MUMBAI, 8 August 2023: UPL Sustainable Agriculture Solutions Ltd. (UPL SAS), a global leader in sustainable agricultural products and solutions, has joined hands with Olam Agri, a leading food and agribusiness supplier, to launch the transformative 'Shashwat Mithaas' initiative aimed at driving sustainable and consistent sugarcane production across India.
The strategic partnership will bring about a 15% increase in yield per acre and additional income for farmers within the Olam Sugar Mill catchment area in Channehatti-Rajgoli, Kolhapur, Maharashtra.
The 'Shashwat Mithaas' initiative sets ambitious targets to reduce water usage by 30 percent and fertilizer consumption by 25 percent, while simultaneously boosting crop yield and improving soil health. Through this collaboration, farmers will receive comprehensive support in the form of solutions and services tailored to their needs. UPL's climate-smart technology, ZEBA, will be a crucial component of the ProNutiva package provided to farmers. Additionally, they will benefit from training in Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), mechanization assistance, and access to the nurture.farm platform for seamless traceability. To demonstrate the effectiveness of these solutions, 25 model plots have already been established.
Harshal Sonawane, Head Sustainability at UPL SAS, expressed the company's commitment to a greener and more prosperous future.
He stated, "This comprehensive package will empower farmers with improved productivity and enhanced profitability while fostering environmental health. By addressing the market's sugarcane shortage, this partnership is poised to deliver collective benefits and ensure the long-term sustainability of crop production."
Bharat Kundal, Business Head at Olam Agri, highlighted their dedication to reimagining global agriculture and food systems. He emphasized the importance of adopting sustainable farming practices to address the challenges faced by sugarcane farmers. "Through collaborative efforts and embracing innovation, we are determined to create a lasting impact on the lives of farmers and the entire agricultural ecosystem," Kundal added.
During its inaugural year, the program will cover 2,000 acres, and there are plans to expand its reach to a catchment area encompassing 70,000 acres. The initiative aims to empower farmers with the knowledge, tools, and technologies needed to achieve sustainable and profitable sugarcane farming while preserving vital resources such as water and reducing the environmental impact.
UPL SAS and Olam Agri's partnership marks a significant step forward in the pursuit of sustainable agriculture in India. By harnessing the power of innovation and collaboration, they are poised to bring about positive change in the lives of farmers and contribute to a more resilient and sustainable agricultural ecosystem.
About UPL SAS
UPL Sustainable Agriculture Solutions Ltd. (UPL SAS) is a global provider of sustainable agricultural products and solutions, dedicated to fostering innovation and sustainability in agriculture. With a commitment to empowering farmers and supporting environmental health, UPL SAS strives to make a positive impact on agriculture and food systems worldwide.
About Olam Agri
Olam Agri is a leading food and agribusiness supplier with a vision to reimagine global agriculture and food systems. Driven by a strong sense of responsibility, Olam Agri aims to address challenges faced by farmers and the agricultural sector while ensuring a resilient and sustainable future for agriculture.
