Agriculture and related activities have undoubtedly changed over the last few decades. India’s agriculture sector accounts for nearly 18 per cent of the country’s GDP and 40 per cent of total rural net domestic product. In addition, India is the world’s fourth-largest producer of agrochemicals. With a market size of around Rs 30,000 crore, the government has identified the agrochemical industry as one of the 12 champion industries where India can play a significant role in the global supply chain. With the industry’s growth, there are numerous exciting career opportunities available. If you’re thinking about a career in the agrochemical industry, you can choose a position in pest, weed, and disease management, or in manufacturing and research. We’ve compiled a list of the top five positions in which you can pursue a career.
- Agrochemical scientist
This is one of the most prestigious openings in the industry. Agrochemical scientists work to develop formulations that help farmers increase their crops’ yield and eliminate pest problems. Agrochemical scientists across India are currently working to develop environmentally friendly and ready-to-use solutions for farmers. They’re also working on developing New Technicals (Active Ingredients). They also assist in determining the amount of agrochemicals required for various crops. The minimum requirement for this position is a Master of Science in Chemistry or a PhD in Agrochemicals.
2. Agrochemical researcher
R&D has played a critical role in transforming the agrochemical industry and will continue to drive future growth. An agrochemical researcher works to find solutions for insects, weeds and crop diseases. The field is divided into two major sections: chemistry and bio-efficacy. Almost every agrochemical company in India, including Insecticides (India), has its own R&D department. The department conducts research on existing products in order to improve them. The researchers work in cutting-edge laboratories outfitted with the latest technologies. They optimise parameters for technical processes to reduce costs, work on reducing the effluent treatment, find substitutes for toxic solvents, and develop processes for import substitution and product registration. Researchers frequently collaborate with the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR) to contribute to the growth of Indian agriculture.
3. Quality assurance expert
To increase crop yields, agrochemical products must not only be environmentally friendly, but also pass all of the mandatory tests set forth by the Indian government. This is where the work of a Quality Assurance Expert (QAE) comes in. QAE is in charge of inspecting the raw materials, equipment, other materials, and processes. Crop testing specialists, who test agrochemical products on crops, collaborate closely with quality control experts by conducting scientific experiments with prototypes on specific crops to collect and review data through observation. It is critical for quality experts to have a thorough understanding of agrochemicals and their potential side effects. A Master of Science or PhD in Organic Chemistry is required for this position.
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4. Agrochemical regulatory specialists
Their primary responsibility is to ensure that all agrochemical products adhere to the government’s rules and regulations. They ensure that the chemical composition of the products adheres to legal guidelines. A Master of Science in Agriculture/Chemistry or a PhD is required for this position.
5. Agrochemical marketing
If you have a natural sales ability, the sky is the limit in the agrochemical industry. To market new products among farmers, expert marketing professionals are required. The marketing team not only works with farmers but also directly with retailers. Most agrochemical manufacturers have dedicated marketing departments that work round the clock to promote their new products in rural areas. A marketing professional must inform the customers about every aspect of the product. As a result, it is critical that the agrochemical marketing team has a thorough understanding of rural areas. To work in this field, you must have a marketing degree as well as a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture.
In conclusion
With India’s growing agrochemical industry, job opportunities are expanding as well. Those interested in pursuing a career in this sector should be interested in agriculture and fieldwork. The majority of jobs have a high pay scale that is roughly comparable to what other industries offer for similar positions.
(Rajesh Aggarwal is the Managing Director of Insecticide (India) Limited. Views expressed in the article are author’s own.)
Photo Credit: Farm ERP (Representational image)
Sales department of Jaipur Market
Greetings,
Looking forward to a successful and effective opportunity in regulatory affairs, having 9 years of technical experience in the agro chemistry department in a GLP Certified laboratory.
Regards,
Sreevani