The 22nd edition of the International Crop Science Conference & Exhibition (ICSCE 2025), organized by the Pesticides Manufacturers and Formulators Association of India (PMFAI), concluded successfully on 11th June 2025 at Hotel Pullman Novotel, Aerocity, New Delhi. The two-day event, held on June 10th and 11th, saw robust participation from over 1100 delegates and featured 126 leading companies from across the globe showcasing innovations in agrochemicals, agribiologicals, and allied agri-input sectors.
The conference was inaugurated by Mr. Pradip Dave, President of PMFAI, who highlighted the growing importance of the Indian agrochemical industry in ensuring global food security. He traced the ICSCE’s journey since its inception in 1997 and emphasized India’s pivotal role in increasing agricultural productivity through crop protection and the growing significance of agri-biologicals.
A Vote of Thanks was delivered by Mr. Deepak Shah, Chairman of SML Limited and CCFI, who recognized the Government of India’s support and stressed the need for continued innovation and research in the agri-input space.
Over two days, ICSCE 2025 hosted insightful technical sessions featuring prominent scientists, corporate leaders, and regulatory experts. Key topics included:
- Innovation and sustainability in agrochemicals by Dr. A. Kuppusamy of NACL Industries.
- The role of green chemistry by Ms. Komal Shah Bhukhanwala of SML Ltd.
- Challenges of integrating biologicals into mainstream agriculture, with presentations by leaders such as Dr. K.R.K. Reddy, Mr. Ketan Mehta, and Mr. Sahil Malik.
- Market trends, EU regulatory strategies, and adjuvant technologies for sustainable farming.
- Global trade dynamics and supply chain security presented by industry leaders like Mr. UdayAnand and Mr. Lawrence Middler.
The event also hosted the prestigious PMFAI Awards Ceremony, recognizing excellence in the Indian agri-inputs sector. Dr. KrishanBir Chaudhary, President of BharatiyaKrishakSamaj and Member of the High-Level Committee on Agricultural Issues, was the Chief Guest and addressed the gathering.
In his impactful speech, Dr. Chaudhary strongly defended Indian farmers against allegations of pesticide misuse, citing data showing only 1.81% of pesticide samples were sub-standard, contrary to claims of widespread fake products. He called for investigations into NGOs and foreign-backed entities spreading misinformation. Dr. Chaudhary also raised concerns about proposed bans on generic pesticide molecules, emphasizing their importance in keeping input costs affordable for Indian farmers.
He praised the “Make in India” initiative, under which India’s pesticide exports have soared to Rs. 50,000 crores, and urged continued support for the agrochemical sector to protect national interests and food security.
Award Winners at PMFAI Agchem Awards 2025 included:
- Woman Contributor in Agrochemical Industry: Ms. ShilpaUchil, Hemani Industries Ltd.
- Emerging Leader: Mr. Abhijit Bose, Tagros Chemicals
- Leader of the Year: Mr. Arvind Kumar, Bhagiradha Chemicals
- Leader in International Business: Mr. Amit Talsera, Meghmani Organics
- AgriBio Sector Excellence: Dr. VenkateshDevanur, AgriLife India
- Regulatory Compliance Person of the Year: Dr. A. Kuppusamy, NACL Industries
- Lifetime Achievement Award: Mr. Anil Kakkar, Sumitomo Chemicals India Ltd.
…and several other professionals honored for contributions across branding, institutional business, and supply chain management.
The event concluded with a gala evening featuring cultural performances, cocktails, and dinner, leaving delegates with new insights, global collaborations, and a renewed commitment to sustainable agricultural growth.
ICSCE 2025 Delhi once again reaffirmed India’s position as a key global player in the agrochemical and agri-inputs landscape.
By
