Crop Protection

CropLife India Re-Elects Ankur Aggarwal as Chairman at 45th AGM

09 October 2025, New Delhi: CropLife India, the association representing domestic and multinational R&D-based crop science companies from India, has announced a change in its Board of Directors.

During the 45th Annual General Meeting, Ankur Aggarwal, Managing Director of Crystal Crop Protection Ltd., was re-elected as Chairman. Mohan Babu, Chief Operating Officer of Bayer CropScience – India, Bangladesh & Sri Lanka, will continue as Vice Chairman for the second consecutive year. Dr. Gyanendra Shukla, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Rallis India Limited, has been appointed as the second Vice Chairman.

Advertisement
Advertisement

Ankur Aggarwal brings with him a deep understanding of the agrochemical industry and a steadfast commitment to advancing science-led, sustainable agriculture. Under his leadership, CropLife India continues to champion innovation-driven solutions that empower farmers to enhance productivity responsibly—while addressing the growing challenges of climate change, resource efficiency, and environmental sustainability.

Reflecting on India’s evolving agri landscape, Mr. Aggarwal shared “India today stands as the world’s fourth-largest producer and second-largest exporter of agrochemicals. CropLife India’s member companies collectively contribute more than 70% of the industry’s business and represent over 95% of the world’s leading molecules and chemistries. Our exports, valued at nearly ₹40,000 crores, underscore India’s strategic importance in the global agri-value chain.

Yet, despite this progress, the country still faces crop losses worth nearly ₹2 lakh crores annually due to pests and diseases—while our pesticide usage remains among the lowest globally, at just 400 grams per hectare compared to the global average of 8,000 grams. This clearly reflects the efficiency, precision, and responsibility with which Indian farmers operate.

Advertisement
Advertisement

Through continued focus on innovation, stewardship, and integrated pest management, we can significantly reduce crop losses, enhance farmer incomes, and accelerate India’s journey toward a $1 trillion agricultural economy. Our collective efforts are not only about advancing productivity but also about realizing the national vision of an Atmanirbhar and Viksit Bharat—a self-reliant and globally competitive India where agriculture stands as the cornerstone of sustainable growth”.

Mr. Durgesh Chandra, Secretary General, CropLife India shared, “We look forward to working closely with Mr. Ankur Aggarwal and the Board of Directors to deliver safe, innovative crop protection technologies. Our focus remains on educating farmers on responsible usage and supporting them in safeguarding their crops sustainably”.

CropLife India and its member companies continue to collaborate with farmers, scientists, and policymakers to address emerging agricultural challenges. Collectively, member companies have pledged €10 billion towards precision agriculture and an additional €4 billion for bio-pesticide development by 2030, reinforcing their commitment to sustainable and resilient farming practices.

Advertisement
Advertisement

Also Read: Collectors-Commissioners Conference 2025: Madhya Pradesh to Promote Natural and Organic Farming – CM Dr. Mohan Yadav

📢 If You’re in Agriculture, Make Sure the Right People Hear Your Story.
From product launches to strategic announcements, Global Agriculture offers unmatched visibility across international agri-business markets. Connect with us at pr@global-agriculture.com to explore editorial and advertising opportunities that reach the right audience, worldwide.