Syngenta’s Global leader Alexandra Brand applauds India’s advances in sustainable agriculture, says nation can lead the world

Pune (Voice news service):- Applauding India’s growing momentum in sustainable development and climate-resilient agriculture, Syngenta Group’s global sustainability leader Alexandra Brand, Executive Vice President, Sustainability, Corporate Affairs and Transformation on Tuesday said the country has both the capability and ambition to lead the world in sustainable farming. She noted that India’s progress, from advancing climate-smart agricultural practices to achieving its non-fossil fuel energy capacity targets ahead of schedule, reflects a clear national commitment to responsible growth. Brand said India’s scale, scientific strength and increasing focus on innovation position it uniquely to shape the future of sustainable agriculture globally.

During her visit to Narayangaon near Pune, Brand also interacted directly with farmers, students and rural youth in an on-ground engagement centred on promoting safe use practices through the WeCare stewardship campaign and strengthening rural capabilities through Syngenta India’s I RISE youth skilling initiative. She reitirated Syngenta’s focus on reinforcing responsible crop protection practices while nurturing future-ready rural talent. Brand engaged with students and educators to raise awareness about the safe handling and responsible application of crop protection products. The initiative goes beyond farmer outreach, encouraging a broader culture of stewardship within communities and among the next generation.

“India plays a critical role in global food security. As climate challenges intensify and land resources remain limited, sustainable productivity becomes essential. Stewardship initiatives like WeCare & I RISE ensure that innovation reaches farmers responsibly, protecting crops, communities and natural ecosystems,” Brand said.

Brand also interacted directly with farmers & growers on climate variability, pest pressures and the need to improve productivity while protecting soil and water resources.

Addressing farmers, Brand said, “India is one of the most important agricultural markets in the world, not only in scale, but in its ambition to balance productivity with sustainability. Being here in Narayangaon allows us to connect global innovation with local realities. Sustainable agriculture is built in fields like these.”

She added, “Safe use is fundamental to sustainability. When farmers apply the right product, at the right dose and at the right time, they protect both their yields and their environment. Stewardship ensures that innovation works for farmers today and for future generations.”

Brand also highlighted the role of advanced research and digital transformation in shaping the next phase of agriculture. “Data and artificial intelligence are transforming how we design new molecules and develop biological solutions. With the right innovation, we can produce more food on existing land while reducing environmental impact. India is central to that innovation journey.”

She also engaged with rural youth on Syngenta India’s I RISE (Inculcate Rural India Skill Enhancement) initiative, the company’s one-of-a-kind rural skilling program. Built on the principles of Educate, Engage and Elevate, I RISE aims to equip young people with practical agricultural knowledge, technical competencies and pathways to entrepreneurship and sustainable livelihoods within the agri-sector.

“With more than 65 percent of its population under 35, India’s demographic strength is extraordinary. Agriculture must become a sector of opportunity for rural youth. Through I RISE, we are investing in skills, dignity and long-term livelihoods,” Brand said.

During the engagement, Brand also unveiled the I RISE Coffee Table Book as the initiative approaches one year since its launch in 2024. The publication captures the program’s curriculum, its evolution over the past year, and the success stories of rural youth who have benefited from the initiative. The book is translated into 7 different languages. In its first year, I RISE has trained over 5,000 students and aims to expand its reach to one lakh rural youth in the coming years.

Commenting on Brand’s visit, *Susheel Kumar, Country Head & Managing Director, Syngenta India, said* , “Alexandra’s presence in Narayangaon sends a strong signal, that India is not just a market for Syngenta, but a strategic partner in driving sustainable agriculture globally. Our focus is on combining world-class innovation with responsible practices and youth empowerment to strengthen farmer prosperity.”

WeCare has been implemented across multiple divisions, engaging thousands of farmers, retailers and school students in promoting safe and responsible crop protection practices. I RISE is being scaled through partnerships with agricultural universities, ICAR-KVKs and training institutions, with the long-term ambition of empowering more than one lakh rural youth.