Bayer Launches 'ForwardFarming' in India to Boost Smallholder Sustainability
Bayer has launched its global initiative, 'Bayer ForwardFarming', in India, marking the 30th such farm worldwide. The initiative aims to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability, with a focus on smallholder farmers. Natasha Santos, Head of Sustainability & Strategic Engagements at Bayer, stated the initiative's goal is to support Indian farmers and boost sustainability.
The Bayer Forward Farm in India, led by Rachit Khurana, spans 18 hectares and is designed specifically for smallholder farmers. It integrates innovative technologies and sustainable interventions, including Direct Seeded Rice (DSR), a key example of regenerative agriculture. DSR improves soil health, reduces water usage, and enhances climate resilience. Simon Wiebusch, President, Bayer South Asia, stated the launch aims to boost productivity, improve quality and yields while preserving the environment.
Each Bayer Forward Farm serves as a hub for sustainable agricultural practices, connecting farmers, researchers, and stakeholders. The Indian farm focuses on innovative farming techniques tailored to smallholder farmers, with a focus on sustainable rice cultivation. Transitioning from traditional rice cultivation to DSR in India could potentially reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 82 million mt CO2 per year and water consumption by up to 167 billion m3 by 2040. Currently, the DirectAcres program has supported 5,000 Indian farmers across 8,600 hectares and aims to reach over 1 million farmers by 2030.
Bayer's commitment to sustainable farming in India is evident through the launch of Bayer ForwardFarming. The initiative, tailored to smallholder farmers, aims to boost productivity and sustainability while preserving the environment. With the potential to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and water consumption, the impact of this initiative could be substantial.
Read also:
- Mural at blast site in CDMX commemorates Alicia Matías, sacrificing life for granddaughter's safety
- Increased energy demand counters Trump's pro-fossil fuel strategies, according to APG's infrastructure team.
- Space Solar Power Could Cut Europe's 2050 Energy Costs by 7-15%
- Goodyear Forges Ahead in 2025 with Kmax Gen-3 for Enhanced Total Mobility through Nufam Project
