PMFAI: ICSCE 2025 Delhi Honors Agri Industry Leaders, Champions India’s Role in Global Food Security
The 22nd International Crop Science Conference & Exhibition (ICSCE 2025 Delhi) organized by Pesticides Manufacturers and Formulators Association of India (PMFAI) took place on 10th & 11th June 2025 at Hotel Pullman Novotel, New Delhi Aerocity, New Delhi.
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The two-day event commenced auspiciously on the morning of June 10, 2025, with a welcome address by PMFAI President, Mr. Pradip Dave. In his inaugural speech, Mr. Dave underscored the event’s importance and its journey since PMFAI organized the first event in 1997 in Mumbai. The International Crop Science Conference & Exhibition (ICSCE), serving as an international trade platform, fosters business relationships among companies within the agrochemical, agri biological and allied sectors.
At ICSCE 2025 Delhi, 126 leading companies exhibited their product portfolios over the two-day event. The conference was a significant success, drawing over 1100 registered delegates, including participants from various international locations.
The 22nd International Crop Science Conference & Exhibition (ICSCE 2025 Delhi) organized by Pesticides Manufacturers and Formulators Association of India (PMFAI) took place on 10th & 11th June 2025 at Hotel Pullman Novotel, New Delhi Aerocity, New Delhi.
The two-day event commenced auspiciously on the morning of June 10, 2025, with a welcome address by PMFAI President, Mr. Pradip Dave. In his inaugural speech, Mr. Dave underscored the event’s importance and its journey since PMFAI organized the first event in 1997 in Mumbai. The International Crop Science Conference & Exhibition (ICSCE), serving as an international trade platform, fosters business relationships among companies within the Agrochemical, Agri biological and allied sectors.
At ICSCE 2025 Delhi, 126 leading companies exhibited their product portfolios over the two-day event. The conference was a significant success, drawing over 1100 registered delegates, including participants from various international locations.
The 22nd International Crop Science Conference & Exhibition (ICSCE 2025 Delhi) organized by Pesticides Manufacturers and Formulators Association of India (PMFAI) took place on 10th & 11th June 2025 at Hotel Pullman Novotel, New Delhi Aerocity, New Delhi.
The two-day event commenced auspiciously on the morning of June 10, 2025, with a welcome address by PMFAI President, Mr. Pradip Dave. In his inaugural speech, Mr. Dave underscored the event’s importance and its journey since PMFAI organized the first event in 1997 in Mumbai. The International Crop Science Conference & Exhibition (ICSCE), serving as an international trade platform, fosters business relationships among companies within the Agrochemical, Agri biological and allied sectors.
At ICSCE 2025 Delhi, 126 leading companies exhibited their product portfolios over the two-day event. The conference was a significant success, drawing over 1100 registered delegates, including participants from various international locations.
The 22nd International Crop Science Conference & Exhibition (ICSCE 2025 Delhi) organized by Pesticides Manufacturers and Formulators Association of India (PMFAI) took place on 10th & 11th June 2025 at Hotel Pullman Novotel, New Delhi Aerocity, New Delhi.
The two-day event commenced auspiciously on the morning of June 10, 2025, with a welcome address by PMFAI President, Mr. Pradip Dave. In his inaugural speech, Mr. Dave underscored the event’s importance and its journey since PMFAI organized the first event in 1997 in Mumbai. The International Crop Science Conference & Exhibition (ICSCE), serving as an international trade platform, fosters business relationships among companies within the Agrochemical, Agri biological and allied sectors.
At ICSCE 2025 Delhi, 126 leading companies exhibited their product portfolios over the two-day event. The conference was a significant success, drawing over 1,100 registered delegates, including participants from various international locations.
The 22nd International Crop Science Conference & Exhibition (ICSCE 2025 Delhi) organized by Pesticides Manufacturers and Formulators Association of India (PMFAI) took place on 10th & 11th June 2025 at Hotel Pullman Novotel, New Delhi Aerocity, New Delhi.
The two-day event commenced auspiciously on the morning of June 10, 2025, with a welcome address by PMFAI President, Mr. Pradip Dave. In his inaugural speech, Mr. Dave underscored the event’s importance and its journey since PMFAI organized the first event in 1997 in Mumbai. The International Crop Science Conference & Exhibition (ICSCE), serving as an international trade platform, fosters business relationships among companies within the Agrochemical, Agri biological and allied sectors.
At ICSCE 2025 Delhi, 126 leading companies exhibited their product portfolios over the two-day event. The conference was a significant success, drawing over 1100 registered delegates, including participants from various international locations.
In his Inaugural Address, Mr. Pradip Dave, President of PMFAI, emphasized the critical role of the Agri Inputs industry in ensuring global food security. He stated that with the ever-increasing global population, boosting food production is paramount, and India plays a vital role in this endeavor. Mr. Dave specifically highlighted the indispensable contribution of crop protection chemical products in enhancing both agricultural and horticultural output. Furthermore, he underscored the significant efforts of PMFAI and ICSCE in driving the development of India’s agrochemical sector and promoting exports from the country. Mr. Dave additionally drew attention to the growing significance of the Agri-biological sector and its increasing contributions to the agricultural industry.
Mr. Deepak Shah, Chairman of SML Limited and CCFI, delivered the Vote of Thanks. In his address, he highlighted India’s emergence in the agrochemical sector, expressing gratitude for the support from the Government of India. He also noted the industry’s increasing focus on research and innovation.
The ICSCE 2025 event in Delhi hosted a significant gathering of pesticide scientists and industry experts who delivered presentations on a variety of critical topics during the two days of the event, brief details of which are as given below:
- The Future of Agrochemicals: Balancing Innovation with Sustainability – Addressing regulatory challenges in India and globally: A. Kuppusamy, Vice President & Head – Product Development, IPR & Regulatory Affairs, NACL Industries limited
- The role of green chemistry in pesticide formulations: Komal Shah Bhukhanwala, Director, SML Limited.
- Cost of Innovation and Sustainability: R. K. Goyal, Managing Director (South Asia), Verdesian Life Sciences LLC, wherein Mr. Goyal informed in the evolving landscape of agriculture, the pursuit of innovation and sustainability has become both a necessity and a challenge. For companies in the Biostimulant and plant nutrient sector, innovation demands heavy investments in research, validation, regulatory pathways, and farmer awareness. Sustainability further compounds this challenge, calling for eco-friendly inputs, responsible manufacturing, and long-term impact assessment. Ultimately, the cost of innovation and sustainability is high-but so is the opportunity.
The Rise of Biologicals: Opportunities and Challenges for the Agrochemical Industry
- Integration Biopesticides and Biofertilizers with conventional Agrochemicals: Shri Kuldeep Singh, Chairman and Managing Director, HIL (India) Ltd.
- Scaling up production and ensuring efficacy in diverse agro-climatic conditions: Dr. K.R.K. Reddy, Managing Director, Sri BioAesthetics Pvt. Ltd His presentation explored the strategic imperatives for agrochemical players to integrate biologicals into their portfolios. It highlighted key innovations, regulatory considerations, and collaboration models that can accelerate the mainstreaming of biologicals. As the global demand for sustainable agriculture grows, the industry’s ability to scale and deliver proven biological solutions will determine its relevance and leadership in the future of farming.
- Market Trends and Global Demand for Biologicals: Ketan Mehta, Director, Ecosense Labs. (I) Pvt. Ltd., President – Bio Protection Global & Hon. Treasurer, PMFAI
- Bio Stimulant registration in India: Current Regulation and challenges: Sahil Malik- Founder & Owner, Kisan Agrovet and Secretary General, National Biostimulant Industry Federation (NBIF)
- Next-Gen Silwet Technology by Momentive for Smart & Sustainable Agriculture: Mr. Sushilkumar Bahuguna, Commercial Leader, IMEA for AG&PI Business, Momentive. In a world where efficiency and sustainability must go hand-in-hand, the presentation revoled around Momentive’s pioneering adjuvant technologies that empower growers to achieve the same… “more with less”. This presentation gave the insights how Momentive’s advanced adjuvant solutions—ranging from Silwet™ and AgroSpred™ to the latest Silwet Power —are helping growers around the globe enhance spray performance, soil health, and crop productivity in a sustainable way reducing waste and enhancing efficacy thereby saving environment
- All-In-One Od Formulation Solution for Biologicals: Shrikant Aherkar, Lead Scientist at Stepan Asia, Singapore. His presentation detailed on many biological active ingredients (AI’s) are currently formulated as wettable powders, with little to no formulation technology behind. This leads to poor performance and limited shelf-life. Many companies developing new biological active ingredients lack the formulation knowledge to develop other formulation types, hence the market need for solutions to facilitate formulation development. For this work Oil Dispersion (OD) has been chosen as target. Despite being known as one of the more challenging formulation types, it brings several advantages, such as absence of water, (promoting dormancy of cells and spores and removing the need for preservation) and a potential for increased shelf-life compared to solid formulations and the Stepan’s working in this area.
- Investment and Collaboration in Agri-Inputs – Building Strategic Partnerships: Saurabh Jain, Research Analyst – Agro-chemicals, Building materials and Oil & Gas | HSBC Securities and Capital Markets (India) Pvt. Ltd.
- Navigating MRL and Nutritional Value Challenges – Will AgChem Evolve or be replaced by Biologicals: Jitendra Mohan, CEO, Willowood India Ltd.
- Overview of Agrochemicals registration in EU: Regulatory strategy and compliance required for Indian exporters: Ms. Pooja Vishnoi, General Manager and Regulatory Head, AUXILIFE Scientific Services Private Limited. This session provided guidance to Indian exporters aiming to navigate the EU’s demanding pesticide market. We’ll demystify the complex regulations, specifically Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009, covering active substance and Plant Protection Product (PPP) registration. Expect a comprehensive overview of the required steps, data packages, and product categories, including insights into efficiently registering microbiological pesticides.
- NETZSCH Grinding and Dispersing Technology for SC/OD manufacturing: Girish Vasu, Regional Sales Manager – Chemicals and Energy Solutions, NETZSCH India Grinding & Dispersing Pvt. Ltd.
- Supply Chain Disruptions and Raw Material Security in the Agrochemical Sector: Uday Anand, CEO – Domestic Business, Parijat Industries Pvt. Ltd.
- Global Trade Dynamics – Challenges and Opportunities for Agrochemical Exporters: Lawrence Middler, Senior Analyst, AgbioInvestor news, Business Intelligence and Consulting Services
The aforementioned presentations during the two days of the event significantly benefited participants by providing them with valuable knowledge regarding market dynamics, prevailing trends, and cutting-edge technologies within the global Agrochemicals, Agribiologicals, and emerging Agri Inputs sectors. The robust participation of key players in the global Agrochemical and Ag Bio protection product market further enhanced the event’s value, leading to widespread appreciation from the attendees.
PMFAI Awards in recognition of individual Excellence in Agri Inputs Sector in India
Coinciding with ICSCE 2025 Delhi, PMFAI organized Special Awards to honor individuals for their excellence and contributions to the growth of the Indian Agri Inputs sector.
In the Awards Function, Dr. Krishan Bir Chaudhary, President, Bharatiya Krishak Samaj and Member, High Level Committee on Agricultural Issues, Govt. of Inia was the Chief Guest, who presented the Awards.
The above awards function was attended by over 1100 persons. Given below are names of Award recipients of PMFAI Annual Agchem Awards with their respective area of excellence:
- PMFAI Awards for “Women Contributor in Agrochemical Industry”: Ms. Shilpa Uchil, Regional Head – International Business, Hemani Industries Ltd.
- PMFAI Awards for “Emerging Leader in Agri Inputs Sector” : Mr. Abhijit Bose, Executive President & COO, Tagros Chemical India Pvt. Ltd.
- PMFAI Awards for “Leader of the Year”: Mr. Arvind Kumar, Chief Executive Officer, Bhagiradha Chemicals & Industries Ltd.
- PMFAI Awards for “Leader in International Business”: Mr. Amit Talsera, Assistant Vice President, Meghmani Organics Ltd.
- PMFAI Awards for “Leader of the Year for Contribution in Allied Industry Segment”: Pradeep Ghattu, President & COO, Excel Industries Ltd.
- PMFAI “Special Award for Contribution to AgriBio Sector”: Dr. Venkatesh Devanur, CEO & Managing Director, AgriLife India Pvt. Ltd.
- PMFAI Awards for “Leader in Institutional Business”: Mr. Praveen Dubey, Head, Institutional Business and Strategic Sourcing, NACL Industries Ltd.
- PMFAI Awards for “Leader in Brand Business”: Mr. Anil Nirwal, Chief Executive Officer, Saffire Crop Science Pvt. Ltd.
- PMFAI Awards for “Leader in Supply Chain Management in Agri Inputs”: Mr. V. Gopalakrishnan, Vice President, Sumitomo Chemicals India Ltd.
- PMFAI Awards for “Regulatory Compliance Person of the Year”: Dr. A. Kuppusamy, Vice President & Head, Product Development, IPR & Regulatory Affairs.
- PMFAI “Life Time Achievement Award for Contribution to Agrochemical Industry”: Mr. Anil Kakkar, Vice President, Sumitomo Chemicals India Ltd.
The gathering was addressed by Chief Guest Dr. Krishan Bir Chaudhary, President of Bharatiya Krishak Samaj and Member of the High Level Committee on Agricultural Issues, Government of India. In his speech, Dr. Chaudhary comprehensively addressed numerous issues critical to Indian Agriculture, Indian Farmers, and the Indian Agri-inputs industry.
During his address, Dr. Krishan Bir Chaudhary highlighted the unfair accusations of pesticide misuse and indiscriminate use levelled against Indian farmers. He drew a parallel, stating that just as medicines treat human diseases, pesticides are crucial for safeguarding crops from pests. Dr. Chaudhary particularly praised Indian farmers’ profound knowledge and practical experience in pinpointing pest and disease issues and intervening effectively with precise timing and dosage. He further acknowledged the valuable educational efforts by the Agri inputs industry in teaching farmers safe and accurate pesticide application methods, including the importance of wearing protective gear.
Dr. Chaudhary pointed out that developed countries, including Europe, Australia, and Japan, use pesticides at rates 4 to 8 times higher than India. Yet, paradoxically, global discourse often targets India for high pesticide use, despite its actual consumption being remarkably low. He specifically identified foreign-funded NGOs and environmentalists as key players in spreading these misleading messages.
In the international market, India has advanced considerably. Thanks to our Hon’ble Prime Minister’s “Make in India” initiative, India’s pesticide exports to global markets have reached approximately Rs. 50,000 crores, which is a commendable achievement for the nation.
Dr. Krishan Bir Chaudhary raised a very serious concern that has come to his attention: allegations that 40% to 50% of pesticides in India are fake. He firmly asserted that this claim is a product of international lobby politics. To counter this, Dr. Chaudhary cited data from a nationwide government initiative, revealing that out of 175,000 samples collected across the country, only 1.81% were found to be sub-standard. He stressed that these serious allegations are designed to defame the Indian agrochemical industry and undermine its exports. Dr. Chaudhary specifically mentioned a survey carried out by Tata Consultancy that has been widely published, including on social media. He emphasized the necessity of conducting an inquiry against such agencies whose false studies tarnish the image of Indian industries. Dr. Chaudhary informed the gathering that he has already brought this critical matter to the attention of the Hon’ble Prime Minister.
Dr. Chaudhary further highlighted the concerning efforts by various lobbies to ban Generic Pesticide molecules. He also expressed dismay over the appointment of incompetent officials to head pesticide review processes within the country. These officials, he noted, often possess no practical knowledge of agriculture, farming, or the significant impact that banning generic pesticides would have on farmers. He contended that the propaganda aimed at banning generic pesticides is primarily intended to boost the import of readymade pesticide formulations into India. Dr. Chaudhary specifically criticized the past practice of not registering Technical Grade Pesticides domestically, which he stated directly encouraged imports. He mentioned that corrective measures are now being taken after this critical issue was raised with the Parliamentary Standing Committee.
Dr. Chaudhary underscored India’s remarkable welfare initiative of providing free rations to around 80 crores citizens, a program unmatched by any other nation. He also outlined the dedicated efforts aimed at advancing Indian agriculture and stressed the vital need for the Agri-inputs industry’s collaborative support to uplift and empower the farming community.
The Award Function was followed by entertainment program, cocktails and dinner reception.
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