science Congress in Hyderabad.

His contributions have also been recognized internationally, with gene banks at the International Crop Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), Patancheru, and the Agriculture Research Institute of Kazakhstan named in his honor. With an illustrious career spanning decade, Dr Paroda continues to be a guiding force in agricultural sciences, driving innovation and sustainability for global food security.

A visionary in agricultural innovation, Dr Paroda

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

The initiative aims to develop technology-driven solutions for nematode management while increasing farmer awareness about its impact.

 In a first-of-its-kind initiative, over 100 agricultural scientists from across the country convened to address the growing threat of nematodes — a major cause of crop losses, resulting in an estimated financial impact of Rs 25,000 crore annually. At a symposium in Goa organised by Syngenta India, experts emphasized the urgent need for effective nematode management to safeguard soil health, sustain crop productivity, and minimize chemical interventions. While acknowledging the government’s agriculture-focused Budget, the scientists urged stronger investments in scientific research and a more robust R&D pipeline to combat this ‘silent killer.’”

At a national symposium on ‘Nematode Management in Agriculture’ experts highlighted the devastating impact of nematodes, microscopic worms that attack plant roots, causing stunted growth, reduced yields, and heightened vulnerability to diseases. They emphasized the need for sustainable management strategies, including crop rotation, resistant plant varieties, and biological control agents, to mitigate losses and ensure long-term agricultural productivity.

The day-long symposium, held at the Syngenta R&T (Research & Technology) Centre in Goa, aligns with Syngenta India’s commitment to collaborative partnerships with universities and research institutes. The initiative aims to develop technology-driven solutions for nematode management while increasing farmer awareness about its impact.

In his inaugural address, Susheel Kumar, Country Head and MD, Syngenta India Pvt Ltd, emphasized the critical role of farmers in addressing agricultural challenges.

Speaking on the impact of plant parasitic nematodes on crop yields, Vinod Shivrain, Head of Crop Protection R&D at Syngenta India, said, “Our goal is to raise awareness, demonstrate innovative technologies, and develop effective, sustainable solutions to tackle plant parasitic nematodes. Through partnerships between the corporate sector and academia, we aim to leverage technical expertise and resources to manage the nematode-disease complex more effectively and ensure long-term agricultural resilience.”

Dr. Pankaj Singh, Head of Nematology at IARI, New Delhi, highlighted the often-overlooked threat posed by nematodes, saying, “Nematodes present a hidden danger to crops, as their impact remains unnoticed until significant yield losses occur. By the time farmers detect the damage, it is often too late.”

Dr. R. Sarada Jayalakshmi Devi, Vice Chancellor of Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, focussed on the significant yield losses caused by nematode infections in horticulture during his keynote address.

Dr. Devi further stressed the importance of collaboration between government institutions, universities, and industry in tackling plant parasitic nematodes. He highlighted the growing threat of the rice root-knot nematode, which was previously considered a severe issue only in upland areas but is now emerging as a major concern across rice farms nationwide.

Reflecting further, Kumar said, “Our scientists breed thousands of new seed varieties and explore over 100,000 new compounds every year. Our products help farmers to transform agriculture. We seek and move into new areas that help make farmers even more successful. This national symposium opens doors for more collaboration, knowledge sharing and work jointly to address nematodes and other soil diseases issues.”

The initiative aims to develop technology-driven solutions

Agbiologicals, Agro Universities, India, R&D

This cutting-edge facility is dedicated to the development of highly efficacious bio-control products and biogenic formulations in a controlled environment.

The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) and Chambal Fertilisers and Chemicals Limited (CFCL) launched the ‘New Crop Protection Facility at TERI GRAM’, recently in Gurugram, Haryana.

This cutting-edge facility is dedicated to the development of highly efficacious bio-control products and biogenic formulations in a controlled environment. This initiative underscores TERI’s and CFCL’s commitment to sustainable agriculture and reinforces India’s ability to spearhead eco-friendly, science-driven sustainable solutions for a better future. The facility was jointly inaugurated by Dr Vibha Dhawan, Director General, TERI, and Abhay Baijal, Managing Director, CFCL.

This cutting-edge facility is dedicated to the development of highly efficacious bio-control products and biogenic formulations in a controlled environment. This initiative underscores TERI’s and CFCL’s commitment to sustainable agriculture and reinforces India’s ability to spearhead eco-friendly, science-driven sustainable solutions for a better future.  

This initiative underscores TERI’s and CFCL’s commitment to sustainable agriculture and reinforces India’s ability to spearhead eco-friendly, science-driven sustainable solutions for a better future.

This cutting-edge facility is dedicated to the

Agribusiness, Biofuel industry, Company News, India, People

Gaikwad will succeed Shishir Joshipura, CEO & MD, who will complete his tenure on June 30, 2025.

Pune based Praj Industries, a global leader in bioeconomy solutions, is pleased to announce the appointment of Ashish Gaikwad as Managing Director-Designate, effective February 3, 2025. This transition marks a significant milestone in the company’s growth journey.

 Gaikwad will succeed Shishir Joshipura, CEO & MD, who will complete his tenure on June 30, 2025. To ensure a seamless transition, Gaikwad will work closely with Joshipura and the leadership team over the coming months, ensuring continuity of Praj’s strategic priorities.

Gaikwad brings over 34 years of experience in industrial automation, digitalization, process technology, renewable energy transition, artificial intelligence, and autonomous manufacturing. He holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Honors) in Electrical & Electronics from BITS Pilani, India. Before joining Praj Industries, he successfully led Honeywell Automation India Ltd. as Managing Director for over seven years. Throughout his career at Honeywell, he held diverse leadership positions spanning India, Southeast Asia, Asia Pacific, and the USA, with expertise in project engineering, sales leadership, strategy, business management and corporate governance.

Commenting on the appointment, Dr Pramod Chaudhari, Founder Chairman of Praj Industries, said: “We are delighted to welcome Mr. Ashish Gaikwad to Praj Industries. His deep industry expertise and global leadership experience will be instrumental in driving our innovation-led growth strategy. Under his guidance, Praj will continue to advance its vision of a sustainable bioeconomy.”

Gaikwad will succeed Shishir Joshipura, CEO &

Agribusiness, Company News, Floriculture, India, Interaction, Seeds, Vegetables

Satyender Singh, CEO- Seeds Business, Crystal Crop Protection Limited interacted with AgroSpectrum about the latest acquisition and vegetable and flower seeds industry in India.

Crystal Crop Protection Limited, a leading agriculture solutions organisation, has recently acquired I&B Seeds, a prominent player in the flower and vegetable seeds market having leadership position in Marrigold seeds with Indus and SPS brands. Satyender Singh, CEO- Seeds Business, Crystal Crop Protection Limited interacted with AgroSpectrum about the latest acquisition and vegetable and flower seeds industry in India. Edited Excerpts:

How does the I&B Seeds acquisition enhance Crystal’s position in the vegetable and flower seeds market?

I&B seeds is a R&D based company with excellent lab and field research teams, and facilities. The current business of I&B seeds will enhance the Crystal’s seed portfolio by about 30 per cent. In addition, a strong breeding pipeline of key crops such as Tomato, Sweetcorn, Hot Peppers and Marigold, will drive the value of Crystal’s seed division to higher levels.

Can you give us an overview of Crystal’s 400 crore seeds division and its growth drivers?

Crystal’s Seeds Division, a Rs 400 crore business, stands as a leading player in the Indian seed industry with a diverse portfolio of crops including pearl millet, cotton, mustard, maize, sorghum, paddy, wheat, berseem, and fodder. Key brands like ProAgro, Surpass, Mahalaxmi, and Sadanand Cotton have strengthened its market position. A robust distribution network of 4,500+ distributors and 25,000+ retailers ensure nationwide reach, while a dedicated R&D team drives innovation in hybrid seed technology tailored to meet customer needs, offering high yield, disease resistance, and value for money.

Future growth is anchored in new launches across millet, cotton, mustard, and maize, alongside the rapid scaling of wheat, a recently introduced portfolio with significant market potential. The adoption of cutting-edge solutions like Clearfield® Production Systems for mustard further sets Crystal apart, promising efficient weed control and improved crop quality. With a strong field team of 400+ professionals committed to farmer education and welfare, the division is well-positioned to sustain its growth trajectory and deliver impactful solutions to the farming community.

What R&D initiatives are planned with I&B in FY24-25 and how will it leverage the growth of the company and profitability for farmers?

With the impact of climate change, there is a focus on developing pest and disease resistant varieties. In addition, our focus is also to develop early varieties (for eg: non-staking tomatoes). In recent times, farmers are moving towards growing vegetables and flower crops because of shorter duration and assured markets. This also helps the farmer to take multiple crops in a given year, thus providing growth opportunities for the company.

How would you envisage the future of the vegetable and flower seed industry in India for the next five years?

Growing emphasis on a more balanced diet and nutritional security will drive greater demand for fruits and vegetables. Different reports suggest that the vegetable seed industry is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6 to 7 per cent. Similarly, the flower seed market is also expected to grow at a CAGR of 5 to 6 per cent.

What kind of inputs in the form of policy support and finance, infrastructure, R& D are required for the growth of the Indian flower and vegetable seed sector?

Many enabling functions of crop improvement programs need enabling functions in Biotechnology, Pathology and Analytics. These facilities require sophisticated equipment and expensive consumables. Friendlier tax regimes for these would help immensely. In addition, policies around seed movement can be made more efficient in terms of time taken. 

Is the company planning partnership with the companies in Asia -pacific to expand its reach?

Yes, partnership and collaboration with companies in the APAC region is one of the major focus areas for growth and visibility. We already have made some progress in the flower seed area and look forward to building on this.

What are the growth strategies and plans of the company for FY2024-25?

Major focus will be to retain our leader position in Marigold, and continue to create our brand value. In Vegetables, we are planning to build increased volumes in Sweetcorn, Tomatoes, Hot Peppers, Okra, Onion and Watermelon, mostly by increasing our market penetrations, creating new markets etc.,

Satyender Singh, CEO- Seeds Business, Crystal Crop