Context:
India’s crop protection sector is undergoing a major transformation, with herbicides emerging as the fastest-growing segment, driven by labour shortages and increased mechanisation, particularly in paddy cultivation.

Overview of Crop Protection Chemicals:

• Categories: Insecticides (pests), Fungicides (fungi), Herbicides (weeds)
• Market Size (2025 projection): ?24,500 crore
  • Insecticides: 10,700 crore
  • Herbicides: 8,200 crore
  • Fungicides: 5,600 crore

Drivers of the Herbicide Boom:

1. Rural Labour Shortage:
   • Wage increase: ?447/day (2024) vs ?326/day (2019)
   • Scarcity during peak weeding periods leads to yield loss
   • Herbicides act as a mechanised substitute to manual weeding
2. Cost and Time Efficiency:
   • Manual weeding: 8–10 hours/acre
   • Herbicide use: 1–2 hours/acre
   • Pre-emergent & post-emergent herbicides ensure timely weed control
3. Preventive Agriculture Trend:
   • Growing use of pre-sowing sprays (?550 crore in paddy, ?200 crore in wheat)
   • Reduces nutrient loss and optimises fertiliser use

Industry Dynamics:

• Dominated by MNCs:
  Bayer (15%), Syngenta (12%), ADAMA (10%), Corteva (7%)
• Indian Response:
  • Crystal Crop Protection:
    • Acquired Ethoxysulfuron from Bayer (2025)
    • Acquired Gramoxone from Syngenta (2023)
    • Launched Sikosa (in collaboration with Mitsui) – over 50% cheaper than manual weeding
  • Dhanuka Agritech is also scaling up R&D

Structural and Economic Implications:

Policy and Governance Challenges:

• Overdependence on Chemicals: Herbicide resistance, ecological risks
• Affordability: Small farmers may need subsidies or group buying models
• R&D Deficit: India lacks a state-supported agrochemical giant like Sinochem
• Regulation Gaps: Need for stricter safety norms and farmer training

Way Forward:

1. Boost Indigenous R&D and IPR:
   • Establish national herbicide research centres
   • Encourage patenting of Indian formulations
2. Promote Integrated Weed Management (IWM):
   • Blend manual, mechanical, and chemical methods
3. Encourage Public Sector Participation:
   • PSUs can help reduce foreign dominance
4. Ensure Sustainable Usage:
   • Training via KVKs, FPOs, and digital platforms
5. Support Smallholders:
   • Launch DBT schemes and cooperative procurement models

Conclusion:

The growing use of herbicides marks a structural shift in Indian agriculture, enhancing productivity and investment. However, a balanced approach is essential—one that ensures sustainability, farmer empowerment, and domestic innovation. The future of weed management must align with economic viability and ecological balance.