Regular Update
ATM News Network: Plant Health Care and Global Biotechnology leader Novozymes South Asia Pvt Ltd has signed an agreement for the exclusive distribution of Harpin αβ bio-stimulant for use in sugarcane production in India.
The first commercial sales are likely to start in the second half of 2023 after receiving necessary regulatory approvals. It is the first bio-stimulant product introduced in India by Plant Health Care. India is the second largest sugarcane producing country in the world, with about five million hectares of sugarcane under cultivation. Since its launch in 2018, Harpin αβ has been used on more than 180,000 hectares of sugarcane in Brazil.
Application of Harpin αβ evaluated by Novozymes in India earlier in the season resulted in an average increase of more than 10% in crop yield. Harpin αβ works by stimulating the plant's self-defence system to respond with improved quality, nutrient use efficiency, abiotic stress tolerance, and increased yield, similar to vaccination in humans.
"Based on the success of our Harpin αβ product on sugarcane in Brazil, it was natural to launch the product in India, the world's second largest producer of sugarcane," said Jeff Tweedy, CEO of Plant Health Care. Novozymes is a leading supplier of biological products for sugarcane in India. The plant will be a strong distribution partner for healthcare technology.
Sugarcane production must be increased to achieve the transition to clean energy sources envisioned under India's National Policy on Biofuels, said Novozymes India Business Head, Agriculture Division. Novozymes is delighted to partner with Plant Health Care for Indian farmers. The revolutionary biostimulant Harpin αβ increases sugarcane yield and provides excellent economic returns.
