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Agrotech, Foodgrains, Interaction, World

The global dialogue “Sustainable Maize and Wheat: Scaling Innovations for Resilience” in Istanbul highlighted the urgent need for innovative, collaborative, and inclusive approaches to maize and wheat sustainability.

Wheat, maize, and rice are key food crops supporting global food security, providing 50 per cent of the world’s dietary energy. While maize is a well-known smallholder crop, especially in Africa and Latin America, wheat is also produced by smallholders, for example in Ethiopia and South Asia.

Despite record-high global cereal harvests in recent years, these staple crops are increasingly at risk due to rising temperatures, groundwater depletion, pollution, biodiversity loss, and other environmental challenges. On the other hand, by strategically transforming food systems, including the value chains of wheat, maize and rice, we have a unique opportunity to mitigate environmental harm and address socio-economic challenges simultaneously. 

Two integrated programs funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF)—the Food Systems, Land Use and Restoration Impact Program (FOLUR) and the Food Systems Integrated Program (FSIP)—are actively working toward this transformation. Together, these programs encompass 46 countries projects, with a substantial number dedicated to maize and wheat. Their collective efforts aim to enhance food crop value chains, making them more sustainable, pollution-free, resilient, and inclusive.

January 2025 marked a significant milestone in the global maize and wheat sustainability discussion. The FOLUR program, in collaboration with the Government of Türkiye, co-hosted the “Sustainable Maize and Wheat: Scaling Innovations for Resilience” dialogue. This event gathered over 60 international participants, including FAO and IFAD specialists, to discuss the latest advancements in sustainable maize and wheat value chains and agricultural systems. 

The global dialogue in Istanbul highlighted the urgent need for innovative, collaborative, and inclusive approaches to maize and wheat sustainability. By fostering synergies between FOLUR and FSIP, enhancing policy, legal and governance frameworks, and supporting small-scale producers, FAO and its partners are working to create resilient food systems that can withstand the challenges of climate change and environmental degradation. 

The dialogue served as an opportunity to reinforce connection and efforts of teams coordinating the two GEF-funded integrated programs—FOLUR, led by the World Bank, and FSIP, jointly led by FAO and IFAD. Key areas of discussion included:

Sustainable diversification: Moving beyond mono-crop commodity-driven approaches to increase resilience.

Support for small-scale producers: Ensuring an inclusive transition that benefits farmers’ livelihoods and enhances food security and nutrition.

Cross-country learning: Facilitating South-South and South-North knowledge exchange among FOLUR and FSIP maize and wheat countries to share best practices and innovative solutions.

Transforming food systems presents an opportunity to improve policies, governance and regulatory frameworks, and maximize knowledge resources for positive change. A strong policy and governance framework at national and landscape and field levels is key to accelerating the shift toward sustainable crop production.

To support this level of transformation, at the national level, FAO introduced its cutting-edge Policy Optimization Tool (PolOpT) designed to help governments optimize their food and agriculture budgets. The tool enables countries to optimize the allocation of financial resources to boost agrifood GDP, lift hundreds of thousands out of poverty, create rural jobs, make healthy diets more affordable, and increase agrifood production while achieving environmental goals. Early results suggest that economic growth and emission reductions do not have to be at odds—smart agricultural policies can achieve both.

To bridge national policies with on-the-ground action and ensure coherence between strategic landscape-level interventions across the two Integrated Programs, FAO presented early implementation results of the Participatory Informed Landscape Approach (PILA) currently being spearheaded within FOLUR. PILA is a cross-sectoral, multi-stakeholder, innovative, participatory and inclusive approach that facilitates informed decision-making through tailored information made available at the national, landscape, and field levels. It promotes integrated landscape management and governance, supporting the transformation of food systems towards greater sustainability.

IFAD shared practical experiences from the food systems projects it implements globally, including under the GEF-supported Resilient Food Systems (RFS) programme, highlighting innovative solutions for sustainable agriculture.  Discussion fostered valuable linkages between the next generation of FSIP projects currently under design with lessons emerging from FOLUR and existing GEF-supported food systems projects. Key examples included smallholder operated sub-surface irrigation systems, adapted small-scale machinery for combined straw integration and sowing in rice-wheat systems, and approaches to reduce zinc deficiencies, demonstrating IFAD’s commitment to scaling practical, climate-resilient solutions.

The global dialogue "Sustainable Maize and Wheat:

AgroPolicy, Animal Husbandry, Collaborations, Dairy, India, Live Stock

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Amit Shah released Guidelines for Greening of the Dairy Sector and also launched NDDB Sustain Plus Project during the event.

The Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying (DAHD) under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying successfully organized the Workshop on Sustainability in the Dairy Sector and Circularity at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi on 3rd March 2025. Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Amit Shah, inaugurated the workshop.

The workshop marked significant milestones in the field of sustainability and circularity with the signing of MoU between NDDB and NABARD to promote sustainable and inclusive growth in the dairy sector by leveraging the technical, financial and implementation support. For setting up Biogas Plants across the country NDDB has signed MoUs with 26 Milk Unions of 15 States. On this occasion, Comprehensive Guidelines aimed at sustainability in the dairy sector was released along with the launch of Financing Initiatives under NDDB’s (National Dairy Development Board) Small Scale Biogas, Large Scale Biogas/Compressed Biogas projects and the NDDB Sustain Plus Project for financing sustainable dairying interventions. These initiatives are expected to accelerate the adoption of circular practices in dairy farming, promoting efficient manure management and energy generation while reducing environmental impact. This national workshop has provided a crucial platform for policymakers, industry leaders, and experts to discuss and develop strategies for enhancing sustainability, reducing carbon emissions, and ensuring financial viability for small and marginal dairy farmers.

In his address, Union Minister Amit Shah said that today when we are moving towards the White Revolution 2.0, the importance of sustainability and circularity takes precedence. He said that apart from what we have achieved so far with the help of first White Revolution, sustainability and circularity in dairy sector are still to be fully accomplished. Shri Amit Shah said that India’s agriculture system is based on small farmers and their migration from villages to cities is associated with their prosperity. He said that dairy is an important option to make small farmers prosperous along with overcoming the problem of rural migration.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation,

Acts & Schemes – Centre, AgroPolicy, Agrotech, Climate, Collaborations, Funding, Horticulture, Interaction, R&D, Schemes - Govt, Start ups

The Bengal Chamber, in collaboration with ICAR-NRCG, has organized the National Grape Summit 2025 themed as “From Vines to Value – Transforming the Grape Industry. This summit aims to highlight advancements in grape farming techniques and post-harvest management; showcase emerging opportunities in grape-based industries such as wine production and food processing; promote sustainable practices and export potential to enhance India’s position in the global market; facilitate dialogue among policymakers, entrepreneurs, and experts to create actionable strategies for industry growth and organize a planned visit to selected vineyards as part of promoting viti-tourism and showcasing the integration of tourism with grape cultivation and wine production

Grapes hold a significant position in India’s agricultural landscape as one of the most remunerative fruit crops with an annual production exceeding 3,900 thousand tons, India stands as a major grape-producing nation. However, less than 10 per cent of the total produce is exported, primarily due to challenges such as lack of awareness and inadequate infrastructural support for meeting the quality and food safety standards required by importing countries. The national level summit was organized to exchange the ideas and sharing experiences between the policy-makers, researchers, farmers, businesses and tourism promoters.

Indian grapes are next Darjeeling tea if marketed suitably, said Dr. Subrata Gupta, Secretary, Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI)at the National Grape Summit at Pune by the Bengal Chamber and National Research Centre for Grapes. He also mentioned about the MoFPI schemes which may be leverage to strengthen processing industries related to grapes.

In a country where arable land is limited and continuously shrinking, it becomes imperative to focus on developing and disseminating technologies aimed at enhancing productivity and improving the quality of grapes. This would enable farmers to achieve better financial returns per unit of crop area, discouraging a shift to other crops. Furthermore, to boost exports, it is crucial to explore the potential of indigenously developed grape varieties and expand market reach beyond the traditional EU destinations. Domestically, the stringent FSSAI standards also call for a greater focus on capacity-building initiatives to ensure compliance said Dr. Kaushik Banerjee, Director ICAR-NRCG. Pune, located in Maharashtra, is the ideal venue for the National Grape Summit 2025 due to its central role in India’s grape industry, with the state contributing around 80 per cent of the country’s grape production. Surrounded by some of the country’s most productive vineyards, Pune offers participants direct exposure to advanced grape farming techniques and successful practices. The city is also a key player in India’s rapidly expanding wine industry, serving as a hub that integrates both agriculture and wine production. Its proximity to renowned research institutions, such as ICAR-NRCG, positions Pune at the forefront of innovation in grape cultivation, pest management, and post-harvest technologies. Pune’s excellent accessibility by air, road, and rail ensures seamless participation from stakeholders across the nation. Additionally, the region’s thriving agro-tourism industry offers a unique opportunity to explore the fusion of agriculture and tourism, making it a perfect setting for a summit that aims to promote both industry growth and sustainable practices said Mr. Jayanta Chakraborty, Chairperson, National Committee for Agri-Horti-Food Processing of The Bengal Chamber.

The programme was addressed by international experts including Mr. Simon Wiebusch, President, Bayer, South Asia. Dr. Nilanjan Sanyal, Head R&D, South Asia, BASF India Ltd.

For promoting grape tourism, the conclave is followed by grape vines and winery visits in Nasik the way tea-tourism is promoted in Darjeeling and other north Bengal districts.

The Bengal Chamber, in collaboration with ICAR-NRCG,

Agribusiness, Agrotech, Farm Mechanisation, Machinery - Pre-harvesting, World

Three new technologies -seed-level sensing, fertilizer-level sensing and active vacuum automation will give farmers more information needed to keep planters running.

John Deere announced new planter technologies designed to make the planting process more efficient, giving farmers an edge in getting the crop in during tight windows due to weather and other conditions. Three new technologies -seed-level sensing, fertilizer-level sensing and active vacuum automation will give farmers more information needed to keep planters running.

Seed-Level Sensing

This logistics improvement provides farmers with a more accurate look at the level of seed remaining in the tank. Currently, farmers estimate time to empty based on previous experience or general visual indicators and often have to stop and manually check the seed levels remaining in the tank. Seed-level sensing places a sensor in the tank that can measure the volume of seed left in the tank, which is then provided to the operator in the cab and the John Deere Operations Center™. This new feature provides more accurate information on when and where to have seed tenders available for tank refills. This feature is available on model year 2026 planters or as a precision upgrade for certain models back to model year 2022.

Fertilizer-Level Sensing

Similar to seed-level sensing, this improvement focuses on enhancing planting logistics by providing the operator with better information on the fertilizer level remaining in the tank. Fertilizer-level sensing is an external manifold that includes two pressure sensors, which are used to calculate both the liquid density as well as the volume remaining in the tank. This eliminates the need for the operator to input the density value while also giving them the ability to see the tank volume in-cab and on the John Deere Operations Center. Fertilizer-level sensing is available on model year 2026 planters and is also a precision upgrade that can be added to machines that are model year 2022 and newer.

Active Vacuum Automation

To help farmers ensure they are getting the most out of their seed, John Deere added active vacuum automation to model year 2026 planters with electric drives and the SeedStar™ 5 Monitoring System. This feature looks in real time at singulation and automatically adjusts the vacuum, helping to prevent skips and doubles. Active vacuum automation minimizes the operator interaction, helping to control actual seed population versus manual adjustment that previously had to be made.

“Working with farmers and John Deere dealers, we have found solutions for ways our customers can keep rolling during planting season,” said Anthony Styczinski, product marketing manager at John Deere. “These solutions help farmers more accurately and efficiently complete the most critical part of the production cycle, helping get the crop off to an optimal start.”

Three new technologies -seed-level sensing, fertilizer-level sensing

Agribusiness, Collaborations, Company News, R&D

KPAGRO and Advanta Seeds celebrate a major milestone with the opening of a state-of-the-art sweet corn seed drying facility in Lopburi. This investment strengthens Thailand’s position as a global hub for tropical sweet corn seed production, supporting exports to over 34 countries while enhancing the country’s agricultural competitiveness on the international stage

Mr. Porramate Ingsuwan, CEO of KPAGRO, a leader in corn seed processing and drying, stated, ″This new facility marks a significant step in establishing Thailand as a global production hub for high-quality sweet corn seeds. It is designed to meet the growing demand in both domestic and international markets, particularly in exports, which have been expanding by more than 10% annually. With over 20 years of expertise in seed drying and processing, KPAGRO is dedicated to integrating cutting-edge technology into our production process to ensure the highest seed quality while maintaining global standards. Additionally, the facility’s strategic location enables efficient access to Thailand’s key corn-growing regions, further strengthening the country’s seed industry infrastructure.″

Mr. Bhupen Dubey, Global CEO of Advanta Seeds, a leading provider of high-quality seed technology operating in over 95 countries and expanding to 100 markets worldwide, stated:

″This new facility is a significant milestone that enhances our production efficiency and strengthens our supply chain to meet the continuously growing market demand. We are committed to delivering high-quality seeds to farmers, helping them increase yields, reduce costs, and enhance the overall competitiveness of the agricultural sector. Through this collaboration, we will efficiently export sweet corn seeds to over 34 countries worldwide, supporting market expansion and driving the advancement of global agriculture.″

Strengthening a 19-Year Partnership

Mr. Dubey further highlighted the long-standing collaboration between the two companies: ″The opening of this new facility not only expands our capabilities in the sweet corn seed business but also reflects the strong 19-year partnership between Advanta Seeds and KPAGRO. This collaboration has played a crucial role in developing world-class production standards and serves as a key driver in positioning Thailand as a global hub for sweet corn seed production. It will support market expansion while strengthening the agricultural industry for long-term growth.″

Advanced Technology for Superior Seed Production

The new sweet corn seed facility is located within the KPAGRO Lopburi site, spanning 100 rai (16 hectares), and is operated by KP Agro Industry (Lopburi) Co., Ltd. The facility integrates cutting-edge technology at every stage of production. Key innovations include: Automated ear corn intake station – enhancing efficiency and seed integrity, Centralized heating stack drying system – ensuring uniform drying and energy efficiency, SCADA-controlled precision monitoring – enabling real-time quality control.

Growth of Thailand’s Sweet Corn Market

Thailand is one of the world’s leading sweet corn exporters. In 2023, the country exported 237,170 tons of sweet corn, valued at USD 270.6 million, with strong demand from key markets such as Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan. The domestic market is also expanding, driven by increasing consumption of fresh and processed sweet corn.

Seeds produced at this facility will be exported to over 34 countries, supporting the rapidly growing global market. The Thai sweet corn seed industry is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.1% between 2024 and 2034, driven by rising demand in agriculture and food processing industries.

The collaboration between Advanta Seeds and KPAGRO in launching this new facility marks a crucial milestone in enhancing Thailand’s seed industry competitiveness. Equipped with cutting-edge technology, the facility will enable farmers to access high-quality seeds, boost yields, and solidify Thailand’s position as a global leader in sweet corn seed production.

KPAGRO and Advanta Seeds celebrate a major

Agribusiness

PepsiCo India is advancing its agricultural initiatives in Uttar Pradesh with a focus on regenerative farming and empowering farming communities. The company recently highlighted its efforts in Iglas and Hathras, showcasing its commitment to sustainable agricultural practices and farmer welfare

As a pioneer in collaborative potato farming, PepsiCo India directly and indirectly works with 27,000 farmers across 14 states. The company provides a comprehensive support system, including high-quality seeds, assured buy-back of produce, bank loans, and access to technological best practices in collaboration with agri-input companies. These initiatives aim to strengthen the farming ecosystem and ensure long-term sustainability in potato cultivation.

PepsiCO’s Pep+ Approach

At the core of PepsiCo India’s agricultural approach is Pep+, a framework that drives end-to-end strategic transformation with a focus on sustainability. The company prioritizes positive agriculture, which includes promoting regenerative farming techniques, improving water-use efficiency in crop irrigation, and sourcing key ingredients sustainably from local farmers. Currently, 100% of the potatoes used in its chips are sourced from Indian farmers, reflecting the company’s deep-rooted commitment to domestic agriculture.

Regenerative agriculture plays a crucial role in PepsiCo’s sustainability vision, emphasizing soil health improvement, carbon sequestration, enhanced watershed management, biodiversity protection, and improved livelihoods for farming communities. By optimizing the use of water, fertilizers, and pesticides based on regional conditions, the company aims to increase productivity while maintaining environmental balance.

Project Mitti Didi

One of the standout initiatives under this vision is Project Mitti Didi, which addresses challenges in soil testing. PepsiCo India has trained women in Hathras district to operate the InSoil machine, a portable device capable of testing soil health across 12 key parameters, including Potassium, Magnesium, Boron, and pH levels. The machine generates detailed reports within 30 minutes, helping farmers make informed decisions for better crop planning and increased yields. By turning these women into agri-preneurs, the initiative not only enhances farming efficiency but also empowers local communities.

Lay’s Smart Farm

Another notable program, Lay’s Smart Farm, is an AI-driven initiative in partnership with Cropin. This award-winning project provides farmers with real-time insights through a user-friendly smartphone app, aiding in crop management, yield forecasting, and disease prevention. The predictive intelligence model leverages satellite imagery and historical data to offer early disease warnings 10-14 days in advance and yield forecasts up to 45 days before harvest. So far, the initiative has mapped over 15,000 acres across 20,000 plots, benefiting more than 7,000 farmers with increased productivity and reduced input costs.

PepsiCo India’s next-generation agricultural strategy is redefining farming in the country. By focusing on sustainable practices and technological interventions, the company continues to strengthen its ties with local farmers while advancing a more resilient and environmentally friendly agricultural ecosystem.

PepsiCo India is advancing its agricultural initiatives

Agri Genomics, Company News

First soybean variety in 00 category paves the way for further product portfolio expansion across Europe

Protealis, the specialist seed and seed technologies developer for high-performing legume crops in Europe, today announces the launch of three new soybean varieties, following five new registrations obtained in Belgium and Germany. One of the newly registered soybean varieties that received registration both in Belgium and Germany is PRO Denali, the first variety launched by Protealis in the 00 maturity group. These are tailored to grow in the more moderate regions in northern-central Europe. The launch marks the company’s rapid product portfolio expansion to 9 soybean varieties since its foundation in 2021, with the launch in the 00 soybean maturity group paving the way to commercial growth across new regions in central France, southern Germany, Austria, and Hungary.

Benjamin Laga, CEO of Protealis, commented: “We are very pleased to launch these three new soybean varieties, further showing our commitment to expand high-performance soybean cultivation in Europe. With the introduction of our first 00 category PRO Denali soybean, we have now moved into the field of the 00 maturity group that opens up vast acreages across Europe. As from now, farmers in these more temperate regions will be able to reap the benefits of high-performance soybean farming. Overall, our new varieties were selected as they consistently outperformed many of their peers in trials across multiple European regions. Together with our recently expanded sales & marketing team, we are now ready for the next wave of our commercial expansion.”

Protealis’ soybean varieties PRO Taranaki (000 group) and PRO Denali (00 group) were formally approved and registered in both Germany and Belgium. PRO Taranaki was already registered in Germany in 2024 but is now also registered in Belgium. The variety combines high yield with exceptional protein content and is well-suited for food applications. PRO Denali stands out with its excellent first pod height for efficient harvesting and delivers stable, high yields. Other approved and registered new soy varieties in Belgium include PRO Fogo (000 group), characterized by its high yield in drier conditions, and PRO Volcano (000 group), offering a great adaptability to northern climates, combined with a good yield-protein balance.

Protealis’ new soybean varieties, all suited for organic agriculture, respond to the rising demand for high-quality, non-GMO and locally grown soy for both food and feed applications in Europe. Historically, soybean cultivation struggled to gain traction in northern Europe due to a lack of high-performance varieties adapted to cooler climates. Today, cutting-edge breeding technologies, including AI-driven selection—one of Protealis’ core strengths—are changing the game in a soybean market in the EU-27 that is expected to grow by 13% by 20351. While 000 varieties excel in areas like the UK, Belgium, and Germany, the newly introduced 00 group is ideal for central France, southern Germany, Austria, and Hungary.

To support its current product portfolio of now nine high-performance soybean varieties, Protealis recently grew its sales & marketing team with three new roles. A new sales agronomist will focus on German-speaking and rapidly growing Eastern European markets, while new roles in both Market and Business Development will focus on the expanding regional soy acreage and develop partnerships with the food and feed industry, increasingly demanding locally grown high-quality, high-protein legume crops.

First soybean variety in 00 category paves

Company News, Finance, India, Poultry, Trade

This move will enhance IPA’s supply chain efficiency, expand its market footprint, and drive innovation in poultry and animal nutrition solutions.

Indian Poultry Alliance (IPA), a subsidiary of the Allana Group announced that company has acquired Kwality Animal Feeds Pvt. Ltd. for Rs 300 crore with an additional Rs 200 crore investment in the company for further expansion. This acquisition strengthens IPA’s market leadership and aligns with its strategic vision to drive consolidation and growth in Indian poultry industry.

The acquisition brings to IPA long-standing partnerships of Kwality with major food service providers and quick-service restaurants (QSRs). This move will enhance IPA’s supply chain efficiency, expand its market footprint, and drive innovation in poultry and animal nutrition solutions.

“This acquisition further strengthens our poultry value chain, enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and market reach. Leveraging our deep expertise and world-class infrastructure, we are investing in advanced technologies, automation, and precision breeding to drive productivity while minimizing environmental impact. Our commitment to responsible waste management and ethical sourcing will set new industry benchmarks, delivering lasting value to both partners and consumers”, said Moiz Chunawalla, Managing Director, Indian Poultry Alliance (Allana Group).

“As part of its expansion strategy, IPA will invest Rs 2000 crores over the next three years to scale up to 7 manufacturing units, integrate advanced technology, and strengthen cold chain logistics and distribution networks. This investment will also fuel our expansion into key metropolitan markets and strengthen our export strategy, with three more acquisitions planned this year,” he added.

Sanjeev Despande and Ajit Lokur, Director and Managing Director & Co-Founder, Kwality Animal Feeds Pvt. Ltd., commented, “When we founded Kwality Animal Feeds 42 years ago, our vision was to provide top-tier poultry nutrition and solutions. Joining IPA ensures that vision continues to flourish with enhanced resources and expertise. We are excited about the new growth opportunities this collaboration will bring.”

Kwality Animal Feeds, which Founded in 1983, has built a strong reputation for its high-quality animal feed, live chicken, and processed chicken products. With a fully integrated business model spanning feed mills, soya processing, breeding farms, hatcheries, broiler integration, and value-added poultry products, the company enjoys significant market presence, particularly in West and South India.

This move will enhance IPA’s supply chain

Company News, Sustainability

Dhanuka Agritech Limited, a leader in sustainable agrochemical solutions, hosted an exclusive seminar on Sugarcane Sustainability: Best Practices and Innovations at the Ballroom, Novotel Lucknow, Gomti Nagar. The event brought together key stakeholders – including government officials, sugar mill owners, sugarcane experts, scientists from KVK, IISR, and district sugarcane officials, as well as policymakers – to address critical challenges and explore innovative solutions for improving sugarcane yield and quality in Uttar Pradesh

The seminar was graced by Dr. Bakshi Ram (Padma Shree, Former Director, Sugarcane Breeding Institute), Shri Madhavendra Pratap Singh, MLA, Sawayazpur (Hardoi), Uttar Pradesh, Dr. Kumar Vineet, IAS, MD, UP Coop. Sugar Factories Federation Ltd, and Shri Roshan Lal Tamak, ED & CEO – Sugar Business, DCM Shriram Ltd. added their insights to the discussions.

Key focus areas of the seminar included addressing Uttar Pradesh’s low per-hectare sugarcane yield—currently averaging 84 tonnes compared to Tamil Nadu’s 105 tonnes—and exploring the underlying causes: limited access to modern technologies (seeds, soil testing, precision spray technology, and finances), inadequate market access, and the use of substandard farm inputs. Data presented during the seminar highlighted that while progressive farmers in UP have achieved yields as high as 284 tonnes (as discussed during the CII Sugartec Meeting in Lucknow on 16th-17th November), the overall potential remains underexploited. In his address at the CII meeting, UP’s Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath, noted that fertile land and ample water resources from rivers like the Ganga and Yamuna present an opportunity to triple or quadruple current production levels in UP.

A comparative analysis revealed that India’s per-hectare sugarcane yield and farmer income are only about one-third of China’s and roughly 25-30% of those in other developed countries. Reflecting on these challenges, Dr. R.G. Agarwal, Chairman Emeritus, emphasized the need for modern agronomic practices and scientific advancements to boost productivity and profitability.

Dhanuka Agritech remains committed to providing cutting-edge solutions that enhance the productivity and profitability of sugarcane farmers across the country.

Dhanuka Agritech Limited, a leader in sustainable

Agbiologicals, Biofertilizers, Company News

An innovative project which aims to provide UK farmers and growers with a sustainable, environmentally friendly nutrient management solution is underway following a partnership between industry experts

The project, called ‘Biofilm Biofertiliser’, will develop a novel multi-species biofilm- based biofertiliser product that reduces the use of synthetic fertilisers by 40-50 per cent. By utilising a unique consortium of UK indigenous biofilm-forming plant growth- promoting bacteria (PGPB), which is tailored to UK soils, it will improve soil quality and plant/crop health, resulting in 20-30 per cent higher yields.

Formulation types include water-dispersible granules (WDG) and encapsulated options, which aims to improve nutrient availability, enhance soil health and foster a stable biofilm with a targeted minimum shelf life of up to 24 months. Following funding from the UK’s innovation agency, Innovate UK, the project is being led by a consortium of partners including lead partner, Bionema Group, a global leader in biocontrol technology developer for crop protection and plant health management; CPI, responsible for the process development and production of samples for the UK field trials, and the UK Agri-Tech Centre, responsible for project management and dissemination/exploitation ensuring awareness raising and end-
user engagement.

As part of this project, three UK farmers and growers in agriculture and horticulture will be provided with a nutrient management solution which offers a low-cost alternative to synthetic fertilisers, improved soil and plant health, increased crop yields by 20-30 per cent and a reduced nutrient run-off. Additionally, the innovative biofilm-based biofertiliser will be produced and manufactured in the UK, reducing reliance on imports from global suppliers. Farmers and growers are facing the challenge of reducing synthetic fertiliser usage as required by law/regulations whilst increasing food production using more sustainable, organic farming methods to meet an ever-rising global demand.

Potential impacts
Bionema’s technology will benefit farmers and growers by improving soil quality, plant health and yields, thus integrating seamlessly into existing farming practises and leading to more sustainable farming, greater resilience and higher profits. There are many economic benefits including generating employment and revenue from new product formulations, established global partnerships and increased export opportunities whilst establishing the UK as a leader in biocontrol technology. Farmers and growers will also be contributing to lower GHG emissions, improved air quality and reduced environmental pollution from nitrogen run-offs. In addition, technology integration will streamline farming practices, promoting sustainable agriculture and resilience whilst the innovation will drive the biocontrol and biofertilizer sector forward, encouraging a shift from synthetic to bio-based solutions. The project aligns with UK and EU regulatory commitments to reduce synthetic fertilisers by 20 per cent by 2030 and supports sustainable development goals (SDGs) such as Zero Hunger, Good Health and Wellbeing, Responsible Consumption and Production and Life on Land.
The project plan
In the earlier stages of the project, partners will focus on developing, optimising and validating formulations for the bacteria consortia, ensuring their stability, efficacy and
ease of application. The two main formulation types to be focused on are WDG and Encapsulation. Lab tests will comprehensively evaluate the effectiveness of WDG and encapsulated
PGPR formulations in promoting plant growth, enhancing nutrient uptake and improving soil and plant health. This evaluation includes measuring seed germination, plant biomass, nutrient uptake, soil microbial activity, soil health indicators and plant stress tolerance under controlled conditions. Later in the project the partners will look at testing formulation sprayability and this work aims to evaluate spray characteristics, droplet size and droplet deposition on leaves from formulations received earlier in the project. The project combines cutting-edge expertise with conventional sprayers to assess spray characteristics and uses new technology to contribute to an innovative approach. During the project, field trials will be conducted for nutrient management with an aim to evaluate WDG and encapsulate biofilm biofertiliser formulations across various crops for efficacy and phytotoxicity at commercial farms over years two and three. The trials will assess strawberries for their yield, quality and health; potatoes for their yield, size and vigour; wheat for its yield, height and disease resistance; and ornamentals for their growth, flowering and aesthetics, compared to existing solutions. Dr Minshad Ansari, CEO and Founder of Bionema Group, as the lead SME partner for the Biofilm Biofertiliser project, said: “The Biofilm Biofertiliser project represents a significant step towards a more sustainable and resilient agricultural future. “By integrating cutting-edge biofilm technology with UK-specific microbial solutions, we empower farmers and growers to reduce their reliance on synthetic fertilisers while enhancing soil health and crop productivity”. “At Bionema, we drive innovation in biocontrol, biostimulants and biofertilisers, ensuring that sustainable farming solutions are effective and economically viable for
farmers and growers. “This collaboration, supported by Innovate UK, brings together the expertise needed to transform nutrient management and set new standards for environmentally
responsible agriculture.” Kris Wadrop, Managing Director Materials at CPI, said: “At CPI, we are committed to driving innovation in sustainable agriculture by supporting the development, scale-up and commercialisation of breakthrough technologies”.
“The Biofilm Biofertiliser project is an exciting opportunity to develop a game- changing solution that enhances soil health and reduces reliance on synthetic fertilisers”.
“By leveraging our expertise in engineering biology, formulation science and advanced manufacturing techniques, we aim to help bring this novel biofertiliser to market, supporting UK farmers in adopting more sustainable and productive farming practices.” Richard Glass, Innovation Lead at the UK Agri-Tech Centre, said: “This project will provide critical support to farmers aiming to increase both the economic and environmental sustainability of crop production by reducing reliance on synthetic nitrogen fertiliser”.

An innovative project which aims to provide

Agbiologicals, Agribusiness, Biostimulants, World

The agreement follows an earlier collaboration to launch VIXERAN® in the European Union. Under the current agreement, VIXERAN will be introduced to markets globally.

Farmers seeking effective biological solutions to optimize their nitrogen fertilizer use are set to benefit from a new agreement between Syngenta Crop Protection and Ceres Biotics aimed at increasing farmer access to VIXERAN®. The agreement follows an earlier collaboration to launch VIXERAN® in the European Union. Under the current agreement, VIXERAN will be introduced to markets globally.

VIXERAN® is an innovative biostimulant based on the endophytic bacteria Azotobacter salinestris strain number CECT9690, meaning the microbes can inhabit internal tissues of plants without causing disease. The biostimulant features multiple modes of action, enabling the plant to efficiently access nitrogen available from the environment through its leaves and root system. VIXERAN® is designed to complement traditional nitrogen fertilizers.

While nitrogen – essential to critical plant processes such as growth, leaf-area expansion and biomass-yield production – is the most abundant, naturally-occurring gas constituting about 78% of air, plants are not able to readily access nitrogen from the environment. The use of synthetic nitrogen fertilizer in modern agriculture requires an energy-intensive and costly industrial process, while the widespread use of such fertilizers increases greenhouse gas emissions and lowers the sustainability of agriculture.

Jonathan Brown, Global Head Seedcare and Biologicals, said: “Syngenta is investing significantly to bring the most innovative biological solutions to farmers around the world. Biostimulants that boost the nutrient use efficiency of crops have a significant role in strengthening the sustainabiilty of agriculture, and are integral to Syngenta’s efforts to improve both crop yields and soil health. We are excited to work with Ceres Biotics in this fast-evolving area of plant nutrition.”

Emilio Marin, CEO and co-founder of Ceres Biotics, highlights: “We are excited to collaborate with Syngenta to bring to the market novel and sustainable biostimulants that improve nutrient use efficiency and maximize yield helping farmers implement more sustainable agricultural practices. VIXERAN® will be accessible to farmers globally, and this is a big step towards building up more sustainable crop management systems”. 

VIXERAN® offers farmers greater flexibility in their nitrogen management strategies and optimizes crop performance in two key ways: it complements standard nitrogen fertilization programs to effectively boost yield potential beyond traditional methods, and, in situations where nitrogen availability is reduced due to environmental factors or supply constraints, VIXERAN® can help farmers maintain their yield targets.

The agreement follows an earlier collaboration to

Agribusiness, Company News, India, Supply Chain, Transportation

Maersk announced that the company sees an investment opportunity pipeline of about USD 5 billion in ports and terminals as well as landside infrastructure development in India.

A.P. Moller – Maersk (Maersk) celebrated the name-giving of its newest dual-fuel methanol container vessel in Mumbai as a part of the vessel’s maiden voyage to India. The vessel, named Albert Maersk, is the eleventh vessel in Maersk’s fleet capable of operating on methanol.

Vincent Clerc, CEO, A.P. Moller – Maersk, hosted the name-giving ceremony, which was attended by the Honourable Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, the Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, Raksha Khadse, diplomats, government authorities, customers, partners and Maersk employees.

On this occasion Sarbananda Sonowal, Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways said, “It is a privilege for India to host the naming of this advanced dual-fuel vessel, a historic first for a foreign shipping company in our country. With the demand for green vessels rising, India has the potential to become a major producer and supplier of green methanol, ammonia, and hydrogen-based fuels. Maersk’s decision to focus on green fuel production in India is a welcome step that will accelerate our journey towards a sustainable maritime future. This vessel naming is more than just a tradition—it is a symbol of trust, collaboration, and a shared vision for the future. As India moves towards becoming a global maritime powerhouse, we welcome Maersk’s continued partnership in green shipping, green fuel production, and logistics.”

Vincent Clerc,CEO of A.P. Moller – Maersk said that Maersk continues to take firm steps towards decarbonising shipping with the addition of one more dual-fuel vessel to its fleet. India is among the world’s fastest-growing major economies, with a thriving manufacturing sector, a booming e-commerce industry, and expanding exports. Shipping and logistics are high on India’s priorities, and Maersk looks forward to partnering with India on various aspects, such as exploring the potential sourcing of alternative fuels for low-emissions shipping and activities involving ship repairs and shipbuilding in the future that align well with the Indian Government’s ambitions to promote the shipping sector.

Maersk contributes to this growing economy by facilitating the movement of one in every six containers imported or exported from the country and enabling global trade through its integrated logistics solutions. The company’s footprint in India includes two APM Terminals operations in Mumbai and Pipavav that facilitate the import and export of over three million containers every year, 26 warehouses spread across 350,000 sq. m., and a distribution network that reaches more than 80 per cent of India’s pin codes.

On the backdrop of the name-giving ceremony, Maersk announced that the company sees an investment opportunity pipeline of about USD 5 billion in ports and terminals as well as landside infrastructure development in India.

Keith Svendsen, CEO of APM Terminals said, “We believe we can play a role in reducing the cost of logistics by ensuring that our customers access all their supply chain needs in one place – from all modes of transportation to port handling to warehousing and distribution. As APM Terminals, we are ready to invest more in developing ports with low emissions and great efficiency that will help businesses grow and connect India with the global markets.”

Maersk announced that the company sees an

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

In the exports market company have sold 1647 tractors, at a growth of 6 per cent over last year.

Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd.’s Farm Equipment Sector (FES), part of the Mahindra Group, announced its tractor sales numbers for February 2025.Domestic sales in February 2025 were at 23880 units, as against 20121 units during February 2024. Total tractor sales (Domestic + Exports) during February 2025 were at 25527 units, as against 21672 units for the same period last year. Exports for the month stood at 1647 units.

Commenting on the performance, Hemant Sikka, President – Farm Equipment Sector, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. said “We have sold 23880 tractors in the domestic market during February 2025, a growth of 19 per cent over last year. After a good Kharif crop, Rabi crop outlook is also looking positive due to favourable weather conditions. Increase in Agri credit limit, continued Government support to increase farmer incomes and a bumper Rabi harvest will help boost tractor demand going forward. In the exports market we have sold 1647 tractors, at a growth of 6 per cent over last year.”

In the exports market company have sold

Agribusiness, AgroPolicy, India, Interaction, Pulses

AgroSpectrum spoke to Rajavelu N K, CEO, Crop Protection Business, Godrej Agrovet Ltd about how to achieve ‘Aatmanirbharta in Pulses’ and other issues. Edited excerpts:

The United Nations General Assembly has designated February 10 as World Pulses Day to recognise the importance of pulse crops like chickpeas, dry beans and lentils as a global food. The day is crucial to raising awareness about the nutritional benefits of pulses as part of sustainable food production to enhance food security and nutrition. In 2025, the theme for World Pulses Day is “Pulses: Bringing diversity to agrifood systems” while the slogan is “Love pulses for a healthy diet and planet”. This year’s theme will underscore the vital role of pulses in promoting diversity – both above and below the ground. With low yields, India being the largest producer of pulses imports large quantities of pulses to fulfil its local needs. In this regard, AgroSpectrum spoke to Rajavelu N K, CEO, Crop Protection Business, Godrej Agrovet Ltd about how to achieve ‘Aatmanirbharta in Pulses’ and other issues. Edited excerpts:

What are the key factors contributing to India’s low pulse yields despite having the largest cultivation area globally?

Despite being the world’s largest producer of pulses with extensive cultivation area, India’s yield per hectare remains significantly lower than global standards. This paradox stems from multiple interconnected challenges in our agricultural ecosystem. Traditional farming practices, predominantly reliant on rainfed agriculture, continue to dominate pulse cultivation, limiting the potential for higher yields. The situation is further complicated by the fact that pulses are typically grown in marginal lands with poor soil fertility and erratic rainfall patterns, making them vulnerable to climate variations.

The slow adoption of high-yielding, drought-resistant varieties, coupled with significant crop losses due to pests like pod borer and diseases such as Fusarium wilt, poses persistent challenges. Limited access to quality inputs, including seeds, fertilisers, and micronutrients, further constrains productivity. Market uncertainties, characterised by price volatility and inadequate Minimum Support Price (MSP) procurement mechanisms, often discourage farmers from making necessary investments in better farming practices. Additionally, post-harvest losses due to insufficient storage and processing infrastructure continue to impact the overall productivity of pulse cultivation in India.

How is the private sector contributing to improving pulse yields in India through various initiatives?

As a key player in India’s agricultural sector, we at Godrej Agrovet, along with other private sector companies, have been actively working to transform pulse cultivation through innovative solutions and strategic interventions. In the crop protection segment, which is our core strength, we have made significant strides in developing both bio-based and chemical crop protection solutions specifically tailored for pulse cultivation. These solutions directly address the critical challenges faced by pulse farmers in managing pests and diseases effectively. The sector’s transformation has been multifaceted, with companies like Bayer and Syngenta introducing improved seed varieties that offer enhanced resistance to diseases and pests.

The industry has also embraced precision agriculture techniques, leveraging advanced technologies such as satellite imaging, soil testing, and AI-driven advisory services. These technological interventions have been crucial in optimising input utilisation and improving yield outcomes for farmers. What’s particularly encouraging is how different private sector players are contributing through their unique strengths. For instance, companies like ITC and Tata Agrico have established robust contract farming models and market linkages, ensuring better price realisation for farmers. Additionally, we’re seeing innovative approaches from agritech startups that are revolutionising access to financial services through microfinance, insurance products, and digital advisory services. At Godrej Agrovet, we believe this collaborative ecosystem approach, where each player brings their expertise, is crucial for achieving sustainable improvements in pulse productivity.

How will the Rs 1,000 crore “Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses” announced in the 2025-26 Budget impact India’s pulse sector?

The ambitious Rs 1,000 crore mission marks a significant milestone in India’s journey towards self-sufficiency in pulse production. This strategic initiative addresses multiple critical aspects of the pulse value chain, with MSP-based procurement mechanisms forming the cornerstone of price stability efforts. The enhanced focus on building robust post-harvest infrastructure, particularly warehousing solutions, is expected to significantly reduce wastage and empower farmers with better market timing options, ultimately leading to improved price realisation.

This comprehensive mission is poised to transform India’s current scenario of importing 2-3 million tonne of pulses annually. By providing secure pricing mechanisms, it creates a conducive environment for farmers to invest in better inputs, irrigation systems, and modern farming technologies. The strengthening of procurement infrastructure under this initiative is expected to streamline logistics and eliminate distress sales, creating a more resilient and self-sufficient pulse production ecosystem.

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

AgroSpectrum spoke to Rajavelu N K, CEO,