New Delhi, 30th October 2025
The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) convened the Agri Inputs (AI) Summit 2025 today in New Delhi. The event brought together senior leaders from the agri-inputs sector, policymakers, and industry experts for dynamic discussions on the future of Indian agriculture. Opening the summit, Mr Ajai Rana, Chairman, CII Northern Regional Committee on Agriculture and Managing Director, Savannah Seeds Pvt Ltd, highlighted the urgent need to fast-track agricultural growth through advanced seed technology and robust private sector engagement. He noted that although agriculture employs nearly 46 percent of India’s workforce, its contribution to GDP must significantly increase to foster inclusive economic growth. Mr Rana cited the remarkable shift in the adoption of hybrid corn, which has risen from 15-20 percent up to 90 percent, as evidence of successful, technology-driven productivity. He also highlighted the shift in India’s cotton status from net exporter to net importer and emphasised that revitalising cotton production is essential to strengthen India’s textile export potential. He concluded his remarks by stating that achieving Viksit Bharat (developed India) will be possible only through Viksit Krishi (developed agriculture).
Mr Sanjay Chhabra, Co-Chairman, CII Northern Regional Committee on Agriculture and Executive Director & President, SFS, DCM Shriram Ltd, described agriculture as one of India’s most discussed yet least reformed sectors. He called attention to persistent challenges posed by outdated regulations which restrict innovation and efficiency. Mr Chhabra advocated the creation of a National Agriculture Council to harmonise policies across the center and states. He emphasised the need for the agriculture sector to be viewed as a progressive, revenue-generating industry and urged startups to build deeper scientific engagement rather than focus solely on removing intermediaries.
In his address, Dr R G Agarwal, Chairman Emeritus, Dhanuka Agritech Ltd, focused on the need for industry-driven leadership in agricultural modernisation. Comparing India’s progress with China, he highlighted the importance of rapid technology adoption to maintain competitiveness in the Global South. Dr Agarwal described agri-input chemicals as vital “plant medicines” and stressed that while India has largely overcome food insecurity, nutritional security remains a key challenge. He encouraged the private sector to facilitate technology sharing among farmers and to drive evidence-based reforms. He concluded his remarks by stating that boosting rural incomes is also critical for balanced national growth.
Delivering a special address, Dr Krushna Chandra Sahoo, Director – Commercial, National Seeds Corporation Ltd, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, called for balanced, inclusive advancement in Indian agriculture by blending ancestral wisdom with contemporary science. Dr Sahoo recognised the contributions of all stakeholders including farmers, scientists, researchers, private enterprises, and intermediaries as annadaata (food providers) for the nation. Referring to the Prime Minister’s vision of “Beej se Bazaar Tak,” and highlighting the focus on the four Bs – Beej (Seed), Beema Insurance), Bank (Credit), and Bazaar (Market), Dr Sahoo underscored that seed quality is foundational to progress. He affirmed that access to modern technology is every farmer’s right and called on all stakeholders to support resource-limited farmers in enhancing production and livelihoods. The summit provided a platform for in-depth dialogue on sector trends, emerging technologies, and innovations, reflecting the industry’s commitment to creating a resilient, sustainable, and future-ready agricultural ecosystem.