The 12th edition of the FICCI Crop Protection Summit was held in New Delhi today, focusing on the theme "Diversity & Inclusion in Sustainability & Crop Protection." The event brought together key government officials, industry representatives, and experts to discuss the growing importance of sustainability in the agriculture sector, particularly in crop protection.
During the summit, the FICCI-PwC knowledge report, 'The Role of Crop Protection Industry in Driving Sustainability in the Agriculture Sector', was released. The report highlights the pivotal role agriculture plays in India's economy, contributing over 18 percent to the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and sustaining the livelihoods of 42.3 percent of the population. India, the fourth-largest producer of crop-protection chemicals globally, has become the second-largest exporter of these chemicals, with exports valued at USD 5.5 billion in 2022.
However, the report acknowledges the negative perception of crop-protection chemicals due to their non-judicious use. Despite this, the industry is evolving by integrating sustainability into its operations. Methods like Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and the development of biopesticides are increasingly being adopted, reducing the reliance on harmful chemicals while maintaining agricultural productivity.
Dr. PK Singh, the Agriculture Commissioner, emphasized the urgent need for sustainability in agriculture. He pointed out that new seed varieties will be crucial in reducing the use of chemicals and fertilizers. Dr. Singh also highlighted the government's efforts to promote IPM and the development of over 70,000 Amrit Sarovars for sustainable water management.
Simon T. Wiebusch, Chairman of the FICCI Crop Protection Committee & Executive Director, Bayer Crop Science Ltd & Country Division Head – Crop Science Division- India, Bangladesh & Sri Lanka said, “Sustainability in the crop protection industry starts at the manufacturing unit and stretches through the entire supply chain, including working with farmers to promote and help them adopt best practices. I laud the Indian crop protection sector for taking the lead adopting sustainable practices, including laying emphasis on including a more diverse workforce, water conservation and renewable energy. It also stretches to responsible packaging and working with farmers on best crop protection practices to ensure global compliance and realize yield, contributing towards our nation’s mission of being Viksit Bharat by 2047.”
Shashi K. Singh from PwC India discussed the balance needed between food security and environmental sustainability, while N.K. Rajavelu, Co-Chair of the FICCI Crop Protection Committee, highlighted the sector's potential to implement eco-friendly solutions and ensure food security through sustainable practices.