Agriculture is a vital and enriching activity, which takes place with contributions from multiple stakeholders. Environmental degradation poses a significant yet often underestimated threat to agriculture. Poor ecological landscape harms biodiversity, degrades soil quality, and disrupts essential ecosystem functions. Appropriate and effective policy measures are required towards environmental resilience before it is too late.
It is elating indeed that World Environment Day 2025 was focused on managing various types of pollution, and plastic pollution is one of them, which for decades has seeped into our lives. All stakeholders must come together in mobilising communities to implement and advocate for sustainable solutions. It is our collective responsibility to protect the planet by adopting sustainable means.
Sustainable farming practices, responsible use, and stronger waste management policies are essential to ensure that our environment and agriculture can thrive together. Protecting the earth begins with protecting its soil. Environmentalists and agricultural specialists have been advocating for the use of sustainable options because they see the pressing need to address the issue of waste. For example, sustainable and good environmental practices help us reduce negative environmental effects at every stage of its lifecycle.
Most pressing issue
One of the most pressing issues before India’s agrarian landscape is the depletion of soil fertility. Its impact is most severely felt by small and marginal farmers, who constitute the majority of the agricultural workforce. Mono-cropping and poor soil management practices have led to the depletion of essential nutrients and soil organic matter.
Restoring soil health through crop rotation, and conservation tillage is essential. Climate-smart agriculture (CSA) encourages such practices by promoting sustainable resource use while maintaining productivity and building resilience. Climate-smart agriculture provides a framework for adapting to these conditions. It focuses on improving water-use efficiency, using resilient seed varieties, adopting weather-based advisories, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions through low-emission technologies.
Integrating technology into agriculture is no longer optional but imperative. Precision agriculture is revolutionising farming by enabling data-driven decisions on irrigation, fertilisation, and pest control. It ensures inputs are used efficiently, minimising wastage and maximising yield. Digitisation in agriculture is helping farmers access market prices, weather forecasts, and government schemes in real time.
More apps empowering farmers
Mobile-based platforms and agricultural apps are empowering farmers with knowledge and services that were previously out of reach. Drones are being increasingly used for crop monitoring, disease detection, and even aerial spraying of inputs. This not only reduces labour costs but also enhances accuracy and timeliness. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming agriculture by analysing vast datasets to provide actionable insights.
For India to ensure food security and protect its farming communities, it must focus on holistic solutions that tackle the core issues of soil degradation and climate vulnerability. Climate-smart agriculture, coupled with precision technologies like AI, drones, and digitisation, offers a transformative path forward. Policymakers, agri-tech companies, and farmers must work collaboratively to adopt and scale these innovations. By doing so, we can create a more resilient, productive, and sustainable agricultural future.
As a key player in the farming landscape, we also want stakeholders to discuss and devise ways and means to minimise the contribution of agriculture to any kind of pollution. Transitioning to biodegradable or bio-based alternatives, improving waste management practices, and enforcing stricter policies are critical steps. Promoting awareness among farmers and stakeholders about sustainable agricultural practices is equally important. We need to note that preserving soil health and crop productivity by safeguarding ecosystems is crucial for food security in the long term.
Need multi-dimensional approach
As global agronomic conditions continue to evolve due to climate change, land degradation, and shifting weather patterns, the need to sustainably increase food production has never been more urgent. Our farmers are at the heart of this challenge. While they work to feed a growing population, they also bear the responsibility of regenerating land and preserving natural resources for future generations, all while running viable businesses.
To address these complex issues, a multi-dimensional approach is essential. The agricultural sector must accelerate crop productivity using sustainable technologies that minimise environmental impact. This involves prioritising three key areas: regenerating soil and nature, improving rural prosperity, and ensuring sustainable operations. By 2030, the goal is to enable adoption of regenerative practices across 50 million hectares, with 85 per cent of seed production following these methods. This approach not only boosts long-term productivity but also restores the ecological balance necessary for sustainable farming.
To minimise environmental footprint, the agricultural sector must adopt safer and more sustainable operational practices. Advancements in breeding, trait discovery, and biotechnology offer more resilient and productive crop varieties. Digital agriculture plays a vital role in providing customised insights and precision farming techniques that lead to smarter, more sustainable outcomes.
Ultimately, achieving a thriving and inclusive agricultural future requires coordinated efforts across stakeholders. By promoting sustainability, enhancing farmer livelihoods, and fostering innovation, the sector can meet the dual goals of feeding the world and preserving the planet for generations to come.
The author is Country Head and Managing Director, Syngenta India Pvt Ltd
Published on June 7, 2025