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Farmer Centric Sustainable Technology Adoption Key to India’s Agriculture Growth

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  • CropLife India & YES BANK Knowledge Report estimates indicate that INR 2 lakh crores worth of crop yield is lost annually due to pests in the country


  • Two State Agriculture Ministers, Government, Academia & Agro-chemical Industry deliberate on the India – An Emerging Global Food Hub: Role of Sustainable Crop Protection Solutions during the National Conference organized on the occasion of 43rd AGM of CropLife India


 


CropLife India; the association of leading domestic and Multinational R&D driven crop science companies; organized a National Conference on the occasion of its 43rd AGM. The conference witnessed the congregation of two Agriculture Ministers from the key States of Andhra Pradesh and Haryana; senior Government officials, experts, academia and industry leaders. YES BANK was the Knowledge Partner for the event.


 






Knowledge Report released – Mr. Sunjay Vuppuluri, Mr. Srinivasa Karavadi, Ms. Sangeeta Bojappa, Shri Kakani Govardhan Reddy, Dr. K. C Ravi, Ms. Chhavi Rajawat, Dr. Siang Hee, TAN and Mr. Rajvir Rathi


 


CropLife India & YES BANK Knowledge Report


Highlights


  • In India, estimates suggest that about INR 2 lakh crores worth of crop yield is lost annually due to pests.


  • Indian agriculture is Feeding a massive 1.43 billion population


  • Contrary to the myths, the crop protection usage in India is just at 0.37 kg / hectare compared to a staggering 11.24 kg/hectare in Japan.


  • The crop protection industry in India is undergoing a Transformation from a product-centric to a sustainable solution-centric approach, wherein “beyond-crop protection” offerings are being provided to farmers.


  • Agtechs (including drone-techs) are changing the way agri-inputs are delivered to farmers, the way agri-inputs are applied in the farm as well as the way farmers are linked to markets. Usage of drones is a big game changer not only for the way that crop protection solutions are applied on field, but also for providing additional income generating activities in rural areas by promoting entrepreneurship.


  • The State Governments have a big role to play in enabling Ease of Doing Business and Ease of Doing Agriculture.


  • CropLife India believes that the State Governments will play an imminent role in paving a “Public-Private Pathway” for capacity building and awareness creation


  • India now stands as the 2nd largest exporter of agrochemicals globally, after China, making it a key participant in the global crop protection industry.


 


Deliberations during the National Conference focused on the theme “India – An Emerging Global Food Hub: Role of Sustainable Crop Protection Solutions”. The focus of the Inaugural Session was “The Rise of Indian Agriculture – World’s Emerging Food Basket & the Role of States”. Plenary Session I focussed on “Women driving the growth of Indian Agriculture” and the Plenary Session II dwelled on “Innovations for the New-Age Farmers.” The Valedictory Session deliberated on “Role of Agrochemicals in the growth of Indian Agriculture.”


 


During his inaugural address Shri Kakani Govardhan Reddy, Hon’ble Minister of Agriculture Government of Andhra Pradesh shared that, “The State Government is committed towards Farmers’ education for enhanced use of new technology in agriculture; which has led to multiple novel initiatives viz. ‘E-KYC Know Your Crop’ aiming to provide farmers with essential digital resources. The State is considering to implement State Minimum Support Price Act to further bolster inclusive agricultural practices.”


 


Shri J. P. Dalal, Hon’ble Minister of Agriculture Government of Haryana said, “Farmers of Haryana are being encouraged to take up crop diversification and produce as per the market demands. Asia’s largest market, spanning over 550 acres, is under construction in Ganaur in Haryana, and will be better than the markets in developed countries like Spain and France. The market would provide farmers with facilities for grading, packaging and sorting at the block and tehsil levels, thus help in export quality products to the international market.”


 


Dr. Ashok Dalwai, Chairman, Empowered Committee Doubling Farmers’ Income, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Government of India participated in the Industry Leaders’ Interaction and shared his views on the public private partnership for providing better technologies to the farmers for increasing the productivity and the production and also suggested for data based research studies.


 


Dr. P. K. Singh, Agriculture Commissioner, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Government of India said, “Adopting the ‘One Health‘ approach to balance and optimize the health of people, animals and the environment is non-negotiable for nation’s growth. The role of technology in enabling multiple crop cycles in the same field; educating farmers and reframing the perception of agrochemicals is the need of the hour.”


 


Dr. Vishal Choudhary, Dy. Industry Advisor, Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilisers, said, “The Ministry has established an Industry Facilitation Cell to address industry’s issues and efforts are underway towards creation of dedicated courses for agrochemicals; which would help in responsible use.”


 


Dr. S. C. Dubey, ADG (Plant Protection), Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India shared, “Agrochemicals are crucial for minimizing crop losses and increasing productivity, along with Nutrient & water management. Investment in R&D is imminent for sustainable agriculture and policies should be prioritized towards environmental sustainability, farmer well-being, and long-term profitability.”


 


Dr. K. C. Ravi, Chairman, CropLife India said, “As India emerges as a Global Food hub, the need for a predictable, stable and science based policy and regulatory regime for the proper growth of the crop protection sector is imperative. This would promote innovation and new product introduction to address the current and upcoming challenges faced by farmers; while paving the way with introduction of cutting edge technologies like Artificial Intelligence and Drones.”


 


Ms. Chhavi Rajawat, first MBA Sarpanch, Ms. Sangeeta Bojappa, Dr. Anupama Singh, Scientist, IARI and Ms. Nisha Solanki, First Woman Drone Pilot of Haryana participated in a session focused on “Women driving the growth of Indian Agriculture”.


 


The crop protection industry has been making an immense contribution to Indian Agriculture in the last 77 years and is committed to continue the same. CropLife India members are not only committed to bring latest and safer innovations and are equally committed to educate farmers on their safe and responsible use. CropLife and its member companies would like to continue to contribute in creating a science-based, pragmatic and stable regulatory environment.


 


CropLife members continue to work closely with farmers, scientific community and policy makers to address current as well as future challenges. However, the cost of research has gone up and it is estimated that the cost of discovery and development of a new active ingredient is around INR 2000 crores. If Indian agriculture must flourish, be more competitive, quality driven, reducing wastages as well as losses to enable our farmers to be more successful, it is absolutely essential that a progressive policy environment is in place that fosters innovations.


 


About CropLife India


CropLife India is committed to advancing sustainable agriculture and it is an association of 16 R&D driven member companies in crop protection. We jointly represent ~ 70% of the market and are responsible for 95% of the molecules introduced in the country. Our member companies have annual global R & D spend of 6 billion USD and are firmly committed to engaging with the farming community to enable Safe, Secure Food Supply.


 


Our member companies were established in India as far back as the 1950s; we continue to work hand-in-hand with the Government to build the agriculture sector – from direct investment of building factories, jobs creation, bringing in agriculture innovation and working endlessly over the years with multi-stakeholders to enhance agriculture productivity.

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Press Release

New Study Reveals Majority of Indians Prioritize Nutrition Over Taste, Surpassing Global Average

Published

11 months ago

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May 31, 2024

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Based on a recent survey of urban Indian consumers: 


  • Nine out of 10 consumers are searching for protein-rich food compared to seven out of 10 global shoppers.


  • The top four qualities consumers look for when buying snacks are (1) natural, (2) heart-healthy, (3) protein-rich and (4) energy-source, all of which come before satisfying cravings.


  • Nuts have emerged as one of the most popular snacking choices, with 86% of Indian shoppers report having purchased them in a span of 6 months.


  • Urban Indians read nutrition labels more than the global average, reflecting a growing trend towards informed purchasing.


  • 69% of urban dwellers surveyed have the opinion that plant-based protein is just as good as meat-based protein, exceeding the global average of 55%.


 


Wonderful Pistachios, the world’s largest grower and processor of pistachios and distributor of California Pistachios in India, released today, World Nutrition Day, the findings of a new global study that sheds light on the snacking habits of urban Indians. The study, commissioned with Material, a leading global research consultancy, included 10 countries and over 12,400 respondents, revealed a new behavioural trend that urban Indian consumers prioritize nutrition over taste when it comes to snacking. This growing preference for healthy snacking emphasizes the importance of good nutrition for overall well-being.


 


For the India market specifically, the study delved into the snacking habits of 2,415 shoppers across six Indian cities, which represented a population of approximately 35.9 million consumers. Remarkably, a majority of urban Indians (58%) reported basing their food purchasing decisions on nutritional benefits more than taste, exceeding the global average of 52%. Delhi and Ahmedabad lead with over 60% of urban shoppers preferring nutrition in their food. Bengaluru and Chennai follow closely, indicating a nationwide shift towards smarter snacking preferences. In India, Millennials and Gen Z are leading the charge in health-conscious purchasing decisions, with more than 83% of consumers in these age groups reading nutritional labels before buying.


 


Indian consumers prioritize four key factors when shopping for nutritional snacks: natural (free of artificial colours and preservatives), heart-healthy, protein-rich, and provides energy. Nine out of 10 urban shoppers consciously seek protein-rich food options, compared to the global average of seven out of 10. The focus on nutrition has fueled the rise of nuts as a preferred snack choice, becoming essential to daily eating habits. The study found a staggering consumption of nuts, with 86% of Indian shoppers report purchasing them in a span of 6 months, compared to just 75% globally. With 6g of protein in per 28g serving, California Pistachios are a smart snack choice that provides benefits without sacrificing taste.


 


Shail Pancholi, Country Director, India, Wonderful Pistachios, commented on the study, saying, “Nuts were traditionally used as garnishes and consumed during festivals, but have now become a popular snack in India, indicating a notable shift in dietary habits. Pistachio consumption in India has doubled in the last six years, as consumer awareness of the nutritional benefits that pistachios offer has grown. Consumers are discovering that pistachios are naturally cholesterol-free, rich in plant-based protein and dietary fiber, and provide over 30 different vitamins and minerals.” 


 


Interestingly, the study found that nuts are the second most preferred snack among urban Indian consumers, with 64% of Baby Boomers and 59% of Gen Z prioritizing nutrition over taste when selecting food. This indicates a growing focus on health across generations, with Baby Boomers focusing on senior wellness and Gen Z reflecting the rise of mindful purchasing. Though on opposite ends of the age spectrum, these two generations take the lead in seeking protein-rich options, as well as preferring natural snacks. 


 


Mumbai tops most of the consideration sets when choosing a snack. Residents opt for natural ingredients (35% vs. the national average of 30%), heart-healthy options (33% vs. 30%), and protein (33% vs. 29%). Chennai residents look for energy-boosting snacks (31% vs. the national average of 29%). 


 


The fact that 69% of urban Indians surveyed have the opinion that that plant-based protein is just as good as meat-based protein reflects a positive shift towards varied dietary preferences. Pistachios are a good source of high-quality complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids. A 28g serving of pistachios provides 6g of protein, which is 11% of the recommended daily allowance (RDA) according to FSSAI.


 


The Wonderful Pistachios study unveils a compelling shift in Indian snacking habits. Nuts are evolving from festive treats to a daily snacking staple, fueled by a nationwide preference for more nutritious options. The trend transcends generations, resonating with Gen Z and Baby Boomers alike, underscoring the growing importance of mindful eating in urban India. As consumers increasingly seek natural, heart-healthy, protein-rich, and energy-boosting snacks, the future of Indian snacking appears to be firmly rooted in nutrition and well-being.

 


Wonderful Pistachios

Wonderful® Pistachios is the world’s largest grower and processor of pistachios, with a global presence in over 70 countries. As a vertically integrated operation, they are experts in every step of the process from tree to shelf, ensuring the highest-quality product every time. In tandem with its Grower Partners, Wonderful Pistachios harvests 125,000 sunny acres (50,000 hectares) of land in California that receive warm days and cool nights, which work in harmony with the rich, natural soils to create the perfect growing climate for high-quality pistachios. They ship 600 million pounds (204 million kg) of nuts worldwide from their advanced processing facilities to ensure the highest standards are met. When it comes to pistachios, Wonderful® Pistachios expertise is unmatched in scale and capacity, paired with warehouses and sales teams worldwide that are well-equipped to provide support at every step of the way. 

 


California Pistachios

California Pistachios are grown and distributed by The Wonderful Company, the world’s largest vertically integrated pistachio processor and marketer located in California’s Central Valley. California Pistachios are Non-GMO, providing a smart, healthy choice for consumers around the world. Sun-ripened in the moderate Mediterranean climate of California, these distinctively green nuts pack taste and contain antioxidants and over 30 different nutrients. California Pistachios in India are available under leading brands and private labels at retail outlets, grocery stores, and online platforms.


 


For more information about California Pistachios India, please visit www.b2b.wonderfulpistachios.com 


 



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Press Release

Singapore Prepares Ahead to Leverage Artificial Intelligence for a Better Future

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11 months ago

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May 31, 2024

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SINGAPORE, May 31, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Senior Minister of State for Communications and Information Tan Kiat How launched the Digital Enterprise Blueprint (DEB) at Asia Tech x Singapore (ATxSG) 2024 today. The Blueprint will enable SMEs to harness technology, optimise the way they work, and strengthen digital resilience and cybersecurity across the ecosystem. 50,000 SMEs are expected to benefit over the next five years through four key focus areas:

  1. Empower enterprises to be smarter by adopting AI-enabled solutions
  2. Enable enterprises to scale faster through cloud-based and integrated solutions
  3. Equip enterprises to be safer through improved cyber resilience
  4. Support enterprises to upskill workers to make full use of digital capabilities

Seven partners have come onboard to pledge their commitment, including Singapore Business Federation, Singapore Computer Society, SGTech, Amazon Web Services, Google, Microsoft and Salesforce.

In collaboration with IMDA and the TechSkills Accelerator for ITE and Polytechnics Alliance, SGTech is launching the Tech Apprenticeship Programme to expand the career pathways of graduates by providing access to industry apprenticeships that offer on-the-job training and development opportunities. Over the next two and a half years, SGTech aims to facilitate the placement of at least 300 apprentices who are fresh or mid-career professionals from polytechnic or ITE backgrounds, and drive the adoption of similar practices that promote more inclusive hiring and career agility.

IMDA and the Singapore Academy of Law (SAL) signed an MoU aimed at uplifting the legal sector’s productivity through the use of GenAI. As part of this partnership, GPT-Legal, a new large language model which is contextualised for Singapore’s legal sector, will be co-developed. The model will be integrated into SAL’s research platform LawNet, which is accessible by 75% of Singapore’s lawyers. SAL will also be penning an MoU with the National University of Singapore and AI Singapore to develop its AI capabilities and create a certification to recognise AI specialists in the legal profession.

Additionally, Tribe and Digital Industry Singapore announced a collaboration with NVIDIA to launch the Ignition AI Accelerator for AI startups to create and bring to market the next wave of advancement in AI solutions. This programme will nurture 15 high-potential startups, equipping them with well-rounded support covering business and technical needs. NVIDIA and Tribe will also collaborate with EnterpriseSG to offer qualified AI startups funding support through the Startup SG Tech scheme, and assist them through the IMDA Accreditation process. 

Singapore hosted the final meeting of the UN Secretary-General’s Artificial Intelligence Advisory Body (AIAB) from 28-29 May. As part of the agenda, Singapore facilitated an engagement session between AIAB and the Digital Forum of Small States (Digital FOSS). Digital FOSS Fellows exchanged views with AIAB members on the topic of AI governance, particularly on the implications and challenges faced by small states. Through such efforts, Singapore aims to promote a more inclusive approach towards shaping global AI and digital governance.

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Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/in/news-releases/singapore-prepares-ahead-to-leverage-artificial-intelligence-for-a-better-future-302160193.html



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Press Release

One in Six Globally Concerned About Colorectal Cancer Screening Costs

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May 31, 2024

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SHENZHEN, China, May 31, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — By 2040, the burden of colorectal cancer (CRC) is projected to increase to 3.2 million new cases and 1.6 million deaths per year representing a 66% and 71% rise in new cases and deaths respectively relative to 2020.

To better address the global burden of CRC and reduce its impact, BGI Genomics has launched the second edition of its global CRC awareness report, covering 1,938 respondents from Brazil (306), China (367), Poland (300), Saudi Arabia (300), Thailand (362), and Uruguay (303):  

CRC Screening Gaps Vary Globally: Nearly half (49.3%) of global respondents have never undergone CRC screening, with the highest proportions in Saudi Arabia (62.0%) and Poland (61.0%).

Preference for Fecal Testing Over Colonoscopy: Although colonoscopies are more recognized (33.4%), fecal tests at healthcare facilities are preferred (31.8%), reflecting a trend towards non-invasive methods.

Cost and Fear are Determinants of Screening Choice: Fear of colonoscopy (18.2%) and screening costs (17.7%) are major barriers to CRC screening. Poland (24.7%) and Uruguay (21.0%) show the highest fear of colonoscopy, while Thailand (24.5%) and Brazil (20%) indicate the most concern about costs.

Medical Advice and Family History Drive CRC Screening: Doctor’s recommendations are a major driver for CRC screening (30.5% globally), with Uruguay showing the highest adherence (44.1%). Additionally, those with a family history of CRC are more proactive in screening (64.5%), compared to the general population (35.0%).

Prof. Varut Lohsiriwat from Mahidol University offers his insights to this report. He suggested: “The essence of effective cancer screening lies in the acceptance and adherence of the patient to the screening method. The best screening method is the one that the patient accepts and adheres to because that’s the method that will actually benefit them.”

Dr. Zhu Shida, BGI Genomics Deputy GM, notes: “At BGI Genomics, we focused our efforts on developing advanced molecular biology testing techniques to close the gap [between acceptance and accessibility]. The ultimate goal is to transform colorectal cancer from a life-threatening disease into a manageable condition through widespread, early screening and intervention.”

For more region-level comparisons, access the full BGI Genomics 2024 State of CRC Awareness Report.

All data involved in this report come from the results of an online survey project conducted by BGI Genomics. It only surveys awareness related to colorectal cancer and does not involve personally identifiable data.

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Cision View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/one-in-six-globally-concerned-about-colorectal-cancer-screening-costs-302159170.html



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