Dr. Sivaram Pillai

Overview of the Use of Organic Fertilizers in India Organic fertilizers have gained significant traction in India, driven by the need for sustainable agriculture, improved soil health, and enhanced crop yields. These fertilizers, derived from natural sources such as plant residues, animal manure, and compost, play a crucial role in enriching the soil with essential nutrients and organic matter. Benefits of Organic Fertilizers Soil Health Improvement: Organic fertilizers increase soil fertility by adding organic matter, which improves soil structure, water retention, and microbial activity. This leads to better root growth and nutrient uptake by plants. Sustainable Agriculture: The use of organic fertilizers promotes sustainable farming practices. They reduce the dependency on chemical fertilizers, which can lead to soil degradation and environmental pollution. Enhanced Crop Yields: While organic fertilizers release nutrients more slowly compared to chemical fertilizers, they provide a steady supply of nutrients, leading to consistent and long-term crop productivity. Environmental Benefits: Organic fertilizers are eco-friendly and reduce the risk of groundwater contamination and other forms of pollution associated with synthetic fertilizers. Types of Organic Fertilizers Used in India Compost: Decomposed organic matter from plant and animal residues is widely used to improve soil structure and fertility. Vermicompost: Produced through the breakdown of organic material by earthworms, vermicompost is rich in nutrients and beneficial microorganisms. Green Manure: Crops grown specifically to be plowed back into the soil, such as legumes, which enhance nitrogen content and improve soil structure. Animal Manure: Animal waste, particularly from cattle, poultry, and sheep, is commonly used to add nutrients and organic matter to the soil. Biofertilizers: These include microorganisms like Rhizobium, Azotobacter, and blue-green algae, which enhance nutrient availability and promote plant growth.

11

The book on 'Dryland Agriculture' by M.V.R. Prasad & G. Subba Reddy is published by the New India Publishing Agency (NIPA). The Book presents the following contents: I. Foreword by Dr R S Paroda 2.Acknowledgement 3. Preface 4.Prologue, 5.Drought & Drought Management 6.Efficient Plant types for Dryland Agriculture 7. Soil and Water Management Technologies, 8. Crops and Cropping Patterns for Dryland Agriculture 9. Challenges in Dryland crop production 10. Intercropping Systems for Dryland Agriculture 11. Farming Systems for Dryland Agriculture 12. Climate Change and Dryland Agriculture 13.Climate resilient practices for Dryland Agriculture 14.Alternate land use systems for Dryland Agriculture 15.Biotic Stresses in Dryland Agriculture 16.Biodiversity of Dryland Agriculture 17. Economy of Small Farmers and 18.References

13

2 Comments

𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐳𝐞𝐝 #Nutrition: 𝐀 𝐆𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐓𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐖𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐆𝐞𝐭 𝐏𝐃𝐅📚 𝐂𝐨𝐩𝐲: https://lnkd.in/dzSY56dP The personalized nutrition industry is on a rapid growth trajectory, projected to reach USD 23.3 billion by 2027 with a robust CAGR of 15.5%. This surge is driven by advancements in technology and the increasing preference for tailored health solutions among consumers worldwide. Active measurement tools such as apps, testing kits, and customized programs are leading the charge, empowering individuals to optimize their nutrition based on personal data and preferences. Companies like Persona Nutrition are innovating with personalized supplement plans, integrating nutritional needs with lifestyle choices seamlessly. Standard #supplements continue to play a pivotal role, supporting overall health maintenance across diverse demographics. Their accessibility and global availability make them a cornerstone in the evolving landscape of personalized nutrition. #Tablets emerge as the frontrunner due to their ease of use, affordability, and extended shelf life, making them a preferred choice for dietary supplementation. North America leads the charge in personalized nutrition, driven by innovation and a robust market presence of key players dedicated to shaping the future of health and wellness. 𝐒𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐤𝐞𝐲 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞: Amway (US) BASF (Germany) DSM (Netherlands) Herbalife Nutrition Ltd (US) DNAfit (UK) Care/of (US) Nutrigenomix (US) Zipongo (US) Viome (US) Habit (US) #PersonalizedNutrition #HealthAndWellness

1

Livestock health is essential for productivity, ethics and meeting demand for ethically sourced dairy. Startups like Labby and eFeed enable disease monitoring and optimized cattle feed. Amul collaborated with the Indian government to combat outbreaks through vaccination. As consumers care more about animal welfare, dairy companies must prioritize livestock health and tech innovation in this area. #livestock #animalwelfare #cattlehealth #dairy Read more: https://lnkd.in/gAQNmkTy

30

1 Comment

Is this the biggest leap in Indian Horticulture in last 20 yrs 🤔… in Govt validation under extreme heat of 35+ Degrees & drought…. AMBRONICS PVT LTD plantation system proven to be far better than mulching & 2 other international technologies … amazing thing is -it costs only 10% of the mulching -saved 6 lakh Rs in one acre in its lifetime -Removed 20000 Kg of single use plastics from 1 acre of Horticulture plantation -80% lower toxic food for every Indian -90% less soil contamination -tackles sudden change in weather … this climate resilient invention will help Crores of low income group farmers to increase their income & supply veggies in Extreme summer 🎊🎉

36

2 Comments

India ranks second in global cotton production, accounting for 23.8% of the world's share. Despite this significant contribution, the Cotton Association of India (CAI) reports that India's per acre productivity is among the lowest, lagging behind smaller countries like Syria and Pakistan. Currently, India’s cotton yield is approximately 500 kg per hectare, whereas Australia leads with a productivity of 2028 kg per hectare. How do we maximize the productivity then? At Bioprime™ we have been working on cotton productivity with our cutting edge #SNIPR biologicals. And the results have been very encouraging. 🌾 Plant Height: Showed robust vertical growth, increasing by 18%. 🌾 Monopodial Branches: Indicated stronger primary growth, with a 50% increase. 🌾 Sympodial Branches: Reflected enhanced lateral growth, growing by 33%. 🌾 Squares: Marked a substantial increase in the formation of squares up by 36%. More square formation will lead to more cotton ball formation with a potential of getting higher cotton yield. Connect with us for more information on how you can increase productivity and integrate Biologicals!

12

1 Comment

🌿 Understanding the Organic Industry: A Focus on Quality, Traceability, and Authenticity 🌿 1. Price vs. Quality :   - Price:- In the organic industry, people often focus on the price tag. However, organic farming is about more than just cost; it's about maintaining the highest standards of purity and sustainability. Choosing the lowest price can sometimes mean compromising on these values.   - Quality :- True organic products come at a price that reflects the quality of their ingredients and the care taken in their production. High-quality organic products are free from harmful chemicals, making them better for your health and the environment. 2. Quantity vs. Quality :   - Quantity : While it might be tempting to go for larger quantities at a lower cost, this can lead to a dilution of the organic principles. Large-scale production often sacrifices quality.   - Quality : Organic farming prioritizes quality over quantity. Smaller, carefully managed batches ensure that every product meets stringent organic standards. This focus on quality ensures that what you consume is truly beneficial for your health. 3. Traceability :   - In the organic industry, traceability is key. Every step, from seed to shelf, is monitored to ensure that the product is genuinely organic. This transparency builds trust and guarantees that you know exactly where your food comes from and how it was produced. 4. Authenticity :   - Authenticity : Organic means authenticity—it's about staying true to the natural processes and ensuring that no shortcuts are taken. Authentic organic products are those that adhere strictly to organic farming methods, without the use of synthetic chemicals or GMOs. 5. Transparency :   - Transparency in the organic industry ensures that consumers can make informed choices. From the farm fields to the final product packaging, every stage is open and accountable. This transparency is crucial in maintaining the integrity of the organic label. 🔍 Conclusion :- The organic industry is built on the pillars of quality, traceability, and authenticity. It's important to prioritize these values over simply seeking the lowest price. "If someone in the organic industry is offering you the lowest price, it likely means they're compromising on quality somewhere along the line—good quality organic products simply can't be offered at rock-bottom prices. Remember, investing in quality organic products is an investment in your health and the environment. 🌱 #OrganicFarming #QualityMatters #Traceability #Authenticity #Transparency #HealthFirst #Sustainability

47

2 Comments

Prathista Industries Limited inventions to provide clean lable solutions Prathista Industries Limited patented product “NATURAL VINIGAR” (45% AA) available in both spray dried powder (heat stable) & transparent clean liquid Natural Vinegar (acetic acid) - C14 grade applications :- Vinegar, also known as acetic acid, is widely utilized as a natural preservative in bread making. Is is particularly effective in preventing the growth of rope bacteria - Bacillus subtilis, commonly found in soil, wheat grains, flour and baking equipment. 🔹 Core Principles of Vinegar as a Preservative ▪ Acidity and pH Control: Vinegar's main role in bread is to increase acidity, thereby lowering the pH. This creates an environment that discourages bacterial growth. ▪ Dilution and Usage: Typically, white spirit vinegar is diluted to a 12.5% solution and used at a rate of 1L per 100 kg of flour, which translates to a 0.125% acetic acid addition based on flour weight. 🌡️ ▪ Rope Spores Prevention: Rope spores can withstand baking temperatures, but by reducing the bread crumb's pH to about 5.4, vinegar helps prevent their initial growth. 🔬 ▪ Flour Buffering Capacity: Different flours have varying buffering capacities, which influence the amount of vinegar needed. Wholemeal flours, which contain more bran, require more vinegar to achieve the desired pH due to their higher buffering effect. 🌾 ▪ Yeast Activity: Vinegar can slightly decrease yeast activity, necessitating a minor increase in yeast levels to maintain proofing times. 🍞 🔹 Applications and Adjustments ▪ Vinegar Amount Variation: The amount of vinegar required varies based on the initial pH of the ingredients and the flour's natural buffering effect. ⚖️ ▪ Impact on Bread Quality: While vinegar is effective for preservation, its antimicrobial activity is limited. Its primary function is to create an acidic environment that inhibits bacterial growth without significantly altering the bread's taste or texture. 🍞➡️🦠 🔹 Additional Practices in Bakeries In many bakeries, especially during the summer season, surfaces and machinery that come into contact with dough are sprayed with vinegar at the end of each production shift. This practice helps minimize the risk of contamination by rope spores. #cleanlablesolutions #natural #plantbased #vinigar #firsttimeinglobe #fermentedprocess #ipr

17

1 Comment

A big bow to Govt. of India, Ministry of science and technology for freeing entrepreneurship and innovation from government and bureaucrats silos to encourage startup’s like us by recognising their R&D. Let us innovate for India, innovate from India.

51

14 Comments

Big, bold and questionable move !! 🤔 Is the 150% custom duty hike intended to boost 'Make in India' 🇮🇳 or cripple research 🔬 budget? The intent remains unclear to many, but the impact is bound to be substantial. Budget documents revealed a significant change - the Basic Customs Duty on laboratory chemicals, a vital element of research, has surged to 150% from the previous 10%. I am eager to hear from experts in this field about their thoughts on this bold move. #CustomDuty #MakeInIndia #ResearchBudget #BudgetImpact #lifescience #diagnostics #research #india #customduty

26

7 Comments

GOVT PLANS BIG SCALE RADIATION PROCESSING OF ONIONS TO PREVENT SHORTAGE About Onions: The onion, an herb in the lily family, is globally grown for culinary and medicinal purposes. India is the world’s second-largest producer, with major states including Maharashtra, Karnataka, and others. Maharashtra leads in production (42%), followed by Madhya Pradesh (15%) in 2021-22. Key export destinations include Bangladesh, Malaysia, UAE, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. Onion farmers lack government MSP-based support and depend solely on market forces The government plans to expand the radiation processing of onions to create a buffer stock of 100,000 tonnes this year, aiming to prevent shortages and price rises. With output expected to drop by 16%, radiation technology will be used to increase shelf life, reducing hoarding and price volatility Radiation Processing: Uses ionizing radiations like gamma rays, accelerated electrons, and X-rays. Delayed ripening extends shelf life by eliminating spoilage microbes. Cannot eliminate microbial toxins and pathogen viruses. Causes minimal chemical changes. Least impact on nutritional value compared to other methods. Regulation: Radiation Processing is mandated by the Prevention of Food Adulteration (Fifth Amendment) Rules, 1994. Requires packages of irradiated foods to display the green irradiation logo endorsed by Codex Alimentarius Commission and the phrase ‘Processed by Irradiation method.

13

India: The Hub of Essential Oils for Enhanced Poultry Performance India, renowned for its rich biodiversity and traditional knowledge of herbal remedies, stands as a hub for essential oils with immense potential as functional feed additives in poultry farming. In response to global concerns about antibiotic resistance and the need for sustainable poultry production, Indian researchers and farmers are increasingly turning to natural alternatives, such as essential oils, to improve chicken performance without compromising health or productivity. Essential oils, derived from various plant sources, offer a plethora of bioactive compounds known for their antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties. When used as feed additives for poultry, these oils can effectively promote growth, enhance feed efficiency, and boost immune function, thereby reducing the need for antibiotics and minimizing the risk of antimicrobial resistance. India's diverse flora provides a rich source of essential oils with proven benefits for poultry health and performance. For example, oils derived from herbs like oregano, thyme, and cinnamon have demonstrated antimicrobial activity against common poultry pathogens, such as Salmonella and E. coli. Additionally, oils from spices like turmeric and ginger possess anti-inflammatory properties that can support gut health and improve nutrient absorption in chickens. Using essential oils in poultry feed aligns with India's sustainable agriculture goals. By leveraging plant-derived compounds, farmers improve poultry product quality, reduce antibiotic dependence, and lessen environmental impact. India's strong research infrastructure and traditional knowledge drive innovation in herbal feed additives. Collaborative efforts yield novel formulations and delivery methods for essential oils, enhancing their effectiveness in commercial poultry production. With rising global demand for antibiotic-free poultry, India's expertise in essential oils presents opportunities for sustainable farming. Leveraging botanical heritage and scientific knowledge, Indian producers can enhance chicken performance, combat antibiotic resistance, and ensure food safety. In conclusion, India's emergence as a hub of essential oils for poultry production represents a paradigm shift towards natural and sustainable solutions in animal agriculture. Through ongoing research, innovation, and collaboration, India is poised to lead the way in harnessing the potential of plant-based feed additives to enhance poultry health, productivity, and sustainability on a global scale. For more information on Innovista's exclusive range of essential oil products visit https://lnkd.in/fkCnm6Q Our exclusive brands: #Curcumol #Nativol #Coxxinat #Flavol #Allivis #Engipy Innovista Consulting Innovista Feeding Solutions #essentialoils #poultryperformance #livestockhealth #indiagrowth

18

Free Awareness Webinar on Exploring the Potential of Cordyceps Militaris in Agri-Tech and Biotech Start-Up!! 24th April Time 7pm to 9pm.Intrested Participants WhatsApp "Cordyceps Militaris Webinar " with your Name & Address to 7409993860 . AGENDA. 1.Introduction "Exploring the Potential of Cordyceps Militaris in Agri-Tech and Biotech Startups." 2. Explanation of Cordyceps Militaris: its characteristics, uses, and potential applications in agriculture and biotechnology. 3.Opportunities in Agri-Tech and Biotech Startups Discussion on the current landscape and growing opportunities in the agri-tech and biotech sectors. Highlighting the demand for innovative solutions and products in these industries. 4.Startup Grant Programs by the Government of India .Overview of various government schemes offering grants to startups. Details on eligibility criteria, application process, and funding ranges 20 lakhs to 50 lakhs. 5.Presenting the business potential of Cordyceps Militaris as a startup venture. Discussion on potential market opportunities, revenue streams, and scalability. 6.My Success Story and Highlighting the journey, challenges faced, and key learnings. 7.Q&A Session for participants to ask questions and seek clarification on the topic and grant programs. 8.Providing guidance on next steps for interested participants, such as accessing resources, networking opportunities, and further assistance. 9.Follow-up Share contact information for further inquiries or assistance those who want to Start-Up.

2

Can you find connection between "#Cow #urine, #village, #farming, #India and Japan". Let's explore: In India, Cow, village, and farming all weave together in a rich tapestry of #rural life. In many villages, cows are not just livestock; they're essential components of the farming #ecosystem. In India, where cows hold sacred significance in Hinduism and #agriculture is deeply rooted in tradition, cow urine has been traditionally used as a #natural #fertilizer and #pesticide. This practice is often intertwined with religious beliefs and cultural practices, reflecting a holistic approach to farming that emphasizes harmony with #nature. To understand Japan connection, have a look at following links (1) Japanese #organic products maker turns cow urine into gold https://lnkd.in/d-ZAfbPe This news also states that "It is a promising market as long as we can meet registration requirements in different countries." (2) To the moo-n: Cow #dung fuels Japan's #space ambitions Read more at: https://lnkd.in/drZWHBwp Still don't find any connection, read this (this news is in Hindi) it says that Japan to purchase 1L ltrs of cow urine from Chattisgrah @Rs 50 per ltr. (3) दूध के दाम पर छत्तीसगढ़ी गाय का गोमूत्र खरीदेगी जापानी कंपनी https://lnkd.in/dZfUK2WV The question is: can investors support the scientifically developed product for agriculture (link given in the comment) in India that can help increase the farmer #income, reduce the use of #chemicals etc.? Can we find a #collaboration for such an attempt? Geetanjali Patil Choori Mayank Gandhi Madhu Chandan SC Purushottam Agrawal Jatin Karani Prakash Kejriwal Faraz Hussain Shashank Kumar Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India Narendra Modi NDDB Mrida Ltd NDDB Dairy Services Kunal Kapoor Ajay Bhartiya #nitiaayog #savesoil #sustainable #agriculture #alternative #invest #alternative #regenerativeagriculture

24

8 Comments

Pesticides - Boon or Bane It is worrying news of pesticides present in common spices used in most households. Do we really need the pesticides in our food? Is it possible to do away with it? Pesticides in fruits and vegetables have been a subject of debate for decades. On one hand, they are used to protect crops from pests and diseases, ensuring a stable supply of fruits and vegetables for human consumption. On the other hand, the excessive use of pesticides can lead to harmful effects on human health and the environment. Let's explore the pros and cons of pesticides in fruits and vegetables: Pros of Pesticides in Fruits and Vegetables 1.   Increased food production: The use of pesticides allows farmers to protect their crops from pests and diseases, resulting in higher yields and increased food production. 2.   Reduced food prices: The increased food production resulting from the use of pesticides can also lead to reduced food prices, making fruits and vegetables more accessible to people. 3.   Improved quality of fruits and vegetables: Pesticides can help prevent blemishes and other defects in fruits and vegetables, resulting in a more appealing and marketable product. 4.   Enhanced shelf life: Pesticides can also help prolong the shelf life of fruits and vegetables, reducing food waste and ensuring that consumers have access to fresh produce for longer periods. Cons of Pesticides in Fruits and Vegetables 1.   Health risks: Pesticides can have harmful effects on human health if consumed in excessive quantities. Exposure to pesticides has been linked to cancer, reproductive problems, neurological damage, and developmental disorders in children. 2.   Environmental risks: The excessive use of pesticides can contaminate soil and water, harm wildlife, and disrupt ecosystems, leading to long-term environmental risks. 3.   Residue accumulation: Pesticides can accumulate in the soil and on the surface of fruits and vegetables, leading to higher levels of pesticide residues in the food chain. 4.   Harmful effects on beneficial insects: Pesticides can harm beneficial insects, such as bees, which play a critical role in pollinating crops and maintaining biodiversity. To conclude: While the use of pesticides in fruits and vegetables has its benefits, the potential risks associated with these chemicals cannot be ignored. It is essential to strike a balance between ensuring food security and protecting human health and the environment. Consumers can take steps to minimize their exposure to pesticide residues by choosing organic produce, washing their fruits and vegetables thoroughly, and growing their own produce. It is also important for farmers to adopt sustainable and integrated pest management practices that reduce the use of pesticides and promote biodiversity as well as regularly test their produce to ensure pesticide levels are below the regulatory specifications.

3