Future-proofing with REGENERATIVE Agriculture

In a significant development for the regenerative agriculture sector, IITM Pravartak and WayCool Foods have joined forces to create the Regenerative Agriculture tech stack. This collaboration, which brings together the expertise of IITM Pravartak and the deep industry knowledge of WayCool Foods, aims to revolutionise farming practices in India and establish a robust ecosystem for regenerative agriculture. By leveraging innovative solutions and advanced technologies, the partnership seeks to drive the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices among Indian farmers, contributing to a greener and more sustainable future.

- Nitin Konde

Increased consumer awareness and government initiatives promoting sustainable agriculture have fuelled the global growth of regenerative farming practices. According to a report by BlueWeave Consulting, the global regenerative agriculture market is projected to expand at a CAGR of 14.6 per cent between 2023 and 2029, reaching a value of $21.03 billion by the end of the decade. This growth is driven by the rising demand for organic food and the recognition of the environmental challenges associated with traditional farming methods. India’s agricultural sector is also embracing regenerative agriculture, as evidenced by government commitments.

The Union Budget 2023, outlines plans to support one crore farmers in transitioning to natural farming, over the next three years, along with the establishment of 10,000 Bhartiya Prakritik Kheti Bio-Input Resource Centres for promoting organic farming. A NITI Aayog report estimates that 2.5 million Indian farmers are already implementing regenerative agricultural techniques. With projections of expanding organic farming to 20 lakh hectares in the next five years, and 12 lakh hectares falling under the Bharatiya Prakritik Krishi Paddhati Programme (BPKP), regenerative agriculture is poised to play a significant role in India's agricultural landscape.

Awareness of the environmental impact of traditional farming methods has grown among farmers, thanks to training programmes conducted by extension agencies, nongovernmental organisations (NGOs), and agritech companies. Moreover, advancements in technology are facilitating the implementation of restorative practices and efficient resource management, further bolstering the prospects of sustainable agriculture. With long-term benefits and potential for positive impact, regenerative agriculture is set to reshape India’s agricultural practices in the coming years.