Scientists and Syngenta join forces to combat nematodes, the invisible crop threat
In a first-of-its-kind initiative, over 100 agricultural scientists from across the country convened to address the growing threat of nematodes — a major cause of crop losses, resulting in an estimated financial impact of ₹25,000 crore annually.
At a symposium in Goa organised by Syngenta India, experts called for an effective nematode management to safeguard soil health, sustain crop productivity, and minimise chemical interventions. The scientists urged stronger investments in scientific research and a more robust R&D pipeline to combat this “killer”.
The symposium “Management in Agriculture” highlighted the impact of nematodes, microscopic worms that attack plant roots, causing stunted growth, reducing yields, and increasing their vulnerability to diseases. Sustainable management strategies, including crop rotation, resistant plant varieties, and biological control agents, to mitigate losses and ensure long-term agricultural productivity were suggested.
Tech-driven innovations
The day-long symposium, held at the Syngenta R&T (Research & Technology) Centre in Goa, aligns with Syngenta India’s commitment to collaborative partnerships with universities and research institutes, a statement from Syngenta said.
The initiative aims to develop technology-driven solutions for nematode management while increasing farmer awareness about its impact.
Susheel Kumar, Country Head and MD, Syngenta India Pvt Ltd, said: “Collaborations between industry and academia are essential to transforming Indian agriculture,” he said.
Speaking on the impact of plant parasitic nematodes on crop yields, Vinod Shivrain, Head of Crop Protection R&D at Syngenta India, said, “Farmer awareness about nematodes remains minimal, making it essential for all stakeholders to work together in addressing this issue.”
Hidden danger
Pankaj Singh, Head of Nematology at IARI, New said nematodes present a hidden danger to crops, as their impact remains unnoticed until significant yield losses occur.
R Sarada Jayalakshmi Devi, Vice Chancellor of Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, said plant parasitic nematodes primarily feed on underground plant tissues such as roots, rhizomes, tubers, and bulbs, making them invisible enemies.
Kumar said, “Syngenta is spending 10 per cent of turnover on R&D to bring new innovations, which is the highest among any industry.”
Dr RM Sundaram, Director, ICAR-IIRR, Hyderabad, Dr MR Khan, Dean, AMU, Aligarh, and Dr Pankaj Singh, Head, Nematology, IARI-New Delhi, shared their inputs.