The Crop Care Federation of India (CCFI) called for a balanced approach that combines agricultural productivity, soil health and environmental sustainability while strengthening India’s agrochemical industry and exports. Ram Nath Thakur, union minister of state for agriculture and farmer’s welfare, emphasised the need for responsible use of pesticides and chemical fertilisers. According to CCFI, he cautioned that excessive application could affect soil quality and human health. At the same time, Thakur highlighted government initiatives aimed at promoting natural farming and digital land identification systems. These initiatives can help farmers apply agricultural inputs according to specific crop and soil requirements, thereby improving input efficiency.
Strengthening Research and Crop Protection
P. K. Singh, Agriculture Commissioner, highlighted the importance of research and development, climate-resilient crop varieties and safer crop protection products. He stressed the need to address pest resistance and strengthen product traceability and quality standards. These measures can help improve the effectiveness and safety of crop protection products while supporting sustainable agricultural practices.
India Needs to Move Beyond Volume-Based Competition
Shivraj Anand, Director & CEO – International Business, Parijat Industries (India), said India should move beyond volume-driven competition and focus instead on strategic co-development with global innovators. According to Anand, developing safer, lower-dose molecules and biological crop protection solutions can help Indian agriculture respond to climate-related challenges while improving the competitiveness of domestic manufacturers. “Domestic synthesis of proprietary chemistries can equip farmers with modern, climate-resilient crop protection solutions while strengthening backward integration and export competitiveness,” he said.
Policy Support Can Boost Sustainable Crop Protection
Anand called for predictable product registration timelines, harmonisation of OECD-GLP data requirements and incentives for green chemistry. Such measures, he said, could help India strengthen its position as a global hub for sustainable crop protection products while encouraging domestic innovation and manufacturing. Anand further highlighted the need for stronger collaboration among industry, government and scientific institutions. As reported by thehindubusinessline.com, going forward, greater cooperation and investment in research, sustainable technologies and regulatory efficiency could help India strengthen its domestic agrochemical manufacturing base and global export competitiveness.
