As we enter the pivotal period of 2024–2025, Indian agriculture stands at a crucial intersection of opportunity and profound responsibility. I want to emphasize that the crop protection industry is not just supporting farming—it is playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of the nation.
Resilient Agriculture, Secure India
Indian agriculture has historically shown remarkable resilience, weathering challenges from erratic weather and climate change to rising pest pressures. Despite these threats, the crop protection industry has been indispensable, safeguarding food security and stabilizing the agri-based economy.
Looking ahead, the sector is key to realizing the ‘Vikshit Bharat 2047’ vision, where it is projected to contribute over $1 trillion to the national economy. Achieving this requires science-based policymaking. We must adopt regulatory frameworks that encourage innovation, shorten the time-to-market for new molecules, and uphold global standards of safety and efficiency.
The Journey of Innovation and Sustainability
Innovation in our sector is a serious, long-term commitment. The journey from discovery to commercialization for a new crop protection molecule typically spans nearly 12 years and demands R&D investments of around US$ 300 million. This rigorous process ensures our products are effective, safe, and environmentally sustainable.
To solidify India’s position as a global hub under the China+1 strategy, we must foster an environment that attracts sustained R&D investment.
Addressing Climate and Pest Challenges
Climate change is fundamentally reshaping the agricultural landscape, intensifying threats like the fall armyworm and leafhoppers witnessed in 2024–2025 across key regions for maize, cotton, and rice. Timely interventions using modern crop protection tools are essential to prevent devastating impacts on national productivity.
Equally important is the emphasis on educating and training farmers in the safe and judicious use of agrochemicals. Stewardship programs, developed in partnership with the Government and grassroots institutions, are critical to fostering a culture of sustainability and responsibility.
Charting the Path to Prosperity
India’s growing role on the global stage is also reflected in our leadership within the industry, which I view as a testament to the capability and vision of the Indian crop science sector.
The path to a prosperous agricultural future rests on three pillars: science, sustainability, and synergy. Together—with regulators, scientists, industry, and farmers—we must chart a roadmap that ensures Indian agriculture remains productive, climate-resilient, and globally competitive.
CropLife India, along with its partners—regulators, scientists, industry, and farmers—is committed to charting a roadmap that ensures Indian agriculture remains productive, climate-resilient, and globally competitive.
Our commitment remains unwavering: to leverage our collective platform to advance Indian agriculture and contribute meaningfully to the nation-building journey.
By Ankur Aggarwal,
Chairman, CropLife India
