The BioAgri Input Producers Association (BIPA), which represents companies working with agricultural biological inputs, has called for a 25% reduction in chemical fertiliser and pesticide use through the scientific integration of biological inputs into farming practices. The association believes that combining biological and chemical inputs in a responsible manner can support sustainable agriculture while maintaining farm productivity.
BIPA Calls for National Soil Health Programme
BIPA has urged the Government, industry, research institutions and academia to collaborate on a national programme focused on improving soil organic carbon. According to the association, strengthening soil organic carbon is essential for maintaining the long-term health, fertility and productivity of Indian soils. A coordinated approach could also accelerate the adoption of biological inputs and encourage farmers to use integrated crop-management practices.
Phased Reduction in Chemical Inputs
BIPA President A. John Peter said India needs to gradually move away from an agricultural model that relies predominantly on chemical inputs. “India needs to move from a predominantly chemical-dependent agricultural model towards an integrated system in which biologicals and chemicals work together scientifically and responsibly,” said Peter. He added that a phased 25% reduction in chemical fertiliser and pesticide use could deliver significant economic, environmental and agricultural benefits.
Integrating Biologicals with Conventional Farming
Rather than replacing chemical inputs immediately, BIPA is advocating a scientifically integrated approach in which biological and chemical products complement each other. Such an approach could help improve soil health while supporting efficient input use and sustainable agricultural productivity. In turn, stronger collaboration among policymakers, researchers, industry and farmers could help scale the adoption of biological solutions across Indian agriculture. As reported by thehindubusinessline.com, BIPA’s proposal therefore places soil health, responsible input use and biological agriculture at the centre of efforts to build a more sustainable and productive farming system.
