Ankur Aggarwal, Managing Director of Crystal Crop Protection Ltd., has been re-elected as Chairman of CropLife India during its 45th Annual General Meeting, signaling continuity in leadership for the agrochemical association. Under his guidance, CropLife India aims to advance science-driven and sustainable agricultural practices, focusing on integrated pest management, innovation, and stewardship. The association represents over 70% of India’s agrochemical market, with exports valued at nearly Rs. 40,000 crore. Aggarwal emphasized investments in precision agriculture and bio-pesticides, aiming to reduce crop losses, enhance farmer incomes, and strengthen India’s global position in the agrochemical industry.
Leadership Continuity and Strategic Vision
The 45th AGM confirmed Aggarwal’s re-election as Chairman, reflecting industry confidence in his vision and leadership. Mohan Babu, COO of Bayer CropScience India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, continues as Vice Chairman, while Dr. Gyanendra Shukla, MD & CEO of Rallis India, joins as the second Vice Chairman. This leadership structure underlines CropLife India’s commitment to fostering innovation, policy advocacy, and sustainable crop protection solutions.
Aggarwal noted that the association will continue championing science-led strategies to improve productivity and minimize environmental impact, positioning India as a global hub for responsible agrochemical practices.
India’s Role in Global Agrochemicals
India stands as the world’s fourth-largest producer and the second-largest exporter of agrochemicals. CropLife India members account for more than 70% of the sector’s business and represent over 95% of the world’s leading molecules and chemistries. Collectively, these companies generate exports worth nearly Rs. 40,000 crore, reinforcing the country’s strategic importance in the global agriculture supply chain.
Despite these achievements, India faces annual crop losses estimated at Rs. 2 lakh crore due to pests and diseases. Remarkably, pesticide usage in India remains among the lowest globally at 400 grams per hectare, compared with the global average of 8,000 grams, reflecting efficient and responsible farming practices.
Commitment to Sustainable Agriculture
CropLife India and its members have pledged €10 billion toward precision agriculture and an additional €4 billion for bio-pesticide development by 2030. These investments aim to equip farmers with advanced tools for sustainable farming, reduce crop losses, and improve productivity. The association actively collaborates with scientists, policymakers, and the farming community to integrate technology-driven solutions that address climate change, resource efficiency, and food security challenges.
Conclusion
Under Ankur Aggarwal’s continued leadership, CropLife India is poised to strengthen its role as a catalyst for sustainable and innovation-driven agriculture. The association’s strategic focus on stewardship, research, and integrated pest management underscores India’s ambition to enhance farmer incomes, reduce agricultural losses, and secure a globally competitive position in the agrochemical industry, advancing the nation’s vision of self-reliance and sustainable growth.
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