UPL-Sustainable AgriSolutions (UPL-SAS) is poised to revolutionize Indian agriculture with a strategic focus on technology, climate-smart solutions, and digital innovation. CEO Ashish Dobhal emphasized that the company’s shift from selling crop protection products to offering holistic agricultural solutions is key to future growth. This transformation will be fuelled by a $200 million investment from the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA), Brookfield, and TPG.
“The worst of the industry downturn is behind us,” Dobhal noted, expressing confidence in the sector’s recovery. UPL-SAS aims to address challenges like pest outbreaks, water scarcity, and the dynamic impacts of climate change by leveraging bio-solutions, mechanization, and artificial intelligence (AI).
UPL-SAS’s multi-pronged strategy includes developing innovative crop protection solutions, expanding bioinsecticides and biofungicides, and harnessing AI for precise, localized solutions. Dobhal underscored the importance of tailoring approaches to India’s diverse agricultural landscape, where 80-85% of farmers are smallholders.
“Climate change and agriculture are evolving rapidly. Solutions that worked four years ago may not be effective in the future,” he said. The company’s strategy involves solving farmers’ problems at a granular level rather than focusing solely on product sales.
A key component of this strategy is the Nurture Digital platform, which offers farmers crop advisory services, insurance, and machinery information. Dobhal described it as a tool that “effectively connects with farmers 24×7,” especially in small landholding ecosystems where access to technology is crucial.
UPL-SAS advocates for a mix of chemical and bio-based solutions to protect crops while maintaining ecosystem health. “We cannot go entirely chemical or bio. A mixed strategy is essential,” Dobhal explained.
Breaking from traditional rivalries, UPL-SAS promotes an “open Ag philosophy,” prioritizing collaboration with emerging agri-tech talents. “Rather than seeing others as competition, we embrace new talent in technology, products, and supply chain optimization,” Dobhal said.
UPL-SAS remains dedicated to solving global agriculture’s biggest challenge: food security. The company’s goal is to boost farm productivity, improve crop quality, and ensure a stable food supply both domestically and internationally.
With over five decades in India and a strong local brand, UPL-SAS is confident about expanding its presence. “We have to feed 7 billion people globally,” Dobhal concluded, highlighting the vital role of innovation in securing the future of agriculture.