In conversation with Dr. Rajas. V. Warke, Technical Director for Agri division, Warkem Biotech Pvt. Ltd.

 

 

Leading the Renewable Revolution - Technocrats came together in 1978 and founded Warkem

Warkem has developed their own technology & manufactures in State-of-Art facilities a range of more than 300 types of hydrolyzed proteins which are exported to more than 100 countries globally. They are a strong R&D based company with 44 years of experience in developing world class innovative products as a MAKE-IN-INDIA mission of Government of India in Pharma, Food, Fermentation, Cosmetics, Nutrition & Agriculture.

They have initiated a holistic eco-friendly driven approach in the field of agriculture. Warkem's motto under the BioAgri segment is “Empowering the farmer for Sustainable agriculture” with complete range of organic products for all stages of farming.

Q1. Why are bio fertilizers the need of the hour and how are they better for environment?

A1. We are in an era where available land for agriculture is under immense pressure to ensure food security while minimally impacting the changing climate. Biofertilizers are increasingly being recognized for promoting sustainable agriculture while enhancing soil health. Warkem Biotech Pvt. Ltd. is pioneering research and development to promote eco-friendly biofertilizers that rely on harnessing ecosystem services optimally from key microbial partners in soil to ease adoption of sustainable agricultural practices. Furthermore, biofertilizers provide an added benefit of not contaminating our waters since they have no runoff because of which they have a net positive impact on water conservation efforts. Lastly, climate change mitigation related contributions of biofertilizers simply based on how they are produced make it an alternative to chemical fertilizers – production of which releases a large quantity of greenhouse gases into our atmosphere. By scaling production and promoting wider adoption of these fertilizers we are doing our bit to give humanity a sustainable chance at food security while nurturing the ecosystem. In contrast, production and use of urea & ammonium based mineral fertilizers contribute to nearly 80% GHG emissions which is a major driver of climate change.

Q2. How does biofertilizer and pesticide make more sense for a farmer from productivity point of view?

A2. Conventional fertilization of soil practiced to date has left large swaths of agricultural land unproductive while demand for crop keeps rising. All of this happens at a cost that is proving to be very steep for an average farmer. Contrary to the earlier thought process, yield and quality of the produce improves with Warkem Biotech’s Organic range of products. They not only promote bioavailability of nutrients to plants but also harness ecological services from microorganisms to reduce damage from pests and diseases leading to a higher market value for the crops produced. What is immeasurable yet is the net positive impact they have on future yields from the same piece of land where conventional fertilizers fail to add any value in this regard. Additionally, biofertilizers don’t leave any chemical residues that can harm human health. I strongly believe that what nourishes your body should not play a role in killing you, biofertilizers nourish without killing whereas conventional fertilizers can’t claim this

Q3. In recent years how has the demand for bio fertilizers shaped up?

A3. The demand of biofertilizers comes from bottom up driven largely by awareness of farmers and a realization of their benefits due to which the global biofertilizers market size has reached to USD 2.99 billion in 2022. The market is further expected to grow at a CAGR of about 12.7% in the forecast of 2023-2028 to reach a value of approximately USD 6.14 billion by 2028. Benefits include not just environmental ones but also to human health thus driving demand for eco-friendly alternatives. Overall, the demand for bio-fertilizers is expected to continue growing in the coming years as farmers seek more sustainable and eco-friendly options for their agricultural operations.

Q4. What kind of government policies / measures are currently there or proposed that will promote bio fertilizers?

A4. Following are the policies/ measures:

a) National Mission on Oilseeds and Oil Palm (NMOOP)

• Financial assistance at 50 percent subsidy to the tune of Rs. 300 per hectare is being provided for different components including bio-fertilizers, supply of Rhizobium culture, Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria (PSB), Zinc Solubilizing Bacteria (ZSB), Azotobacter, Mycorrhiza and vermi compost.

b) Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY)

• Cluster formation, training, certification and marketing are supported under the scheme.
• Assistance of Rs. 50,000 per ha /3 years is provided out of which 62 percent (Rs. 31,000) is given as incentive to a farmer towards organic inputs.

c) Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region (MOVCDNER)

• Farmers are given assistance of Rs 25,000 per hectare for three years for organic inputs including organic manure and bio-fertilizers among other inputs.
• Support for formation of FPOs, capacity building, post-harvest infrastructure up to Rs 2 crore are also provided in the scheme.

Q5. What kind of a scope is there for a “mixed fertilizer” – organic and synthetic?

A5. The organic component of mixed fertilizers helps to improve soil health and structure, while the inorganic component provides plants with essential nutrients in a readily available form. By combining these two components, mixed fertilizers can improve crop yield and quality while also promoting sustainable agriculture for the farmer on the fence.

It is crucial for farmers to carefully consider their specific needs when choosing a mixed fertilizer. Factors such as the type of crops being grown, the soil conditions, and local environmental conditions should all be considered when choosing mixed fertilizers.

Q6. How important are forums like BIOFACH INDIA to build awareness and promote collaboration within the industry?

A6.

• Being the most important platform for organic products in India, BIOFACH INDIA helps to spread awareness of organic farming among everyone and provides opportunity to connect or networking with target audience.

• Huge platform for exhibitors to showcase new products and build conversations with Stakeholders.
• It helps in analyzing the market.
• Knowledge Enhancing Sessions with leading experts from the industry are beneficial.