Krishi Bharat 2024 showcases the state’s agricultural promise and technological innovation
Lucknow: The 16th edition of CII Agrotech India – Krishi Bharat, India’s leading agri-tech and food technology fair has been inaugurated in Lucknow, marking a watershed moment in advancing agricultural practices in Uttar Pradesh. The event was inaugurated by Yogi Adityanath, Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, who emphasised the state’s role as a leader in agricultural production and commitment to enhance farmers’ livelihoods through sustainable practices and innovation.
“Over the past decade, Uttar Pradesh has transformed into an agricultural superpower. Through modernisation of infrastructure and adoption of technology, we have grown the state’s agriculture sector to unprecedented levels,” said Yogi Adityanath. “Under the leadership of PM Modi, Uttar Pradesh now has 6 agricultural universities and several centres of excellence focusing on agriculture. The success of agriculture lies in collaboration and knowledge-sharing. Events like CII Agrotech India – Krishi Bharat connect diverse Indian states, enabling farmers to adopt best practices,” he shared.
He further added, “With 11% of its population in agriculture, Uttar Pradesh has immense potential. Through this event, we want to explore opportunities that can increase our agricultural production, making farming healthier and more cost-efficient for our farmers. I would like to thank CII and Netherlands for coming here for this show and working together to encourage the farmers of not only the state, but the country and make them more independent and self-reliant.”
Organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), the fair has attracted delegates from across India and the world, including over 200 exhibitors and several international participants. The Netherlands, as the partner country, has a prominent presence at this year’s fair, highlighting cutting-edge agri-tech solutions and sustainable practices. During the inaugural session, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed and exchanged between the Government of Uttar Pradesh and the Government of the Netherlands to further strengthen agricultural cooperation, share knowledge and adopt advanced agricultural technologies.
Jan-Kees Goet, Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Netherlands, highlighted the importance of Indo-Dutch cooperation in agri-tech. “It is an honour for the Netherlands to be the partner country at CII Agrotech India – Krishi Bharat. Collaboration with India opens up tremendous opportunities in dairy, horticulture and animal husbandry and paves the way for a sustainable agricultural future. We are fortunate to use it – this platform to promote a sustainable future for both our countries through joint efforts in agri-tech and innovation,” he said.
Surya Pratap Shahi, Cabinet Minister for Agriculture, Agricultural Education and Agricultural Research, Government of Uttar Pradesh, highlighted the proactive role of the Government in strengthening the agriculture sector. He remarked, “The Government of Uttar Pradesh has introduced advanced irrigation technology and developed an extensive canal network, which has significantly increased crop yields and led to a more prosperous agricultural sector for our farmers.”
He added, “The B2B MoU between Manish Pratap, CEO, Surendra Foods and Shri Paul Oosterlaken, Kiremco BV will create a strong partnership between the Netherlands and India, driving innovation and excellence in the agriculture sector.”
During his address, the Confederation of Indian Industry Sanjiv Puri, Chairman and Managing Director, ITC Limited, said, “With the support of policies of the Central and Uttar Pradesh Government, we are witnessing efficient solutions that help farmers overcome challenges. The Uttar Pradesh Food Processing Industry Policy has strengthened the modern technology ecosystem, benefiting agriculture and food processing in the state. CII is committed to be an active partner in the development journey of Uttar Pradesh and is constantly collaborating with the State Government to ensure the success of its agricultural vision.”
Speaking on the vision of this year’s expo, Tarun Sawhney, Chairman, CII Agrotech India – Krishi Bharat 2024, and Vice Chairman and Managing Director, Triveni Engineering Limited, commented, “This year, CII Agrotech India – Krishi Bharat focuses on advancing sustainability, innovation and digital agriculture. In the years to come, CII Agrotech India – Krishi Bharat will meet global trends and foster international partnerships, paving the way for a more resilient agriculture sector.
As CII Agrotech India – Krishi Bharat 2024 kicks off in Lucknow, this mega event signals a transformational chapter in Indian agriculture – supporting sustainability, economic growth and integration of cutting-edge technology to strengthen India’s position in the global agriculture landscape. The calendar for visitors includes multiple conferences revolving around sustainability, dairy, water and natural resource management, etc. and 8 Kisan Gosthi. The exhibition hall will have multiple concurrent shows, such as Farm Tech and Implementex, Dairy and Livestock Expo, Good Earth, Food Tech and Farm Services.
