Shyam Metalics, an integrated metal-producing company, is celebrating this Durga Puja with a unique blend of tradition and compassion through its CSR arm, the Shyam Metalics Foundation. With its special campaign, ‘Shelter of Protection,’ the Foundation is extending the spirit of the festival beyond rituals to give back to society, ensuring that the blessings of Maa Durga reach families who need shelter and security the most.

Home-styled Durga Puja pandal built with SEL Tiger Roofing Sheets under Shyam Metalics Foundation’s ‘Shelter of Protection’ campaign

The roofing sheets that adorn the three beautifully designed home-styled pandals that have been set up at Garia, Dankuni, and Burdwan, will be donated to underprivileged families, transforming festivity into enduring care and protection. This Puja, the brand, stands as a symbol of divine protection and trust, ensuring every unsheltered family rests under a roof that is strong, reliable, and enduring. After the festivities, roofing sheets will be donated to 250 underprivileged families, transforming Maa Durga’s grace into roofs over their heads.

Durga Puja is one of the most cherished cultural celebrations of Bengal, which is seen as the homecoming of Maa Durga, a time when hearts and homes overflow with joy, light, and togetherness. Through this initiative, Shyam Metalics Foundation is carrying that spirit forward by giving its roofing sheets for a greater purpose. It will safeguard families and strengthen communities long after the festivities end. With this campaign, Shyam Metalics celebrates not only faith and tradition but also care and hope for the community.

Highlighting the purpose of the initiative, Mr. Nirmal Uday, COO, CRM Division of Shyam Metalics, said, “Durga Puja is more than just a festival, it is a reminder of compassion, unity, and renewal. Through our initiative ‘Shelter of Protection,’ we are extending the blessings of Maa Durga beyond the puja grounds to families who need shelter the most. At Shyam Metalics, we believe in transforming faith into meaningful action, and this campaign is our humble attempt to give back to the community that has always been our strength.”

About Shyam Metalics
Shyam Metalics is a leading and fastest-growing integrated metal-producing company based in India primarily in the steel Industry in West Bengal, Odisha, Jharkhand and Madhya Pradesh with a focus on Long Steel Products, Ferro Alloys, Aluminium and Stainless Steel. The company got listed itself on the exchanges in 2021 and as on date of this press release possesses a market capitalization of Rs. 26,351 Cr. Spearheaded by Mr. Brij Bhushan Agarwal, Chairman and Managing Director, the company strives to deliver unparalleled quality through their customised value-added solutions to meet business requirements. Headquartered in Kolkata, West Bengal, the company is amongst the largest producers of ferro alloys in terms of installed capacity in India (Source: CRISIL Report).

For more information, please visit our website at www.shyammetalics.com

Tattva Wellness Spa, India’s largest and fastest-growing spa chain with 100+ outlets across 45 cities, today announced the implementation of the revised Goods and Services Tax (GST) on spa therapies. This follows the Government of India’s recent notification reducing the tax rate on spa services from 18% to 5%.

Tattva wellness Spa releases new all Inclusive prices menu with 5% GST

While this may appear as a flat 13% reduction, Tattva highlighted that the latest notification also changes the rules around Input Tax Credit (ITC). Under the earlier 18% regime, businesses could claim ITC on rentals, consumables, and other inputs, which reduced their effective tax burden. With the new 5% GST rate, spas are required to forgo ITC benefits. This means that while prices for consumers will certainly be lower, the decrease will not equal a direct 13% cut. Instead, guests will experience a net price drop that balances affordability with compliance.

“This is a welcome step for the wellness industry. While the withdrawal of input tax credit means businesses have to recalibrate their margins, the reduced GST rate will encourage more consumers to experience wellness therapies. Over time, this will help grow the spa and salon category, which is still underpenetrated in India compared to global benchmarks. We have always stood by the fact that wellness and massage therapies are not a luxury but an everyday choice for a better and healthier life,” said Shipra Sharma, Co-founder, Tattva Wellness Spa.

All-Inclusive Pricing for Transparency and Ease
To make this transition simpler for consumers, Tattva Wellness Spa will move to an All-Inclusive (AI) pricing model, widely followed by international spa brands. Guests will now see one single, final price for therapies and facials, without having to calculate taxes separately. This ensures greater transparency and enhances the overall spa experience.

Seamless Transition Across India

The Tattva team has invested significant effort over the past few weeks to implement these changes smoothly across its nationwide network:

• Reworking and standardizing therapy pricing.

• Updating rates across the Tattva website, CRM systems, and hotel partner platforms.

• Refreshing offline menus, collaterals, and in-spa displays.

• Retraining spa managers and healers to guide guests on the updated pricing structure.
  ​

An Industry Perspective

Tattva Wellness Spa is among the first large spa chains to communicate this change openly to consumers. Other leading salon and wellness brands such as Enrich Salon and Jean-Claude Biguine India have in the past issued statements on tax-led pricing changes, noting that while input credit withdrawal does impact business margins, lower GST rates ultimately help grow the wellness category by attracting more first-time customers. Tattva believes this is a long-term positive step for the entire spa and salon industry, as it makes self-care and wellness services more mainstream.

To know the latest on pricing of spa therapies across locations, users can login to www.tattvaspa.com. With this move, Tattva Wellness Spa reaffirms its position as India’s leading spa brand, offering world-class wellness experiences across hotels, resorts, and high-street locations nationwide.

Ethnix by Raymond, the ethnic wear arm of the iconic Raymond Group, unveiled its flagship store at Lake Shore, Thane (Viviana Mall) bringing its century-old legacy full circle to the city where it all began.

Amit Sadh graced the opening of Ethnix by Raymond’s 142nd store at Lake Shore Mall, Thane

The grand launch was graced by acclaimed actor Amit Sadh (known for his roles in Breathe and Kai Po Che), who inaugurated the store and joined the Raymond leadership team for an exclusive walkthrough. Amit was accompanied by 18 models in ethnic ensembles, creating a striking visual moment that set the tone for the festive season. A soft pink embroidered Indo-Western ensemble from the Cocktail Collection, styled on Amit Sadh, added to the grandeur of the evening.

With over 100 years of heritage in premium menswear, Raymond has long been a trusted name in Indian fashion. Ethnix carries this legacy forward with 140+ exclusive business outlets across 70 cities, offering a complete wardrobe for every occasion – from weddings and festivities to poojas and celebrations. The collection includes regal sherwanis, classic bandhgalas, versatile kurtas, festive bundis, Indo-western ensembles, and accessories designed to dress not just the groom but his entire entourage.

Sharing his thoughts at the launch, Vipul Mathur, Chief Business Officer, Raymond Group, said, “Ethnix by Raymond is a cultural statement. With this launch, we’re inviting every man to experience the pride of wearing heritage. Our vision is to make ethnic wear more accessible, aspirational, and relevant to today’s generation. This store represents not just fashion, but a celebration of India’s rich traditions reimagined for the modern man.”

Amit Sadh added, “Ethnix by Raymond brings a perfect mix of tradition and modernity. It’s exciting to be part of a brand that celebrates Indian heritage while staying stylish and contemporary. I believe every man will find something here that reflects his personality, whether it’s for a grand wedding or a festive celebration.”

The launch event also featured a live guitarist performance, exclusive media interactions, and celebratory photo opportunities, making it a memorable milestone for Raymond.

About Raymond Group

Raymond Group is one of the leading branded apparel players in the menswear industry with a portfolio of Power Brands – Raymond Fine Fabrics, Raymond Made-to-Measure, Raymond Ready-to-Wear (RRTW), Park Avenue, ColorPlus, and Parx. All these brands command a significant share of wardrobe solutions in the market. The Raymond brand enjoys considerable leadership over most competing brands, translating into iconic status.

Hong Kong SAR
Media OutReach Newswire, Asia Pacific’s first global newswire, has secured a news content partnership with Yahoo Hong Kong, establishing guaranteed verbatim press release placement on the platforms dedicated section. Media OutReach Newswire is the first global newswire to have a dedicated section on Yahoo Hong Kong. The collaboration further cements Media OutReach Newswire as the leading newswire for Hong Kong, Greater China, and Asia Pacific press release distribution.

Media OutReach Newswire is the first global newswire to have a dedicated section on Yahoo Hong Kong

The partnership grants Media OutReach Newswire clients guaranteed news posting on Yahoo Hong Kong, which serves over 5 million monthly unique visitors and maintains one of Hong Kongs highest online news trust ratings at 68%, according to the 2025 Reuters Institute Digital News Report*.

With this news content partnership, Media OutReach Newswire provides public relations and communications professionals with guaranteed news release visibility across Hong Kongs digital media landscape, extending reach throughout the Greater Bay Area and broader Asia Pacific markets.

In the AI era, Media OutReach Newswires guaranteed verbatim news postings on authoritative online news media across Asia Pacific, North America, UK and Europe, Middle East, Africa and Latin America give companies a clear advantage in AI Search, SEO, and GEO. The newswire guarantees news posting range from local and regional to global media such as AM730, Bastille Post, Infocast, Sina Hong Kong, DB Power, CNA, Malay Mail, The Sun Daily, Sinchew, Vietnam News, Vietnam Plus, Daum, Livedoor, AP, AFP, Yahoo, Marketwatch, Market Insider, Financial Times, Zawya, Arabian Post, and Slovenia Times.

“Content discovery patterns are shifting toward AI-powered search, making authoritative platform placement crucial for brand visibility,” said Jennifer Kok, Founder & CEO of Media OutReach Newswire. “Verbatim postings empower PR professionals to deliver all key messages and optimise discoverability across traditional and emerging search technologies.”

The Yahoo Hong Kong partnership complements Media OutReach Newswires existing global distribution infrastructure, which encompasses 200,000 media contacts, 70,000 publication titles, and 1,500 media partnerships across 40+ languages. The network spans Asia Pacific, North America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America.

Jennifer continued, “Media OutReach Newswires verbatim news postings on authentic and credible news platforms drive AI systems to identify and amplify your content in search results – fundamental for establishing brand supremacy as AI-powered search revolutionises how audiences consume information. The verbatim approach grants communicators total narrative ownership and precise message consistency in building brand trust.”

The Yahoo Hong Kong partnership solidifies Media OutReach Newswires position as the premier newswire choice for public relations professionals, communicators, media, and brands throughout Hong Kong, the Greater Bay Area, Greater China, Asia Pacific, and globally.

*reutersinstitute.politics.ox.ac.uk/digital-news-report/2025/hong-kong

About Media OutReach Newswire

Media OutReach Newswire is Asia Pacifics first global newswire, serving as a trusted partner to the media, PR and communications professionals, corporations, and government bureaus, across the region and the globe.

Founded in 2009 on a passion to champion the PR industry, Media OutReach Newswire leverages next-generation technology to redefine the field of press release distribution, and to build brand equity and trust for our clients, as a total communications provider.

With a curated network of 200,000 editors and journalists, 70,000+ media titles, from 1,500 media partners in more than 40 languages, Media OutReach Newswire is the only newswire providing guaranteed verbatim news postings on authoritative media sites, powering SEO and GEO.

Headquartered in Hong Kong, with offices across China, Singapore, Japan, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, and Taiwan, the global press release distribution network spans Asia Pacific and Southeast Asia, the US, Canada and Latin America, Europe and the UK, the Middle East and Gulf States, as well as Africa.

For more information about our services, solutions and network, please visit www.media-outreach.com.

Dr. Upasana Vohra, the visionary founder of Vohra Ayurvedic Hospital and Panchkarma Centre, has dedicated her life to promoting holistic health and wellness through Ayurveda. After completing her BAMS from Government Ayurvedic Medical College, Patiala, Dr. Upasana has been practicing for over eight years, making a profound impact on the lives of countless individuals.

Dr. Upasana Vohra receiving International Icon Award from Malaika Arora

Her research work, particularly in the realm of female hygiene, has been revolutionary.

Dr. Upasanas innovative approaches and treatments have transformed the lives of lakhs of women, empowering them to take control of their health and well-being. Her expertise in treating complex issues like Polycystic Ovary Disorder (PCOD), fibroids, and leucorrhoea (white discharge) using her own proprietary Ayurvedic medicines has earned her widespread recognition.

Dr. Upasana Vohra attending International Icon Awards

What sets Dr. Upasana apart is her unwavering commitment to giving back to the community. She runs an NGO called Ek Khwaab, which translates to A Dream, under which she launched Mission Jugnu. This initiative aims to privilege the lives of underprivileged individuals, particularly women and girls, by providing them with access to quality healthcare and sanitation facilities.

Through Mission Jugnu, Dr. Upasana and her team provide free consultations and medicines to those in need, often visiting slums and rural areas to reach the most vulnerable populations. One of the key focus areas of the initiative is menstrual hygiene. Dr. Upasana has conducted over 150+ awareness campaigns across villages and slum areas, and has distributed more than 5 lakh sanitary pads to underprivileged girls and women. Her relentless outreach has so far covered 8 states across India, helping to break taboos around menstruation and promoting safe, informed hygiene practices.

Impressively, lakhs of women have benefited from her Ayurvedic treatments and home remedies alone, attesting to the efficacy and accessibility of her holistic approach. Her efforts have not only improved physical health but also restored confidence and dignity among countless women.

In recognition of her extraordinary contributions to Ayurveda and social welfare, **Dr. Upasana was recently honoured with the prestigious International Icon Award presented by Advoq Entertainments in association with Brands Impact**, held at **Hyatt Centric, New Delhi**. The award was presented to her by **Bollywood diva Malaika Arora**, highlighting her outstanding work and dedication to the field.

Dr. Upasanas work is a testament to her compassion, dedication, and unshakeable commitment to creating a more equitable and just society. Her efforts have not only improved the physical health of individuals but have empowered them to reclaim control over their lives, health, and dignity.

As a true champion of womens health and rights, Dr. Upasana Vohra is an inspiration to us all. Her legacy of service and healing will undoubtedly continue to uplift and inspire generations to come.

The IMC Ladies’ Wing achieved a historic milestone with the 38th edition of its Women Entrepreneurs’ Exhibition, hosted for the very first time in Hyderabad at the Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre. The two-day celebration (September 27-28) brought together dynamic women entrepreneurs from across India, presenting the very best in fashion, jewellery, lifestyle, and design.

IMC Ladies’ Wing Brings its Iconic Women Entrepreneurs’ Exhibition to Hyderabad

The grand inaugural ceremony was graced by Chief Guest Ms. Brahmani Nara, Executive Director of Heritage Foods Ltd., who applauded the event for its role in empowering women-led enterprises and fostering innovation. Guest of Honour Ms. Swapna Dutt Chalasani, acclaimed film producer and co-founder of Swapna Cinema, further elevated the occasion with her presence and inspiring journey in cinema.

This year’s decor – the striking Tree of Life – carried deep symbolism. Inspired by the legendary Raja Ravi Varma, whose timeless art portrayed women as embodiments of grace, strength, and resilience, the theme was a heartfelt tribute to women who inspire – those who lead, nurture, and transform. Just as Varma’s paintings immortalized feminine power, this exhibition stood as a living canvas of women shaping the future through vision and enterprise.

IMC Ladies’ Wing President, Ms Rajyalakshmi Rao, at the Hyderabad edition of the Women Entrepreneurs’ Exhibition

Addressing the gathering, IMC Ladies’ Wing President Ms. Rajyalakshmi Rao shared, “My presidential theme is ‘Evolve to Excel’ – a belief that true growth comes not from standing still, but from continuously adapting, learning, and rising higher. This exhibition embodies that very spirit. From its roots in Mumbai nearly four decades ago, it has blossomed into a platform that travels beyond boundaries, carrying with it the imagination, courage, and brilliance of women entrepreneurs.”

With over 100 curated stalls, the exhibition offered a vibrant showcase where each creation told its own story – from timeless craftsmanship to bold contemporary design. Visitors engaged enthusiastically, making the Hyderabad edition a resounding success and reaffirming the IMC Ladies’ Wing’s mission of creating meaningful opportunities for women entrepreneurs.

As the City of Pearls sparkled with creativity and enterprise, the Hyderabad debut of the IMC Women Entrepreneurs’ Exhibition left an indelible impression – inspiring women, celebrating innovation, and setting the stage for many more such landmark journeys across India.

The 2025 festive season has brought with it a wave of joy, tradition, and togetherness. Homes across India are starting to light up with colours, laughter, and of course, new electronics and appliances. Such an auspicious time should welcome much-awaited purchases, but the financial strain could easily cast a shadow over an otherwise happy occasion. That is where Bajaj Finserv’s financing options come in. They help ease the pressure of lump-sum payments and give you control over your financial planning.

Shop Smart and Save Smarter This Festive Season

Stress-free shopping with Bajaj Finserv’s financing options

Bajaj Finserv’s customer-centric financing solutions make festive shopping accessible and affordable. They allow you to spread the cost of your purchases over a tenure that you are comfortable with. Select products even come with zero down payment offers. Instant approvals on your EMI eligibility, and a network of 1.5 lakh+ partner stores across 4,000 cities make shopping convenient. Moreover, Bajaj Finserv’s financing options provide you with offers and tools to further empower you. Here is how you can make the most out of them:

1. Blockbuster EMI Days: The hottest sale of the season

Blockbuster EMI Days are a highly anticipated seasonal sales event that brings irresistible deals on the best products. This event offers customers an opportunity to maximise their savings far beyond standard financing rates.

Highlights include:

• Exciting cashbacks and exclusive partner offers

• Time-limited exclusive deals on in-demand products

• Special zero down payment schemes

2. Maha Bachat Savings Calculator: Ensure you never miss an offer

The Maha Bachat Savings Calculator is a smart tool that shows you the total savings you can enjoy when shopping at Bajaj Finserv partner stores. This tool helps you maximise discounts along with the convenience of Easy EMIs.

Benefits include:

• Combine all applicable brand discounts and dealer offers

• Maximise your total savings

• Enjoy deals available exclusively to Bajaj Finance customers

3. Easy EMI Consumer Durables Loan: The power of planned payments

Bajaj Finserv’s Easy EMI loan enables you to purchase over 10 lakh products with flexible tenures ranging from 3 to 60 months.

Features include:

• Loan of up to 5 lakh with minimal documentation

• Quick loan approvals within a few minutes

• Zero down payment on select products

• Pre-approved offers for eligible customers

• Available at over 1.5 lakh partner stores across 4,000+ cities

Top products available with Bajaj Finserv’s financing options

The extensive reach of Bajaj Finserv’s financing options covers every product category essential for a modern home and lifestyle upgrade. Here are the top-selling products available on Bajaj Finserv’s financing options:

Televisions

Upgrade your entertainment setup with smart TVs that offer immersive visuals and smart connectivity. Favourites amongst customers include:

Washing Machines

Reduce daily effort by simplifying your laundry routine with energy-efficient and feature-rich models. Frequently purchased models include:

Refrigerators

Keep your food and groceries fresh and beverages chilled with modern, energy-saving refrigerators. Leading choices for shoppers include:

Air Conditioners

Lower demand due to cooler weather means better prices. Combine this with Bajaj Finserv’s financing options for more savings. Top models include:

Electronics

Stay connected, track fitness goals, and capture memories with the latest personal tech. Trending picks among buyers include:

Make this festive season shopping truly rewarding

With Bajaj Finserv’s financing options, you no longer need to compromise on your festive wishlist. The combination of Easy EMIs, zero down payment, and exclusive offers ensures that your celebrations remain joyful and financially sound. Follow these steps to get started:

• Explore products, offers, and deals on Bajaj Mall.

• Calculate your savings using the Maha Bachat Savings Calculator.

• Visit one of 1.5 lakh+ partners stores across 4,000 cities in India.

• Select the Bajaj Finserv Easy EMI Loan at checkout and ensure that you club all your offers together.

Furthermore, you can make the process even more seamless by:

• Checking your loan eligibility online to know your pre-approved limit instantly.

• If you already have the Bajaj Finserv EMI Network Card, you can convert purchases of up to 3 lakh into Easy EMIs for a fast, paperless checkout.

Bajaj Finance Limited

Bajaj Finance Ltd. (‘BFL’, ‘Bajaj Finance’, or ‘the Company’), a subsidiary of Bajaj Finserv Ltd., is a deposit taking Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC-D) registered with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and is classified as an NBFC-Investment and Credit Company (NBFC-ICC). BFL is engaged in the business of lending and acceptance of deposits. It has a diversified lending portfolio across retail, SMEs, and commercial customers with significant presence in both urban and rural India. It accepts public and corporate deposits and offers a variety of financial services products to its customers. BFL, a thirty-five-year-old enterprise, has now become a leading player in the NBFC sector in India and on a consolidated basis, it has a franchise of 69.14 million customers. BFL has the highest domestic credit rating of AAA/Stable for long-term borrowing, A1+ for short-term borrowing, and CRISIL AAA/Stable & [ICRA]AAA(Stable) for its FD program. It has a long-term issuer credit rating of BB+/Positive and a short-term rating of B by S&P Global ratings.

To know more, visit www.bajajfinserv.in

The Chennai-based be positive 24 Innovation Design, one of India’s leading strategy, branding, and film production companies, has been honoured with the coveted ‘Agency of the Year in Design & Print Craft‘ award at MADDYS 2025, the 43rd edition of the Advertising Club of Madras’s flagship awards.

Chennai’s be positive 24 Crowned Best Design & Print Craft Agency at MADDYS 2025

The agency’s Founder and Creative Director, Abhishek D Shah, was named ‘Copywriter of the Year‘, while Velu Radhakrishnan, also from the same team, was honoured as ‘Art Director of the Year’ for securing the highest number of awards in this year’s competition.

The MADDYS 2025 theme, “AI vs AI – Awesome Ideas vs Awesome Ideas“, celebrates creativity in a tech-led world where human ingenuity meets artificial intelligence. The awards were restructured into six streams-Creative MADDYS, Design & Print Craft, Film & Audio Craft, Digital, Media, and Regional Pride (Tamil)-spanning 155 categories across sectors from automobiles to real estate. With 40 shortlists across categories, be positive 24 secured an impressive 22 awards-4 Gold, 7 Silver, 8 Bronze, along with the top honours. This year’s competition drew nearly 1,000 entries from about 110 agencies across the Indian subcontinent.

“This award further inspires us to keep raising the creative bar. While winning at MADDYS is an exceptional feeling, what really makes our hearts swell with pride is the positive impact these award-winning creatives have had in the market. With a reputation for integrating AI, design thinking, and strategic storytelling, we will continue to shape the future of business consulting, branding and film production for our clients around the world,” said Mr. Abhishek D Shah, about the agency’s fabulous performance.

The agency offers strategy and management consulting, branding and marketing services, and film and photography production. Its clientele includes Vummudi Bangaru Jewellery, Assana Colorectal Clinic, Taj Brand Residences, Siemens Gamesa, DRA Developers, My Home Group among other clients. With over 40 global clients, be positive 24 has so far won more than 175 national and international awards and is widely recognised for its cutting-edge strategy and creative excellence. Its recent campaign for Assana Colorectal & Gut Clinic earned international acclaim, hailed by marketing and healthcare experts as a masterclass in branding.

For more details, please visit: www.bepositive24.com.

CropLife India; the association of leading domestic and multinational R&D driven crop science companies; on its 45th AGM organized a National Conference. The conference witnessed the presence of Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Hon’ble Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India; senior Government officials, experts, academia and industry leaders.

Multinational R&D driven crop science companies; on its 45th AGM organized a National Conference. The conference witnessed the presence of Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Hon’ble Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India; senior Government officials, experts, academia and industry leaders.

Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan at CropLife India National Conference

National Conference 2025 opened with the Inaugural Session, setting the vision for Viksit Bharat 2047. This was followed by “The Regulatory Challenges and Opportunities in the Indian Context”, where regulators, policymakers and industry leaders decode India’s framework; Panel Discussion – “Empowering Farmers, Navigating Compliances & Global Standards: A State-wise View of the Agri-input (Crop Protection & Bio-stimulants) Industry & Export”, highlighting state-level complexities and how policy, compliance and innovation can empower farmers and boost exports and the CEO’s Panel – “Pesticides in the Spotlight: Villain, Hero or Scapegoat”, featuring a candid debate on the future of crop protection.

During his inaugural address Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Hon’ble Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India, shared that, “For me, the farmer is the soul of our nation and serving them is a gift from God. From the days of food scarcity and dependence on imports, India has today become self-reliant and an emerging exporter-with agriculture growing by 10% in recent months. Yet, with our population set to reach 170 crore by 2050, ensuring food and nutritional security is our foremost duty. Nearly half our people depend on farming, most with less than two acres of land and our policies must reflect this reality. To achieve a $5 trillion economy, we must increase productivity per hectare, embrace new technologies and translate research into solutions for farmers’ real problems. Agriculture is not just an industry-it is a national responsibility. Together, the Government, scientists and industry must ensure prosperity for farmers, sustainability for our land and nourishment for humanity.”

Dr. Trilochan Mohapatra, Chairperson, PPV&FRA, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Government of India said, “India’s agrochemical sector has been key to our food security and growth-from 65 million tons of food grains to nearly 350 million today. As the industry grows at 9-11% CAGR, we must balance productivity with sustainability through responsible use, strong regulation, and science-led innovation, ensuring the protection of farmers, consumers and the environment.“

Dr. P. K. Singh, Agriculture Commissioner, Government of India highlighted “India’s agri-input ecosystem is rapidly evolving, and digitalization will be key to its future-from AI-enabled regulatory processes to harmonized Centre-State laws. Responsible pesticide use and promotion of bio-pesticides are vital; farmers should spray only when necessary. By aligning regulation, innovation and good practices, we can empower farmers, safeguard food security and strengthen India’s global competitiveness.“

Dr. Vandana Tripathy, Network Coordinator (AINP) & Scheme In-charge (MPRNL), ICAR highlighted, “There is a critical need for harmonized pesticide residue data generation across diverse locations. Only by collecting comprehensive and sensitive health-related data – including pregnancy outcomes – from multiple regions can we ensure reliability and build science-based systems that safeguard public health.“

Dr. Poonam Jasrotia, ADG (PP), ICAR shared, “Protecting our traditional fairs and agricultural practices with clear safeguards, while fostering global collaboration, is vital. Partnerships with countries like the US and Japan offer immense opportunities, even as we address critical gaps in regions such as Libya.“

Dr. Subhash Chand, Secretary CIB&RC said, “The key challenge in the import-for-export framework is balancing Ease of Doing Business with regulatory safeguards. While flexibility for genuine exporters is important, registration certificates and confirmed international orders are essential to prevent misuse. Where companies provide credible documentation, we are open to supportive, positive solutions.“

Shri T. M. Tripathi, Joint Director, Department of Agriculture, Uttar Pradesh said, “There is no blanket ban on crop protection products-only crop-specific restrictions like in Basmati, where farmer training is crucial. The bigger challenge is retailer incentives: they must guide farmers toward correct, judicious use. By improving training, standardizing drone applications, and ensuring pricing transparency, we can create a fairer, more balanced ecosystem that empowers farmers and strengthens the agri-input industry.”

The CEO’s Panel – “Pesticides in the Spotlight: Villain, Hero or Scapegoat” moderated by Mr Prabhu Chawla focussed on India being the world’s 2^nd largest exporter and 4^th largest manufacturer of crop protection products facing challenges of perception and the image building. Panellists emphasized that pesticides are medicine for plants-safe, responsible and scientific use is essential to prevent crop losses and ensure food security. With farmer training, innovation and clear communication, India can set a global benchmark in sustainable crop protection.

Mr. Susheel Kumar, MD, Syngenta India said, “Crop protection is medicine for plants-without it, farmers face heavy losses. India can lead globally with integrated, sustainable solutions.”

Mr. Ankur Aggarwal, Managing Director, Crystal Crop Protection shared, “India uses just 400 g/ha of pesticides against the global 8,000 g/ha-our challenge is not overuse, but misuse and misperception.”

Mr. Sahin Ozkan, MD, Adama India reinforced, “Farmer training is the cornerstone of safe crop protection and India is fast emerging as a global agrochemical hub alongside China.”

Mr. Subroto Geed, MD, Corteva Agriscience India emphasised, “Farmers need end-to-end solutions-biologicals, proven chemistries and clear communication in their own language to build trust.”

Mr. Simon Wiebusch, CEO & MD, Bayer CropScience shared, “Pesticides are a necessity, not a luxury-farmers use them only when the benefits outweigh the costs, ensuring food security for billions.”

Mr. Ankur Aggarwal, Chairman, CropLife India said, “India is today the fourth-largest producer and the second-largest exporter of agrochemicals, with CropLife India members contributing over 70% of the industry’s business and providing 95% of the world’s molecules and chemistries. Our exports, worth nearly Rs. 40,000 crores, reflect the strength and global relevance of Indian agriculture. Yet, we continue to lose crops worth Rs. 2 lakh crores annually to pests and diseases-even though India’s pesticide use is just 400 grams per hectare compared to the global average of 8,000 grams. This proves that Indian farmers are efficient, not excessive.

With responsible stewardship, we can cut crop losses, raise farmer incomes and help India move towards its $1 trillion agricultural economy goal. Our industry stands committed-to responsible innovation, natural farming support, integrated pest management and research-driven solutions. With government partnership and sustained investment in science, we can empower farmers, feed our 150 crore people and make in India for India and the world.“

About CropLife India

CropLife India is committed to advancing sustainable agriculture and it is an association of 17 R&D driven member companies in crop protection. We jointly represent ~ 70% of the market and are responsible for 95% of the molecules introduced in the country. Our member companies have annual global R & D spend of 6 billion USD and are firmly committed to engaging with the farming community to enable Safe, Secure Food Supply.

Our member companies were established in India as far back as the 1950s; we continue to work hand-in-hand with the Government to build the agriculture sector – from direct investment of building factories, jobs creation, bringing in agriculture innovation and working endlessly over the years with multi-stakeholders to enhance agriculture productivity.