India's Path to Modernizing Agriculture by 2047: Bayer's Vision

India cannot become a developed nation by 2047 with backward agriculture, says Bayer's South Asia head, Simon Wiebusch. He highlights government initiatives to modernize farming, regulatory changes, investment in herbicides, and the potential of Direct-Seeded Rice (DSR) systems. Bayer aims to advance these innovations for future agricultural prosperity.

India needs to modernize its agriculture to achieve developed nation status by 2047, according to Simon Wiebusch, the head of German chemicals giant Bayer's South Asia operations.

'You don't become a developed nation with backward agriculture,' Wiebusch emphasized in a recent interview. He praised the Indian government's modern farming initiatives while acknowledging that transformation takes time.

Wiebusch noted that regulatory processes are becoming more digitized and innovative compounds are being prioritized, moving away from historical delays. Bayer South Asia is increasing its focus on herbicides to address labor shortages in agriculture exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

While current herbicides remain effective due to low historical usage, Bayer is preparing for resistance challenges and plans to develop herbicides targeting key crops like paddy, wheat, sugarcane, and maize. Wiebusch also highlighted the importance of Direct-Seeded Rice (DSR) systems in reducing labor intensity and conserving water.

The company is also exploring biostimulants, precision technology, and digital technologies to enhance farm productivity through its 'ForwardFarms' initiative. Wiebusch expressed optimism for the upcoming rabi and spring seasons, forecasting benefits for Indian agriculture from high water availability despite a challenging kharif season.

(With inputs from agencies.)