Prospects for BioAgri in 2013 is good!
The agribiotech sector in India is poised to grow at much faster rate than ever before in 2013 and we hope that the conducive and positive policy environment will boost the growth of the sector. Research collaborations between the public and private sector are essential to ensure the growth of the seed industry and prime minister Dr Manmohan Singh's statement on utilizing the potential of modern biotechnology will provide further impetus to develop technologies that can deliver positive results for farmers. In the times ahead, risks related to water availability and climate change will be the key challenges for the agriculture industry. The adoption of innovative technologies will play a major role in addressing these risks.
Mahyco has been growing at a steady rate and expects to continue its growth journey in 2013 as well. As a research-focused company, Mahyco is always working on encouraging investment in research for path breaking solutions to address the critical needs of the Indian farmers. The company also expects to make an announcement regarding its pipeline products in 2013, which are at various stages of development.
- Dr Usha Barwale Zehr, chief technology officer, Mahyco
Agricultural biotechnology in India is at a crucial juncture. While the traits are being increasingly recognized for their value addition in agriculture and to the country's economy, increasing concerns are aired for an effective regulation being in place to release the traits to environment, and on the general public's awareness that the food and food products produced through genetic modification are safe. Prospects for BioAgri in 2013 is good, while the uncertainties could needlessly delay the harvesting of benefits of biotechnology in Indian agriculture.
- Dr MJ Vasudeva Rao, president, Ag technologies, Metahelix Life Sciences
