FMCI Director Raju Kapoor expressed the possibility of increasing the use of drones in agriculture in 2024.
There is a continuous effort by the central and state governments to double the income of farmers. In this series, the use of drones in spraying fertilizers and agrochemicals will be encouraged in 2024. Raju Kapoor, Director, FMC India – The agrochemical industry has entered 2024 with cautious and positive optimism, after facing numerous challenges in the year 2023. GVA in the agriculture sector declined by 1.8% percent during 2023. At the same time, the key drivers within the agrochemical industry remained intact. Because of this the region needs to reboot itself.
What is GVA?
Gross value added (GVA) is a measure of the total value of goods and services produced in an economy (sector, region or country). GVA also shows how much production has been produced in a particular sector or industry.
Also read: Things to know before using drones in agriculture.
Visible Growth potential in crop protection industry in 2024
In the second half of the year 2023, a special adverse impact of destocking (reducing storage capacity) has been seen on the crop protection industry at the global level. By 2024, if weather conditions are favorable, the Indian crop protection industry is likely to see a boom in the third/fourth quarter of the year. Which is indicative of a return to normalcy in overall market dynamics. At the same time, the sowing area for Rabi 2023 remains largely intact for regional crops. But, decline in the area sown of pulses and oilseeds is negative for the industry.
Raju Kapoor, Director of Industry and Public Affairs, FMC India, says that China should be expected to slow down in dumping of agro chemicals. A significant advancement on the technology front is the significant increase in the use of drones for spraying fertilizers and agrochemicals. It is likely to get a big boost with the launch of the government-backed ‘Drone Didi’ scheme. Great coordination between the fertilizer and agrochemical industry will help stabilize drones as a service concept, thereby improving crop protection and nutrient use efficiency and effectiveness.
Control scheme for weeds and pesticides
Mr Kapoor said “We should also expect the unveiling of new molecules to combat weeds like Phalaris and pests like pink bollworm in wheat crops. This is expected to get a boost with the regulatory body Central Pesticide Board's announcement to rationalize the time taken for regulatory approval of new molecules.
Also read: Weed control for wheat crop
Continued growth in horticulture production will be positive for continued demand for fungicides. However, generic products may face pressure. But, a visionary approach of the industry along with supportive government schemes can ensure that the industry returns to the growth path. Shri Kapoor said that the prospects of the agriculture industry in 2024 lie in its innovation and strategic actions. The sector is poised for a one-year expansion driven by strong food demand and commitment to sustainable farming practices.
