In an interaction with AgroSpectrum India, Harsh Vardhan Bhagchandka, President, IPL Biologicals, shares his insights on the evolving bio-fertilizer market, the role of biologicals in transforming Indian agriculture, and the company’s growth strategy in this rapidly expanding sector

The establishment of new biological manufacturing facilities across India is strengthening domestic production capacity for bio-fertilizers and biopesticides, helping farmers gain access to high-quality, sustainable crop inputs. By enabling a gradual shift away from synthetic chemicals, these facilities have the potential to reduce the country’s dependence on imported fertilizers and ease the burden of fertilizer subsidies. At the same time, wider adoption of biological solutions can contribute to improved soil health, enhanced crop quality, and better environmental and human health outcomes.

In line with this vision, IPL Biologicals recently inaugurated its state-of-the-art, cGMP-compliant Biological Manufacturing Facility in Vadodara, Gujarat. The development marks a significant milestone in advancing sustainable agriculture and to reduce the use of chemical fertilizers by up to 50 per cent while promoting safer, self-reliant farming practices.

How do you see the Indian biofertilizer and biopesticide market evolving over the next five years?

The direction is clear and irreversible. With the government targeting a 50 per cent reduction in chemical fertiliser use, rising export demand for residue-free produce, and farmers experiencing real yield gains, biologicals are moving from the margins to the mainstream. Over the next five years, I expect strong double-digit growth, with domestic manufacturing scaling rapidly to reduce our dependence on imported chemical inputs. Biologicals will increasingly be seen not as an alternative, but as essential to productive, sustainable farming.

With the Ministry of Agriculture launching the ‘Khet Bachao Abhiyan’ and the Prime Minister advocating a 25–50 per cent reduction in chemical fertilizer usage, India is witnessing a strong push towards sustainable agriculture. How can biological solutions help farmers transition towards this vision while maintaining productivity and profitability?

I believe this is a very important moment for Indian agriculture. For decades, chemical fertilizers have played a significant role in helping the country achieve food security. However, over time, their excessive and imbalanced use has also led to challenges such as declining soil health, reduced organic carbon, nutrient imbalances, and rising input costs for farmers.

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