Dhanuka Agritech launches scientific management programme for apple growers

Srinagar, Apr 10: Dhanuka Agritech Limited, one of India's leading agrochemical companies, hosted a high-impact program on "Scientific Management of Apple" in Srinagar. It was honoured by the presence of Dr. M.K. Verma, Director of Agriculture, ICAR-CITH as chief guest.

The event spearheaded by Dr. R.G. Agarwal, Chairman Emeritus, Dhanuka Agritech Limited, reflects the company's unwavering commitment to empowering Indian farmers through knowledge, cutting-edge technologies, and sustainable practices. It brings together leading scientists, policymakers, agribusiness leaders, and progressive farmers for a full-day immersion into the future of apple cultivation—focusing on sustainable, disease-resilient, and high-yield farming powered by scientific innovation and farmer-centric technologies.

As part of this initiative, Dhanuka Agritech unveiled a specially designed product portfolio for the comprehensive management of apple orchards. Tailored to the specific needs of apple growers, the "Portfolio Launch for Apple Growers" introduces innovative solutions to combat prevalent challenges such as Apple Scab, red mite infestations, and premature leaf fall.

At the event, a blockbuster product, "MIYAKO", for the control of the spider mite was launched—a revolutionary miticide from Nissan Chemicals, Japan. Other highlighted products were "DELIGHT" (Dodine 65% WP), and "CURSOR" (Flusilazole). This robust portfolio not only ensures effective pest and disease management but also enhances fruit quality and profitability, reflecting Dhanuka's commitment to empowering farmers with world-class crop protection technologies and sustainable orchard solutions.

"India's food security must go hand-in-hand with nutritional security—and horticulture, especially in regions like Kashmir, holds the key. With high-density apple plantations, our farmers can triple their productivity. At Dhanuka, we've always championed quality, innovation, and farmer-first solutions—from launching Omite in Kashmir to introducing greener, safer chemistries like DECIDE. Indian agriculture has a bright future, and our youth are its greatest asset," said Dr. R.G. Agarwal, Chairman Emeritus, Dhanuka Agritech.

Dr MK Verma, Director, ICAR-CITH noted, "Kashmir has the ideal blend of talent, discipline, and climate to lead the way in apple cultivation. With high-density planting transforming traditional orchards—from 12–16 feet spacing to just 3–4 feet—we can boost productivity from 11 to over 60 tons per hectare."

Dr Manzoor A. Parray, Head, Entomology, SKUAST-K emphasized that "Apple is a vital cash crop for Jammu & Kashmir, and the shift towards high-density planting offers immense potential. However, climate change is altering pest dynamics—spider mite infestations are a clear example."

Dhanuka is committed to the welfare of farmers across India. To strengthen agricultural extension and research, Dhanuka has signed MoUs with ICAR and 15 agricultural universities across the country.