Pune: Alexandra Brand, global sustainability leader at Syngenta Group, praised India’s growing momentum in sustainable development and climate-resilient agriculture, stating that the country possesses the capability and ambition to lead the world in sustainable farming.
During her India visit, Alexandra Brand, Executive Vice President – Sustainability, Corporate Affairs and Transformation at Syngenta Group, said the country’s progress – from advancing climate-smart agricultural practices to achieving its non-fossil fuel energy capacity targets ahead of schedule – demonstrates a clear national commitment to responsible growth.
Alexandra Brand highlighted that India’s scale, scientific capabilities, and increasing focus on innovation position it uniquely to influence the future of global sustainable agriculture.
During her visit to Narayangaon near Pune, Alexandra Brand interacted with farmers, students, and rural youth as part of on-ground engagement activities focused on promoting safe agricultural practices through the WeCare Stewardship Campaign and strengthening rural capabilities through I RISE.
The visit reinforced Syngenta’s commitment to responsible crop protection practices while nurturing future-ready rural talent.
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During the interactions, Alexandra Brand engaged with students and educators to raise awareness about the safe handling and responsible application of crop protection products.
The initiative extends beyond farmer outreach by encouraging a broader culture of stewardship within rural communities and among the next generation.
“India plays a critical role in global food security. As climate challenges intensify and land resources remain limited, sustainable productivity becomes essential. Stewardship initiatives like WeCare & I RISE ensure that innovation reaches farmers responsibly, protecting crops, communities and natural ecosystems,” Alexandra Brand said.
The Syngenta leader also held discussions with farmers and growers on climate variability, increasing pest pressures, and the need to improve productivity while safeguarding soil and water resources.
Addressing farmers during her visit, Alexandra Brand said, “India is one of the most important agricultural markets in the world, not only in scale, but in its ambition to balance productivity with sustainability. Being here in Narayangaon allows us to connect global innovation with local realities. Sustainable agriculture is built in fields like these.”
She further emphasized the importance of responsible crop protection practices, stating: “Safe use is fundamental to sustainability. When farmers apply the right product, at the right dose and at the right time, they protect both their yields and their environment. Stewardship ensures that innovation works for farmers today and for future generations.”
Alexandra Brand also highlighted the increasing role of advanced research and digital technologies in shaping agriculture’s future.
“Data and artificial intelligence are transforming how we design new molecules and develop biological solutions. With the right innovation, we can produce more food on existing land while reducing environmental impact. India is central to that innovation journey,” she said.
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Alexandra Brand Interacts with Rural Youth Participants of I RISE Program
In addition to farmer engagement, Alexandra Brand interacted with rural youth participating in the I RISE program, which stands for Inculcate Rural India Skill Enhancement. The initiative is Syngenta India’s rural skilling program designed to equip young people with agricultural knowledge, technical competencies, and entrepreneurial opportunities in the agri-sector.
Built around the principles of Educate, Engage, and Elevate, the program aims to provide pathways to sustainable livelihoods within agriculture.
“With more than 65 percent of its population under 35, India’s demographic strength is extraordinary. Agriculture must become a sector of opportunity for rural youth. Through I RISE, we are investing in skills, dignity and long-term livelihoods,” Alexandra Brand said.
During the engagement, Alexandra Brand also unveiled the I RISE Coffee Table Book as the initiative approaches one year since its launch in 2024. The publication documents the program’s curriculum, its development over the past year, and the success stories of rural youth who have benefited from the initiative.
The coffee table book has been translated into seven languages. In its first year, the I RISE initiative has trained more than 5,000 students and aims to expand its reach to one lakh rural youth in the coming years.
Susheel Kumar, Country Head and Managing Director of Syngenta India, said: “Alexandra’s presence in Narayangaon sends a strong signal, that India is not just a market for Syngenta, but a strategic partner in driving sustainable agriculture globally. Our focus is on combining world-class innovation with responsible practices and youth empowerment to strengthen farmer prosperity.”
The WeCare initiative has been implemented across multiple divisions of Syngenta, engaging thousands of farmers, retailers, and school students in promoting safe and responsible crop protection practices.
Meanwhile, the I RISE program is being expanded through partnerships with agricultural universities, Indian Council of Agricultural Research-affiliated Krishi Vigyan Kendra (ICAR-KVKs), and training institutions, with the long-term goal of empowering more than one lakh rural youth across India.
