IMMA's 6th National Summit Drives Policy Reforms for India's Agri-Input Sector
The Indian Micro-Fertilizers Manufacturers Association (IMMA) successfully wrapped up its 6th National Crop Nutrition Summit & B2B Expo on February 5-6, 2026, at the National Stock Exchange in Mumbai's Bandra Kurla Complex. This pivotal event gathered central and state policymakers, regulators, scientists, industry leaders, startups, and agri-input innovators to shape the future of India's crop nutrition ecosystem.
Summit Highlights and Inaugural Addresses
Held under the theme "Converge, Collaborate & Co-create," the two-day summit focused on critical areas such as policy reforms, innovation in crop nutrition, ease of doing business, and strengthening India's position as a global agri-input manufacturing hub. The inauguration was led by Shri Jayakumar Jitendrasinh Rawal, Hon'ble Minister of Marketing & Protocol, Government of Maharashtra, with Dr. P. K. Singh, Agriculture Commissioner, Government of India, as the Guest of Honour.
In his address, Dr. P. K. Singh emphasized, "India's agricultural strength lies at the micro level—in the soil, the plant, and the farmer—and sustainable growth is not possible unless this foundation is strong. Balanced nutrition and scientific understanding, particularly through Integrated Nutrient Management, are essential to improve productivity, reduce cultivation costs, restore degraded land, and maintain ecological balance." He reiterated the government's commitment to supporting the industry as India progresses towards its Vision 2047 goals of higher productivity and sustainable agriculture.
Shri Jayakumar Jitendrasinh Rawal added, "The micro-fertilizer and nutrient industry has played a significant role over the last four decades in improving crop yield, quality, and productivity, helping India emerge as one of the world's leading food producers. To strengthen this further, farmers, the seed industry, fertilizer and micronutrient manufacturers, and post-harvest sectors must work together as one integrated ecosystem."
Key Policy Outcomes and Industry Calls
A major highlight of the summit was the industry's renewed advocacy for One Nation, One License, proposing a centralized data stack for licensing information. This initiative aims to remove regulatory bottlenecks and enhance ease of doing business for agri-input manufacturers by allowing state governments to access licensing data seamlessly. Discussions also underscored the need for:
- Faster approval pathways for micronutrients, biologicals, and specialty fertilizers.
- Export-friendly regulations to boost global market access.
- Stronger action against counterfeit and sub-standard agri inputs to ensure quality and safety.
Innovative Sessions and Recognitions
For the first time, the summit featured a "Media Speaks" session, where senior journalists shared direct feedback with industry stakeholders. Moderated by Dr. Rahul Mirchandani, this session highlighted the importance of transparent communication, clearer articulation of industry challenges, and stronger field-level engagement through farmer training and workshops.
IMMA also recognized progressive farmers from across India for crop-specific excellence and innovation. Awardees included:
- Mr. Ajit Gangaram Gholap (Tomato)
- Mr. Nilesh Ramesh Ugale (Grapes)
- Mr. Parulbhai Ballubhai Patel (Banana)
- Mr. Ravindra Bapu Gunjal (Onion)
- Mr. Dattatray Raosaheb Lonare (Chilly)
- Mr. Atul Madhukar Dere (Sugarcane)
- Mr. Parikshit Bokey (Citrus)
- Mr. Ravi Gopalbhai Parmar (Pomegranate)
- Mr. H. N. Nandeesha (Ginger)
- Ms. Jallepali Satya Kumari (Mango)
Additionally, the IMMA Pitch Party showcased 16 innovative crop nutrition and agri-input products from emerging and established companies, facilitating market access and industry partnerships.
Strategic Collaborations and Future Directions
Dr. Rahul Mirchandani, President of IMMA, outlined key outcomes, stating, "One of the key outcomes of this summit is our proposal to work with the Government of India on a centralized licensing data stack, allowing states to access licensing information from a common server. This will reduce repetitive compliance while ensuring full regulatory adherence and act as a practical enabler of One Nation, One License." He also announced a landmark MoU with ICAR to conduct regular technical sessions for IMMA members, marking a first-of-its-kind collaboration to accelerate innovation and faster commercialization in crop nutrition.
The summit featured diverse activities, including policy dialogues, industry-government roundtables, startup pitch sessions, structured B2B meetings, and technical masterclasses, reinforcing IMMA's role as a leading advocate for policy reform, innovation, and sustainable growth in India's specialty crop nutrition sector.
About IMMA
The Indian Micro-Fertilizers Manufacturers Association (IMMA) is a national industry body representing micronutrient and specialty fertilizer manufacturers across India. It works to unify the sector, advocate for balanced plant nutrition, and support policies that strengthen the country's agri-input ecosystem. Through initiatives like the National Crop Nutrition Summit & B2B Expo, IMMA brings together stakeholders to shape the future of crop nutrition, promote ease of doing business, and expand opportunities for Indian manufacturers in domestic and global markets.
