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Mahindra Tractors, a part of the Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd.’s Farm Equipment Sector, has announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Punjab National Bank (PNB) to provide Channel Finance solutions to its dealers

Mahindra Tractors, a part of the Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd.’s Farm Equipment Sector, has announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Punjab National Bank (PNB) to provide Channel Finance solutions to its dealers. The agreement will offer Mahindra Tractors’ channel partners access to tailored financial solutions that will enhance their working capital management, streamline inventory, and support business growth.

As part of this partnership, all Mahindra Tractors’ dealers with a business vintage of over one year are eligible for the Channel Finance limit. The program offers a finance limit of up to ₹5 crore, with limit assessments based on 105 days of sales. Dealers will benefit from a 105-day credit period, with an additional 15-day grace period, and enjoy 100% funding of the Mahindra & Mahindra invoice without any margin requirements. The financing process is designed to offer competitive interest rates, with simple documentation processes, making it easier for dealers to manage their finances and focus on customer service. The facility will be provided on completely digital FSCM (Financial Supply Chain Management) module of bank, which will enhance customer service.

Commenting on the partnership, Hemant Sikka, President – Farm Equipment Sector, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., said, “We are delighted to partner with Punjab National Bank to offer our dealers a comprehensive financial solution that addresses their unique business needs. We are committed to supporting our dealer network by providing them with the tools they need to thrive. This collaboration with PNB will help improve working capital management and drive efficiency, ultimately enabling our dealers to better serve the farming community.”

The partnership also includes provisions for a peak season financial requirements of dealers, which will be met by the bank. The flexibility of this finance program enables Mahindra’s dealer network to efficiently manage their financial obligations during high-demand periods, thus improving operational efficiency.

Firoz Hasnain, Chief General Manager and Zonal Head, Mumbai Zone, Punjab National Bank, said, “We are excited to partner with Mahindra & Mahindra-Farm Division to launch this innovative Dealer Finance Program. This initiative underscores our commitment in supporting the growth of businesses across sectors, specially MSME and Agriculture by providing them with customized financial solutions. We believe this program will play a crucial role in enhancing the operational efficiency and financial needs of Mahindra & Mahindra-Farm Division’s dealer network. This collaboration will provide tailored financial solutions to dealers, enabling them to enhance their working capital, streamline inventory management, and optimize cash flow. The program is designed to offer flexible credit options, competitive interest rates, and simplified documentation processes, empowering dealers to focus on business growth and customer satisfaction.”

Many of Mahindra’s dealers already maintain robust business relationships with PNB through various financial products such as CC limits, bank guarantees, and current accounts. This established rapport will ensure a seamless transition for those opting to shift their channel finance arrangements to PNB. Dealers currently holding channel finance with other financial institutions will also have the option to move their financing to PNB through a balance takeover.

Mahindra Tractors encourages all its channel partners to visit their nearest PNB branch to initiate the documentation process and take advantage of this exclusive finance offering.

Mahindra is India’s No.1 tractor brand for nearly four decades and is the world’s largest tractor manufacturer by volume. Mahindra rolled-out its first tractor in 1963, through a joint venture with International Harvester, Inc., USA, and in March 2019 became the first Indian tractor brand to sell three million tractors including global sales.

Powerful and fuel efficient for longer duty cycles, Mahindra Tractors are Built ‘Tough’ and are known for their exceptional build quality and performance on rugged and unforgiving terrains, for India and over 50 global markets.

Mahindra Tractors offer the widest tractor portfolio for India and are developed based on Mahindra’s world-class R&D, product development, quality manufacturing, in India, with world-class testing standards, based on world-class engines, powertrains, and aggregate technologies. This is backed by the country’s most comprehensive tractor sales, service, and spares networks, for lowest total cost of ownership, along with the highest tractor resale value

Mahindra Tractors, a part of the Mahindra

Uncategorized

In a significant move to address the growing trend of rural migration and to motivate the younger generation to consider farming as a viable profession, Gromax Agri Equipment Ltd., a joint venture between Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. and the Gujarat Government, unveiled a compelling video campaign on Kisan Diwas

The unique video campaign titled “Kisaan Ka Kamaal”, the new film seeks to instill pride in agricultural, while highlighting the endless opportunities within the sector.

Through the eyes of a young boy named Ayush, the video narrates a heartwarming story of his evolving understanding of his father’s role as a farmer. Ayush initially struggles to articulate his aspirations compared to his friends who dream of become doctors and engineers. However, he gradually realizes that his father embodies these roles and more – as an engineer, a doctor, a businessman, and a leader, demonstrating the multifaceted nature of modern agriculture.

The campaign features vibrant montages showcasing rural landscapes and modern agricultural practices, culminating in Ayush’s transformation as he embraces his father’s profession. He not only finds pride in his heritage but also encourages his friends to recognize the dynamic possibilities within agriculture.

By challenging stereotypes surrounding farming and emphasizing its potential for growth and innovation, Gromax aims to inspire a shift in mindset among young Indians. The campaign concludes with the powerful message: “Kisan Banana Sirf Bhagya Nahi, Saubhagya Ki Baat Hai.” (Becoming a farmer is not just destiny, it’s a blessing.) This sentiment underscores the importance of agriculture as a cornerstone of India’s economy and culture.

Gromax is joint venture between Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd, the world’s largest tractor manufacturer by volume & the Government of Gujarat. An agri-equipment entity Gromax is focused on bettering the lives of farmers across India, with affordable mechanisation solutions and believes that the life of a farmer in India can truly change only when he can gain MAXimum GROwth from his inputs. The company’s affordable mechanisation solutions, TRAKSTAR Tractors and TRAKMATE Farm Implements aims to achieve this task.

Founded in 1945, the Mahindra Group is one of the largest and most admired multinational federation of companies with 260,000 employees in over 100 countries. It enjoys a leadership position in farm equipment, utility vehicles, information technology and financial services in India and is the world’s largest tractor company by volume. It has a strong presence in renewable energy, agriculture, logistics, hospitality and real estate. The Mahindra Group has a clear focus on leading ESG globally, enabling rural prosperity and enhancing urban living, with a goal to drive positive change in the lives of communities and stakeholders to enable them to Rise.

In a significant move to address the

China

Syngenta Group’s global credit ratings are “A” from Fitch, “Baa1” from Moody’s and “BBB+” from S&P

On 23 December 2024, Syngenta Group (HK) Holdings Company Limited (“Borrower”) has entered into a $4,500 million syndicated three-year and five-year sustainability-linked term loan facility with a syndicate of banks from various jurisdictions led by the Agricultural Bank of China Limited Hong Kong Branch, Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited, China Construction Bank Corporation, Hong Kong Branch, Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank, DBS Bank Ltd. and Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (Asia) Limited. The facility received an overwhelmingly positive response from the banking community, being oversubscribed 2.6 times from its initial amount of $3,000 million by more than 40 banks.

As a sustainability-linked term loan, it is the same size as the Borrower’s debut syndicated loan facility closed in 2022 and is the largest of its kind in the Asia Pacific loan market this year (according to LSEG LPC.).

The loan facility will be used for refinancing and general working capital purposes and is linked to two targets from Syngenta’s new sustainability priorities. Launched in April 2024, the priorities place sustainability at the core of the company’s strategy and demonstrate the company’s continued commitment to sustainable innovation whilst creating long-term value.

Syngenta Group’s global credit ratings are “A”

Acquaculture, Animal Husbandry, Dairy, Finance, Funding, Goat farming, Horticulture, Inputs, Institutions, Investments, Microfinance

As AIC embarks on its 23rd year, the organisation remains steadfast in its mission to empower farmers through affordable and effective insurance solutions. The occasion was graced by the presence of Dasarathi Singh, Executive Director; Lalit Kharbanda, General Manager; K. V. Raman, General Manager; Sandip S Karmarkar, General Manager; and Rohit Singhal, Appointed Actuary, whose participation added to the event’s significance

The Agriculture Insurance Company of India Limited (AIC), a key player in the agricultural insurance sector, recently celebrated its 22nd Foundation Day with enthusiasm and innovation. Among the key highlights of the event was the launch of a specialised insurance product, ‘Fal Suraksha Bima,’ designed exclusively for banana and papaya crops. This tailored offering reflects AIC’s dedication to addressing the specific needs of farmers and enhancing crop protection through innovative solutions.

Speaking at the event, Dr Lavanya R. Mundayur, CMD, AIC, expressed gratitude for the trust reposed in the company by millions of farmers across India. She said, “People’s trust in AIC is what keeps us moving to work for the welfare of India’s people, especially our farmers. AIC’s journey of more than 20 years has been remarkable. Having navigated through many challenges, the organisation has gained immense trust and emerged as a reliable partner in agricultural growth.”

The celebrations also saw the announcement of a significant initiative to adopt 22 villages under the “Sarba Bimit Gram” programme. This initiative aims to ensure that every household in these villages is covered by at least one insurance policy, including protection for assets and livestock. The gesture underscores AIC’s commitment to making insurance accessible to rural communities while fostering financial security and resilience.

The day’s events began with traditional rituals and performances, symbolising the company’s connection to its cultural roots. A presentation highlighting AIC’s evolution in crop insurance was a key feature, showcasing the strides made over the years in providing tech-driven and farmer-centric solutions. Senior officials urged employees to continue striving for excellence, with a shared vision of expanding AIC’s outreach and delivering innovative products that cater to the diverse needs of India’s agricultural sector.

AIC is the leading implementing agency for the Government’s flagship crop insurance scheme, Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY). During the event, AIC also highlighted its extensive range of insurance products tailored to meet the diverse needs of farmers across the country. The company’s offerings include insurance for various crops and allied agriculture activities, such as Sampoorna Fasal Kawach (SFK), Consequential Crop Loss (CCL), Sampoorna Ritu Kawach (SRK) for crops and Sampoorna Pashudhan Kawach, Saral Krishi Bima, Shrimp Insurance, Sinchai Pranali Bima for Agriculture allied activities. These insurance products are aimed at addressing the unique challenges faced by farmers and enhancing their resilience against risks.

As AIC embarks on its 23rd year,

Climate, Environment, Schemes - Govt, Sustainability, Sustainable Energy

According to Deputy Chief Minister K V Singh Deo, Odisha is poised to take the lead in sustainable and inclusive agricultural reforms with the goal of creating a resilient agricultural future where all farmers may prosper

Deo, who oversees the agriculture portfolio, emphasized the State’s dedication to equitable agricultural growth in his remarks at a Policy Roundtable on “Advancing Inclusive Agricultural Transformation in Odisha” on Friday. According to him, market connections are crucial to small-holder farmers’ empowerment. The Deputy Chief Minister stated, “We are making sure that farmers have improved access to fair markets through Farmer Producer Organizations, allowing them to secure fair prices and improve their livelihoods.”

According to Singh Deo, “We are attempting to proceed with the opinions and viewpoints of the subject matter experts. All of the State’s agricultural demands will be met by us. We have concluded that the State needs a new agri-cultural policy, and I have asked the Principal Secretary to consult with all relevant departments, including Water Resources, Labor, and Fishing and Animal Husbandry. We are going to develop a comprehensive agricultural policy.”

Singh Deo participated in the Policy Roundtable organized by the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) and the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) to discuss ways to advance Inclusive Agricultural Transformation (IAT) in Odisha with other academics and thought leaders. “We want to work together to build a resilient and inclusive future for our agriculture industry,” he stated.

He presided over a high-level conference to finalize Krushi Odisha 2025 preparations earlier on December 19 at Lok Seva Bhavan. “The goal of this historic occasion is to transform the agricultural landscape of Odisha. The significance of using Statewide registration camps to integrate farmers into the Agristack database was brought up in discussions. He also examined the proposed budget for the Agriculture department, emphasizing strategic measures to support the growth of agriculture and the empowerment of Odisha’s farmers.

The Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment’s Principal Secretary, Arabinda Kumar Padhee, emphasized the industry’s emphasis on inclusivity and innovation. He emphasized the necessity of scaling effective tactics to guarantee farmers’ real gains and establish Odisha as a leader in sustainable farming methods. The agriculture industry in Odisha is a leader in sustainability, inclusion, and innovation. We are expanding these achievements and making sure that our common goal benefits all farmers. “By working together, we can transform Odisha into a model state for inclusive and sustainable agricultural growth,” Padhee stated.

According to Deputy Chief Minister K V

Acts & Schemes – Centre, Agribusiness, India, Trade

Haryana becomes the first state in the nation to purchase 24 crops at the minimum support price (MSP) , said Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shyam Singh Rana, while attending Kisan Diwas celebration at Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University (HAU)

Speaking at Kisan Diwas, Minister Rana greeted the farming community and thanked Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini for his leadership in releasing the announcement that ensures MSP procurement for all 24 of the state’s crops. According to him, it is a revolutionary move for the farmers in the state.

According to the government, the ruling is intended to guarantee farmers receive fair rates for their produce. Ten other crops, including Ragi, Soybean, Nigerseed, Safflower, Barley, Maize, Jowar, Jute, Copra, and Summer Moong, are purchased by government agencies on the MSP in accordance with the notification.

Important food and cash crops like paddy, bajra, kharif moong, urd, arhar, til, cotton, groundnut, wheat, mustard, gram, masur, sunflower, and sugarcane will now be included in the list of 14 crops already purchased at MSP.

All of the notified crops are guaranteed to be purchased at the government-announced MSP since the notification complies with the Central government’s MSP policy. Furthermore, the state government will continue to purchase sugarcane at a Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) of Rs 400 per quintal. However, farmers who have registered on the Meri Fasal Mera Bayora site will be able to sell their produce on MSP, according to state agriculture department officials.

Chief Minister Nayab Saini stated, “The state government has guaranteed to procure 100 per cent of all farmers’ crops, so the decision was taken in the interest of the state’s farmers.”

Haryana Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Shyam Singh Rana greeted farmers on the occasion of National Farmers’ Day, stating that Haryana is now the only state in the nation to purchase all 24 notified crops at the MSP set by the union government.

The action also has significant political ramifications because farmers in Punjab, a nearby state, were demonstrating against the union government and calling for legislation to ensure MSP. The state governments can also guarantee the purchase of all crops on MSP, according to the Haryana government’s decision.

Haryana becomes the first state in the

Animal Health, Award, Company News, R&D, Sustainability, Text Blog

Mahindra Tractors, part of the Mahindra Group and India’s No. 1 tractor brand, today celebrated “Kisan Diwas” by showcasing a heartwarming digital film that celebrates the invaluable contributions of Indian farmers

This unique initiative continues the plot from Mahindra’s previous year’s Kisan Diwas campaign, “Did you thank the farmer?” This year, Mahindra aims to urge social media-savvy youngsters and urban dwellers alike to take part in the initiative, reminding them to thank the farmer, who makes every meal possible.

The campaign thoughtfully draws attention to the role of food delivery apps, which have become a part and parcel of urban living. These apps allow us to enjoy the best of food from across the city while sitting in the comfort of our homes. Mahindra drives home this point through a peppy and engaging film, featuring food delivery personnel, individuals who are now an integral part of our daily lives and to whom we often say “thank you” when receiving a food parcels. Drawing parallels, the campaign urges everyone to use Kisan Diwas as an opportunity to also thank the heroes behind their meals – The Farmer.

Through this initiative, Mahindra encourages people to express their gratitude to farmers on their social media handles with the hashtag #ThankYouKisan.

Kisan Diwas, observed every year on December 23, commemorates the birth anniversary of India’s fifth Prime Minister, Choudhary Charan Singh, a visionary leader and advocate for farmers’ rights. It is a day dedicated to celebrating and honoring the efforts of farmers across the country.

Mahindra’s initiative aligns with its mission to enable prosperity for farmers through innovative solutions, tough and reliable tractors, and various finance schemes and support. The campaign aims to create awareness and foster a sense of gratitude among urban and rural audiences alike.

Mahindra Tractors, part of the Mahindra Group

Climate, Environment, R&D, Sustainability, Sustainable Energy

Odisha’s Deputy CM Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo highlights state’s lead in sustainable agricultural reforms at a policy roundtable, collaborating with IFPRI and NPS

Odisha is set to lead the way in inclusive and sustainable agricultural reforms, and innovative ideas and collaborations will shape a resilient agricultural future, the state’s Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo has said. He was speaking at a policy roundtable titled Advancing Inclusive Agricultural Transformation in Odisha, which brought together over 100 participants, including policymakers, researchers, and development practitioners, to exchange ideas and strategies for sustainable agricultural transformation. The Odisha government held the roundtable in collaboration with the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) and the CGIAR Initiative on National Policies and Strategies (NPS) on Friday.

The roundtable underscored the state’s innovative approach to agricultural development, showcasing its potential to be a global model for inclusive and sustainable growth.

Deo reaffirmed Odisha’s commitment to equitable growth.

“Odisha is poised to lead the way in inclusive and sustainable agricultural reforms. The ideas and collaborations fostered today will shape a resilient agricultural future where every farmer can thrive,” Deo said.

Arabinda Kumar Padhee, Principal Secretary of the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment, emphasised the sector’s focus on innovation and inclusivity.

He highlighted the need to scale successful strategies to ensure tangible benefits for farmers, positioning Odisha as a frontrunner in sustainable agricultural practices.

“Odisha’s agriculture sector stands at the forefront of innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability. We are scaling these successes and ensuring that every farmer benefits from our shared vision. Together, we can make Odisha a model state for sustainable and inclusive agricultural growth,” Padhee said.

The roundtable discussions revolved around five critical themes vital for inclusive agricultural growth.

IFPRI South Asia Director Shahidur Rashid stressed the significance of evidence-based strategies to address challenges and create benchmarks for the region’s growth.

“The roundtable underscores the potential of evidence-based strategies to address challenges and harness opportunities for inclusive agricultural growth in Odisha. The discussions today will set benchmarks for the region,” Rashid said.

A key outcome of the event was the decision to establish an advisory group comprising representatives from the Odisha government, IFPRI, and other technical partners.

This group will refine and implement Inclusive Agricultural Transformation (IAT) indicators, aligning them with Odisha’s long-term development goals.

Rajesh Prabhakar Patil, Commissioner cum Secretary, Department of Cooperation, highlighted the importance of market linkages in empowering smallholder farmers. He emphasised the role of FPOs in ensuring equitable market access, enabling farmers to secure fair prices and improve their livelihoods. Monica Priyadarshini, Director of Mission Shakti, highlighted the transformative role of women’s collectives in promoting agricultural growth and strengthening rural livelihoods. She noted that women’s empowerment through Mission Shakti has been instrumental in driving inclusive and sustainable development across the state. The roundtable also focused on strategies to enhance climate resilience, including soil and water management, crop diversification, and adaptive practices to mitigate climate risks.

As the event concluded, participants expressed optimism about the potential for collaboration and innovation in Odisha’s agricultural sector.

Odisha's Deputy CM Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo

Digital Technologies, IT, R&D

ICRISAT, in collaboration with ICAR and NAAS, hosts two-day conference on Digital Agriculture to shape strategic roadmap for the sector

ICRISAT recently held a two-day National Conference on “Digital Agriculture: Empowering Indian Farming” in collaboration with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and National Academy of Agricultural Sciences (NAAS) at the A.P. Shinde Symposium Hall, New Delhi.

The conference, held from 17 to 18 December 2024, brought together a vibrant community of thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, researchers, and industry stakeholders focused on charting the future course of digital agriculture in India by leveraging advancements in rural digital infrastructure.

The conference welcomed approximately 120 participants representing over 40 institutes spanning research, academia, and the private and public sectors.

In September 2024, the Government of India launched its Digital Agriculture Mission with an ambitious budget of INR 2,817 crores. This mission aims to build Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and support various initiatives, including the Agri Stack, digital crop surveys, and cyber decision support systems. The conference offered a timely platform for stakeholders to collaborate and develop a strategic roadmap for the mission’s implementation.

“To build a resilient and food-secure future, we must transcend borders and foster a global exchange of technologies, knowledge, and innovations. By collaborating as a global community, we can ensure that no farmer, regardless of location, is left behind in this digital transformation. Together, we can create an inclusive, sustainable, and adaptable agricultural ecosystem that benefits farmers globally,” stated Dr Pathak.

Dr Stanford Blade, Director General-Interim of ICRISAT, expressed his appreciation for the collaboration between ICAR, NAAS, and ICRISAT, emphasizing the importance of partnerships in achieving success.

Dr M.L. Jat, Global Research Program Director – Resilient Farm and Food Systems, ICRISAT presented an overview of CGIAR’s digital innovations and initiatives on enhancing decision-making, bridging the digital divide, and promoting gender equity in agri-food systems.

Stressing the need for better collaboration between national and international research bodies, he advocated for alignment with the global SDGs for broader impact. Dr Jat also proposed the establishment of a Virtual Academy for Digital Agriculture, a dedicated platform for training to address the gaps in skill development among farmers and extension agents.

Dr Anil Rai, Assistant Director General of ICAR and the event’s convenor underlined the role of ICT as a critical tool to close the digital gap. Dr Rabi Sahoo, Principal Scientist at ICAR, highlighted the importance of integrating real-time data and innovative tools to enhance decision-making and inform policy frameworks. Moderating a session on farmer-centric solutions, Dr Srikanth Rupavatharam, Senior Scientist – Digital Agriculture, ICRISAT, stressed the need for accessible and affordable technologies tailored for smallholder farmers.

The event laid a strong foundation for a future where Indian agriculture advances through the integration of data, AI, and smart technologies, ensuring resilience and prosperity for farming communities.

ICRISAT, in collaboration with ICAR and NAAS,

Award, Drones, E-commerce, R&D

In his keynote address, Shri Suresh Prabhu emphasized the critical need for innovative and intensive research to ensure food, nutritional, and environmental security, advocating for farmer-centric approaches providing actionable strategies for sustainable agriculture, received widespread appreciation from the audience

The prestigious TAAS Award Ceremony 2024 was held on December 20 at the iconic Pusa Institute campus in New Delhi. Hon’ble Shri Suresh Prabhu, Former Union Cabinet Minister, graced the event as the Chief Guest, with Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, Chairperson of MSSRF, Chennai, presiding over the ceremony. Dr. Raj S. Paroda, Chairman of TAAS and Former Secretary, DARE & DG, ICAR, delivered the welcome address and outlined the event’s objectives. The gathering was attended by around 100 distinguished agricultural experts.

In his keynote address, Shri Suresh Prabhu emphasized the critical need for innovative and intensive research to ensure food, nutritional, and environmental security, advocating for farmer-centric approaches. His address, which provided actionable strategies for sustainable agriculture, received widespread appreciation from the audience. Dr. Soumya Swaminathan highlighted the importance of solving farmers’ challenges, connecting them to markets, delivering timely inputs, and addressing human nutrition and health concerns.

The event also celebrated the legacy of the “Dr. MS Swaminathan Award for Leadership in Agriculture,” instituted in 2004 by the Trust for Advancement of Agricultural Sciences (TAAS) to honor the lifetime contributions of eminent individuals in agriculture with a focus on food security and sustainability. The annual award includes a trophy, a citation scroll, and a cash prize of ₹1 lakh.  

Since its inception, the award has been presented to 15 prominent figures, including Nobel Laureate Dr. Norman E. Borlaug, World Food Prize laureates Dr. Gurdev Khush and Dr. SK Vasal, and other luminaries such as Prof. Rattan Lal, Dr. Sanjay Rajaram, Dr. MC Saxena, Dr. William Dar, Dr. Thomas Lumpkin, Dr. Uma Lele, Dr. John Dixon, Dr. Shenggen Fan, Dr. Adel Beltagy, Dr. Suri Sahgal, Dr. Kamal Bawa, and Dr. BM Prasanna. These awards have been conferred by Presidents, Prime Ministers, and Union Cabinet Ministers.  

In 2024, TAAS introduced two new accolades: the Dr. Norman E. Borlaug Innovative Farmer Award and the Dr. SK Vasal Award for Excellence in Hybrid Crop Research.  

This year’s recipients of the Dr. MS Swaminathan Award were Dr. Kamal Bawa, FRS, founder of the Ashoka Trust, for 2023, and Dr. BM Prasanna of CIMMYT, for 2024, in recognition of their outstanding contributions to agricultural science and sustainability.  

In his keynote address, Shri Suresh Prabhu

R&D, Sustainability

Farmers spanning across 20 districts of Chhattisgarh now have a magic wand to aid pest and disease detection, soil quality assessment, and water analysis in their agricultural fields, fostering informed decision-making and sustainable practices at minimal cost in their farm lands. Foldscope, a portable and affordable microscope, is the new tool that is empowering communities in the state to take agricultural decisions with the help of frugal science and hence helping agricultural livelihoods. It is helping in in-situ diagnosis and digital cataloging of plant-pathogenic fungi through Foldscope Microscopy.

The initiative spread across the districts of Raigarh, Janjgir-Champa, Balodabazar-Bhatapara, Raipur, Dhamtari, Durg, Rajnandgaon, Mohla-Manpur-Ambagarh Chowki, Koriya, Surguja, Jashpur, Korba, Sakti, Mahasamund, Bilaspur, Mungeli, Kabirdham, Bemetara, Kanker, and Bastar spanning over 30 villages is being implemented by ICAR – National Institute of Biotic Stress Management. It is supported under SYST programme of SEED Division of the Department of Science and Technology (DST).

Capacity building and sampling activities are being undertaken to identify the plant pathogenic fungal diseases — Powdery mildew, Leaf blight, Leaf spot and post-harvest diseases and so on at In-situ condition with the help of the foldscope.

A total 16 fungal diseases and their causal organisms were identified based on morphological structure of pathogen and host species such as Golovinomyces cichoracearum, Erysiphe polygoni, Erysiphe cichoracearum, Leveillula aurica, Penicillium digitatum, Ustilago tritici, Albugo bliti, Fusarium oxysporum, Alterneria sp and Rhizophus sp.

In addition, five biopesticides have been tested and two bioagents –. Trichoderma viride and Pacelomyces spp have been successfully observed under Foldscope and with Fruiting bodies of mushroom and Pleurotus spp (oyster mushroom).  

Foldscope microscopy was also used for assessing semen quality in straws for cattle artificial insemination (AI). This could be a pioneering application with significant potential to enhance conception rates and improve the grading of indigenous cattle breeds.

Rural youth and students received hands-on training to independently demonstrate foldscope microscopy to local communities to expand the reach of the initiative. Training sessions, demonstrations, workshops, and awareness campaigns were organized to promote the use of Foldscope for in-situ diagnosis of plant pathogenic fungi and zoonotic diseases. This helped reach out to diverse audience, including farmers, rural youth, college students, agriculture and horticulture extension officers, veterinary officers, and faculty members.

The Foldscope’s frugal science approach is transforming livelihoods in Chhattisgarh by bringing advanced microscopy within the reach of rural communities. Farmers use it to detect crop pests, diagnose plant diseases, and assess soil and water quality, enabling timely and informed actions for sustainably enhancing the livelihoods of farmers.

Farmers spanning across 20 districts of Chhattisgarh

Digital Technologies, IT, R&D

Phytech, a leader in digital farming solutions, is announcing two landmark strategic partnerships with Rivulis and Netafim, two of the world’s largest and most respected precision irrigation companies. These collaborations mark a major step in the global adoption of digital farming, as Phytech’s technologies will be integrated into the global operations of these key industry players.

Phytech helps growers optimize the farming production value chain using proprietary plant and field condition sensors to deliver data-driven agronomic insights and recommendations. These insights are executed through in-field automation controls, enabling optimized yields, water savings, and input efficiency for economic and environmental impact. The company provides daily service to over 1,000 global producers of fruit, nuts, and commodity crops, covering 45 million trees across 18,000 sites.

Phytech has developed a simplified, alert-driven mobile platform, combining predictive algorithms and data analysis tools that integrate continuous crop health and supportive environmental data, distilled into real-time recommendations. By providing clear visibility into tank level, pumps, filters and valves, Phytech’s hydraulic monitoring capabilities enable real-time problem detection and predictive maintenance of a farmer’s irrigation system, creating a speedy response to any issue. Without these “eyes” in the field, growers depend on manually checking key functions or detecting the problem only after the damage has occurred.

The first partnership combines Rivulis’ global presence in micro irrigation products and solutions with Phytech’s real-time plant health and hydraulic monitoring and automation technology. Rivulis has integrated its cloud-based precision irrigation subsidiary, Manna, into Phytech. This integration enables farmers to optimize plant performance and resource usage with unprecedented accuracy and simplicity. By merging Phytech’s detailed, sensor-based field data with Manna’s spatial remote sensing capabilities, farmers will gain monitoring and insights into their crops, irrigation systems, and fields, alongside actionable irrigation recommendations and closed-loop system automation. The integration of Manna into Phytech also includes the Jain Logic and Observant offerings in the USA and Australia, respectively.

This strategic alliance also solidifies Rivulis’ role as a shareholder in Phytech and expands the reach of Phytech’s advanced solutions across Rivulis’ extensive global retail network and turnkey project channels, aiming to accelerate global agriculture technology adoption. Phytech’s technology can also enable irrigation dealers to enrich their service to growers with a data driven proactive approach.

Phytech’s second strategic partnership, with Orbia Precision Agriculture Netafim, a global leader in precision irrigation and the world’s largest irrigation company, aims to enhance digital farming solutions across the globe. Phytech’s technology will be integrated with GrowSphere™, Orbia Netafim’s all-in-one irrigation operating system, providing both sets of customers with deeper visibility into their irrigation environment for faster and more accurate monitoring. The partnership creates synergy by fully leveraging GrowSphere’s advanced control and automation capabilities, enabling customers to benefit from more precise and responsive irrigation solutions tailored to the specific needs of their crops. This includes detecting issues like water or fertilizer waste and low pressure, which lead to system malfunctions and higher costs.

Phytech’s CEO, Oren Kind, remarked: “In a rare vote of confidence, Rivulis and Netafim have chosen Phytech to lead the digital farming offering for farmers around the world. This selection highlights over a decade of success, marked by significant revenue growth and the proven ability to scale in-field monitoring solutions and drive digital adoption across farm operations globally. This achievement is thanks to our growers, whose commitment to transformative technology has driven our innovation. Together, these relationships enable us to expand our unique hardware and software solutions, supporting growers and ecosystems worldwide.”

“Both Rivulis and Netafim are leaders in their respective fields,” said Kind. “Our collaboration with these key players underscores the growing importance of data-driven solutions in modern agriculture. Together, we aim to usher in a new era of sustainable farming, benefiting growers globally.

Phytech, a leader in digital farming solutions,

Agribusiness, Agro chems – Chemicals, Agrotech, Company News, R&D

BAL has been actively pursuing and expanding its intellectual property portfolio of 100+ national filings and 20+ international filings in OAPI, ARIPO, EU, USA, Thailand, UAE, Brazil, Argentina, Philippines, Cambodia, Yemen, Bangladesh and Bhutan.

Best Agrolife Ltd., one of India’s leading agrochemical manufacturers, has been granted an international patent for its novel ternary insecticidal combination that effectively controls the entire sucking pest complex, including whitefly, jassids, aphids, and thrips with a single application. The granted patent covers the composition of Pyriproxyfen, Diafenthiuron, and Dinotefuran in a unique suspension concentrate formulation and has been granted by the African Intellectual Property Organization (OAPI) covering the countries of Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroun, Centrafrique, Comores, Congo, Cote d’lvoire, Gabon, Guinee, Guinee Bissau, Guinee Equatoriale, Mali, Mauritanie, Niger, Senegal, Tchad, Togo.

The patent grant exemplifies Best Agrolife Ltd.’s dedication to globally delivering advanced, farmer-centric solutions, lowering costs and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

Best Agrolife Limited has been actively pursuing and expanding its intellectual property portfolio of 100+ national filings and 20+ international filings in OAPI, ARIPO, EU, USA, Thailand, UAE, Brazil, Argentina, Philippines, Cambodia, Yemen, Bangladesh and Bhutan. These strategic international filings reflect the company’s commitment to developing a global presence with a quality IP-protected portfolio. The companies’ patents cover major agricultural regions like the US, LATAM, APAC, Far East and Africa. “These patents are not just about protecting our intellectual property; they’re about driving meaningful change in agriculture,” added Vimal Kumar Alawadhi, MD of Best Agrolife.

Internationally, sucking pests are one of the most serious threats to agricultural crop productivity, causing significant quantitative and qualitative losses. Losses due to sucking pests are estimated to harm 18-20 percent of annual crop productivity. As much of these losses happens in the fields just before harvest, the impact can be devastating in developing countries such as the nations in the African continent.

The diverse modes of action of this formulation includes active ingredients that work through different mechanisms. “Pyriproxyfen” disrupts insect growth and reproduction, while “Diafenthiuron” targets the nervous system of pests, and “Dinotefuran” acts systemically to penetrate the plant and control pests internally. This diverse action stalls development of resistance.

This novel formulation is being successfully sold in India under the brand name of “Ronfen” and has garnered praise from farmers throughout India as a cost-effective and efficient combination. Year on year, the sale of “Ronfen” has been steadily increasing with wider adoption. The combined sale of “Ronfen” since its introduction has exceeded Rs. 400 crores with farmers using “Ronfen” to treat acreage of more than 2.4 million acres.

Best Agrolife Ltd. reaffirms its position as a leader in agricultural innovation, continuing to empower farmers across the globe by enhancing productivity, safeguarding crop quality, and increasing profitability.

BAL has been actively pursuing and expanding

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

The investment will fund a brownfield expansion at its existing urea plant in Panagarh Industrial Park, West Bengal.

India’s one of the leading urea producers Matix Fertilisers and Chemicals has announced plans to invest approximately Rs 7,500 crore to double its urea production capacity. The investment will fund a brownfield expansion at its existing urea plant in Panagarh Industrial Park, West Bengal.

With the expansion, the company expects to significantly increase its market share. The Rs 7,500 crore investment will be financed through a mix of debt and equity. For FY24, Matix Fertilisers reported a revenue of Rs 6,900 crore, up from Rs 5,700 crore in FY23.

Nishant Kanodia Chairman, Matix Fertilisers said, “Currently, the company operates at a production capacity of 1.27 million tonnes per annum (MTPA), but it has consistently exceeded this capacity in recent years. In the last financial year, Matix Fertilisers achieved 118 per cent capacity utilisation, producing 1.5 million tonnes. This year, the company continues to operate at 112-113 per cent capacity utilisation, demonstrating operational excellence”.

“We are aiming to double the capacity at the same site. We have already made significant progress, with some initial work completed. We are now awaiting approval from the Department of Fertilisers of the Government of India for the expansion. Once we receive the green light, we are confident that construction will begin soon, and the plant will be operational within the next 30 months,” Kanodia added.

Matix Fertilisers currently holds a market share of approximately 4.8 per cent in India’s urea production, which stood at around 31.4 million tonnes in the last fiscal year. The company is a dominant player in eastern India, with a 20 per cent market share in the region.

The investment will fund a brownfield expansion