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HomePosts Tagged "Corteva Agriscience"
Agribusiness, Agrotech, Digital Technologies, Drones

Phenix will serve as the foundational program for global Corteva crop protection field research scientists to conduct digital assessments.

Corteva Agriscience is committed to advancing agricultural innovation through the use of cutting-edge technologies. That’s why in 2024, the company, through its Corteva Catalyst™ investment platform and in collaboration Purdue Research Foundation, acquired the exclusive global rights to the Phenix™ software developed by Progeny Drone, a platform for precision crop management. The software combines rapid aerial survey mapping from drone technology and high-resolution image analytics to help quantify crop responses to management and the environment.

Phenix will serve as the foundational program for global Corteva crop protection field research scientists to conduct digital assessments. Its advanced features include specific tools for in-field plot mapping and image quantification. The software will be instrumental in:

  • Reducing data processing time at the field edge
  • Quantifying the performance of new product trials in research fields to improve crop health, weed management, and yield
  • The continued development of the Corteva Biologicals business

Corteva’s investment in this tool also aids in reducing infrastructure needs, simplifying workflows, and providing seamless connection to existing data repositories and tools. Corteva plans to first deploy the software for use by crop protection field scientist drone pilots across the globe, followed by integration into Corteva’s agronomic and commercial trial research division.

Phenix will serve as the foundational program

Agbiologicals, Agribusiness, Company News, Herbicides, World

Kyber® Pro herbicide and Sonic® Boom herbicide will offer growers more effective weed control choices that fit their acres.

Corteva Agriscience continues to provide growers the weed-control solutions they need with the launch of Kyber® Pro herbicide and Sonic® Boom herbicide. Both preemergence products will offer multiple, effective modes of action and extended residual activity to help soybean growers maximize yield potential, while preventing and mitigating weed resistance.

“At Corteva, it’s our job to help soybean growers overcome the challenges of the shifting weed control landscape, and Kyber Pro and Sonic Boom herbicides will do just that — offering diverse modes of action and several weeks of residual control in convenient premix formulations,” says Drake Robards, U.S. Product Manager, Soybean Herbicides, Corteva.

 “By starting the season with one of these two new preemergence solutions, growers will give their soybeans a clean start for optimal growth. Sonic Boom delivers strong performance against many of the key hard-to-control and resistant broadleaf weeds, such as waterhemp and Palmer amaranth, that soybean growers face today. Kyber Pro also delivers premier weed control of many of the same broadleaf weeds as Sonic Boom, plus has a Group 15 active for additional control of grass weeds.”

Kyber Pro and Sonic Boom herbicides join Enversa™ herbicide as new soybean residual options from Corteva that will be available for growers to use in the 2025 growing season. Plus, both Kyber Pro and Sonic Boom herbicides fit well as preemergence herbicides in a program approach to season-long weed control, especially with Enlist E3® soybeans.

“We know a one-size-fits-all approach to weed control doesn’t cut it; that’s why we decided to launch three new soybean herbicides for 2025,” Robards says. “Earlier this year we announced Enversa herbicide, the preferred layered residual tank-mix partner with Enlist One herbicide for Enlist E3 soybeans. Now with the introduction of Kyber Pro herbicide and Sonic Boom herbicide, we’re giving growers more options to fully customise their weed-control programs to their soybean acres.”

Kyber Pro and Sonic Boom herbicides have received federal registration. State registrations are in progress. Kyber Pro herbicide is currently available for purchase in states where it has already received state registration. Sonic Boom herbicide is expected to be available for purchase in early 2025.

Kyber® Pro herbicide and Sonic® Boom herbicide

Agribusiness, Company News, India

By providing targeted support, tools, and resources, Corteva aims to enable women as farmers, researchers, and entrepreneur.

Corteva Agriscience, a global agriculture leader, is launching a comprehensive program to support two million women across India’s agri-value chain by 2030. By providing targeted support, tools, and resources, Corteva aims to enable women as farmers, researchers, and entrepreneurs. The initiative promotes equitable access to resources and decision-making roles, enhancing productivity improvement techniques, and enhancing food security. This program goes beyond traditional corporate responsibility, driving a movement that integrates gender parity, sustainable development, and economic growth.

At the launch of this initiative, Subroto Geed- President South Asia, Corteva Agriscience, stated, “Women are the backbone of rural life and agriculture. Corteva is committed to improving their incomes and lives through access to better farming methods, education, and sustainable farming practices. We hope this focus will accelerate India’s path to becoming a developed nation. Proud to embrace this social responsibility, taking a step toward a Viksit Bharat.

Anuja Kadian – Government & Industry Affairs Director (Asia Pacific), Corteva Agriscience, highlighted, “Our 2 million initiative links gender equality, economic growth, and environmental sustainability. By equipping women with tools, knowledge, and resources, Corteva is paving the way for women to lead in sustainable development, supporting India’s goals of economic empowerment, food security, and sustainability.”

Our programs aim to enable women across the agri value chain:

Developing women led Farmer Producer Organizations and women farmers: Through women only Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and cooperatives, Corteva aims to create an inclusive ecosystem integrating women across the agri-value chain. By promoting climate-smart practices like Direct Seeded Rice (DSR), carbon sequestration, soil health management, and water conservation, Corteva is integrating environmental stewardship with economic growth of rural women.

Developing women in STEM: Corteva will provide capacity-building, and mentorship to female STEM students, cultivating future leaders and innovators for a more sustainable, inclusive agricultural sector.

Developing rural and ag communities: Corteva is investing in improved infrastructure such as clean water, and storage facilities. These initiatives boost agricultural productivity and ensure women farmers have the resources they need for success. Additionally, Corteva’s programs will prioritize health, wellness, financial literacy, and business skills by providing access to essential services, thereby supporting women farmers in leading healthier and more prosperous lives while driving sustainable agricultural growth.

Corteva’s 2 million initiative empowers women as drivers of agricultural growth and innovation. These efforts aim to advance innovation, economic development, food security, and create a more inclusive agricultural sector.

By providing targeted support, tools, and resources,

Agribusiness, Company News, Seeds, World

Trusource wheat will be available to food companies to trial in product development and evaluation in late 2024.

Corteva Agriscience announced its new brand, Trusource™ wheat, a high fiber durum that can help meet consumers’ needs for increased dietary fiber through use in high-volume foods such as pasta. Trusource wheat will be available to food companies to trial in product development and evaluation in late 2024, with North American commercialization plans for farmers to be announced in the coming years.

“We have used traditional breeding techniques to enable the taste and texture of Trusource wheat to better match the traditional sensory experience consumers want in pasta and baked goods while increasing their fiber intake with high fiber Trusource wheat,” said Michael Reimer, Innovation Manager – Value-Added Ingredients, Corteva Agriscience.

Trusource wheat is an exciting addition to the new Value-Added Ingredients category from Corteva, which includes existing high stability Omega-9 Canola Oil and Plenish® high oleic soybean oil as well as a robust innovation pipeline. High stability oils are readily available through most major oil producers.  Produced from Corteva seeds, these innovative food ingredients deliver the great taste and improved nutrition consumers demand and are easily integrated into food industry applications.

“Consumers are increasingly asking for improved ingredients, and agriculture innovation is helping the food industry meet that demand,” said Tyler Groeneveld, North American Director – Value-Added Ingredients, Corteva Agriscience. “This collaboration adds value for our farmers, the food industry and, ultimately, the consumer.”

Crops for Value-Added Ingredients are grown under an identity preservation (IP) system, supporting traceability and sustainability programs, and carry the strong agronomic traits farmers seek.

Trusource wheat will be available to food

Agro chems – Pesticides, Company News, India, People, Seeds

Geed’s expertise in strategic planning and focus on customer value creation aligns perfectly with Corteva’s commitment to advancing the transformation of agriculture.

Corteva Agriscience, a global leader in agriculture solutions, is pleased to name Subroto Geed as President, South Asia. Leading the South Asia Business, Geed will drive growth for Corteva’s Seed and Crop Protection businesses with an aim to enhance agricultural productivity, enriching farmer livelihoods, and fostering sustainable farming practices throughout the region.

Geed holds a bachelor’s degree in pharmacy from Indore University and a post graduate diploma in Management from Symbiosis Centre for Management and HRD, Pune. He brings a wealth of knowledge from his previous experience at Diageo, GSK Consumer Healthcare, Pfizer and Aliaxis.

Geed’s educational background, combined with his rich professional experience, positions him well to lead Corteva business. With a proven track record of delivering accelerated growth through multi-functional teams, Geed’s expertise in strategic planning and focus on customer value creation aligns perfectly with Corteva’s commitment to advancing the transformation of agriculture, helping farmers become more productive and sustainable.

“We are thrilled to welcome Subroto to Corteva Agriscience as our new President, South Asia,” said Rahoul Sawani, Regional President, Asia Pacific. “His extensive experience and deep understanding of diverse industries and markets will be invaluable as we pursue our growth through tech-innovation in the agriculture industry.”

“Corteva has established itself as the global leader in the agricultural technology industry and I am excited about this opportunity to build on the momentum” said Subroto Geed, President South Asia. “With an unparalleled tradition of innovation, and sustainability at the core of its business, I look forward to working closely with the team to foster strategic partnerships and deliver value to our farmers and stakeholders.”

Geed's expertise in strategic planning and focus

Agbiologicals, Agribusiness, Company News, Fungicides, Trade, World

The acquisition is set to strengthen UPL Corp’s portfolio of solutions and leadership in the multisite fungicide market.

UPL Corporation Ltd. (UPL Corp), a global provider of holistic and sustainable agricultural solutions, announces that it has completed the acquisition of Corteva Agriscience’s solo mancozeb global fungicide business outside of China, Japan, South Korea, UK, Switzerland and EU member countries. The acquisition is set to strengthen UPL Corp’s portfolio of solutions and leadership in the multisite fungicide market, giving the company ownership of Dithane®, the original global mancozeb brand which has provided farmers with a reliable disease management solution, as well as access to Rainshield™ technology which enables crop protection in wet weather conditions.

Christina Coen, Chief Marketing Officer for UPL Corp, said “We recognize mancozeb’s vital role not just in protecting crops, but in safeguarding global food security and transforming farmer livelihoods. This acquisition cements our leadership in the multi-fungicide market and enables us to continue adding to our ever-growing portfolio of farmer-first solutions, and expanding the use of this vital molecule for years to come. We are committed to ensuring a smooth transition for all customers, and look forward to helping growers produce sustainable crop yields and future-proof food security.”

The acquisition is limited to Corteva’s solo formulations of mancozeb, with Corteva retaining ownership of premix formulations. With the deal, UPL Corp has acquired access to the full regulatory scientific dossier of mancozeb including all data, registrations, trademarks for Corteva’s solo mancozeb products, and a license to the Rainshield™ technology.

The acquisition is set to strengthen UPL

Agbiologicals, Agribusiness, Company News, India

 Salibro™ is compatible with bacterial and fungal-feeding nematodes, as well as beneficial soil macrofauna, such as earthworms and soil mites, ensuring a balanced and thriving soil ecosystem.

Corteva Agriscience, a global leader in agriculture solutions, today announced the launch of Salibro™ nematicide in India. This innovative product, powered by Reklemel™ active, provides farmers with a targeted and environmentally friendly solution to protect their crops from damaging nematodes while preserving the soil health.

Plant-parasitic nematodes are microscopic organisms found in soil that feed on the roots of horticultural crops such as capsicum, cucumber, tomato and Brinjal. These nematodes are notoriously difficult to identify and control, they cause damage to the crops, affecting farmer’s productivity and profitability. With its unique formulation, Salibro™ delivers an effective kill of damaging nematodes while demonstrating high selectivity, sparing beneficial soil organisms essential for soil health. Moreover, Salibro™ is compatible with bacterial and fungal-feeding nematodes, as well as beneficial soil macrofauna, such as earthworms and soil mites, ensuring a balanced and thriving soil ecosystem. By preserving the delicate balance of soil biology, Salibro™ not only safeguards crop yields but also fosters sustainable agricultural practices.

Salibro™ reflects Corteva’s unwavering commitment to agricultural innovation, affirming its mission to enrich the lives of farmers and consumers while driving sustainable progress for future generations. Corteva remains steadfast in championing sustainable farming practices, making significant investments in research and development. This dedication underscores Corteva’s pivotal role in advancing the future of Indian agriculture.

 Salibro™ is compatible with bacterial and fungal-feeding

Agribusiness, Agrotech, Digital Technologies, Drones, Interaction

Anuja Kadian, Asia Pacific Government Affairs Director, Corteva Agriscience shares her views on emerging trends in agri industry in 2024 with AgroSpectrum.

What are the future developments in technology that will drive the Indian agriculture sector?

In the rapidly evolving landscape of Indian agriculture, the future is poised for transformative technological developments that will redefine the sector.

To build a sustainable, resilient, and profitable ag-ecosystem, agriculture needs to drive a swift adoption of emerging technologies, precision agriculture, and sustainable farming practices.

Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and data analytics are becoming instrumental tools, providing farmers with real-time insights for informed decision-making to manage their crops.

Our initiatives focus on empowering farmers through sustainable and technology-driven solutions. Our collaborative efforts with stakeholders across the value chain aim to enhance productivity, reduce environmental impact, and ensure the long-term resilience of Indian agriculture.

Crop protection technologies, such as novel pesticides and biopesticides, are pivotal components of Corteva’s commitment to sustainable agriculture. Additionally, our emphasis on seeds and traits, leveraging biotechnology for crop improvement, underscores our dedication to ensuring food security in the face of evolving challenges.

 Will the agribusiness sector also be impacted by the rising popularity of robotics?

Absolutely, the rising popularity of robotics is poised to significantly impact the agribusiness sector in India. The integration of robotics into agriculture brings forth a multitude of advantages that can enhance efficiency, productivity, and sustainability.

The integration of robotics is transforming agribusiness, enhancing precision farming, addressing labour shortages through automated harvesting and sorting, and promoting sustainability with precision weeding and real-time crop monitoring.

In controlled environments like greenhouses, robotics optimize conditions, while in the supply chain, automation streamlines tasks, reducing costs and ensuring efficient product delivery. These advancements underscore the transformative impact of robotics, fostering efficiency and sustainability across the entire agribusiness sector.

Corteva Agriscience recognises the potential of robotics in revolutionizing the agribusiness sector. Through continuous research and innovation, we aim to integrate these technologies into our solutions, contributing to a more sustainable, efficient, and resilient agricultural ecosystem.

As India embraces the possibilities offered by robotics, the agribusiness sector is likely to witness transformative changes that enhance overall productivity and competitiveness.

What are the major challenges while embedding tech into agri sector?

Embedding technology into the agriculture sector, while promising significant benefits, comes with its share of challenges. Some of the major hurdles include:

Access and Affordability: The cost of implementing and maintaining technology solutions can be a significant barrier for smallholder and resource-constrained farmers.

Digital Literacy: Farmers may lack the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively use technology.

Infrastructure Limitations: Rural areas, where much of agriculture is based, may lack robust infrastructure such as reliable internet connectivity and power supply.

Regulatory Frameworks: The absence of robust regulatory frameworks for emerging technologies in agriculture can create uncertainty and hinder adoption.

Resistance to Change: Traditional farming practices may be deeply ingrained, and there can be resistance to adopting new technologies. Providing education and demonstrating the tangible benefits of technology are essential in overcoming this resistance.

Government Support: Investing in rural infrastructure, developing digital literacy programs, and providing financial assistance can overcome infrastructure and affordability challenges.

Public Private Partnerships (PPPs): Encouraging private sector investment in research and development, developing user-friendly technology, and providing affordable financing options can make technology more accessible.

Farmer-Centric Approach: Engaging farmers in the technology selection and development process and providing training and support can address concerns and build trust.

Institutional Reforms: Creating supportive policies and regulations, promoting collaboration between stakeholders, and investing in agricultural research can foster a conducive environment for technological innovation.

Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative effort from stakeholders, including government bodies, technology providers, and agricultural communities, to create an enabling environment for the successful integration of technology into the agriculture sector.

The government is strongly pushing tech into agri sector to increase productivity and quality. How is this step being taken by the key players and how this will change the face of agri industry?

The government’s robust push to integrate technology into the agriculture sector is catalyzing transformative changes.

Major stakeholders, including the government, agribusinesses and technology providers, are actively responding to this initiative with innovative solutions aimed at increasing productivity and ensuring high-quality agricultural output.

Collaborations between technology companies and agricultural experts are fostering the creation of cutting-edge solutions that address specific challenges faced by farmers.

We aim to impart comprehensive education on advanced agricultural technologies, including the adoption of hybrid seeds, precision farming practices, and effective crop protection solutions.

By disseminating this knowledge, Corteva aims to empower farmers with the skills needed to make informed decisions, optimize resource utilization, and adopt sustainable farming practices.

One significant contribution is the introduction of the Farmer Connect app by Corteva. This innovative application serves as a valuable digital platform, offering farmers real-time access to critical information, market trends, and weather forecasts.

The Farmer Connect app goes beyond being a mere tool; it acts as a bridge, connecting farmers with relevant resources, expert advice, and the latest advancements in agriculture.

Such a collaborative approach between the government, key industry players, and farmers is poised to revolutionize the agri industry, creating a more sustainable, productive, and tech-savvy future.

 What is your take on drone technology and what further upgrades are required in this?

I firmly believe that drone technology has emerged as a game-changer in agriculture. It offers a wide range of applications that enhance efficiency, precision, and sustainability. Drones provide valuable data through aerial imaging, sensors, and other technologies, enabling farmers to make informed decisions.

However, I believe upgrades required in drone technology extend beyond technical enhancements and encompass broader aspects that are essential for its widespread adoption, particularly among smallholder farmers.

As mentioned above, for widespread agricultural adoption involves several key facets. Comprehensive education and training programs are essential, empowering progressive as well as smallholder farmers to adeptly operate drones, interpret data, and integrate this technology into existing farming practices for enhanced crop management and resource optimization.

Along with this, PPPs play a pivotal role in fostering collaborative efforts to disseminate drone technology through shared resources, expertise, and outreach initiatives.

A robust regulatory framework is crucial, providing clear guidelines and standards to ensure the responsible and ethical use of drones in agriculture, addressing concerns related to privacy, safety, and compliance.

Affordability and accessibility are also critical considerations, necessitating a reduction in initial costs and economically viable ongoing support, potentially facilitated by financial incentives and subsidies.

Additionally, customisation of drone technology to meet the specific needs of smallholder farmers, including the development of smaller, cost-effective models, ensures alignment with diverse farming practices across different regions.

                                                                                                                                   By Nitin Konde

Anuja Kadian, Asia Pacific Government Affairs Director,

Climate, Company News, Sustainability

The program aims to acknowledge the role of sustainable agricultural practices and recognizes farmers who successfully advocate and embrace eco-friendly practices

Corteva Agriscience, a global pioneer in agricultural solutions, announced the India winner for its Climate Positive Leaders Program. The recipients are early adopter producers who are successfully implementing, scaling, and sharing climate-positive practices. Ravichandran Vanchinatha Iyer, an accomplished Indian farmer from Tamil Nadu, India is the recipient of this recognition.

In its first year in India, the program aims to honour the farmers who have made a measurable impact in advancing climate-positive agriculture and share their stories for the benefit of farmers and all food system stakeholders around the world. In the face of mounting concerns over climate change and the imperative for sustainable solutions, Corteva remains at the forefront of advocating and facilitating innovative practices that bridge agricultural productivity with environmental conservation.

Ravichandran farms in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, India, where he produces crops like rice, cotton, pulses and sugarcane. Leveraging the guidance of agriculture scientists, public and private research institutes, universities, private-sector researchers, and fellow farmers, he has focused much of his efforts on growing eco-friendly rice through better irrigation management. By adopting good agronomic practices with more emphasis on drip irrigation methods, improved use of fertilisers, intercropping, and strategic selection of rice varietals, he has demonstrated a 50 per cent reduction in water consumption, as well as reducing methane emissions and lessening his carbon footprint. Furthermore, he employs a zero-plastic waste/zero pollution strategy in his farming approach. He converts vegetative waste into mulch, enriching the soil with organic carbon and reducing urea use.

The program aims to acknowledge the role

Agro chems – Chemicals, Company News

The product controls aphids on contact, ensuring a healthy crop and better yield

Corteva Agriscience, a global leader in agriculture announced the launch of SpadinTM 11.7 per cent SC (Isoclast™ active), a new insecticide with a unique mode of action for aphid control. Its broad-spectrum activity and excellent residual control make it an ideal addition to control aphids protect crops and preserve yield potential.

Spadin™ operates differently from traditional insecticides, providing immediate control of aphids upon contact, ensuring a robust crop. This innovative solution belongs to a novel chemical class known as sulfoximines.  Spadin™ delivers outstanding residual control, providing long-lasting protection against aphids even under challenging environmental conditions. This extended efficacy ensures steady control of aphids. With minimal impact on beneficial insects, It is a sustainable agricultural product that promotes a healthy ecosystem. The insecticide with its favorable environmental profile, degrades rapidly in soil and has very low acute toxicity to fish and mammals. This makes Spadin an excellent addition to integrated pest management (IPM) programs and an attractive replacement for other generic insecticides.

Spadin™ is currently registered for use in wheat, but in future, we shall be getting labels on cotton, green gram and vegetables. It is applied as a foliar spray and is available in both liquid and water-dispersible granule formulations.

This environment-friendly product is a testament to Corteva Agriscience’s commitment to providing farmers with innovative and sustainable solutions that help them protect their crops and improve their productivity and profitability.

The product controls aphids on contact, ensuring

Agro Universities, Company News, India

This partnership aligns with Corteva Shiksha CSR program championing exceptional women pursuing master’s or PhD degrees in agriscience, especially those facing financial challenges.

Corteva Agriscience is joining forces with Buddy4Study India Foundation, to empower women pursuing advanced agriscience degrees. This prominent non-Governmental Organization (NGO) hosts India’s largest scholarship platform, connecting scholarship aspirants with financial aid providers.

This partnership aligns with Corteva Shiksha CSR program championing exceptional women pursuing master’s or PhD degrees in agriscience, especially those facing financial challenges. The program provides financial aid and mentorship, fostering inclusivity and elevating women in science, cultivating a vibrant agriscience community.

Through this collaboration Corteva is committed to bridging the gender gap and creating a more inclusive future. Diverse talents and perspectives are the driving forces behind curiosity, creativity, and innovation. By providing financial support to women pursuing careers in STEM, Corteva aims to cultivate a vibrant pool of talent. This talent, in turn, will play a pivotal role in fueling India’s ambition to strengthen its innovation economy.

Buddy4Study India Foundation shares in this enthusiasm, with their spokesperson stating, “We are honoured to partner with Corteva Agriscience in their mission to empower women in science. This collaboration aligns seamlessly with our own vision of enabling educational opportunities for deserving individuals. Together, we’re committed to removing barriers and propelling aspiring women scientists to achieve greater success.”

This two-year MoU will strengthen Corteva’s commitment to fostering Inclusion, Diversity & Equity (ID&E), an integral part of its corporate culture. This partnership represents a significant advancement in promoting women’s representation and empowerment in the field of agriscience while reinforcing its dedication to sustainable progress and innovation.

This partnership aligns with Corteva Shiksha CSR

Company News, R&D, World

This partnership extends the technology beyond healthcare and into agricultural applications

Alveo Technologies, Inc. announced a collaboration with Corteva Agriscience to expand the offering of its novel eco-friendly molecular sensing and disease diagnostics technology to include a first-in-field agricultural disease diagnostic.

Alveo has developed a rapid, handheld, portable medical-grade platform that pairs advanced molecular assays with cloud-enabled data analytics for real-time disease, pathogen analysis, and diagnosis. Using this highly sensitive multiplexed molecular testing platform, Corteva scientists aim to design crop-specific assays to detect pathogens in the field.

“Alveo has developed a game-changing, mobile ‘molecular lab’ that can deliver highly sensitive and specific diagnostic testing where it is needed, which can help solve some of the world’s most complex problems, like pandemics and global food crises,” said Shaun Holt, Alveo CEO. “Our collaboration with Corteva reflects our core focus of taking molecular testing out of the lab and directly to the point of need where it can deliver insight and guidance. This partnership extends the technology beyond healthcare and into agricultural applications.”

“Corteva Agriscience explores the latest technologies as we strive to bring actionable insights and solutions to farmers where and when they need them,” said Gina Zastrow-Hayes, Technical Director, Seed, R&D & Biotechnology, Corteva. “We are pleased to explore this feasibility with Alveo and are excited by the potential that in-field molecular testing platforms hold for the agricultural industry.”

This partnership extends the technology beyond healthcare

Agrotech, Company News, Seeds, World

The new treatment for cereal grains provides powerful protection against early-season seed and seedling diseases.

Corteva, Inc. has announced the commercial launch of Straxan™ fungicide seed treatment in Canada, bringing farmers a new, ready-to-use and easy-to-apply formulation that targets prominent seed and soil-borne cereal diseases.

The latest offering from Corteva Agriscience’s leading cereal protection portfolio, Straxan fungicide seed treatment provides advanced protection against early season diseases – such as Fusarium species, Rhizoctonia, true loose smut and more – to help maximize crop stand establishment and yield potential. This level of protection is a result of Straxan fungicide seed treatment’s high-quality formulation of proven active ingredients.

“Protecting yield potential from persistent diseases will always be a priority for cereal farmers, which is why it was important for us to bring a complete and versatile option like Straxan fungicide seed treatment to the Western Canadian market,” said Kirsten Ratzlaff, Portfolio Manager, Seed Applied Technologies & Biologicals, Corteva Agriscience. “In addition to its strong disease protection, Straxan offers an easy-to-apply formulation that provides flexibility – both through commercial seed treaters and on-farm equipment – and stable application under varying conditions and temperatures.”

Straxan fungicide seed treatment is a highly compatible formulation and can be used with multiple seed treatment products. This includes Lumivia™ CPL insecticide seed treatment, which delivers the broadest cereal seedling insect protection on the market for long-lasting control of wireworms, cutworms and more. When mixed with Straxan fungicide seed treatment, farmers get a complete cereal seed treatment package.

“Seed treatments help crops get off to their best possible start, and Corteva continues to invest in R&D to deliver robust seed treatment offerings to Canadian farmers,” said Ratzlaff. “Straxan fungicide seed treatment fortifies Corteva’s industry-leading cereal protection portfolio, equipping farmers with a tool that will help each seed reach its genetic potential.”

The new treatment for cereal grains provides

Agri Genomics, Agro Universities, Agrotech, Company News, India, R&D

With this collaboration, three high-quality platinum-grade genome assemblies have emerged, representing the active global breeding germplasm.

In an era marked by growing global population and climate change concerns, a collaborative research project between Corteva Agriscience, the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) was undertaken. The research has achieved a significant milestone by resequencing pearl millet genomes. This innovative approach has led to the development of new molecular markers, opening the door to creating millet cultivars with exceptional yield performance and improved nutritional quality.

Until now, the world of millet lacked reliable DNA markers. However, with this collaboration, three high-quality platinum-grade genome assemblies have emerged, representing the active global breeding germplasm. This remarkable achievement represents a 7000-fold improvement over previously published data. These newly identified DNA markers provide an invaluable roadmap for enhancing pearl millet productivity on a global scale, with far-reaching implications for addressing food security challenges.

At this pivotal juncture, the timing of this research is particularly important, given the recent G20 conversations on finding solutions to address food security and nutritional security, with millets being recognized as a key crop due to their exceptional nutrition and climate resilience. Moreover, with 2023 being recognized as the International Year of Millets by the United Nations General Assembly, further underscores the importance of millets in the face of global climate change.

This collaborative breakthrough promises to play a pivotal role in sustainable food production and nutritional security. The fidelity of the long-read sequences and improved resolution of haplotypes provided by these platinum-grade genome assemblies will aid in understanding the genomic distinctions characterizing global heterotic gene pools in pearl millet. This research also identifies structural variations that can be used to investigate traits related to heterosis, such as fertility restoration, disease resistance, and agronomy.

Furthermore, gene annotation and enrichment analyses revealed that the millet genome is enriched with cysteine and methionine coding genes, aligning with previous findings of higher amino acid concentrations in pearl millet compared to legumes such as pigeon peas and chickpeas. This discovery highlights the potential of millets and legumes as complementary components of a balanced diet to combat malnutrition.

As we navigate the challenges of global food security and climate change, the collaborative efforts of Corteva Agriscience, ICRISAT, and ICAR have illuminated a promising path forward. By harnessing the power of genomics, this research opens new doors for sustainable agriculture, healthier diets, and enhanced food security on a global scale.

With this collaboration, three high-quality platinum-grade genome