At Amritsar event, experts call for judicious use of agrochemicals
At awareness and interaction programme for agri-input dealers and distributors in Amritsar
As India’s population touches around 1.4 billion and the demand for food continues to rise, the challenge before agriculture is not to abandon crop protection products, but to ensure their judicious, scientific and need-based use, experts believe.
The issue came up during an awareness and interaction programme for agri-input dealers and distributors in Amritsar on Friday, where experts discussed the need to strike a balance between higher farm productivity, food security and environmental protection.
Organised by the Agro Chem Federation of India (ACFI), an apex body representing about 85 per cent of the Indian agrochemical industry, the programme was held on the theme “Sustainable Agriculture – Dealer and Industry Partnership”.
The experts pointed out that while organic and natural farming practices had an important role in sustainable agriculture, relying entirely on such systems to meet the food requirements of a country of India’s size and population would pose significant challenges. They stressed that a pragmatic approach combining scientific farming, integrated pest management, responsible use of crop protection products and sustainable practices was needed to maintain productivity.
The focus, they said, should therefore be on using agrochemicals only when required, in the correct quantity and through the recommended method rather than their indiscriminate or excessive application.
KPS Sidhu, senior DGM, Dhanuka Agritech Ltd, said such an approach could help improve productivity while protecting farmers, consumers and the environment. It could also contribute to reducing pesticide residues and the development of resistance in pests, while ensuring the continued effectiveness of crop protection products.
Dr Ranjesh Singh, general manager (head), regulatory affairs and product development, Bharat Certis AgriScience Ltd, said greater coordination between the industry and dealer network was needed to counter misinformation, strengthen scientific awareness and promote responsible use of agrochemicals.
“Sustainable agriculture need not be viewed as a choice between chemical and organic farming. Instead, promote a science-based and balanced approach aimed at producing enough food for a growing population while minimising risks to human health and the environment,” he stated.
Dr Amarjit Singh Dosanjh, chief agriculture officer, Amritsar, said capacity building of dealers and distributors was essential as they were an important source of technical guidance for farmers.
