Syngenta Initiates I-RISE to Equip 100,000 Rural Youths with Agri Skills

Syngenta Group Global CEO Jeff Rowe has introduced the I-RISE Inculcating Rural India Skill Enhancement programme during his first visit to India. This initiative aims to equip 1 lakh rural youth with skills for various agricultural jobs. The programme targets individuals under 35 with at least a class 10 education and farming experience.

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Focus on Sustainable Development

The I-RISE curriculum includes 30 days of classroom training followed by a two-month internship. Participants can then opt for advanced training or seek employment in the agricultural supply chain, micro-business, or farming activities. Rowe described the programme as a safety net for rural prosperity, aligning with eight sustainable development goals.

Rowe highlighted the scheme's 3Es approach: educating youth through training and mentorship, engaging them via employment and entrepreneurship opportunities, and elevating their livelihood income. This comprehensive strategy aims to foster sustainable growth in rural areas.

Climate Smart Agriculture Project

During his visit, Rowe also observed a field demonstration for the Climate Smart Agriculture project in Haryana. He interacted with farmers in Karnal and witnessed a drone demonstration for spraying crop protection solutions. Susheel Kumar, MD and Country Head of Syngenta India, provided insights into this project, which tackles climate change challenges affecting rice production in Haryana and Punjab.

The project includes soil health analysis to optimise fertiliser use and crop residue management technologies like the Happy Seeder to eliminate harmful practices such as burning crop residues. These initiatives aim to improve water use efficiency, increase productivity of degraded land, and enhance carbon storage in soil.

Technological Advancements

Rowe praised Indian farmers for their rapid adoption of technology and commended Syngenta's team for empowering farming communities through stewardship activities. He stated that the company is committed to developing technologies that enhance and protect yields, commercialise new products backed by digital science, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

He further emphasised Syngenta's focus on improving water use efficiency and increasing carbon storage in soil. According to Rowe, these interventions have significantly benefited farming communities in India.

TechFest Launch

Rowe also launched TechFest in Haryana, an innovative platform designed to enhance the knowledge and engagement of Syngenta's channel partners across the country. This collaborative platform aims to foster better communication and knowledge sharing among stakeholders.

Rowe stressed that Syngenta's initiatives in India are driven by the country's vital role in the global food system. He highlighted the need to support farmers in mitigating the global food crisis through sustainable practices and technological advancements.

The I-RISE programme represents a significant step towards empowering rural youth and addressing the challenges faced by India's agricultural sector. By focusing on education, engagement, and elevation, Syngenta aims to create a sustainable future for rural communities.