Zuari Industries (SPE Division) hosted the second edition of its Roundtable Conference on “Mechanization and Digitalization in Sugarcane – Driving Efficiency, Productivity, and Sustainability” at Gobind Sugar Mill, Aira, Lakhimpur Kheri, Uttar Pradesh, on October 6–7, 2025.
The two-day event brought together farmers, scientists, policymakers, technology providers, and leaders from the sugar industry to explore how mechanization and digital tools can transform the country’s sugarcane value chain — from field to factory.
Building on the Success of Roundtable 2024
Following the success of its first roundtable in 2024, which focused on climate-resilient sugarcane, Roundtable 2.0 expanded the dialogue to mechanization and digital transformation aimed at improving yield, cost-efficiency, and resilience.
Experts emphasized the need for goal-oriented planning, mechanized operations, and the adoption of AI- and IoT-based technologies for soil, pest, and crop management. With India’s farm mechanization rate currently at 40–45%, stakeholders discussed pathways to reach the government’s target of 70–80%, particularly in key sugarcane-producing regions like Uttar Pradesh. The roundtable also shed light on India’s booming USD 24 billion agri-tech market, showcasing affordable, localized technologies that reduce labor dependency and promote data-driven, sustainable farming.
Insights from Scientists and Farmers
The conference opened with an inaugural session graced by Dr. Dinesh Singh, Director, ICAR, as Chief Guest, alongside Ved Prakash Singh (District Cane Officer, Lakhimpur), Dr. M.K. Singh and Dr. M.K. Tripathi (ICAR–IISR), Rajesh Kumar Verma (Secretary, Aira Society), and Vijaylakhmi (Senior CDI, Aira).
Over 250 farmers from the region participated, sharing first-hand experiences in adopting mechanization and digital tools in sugarcane cultivation. Technical sessions led by experts from ICAR–ISRI and the agri-equipment industry addressed topics such as climate risk assessment, ESG frameworks, and mechanization options for productivity enhancement, encouraging farmers to adopt integrated, technology-driven approaches.
Technology Demonstrations and Innovation Dialogues
Building on the momentum, day two featured live demonstrations and interactive sessions led by leading agri-tech innovators and solution providers such as ScaNxt, Navriti Innovations, Vibrant Solutions, MacroCosmos, Amity Software, Shaktimaan Agro, and Lasermatik.
Sessions focused on how AI, IoT, and geospatial intelligence can enhance precision farming, soil and water management, and yield predictability. Participants also explored real-world case studies from sugar mills and startups already implementing digital and mechanized farming systems across India, reinforcing the potential of technology to reshape sugarcane cultivation.
Thought Leadership and Expert Perspectives
Dr. Dinesh Singh, Director, ICAR, stated, “Zuari Industries’ Roundtable 2.0 is a timely and important platform bringing together farmers, scientists, and industry leaders to address critical issues in India’s sugarcane sector. Over-reliance on a single variety, such as Co-0238, increases vulnerability to diseases like red rot. ICAR is promoting disease-resistant varieties, including CoLk-14201 and CoLk-16202, to enhance recovery and ensure stable yields. Zuari’s focus on knowledge sharing, mechanization, and technology adoption helps farmers implement these best practices on the ground, building a more resilient sugarcane industry across Uttar Pradesh and beyond.”
Alok Saxena, Executive Director and Unit Head, SPE Division, Zuari Industries, added, “Roundtable 2.0 has been instrumental in uniting farmers, scientists, policymakers, and technology providers to find practical solutions for modern sugarcane farming. Discussions on mechanization, AI, IoT, smart irrigation, and precision farming have offered actionable insights to improve efficiency and optimize input costs. More importantly, this platform fosters knowledge exchange and a forward-looking mindset, helping the sector embrace innovation and ensure sustainable growth for farming communities.”
Advancing Sustainable Growth in Sugarcane Farming
Through Roundtable 2.0, Zuari Industries reaffirmed its commitment to empowering India’s sugarcane farmers. The focus is on mechanization, digital tools, and data intelligence to boost productivity and resilience. As per the press release, the initiative reflects Zuari’s broader vision of integrating sustainability and innovation. It also emphasizes farmer empowerment to shape the future of India’s agricultural economy.
