The Agro Chem Federation of India (ACFI), an apex body representing 85% of the Indian agrochemical industry, organised an awareness and interaction programme for agri dealers and distributors in Amritsar to strengthen collaboration between the agrochemical industry and its dealer network and promote safe, scientific and sustainable farming practices.
The programme, titled “Strengthening Dealer Industry Partnership for Safe, Responsible & Sustainable Agriculture,” focused on responsible product use, farmer awareness, joint industry–dealer stewardship initiatives and safe agricultural practices in the context of evolving regulatory expectations.
The programme brought together agri dealers, distributors, retailers, field-level advisors and sales and marketing professionals from across the agricultural value chain. Participants discussed the important role of channel partners in improving farmer awareness, promoting responsible agrochemical use and supporting sustainable agricultural practices.
Dr Amarjit Singh Dosanjh, Chief Agriculture Officer, Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Amritsar, Government of Punjab, said, “The Government welcomes the efforts of ACFI towards encouraging greater awareness on the safe and judicious use of crop protection products in line with sustainable agriculture practices. He emphasised that the capacity building of dealers and distributors is essential because they are the first source of technical guidance for farmers. By promoting responsible advisory, preventing counterfeit products and encouraging compliance with regulatory guidelines, such initiatives contribute to better farm outcomes while protecting human health and the environment. The Punjab government extends its support to strengthen regulatory compliance by fostering coordination among the regulatory bodies, industry stakeholders and dealer networks. “
Dr Ranjesh Singh, General Manager (Head)- Regulatory Affairs & Product Development at Bharat Certis AgriScience Ltd., said, “Agri dealers and distributors are often the first point of contact for farmers, placing them in a critical position to promote the scientific and responsible use of agrochemicals. The programme highlighted the importance of responsible advisory practices in building farmer trust, countering misinformation on pesticide use, strengthening industry–distribution network coordination and improving farmer awareness at the grassroots level.
“Greater collaboration among industry, dealers and distributors is essential to advancing sustainable agriculture, promoting awareness around safe and judicious agrochemical use, and strengthening adherence to evolving stewardship and regulatory standards,” he added.
Mr Deepak Sharma, President, Agri Input Dealers Association, H.O Amritsar, highlighted best practices for responsible agri-input retailing, preventing counterfeit products, enhancing productivity while ensuring environmental safety, and encouraging informed decision-making at the farm level.
The programme also emphasised knowledge sharing, technical training and the adoption of modern agricultural practices aimed at improving productivity while maintaining environmental responsibility and user safety.
Government representatives, industry stakeholders and dealer associations also participated in discussions addressing common myths around pesticide usage. The sessions highlighted the need for greater awareness of the scientific and judicious use of agrochemicals and underlined the critical role of dealers and distributors in providing farmers with accurate technical guidance.
Through the initiative, ACFI and participating stakeholders reiterated their commitment to strengthening industry–dealer collaboration and supporting safe, responsible and sustainable agricultural practices across the farming ecosystem.
