Pune: In an effort to establish Indian sorghum as a globally recognized crop, agricultural experts and investors have joined hands to support farmers with new technologies, market access, and investment opportunities. At a recently held workshop in Vadapuri (Indapur Taluka), U.S.-based Sorghum United CEO Nate Blum emphasized the importance of structured planning to position export-quality Indian sorghum in global markets.
Global Market Potential for Indian Sorghum
Blum highlighted that India, being an agrarian economy, should focus on cultivating crops with strong market demand. Given sorghum's health benefits, increasing global awareness and demand create a significant export opportunity. Efforts will be directed toward establishing a sustainable global marketplace for Indian sorghum.
Abu Dhabi Investor Commits to Supporting Farmers
Investor Mrs. Eve from Abu Dhabi addressed farmers at the event, discussing ways to resolve their challenges. She also announced plans for significant investments in advanced sorghum farming technologies to improve productivity and profitability.
Strengthening Sorghum Farming in India
Dr. Shankarrao Magar, former Vice-Chancellor of Dr. Balasaheb Sawant Konkan Agricultural University, pointed out that Indapur Taluka was once a key hub for sorghum production. He stressed the need to organize farmers into cooperatives, which would help enhance processing businesses and market linkages.
Dr. Bamdev Tripathi, Director of Sorghum United Foundation, highlighted the importance of increasing the cultivation area for millet crops, including sorghum. He emphasized that farmers should collaborate for procurement, sales, and processing to build a robust supply chain. The foundation assured its full support to progressive farmers experimenting with innovative farming practices.
Technological Training and Government Support
Samruddhi Agro Group Director Tatyasaheb Fadtare and Agriculture Officer Ganesh Suryavanshi provided insights into training programs, practical demonstrations, modern technologies, and government schemes available to farmers for sorghum cultivation.
Large Farmer Participation
The workshop witnessed the active participation of progressive farmers from Vadapuri, Ramwadi, Bawda, Surwad, Vakilvasti, and Zhagadewadi. With increasing global interest in millet crops, such initiatives are expected to provide Indian sorghum a strong foothold in international markets.
