sustainable soy newsletter edition september 2015

Sustainable Soy News[Volume : 2 Special Issue] September 2015 For Private Circulation Only

Dear Stakeholders,

W e are pleased to welcome you all to the special issue of “Sustainable Soy News” from the “National Platform for Sustainable Soy (NPSS)”. You all deserve profound thanks for

spontaneous response to enable us to bring out the special edition of “Sustainable Soy News”.The quest for sustainable and inclusive sector transformation through multi-stakeholder engagements by coordination of ‘National Platform for Sustainable Soy’ brings new avenues to augment collective and coherent efforts. This edition of “Sustainable Soy News” is covering the smallholder sustainable soy programme, insights and building blocks for future strategies of sustainable landscape development and inclusive sector transformation. Stakeholders jointly planned and organized ‘Sustainable Soy Week’ and ‘National Conference on Sustainable Soy’ to deliberate on the key sustainability issues and have carved a path for joint actions and cooperation. It is of utmost importance that provides interaction between different stakeholders to set out joint agendas for collective and coherent efforts. ICT led extension systems are going to act as a key agent for changing agrarian situation and smallholder’s lives by improving access to information, sharing knowledge through efficient service delivery. Stakeholders like Indian Institute of Soil Sciences have taken-up certain innovative ICT initiatives and there is huge potential for developing innovative solutions. In view of problem of malnutrition in India, which is not only one of the alarming magnitude but also of great complexity, the NPSS has taken up the task coordinating with relevant stakeholders like CIAE, USSEC and Schouten Europe to resolve the situation.This edition also contains sustainability initiatives which are being undertaken by stakeholders through integrated approaches and innovative solutions. Sustainability isn't just important for people and the planet, but also is vital for business success, it create shared value for business and society. Corporate stakeholders like Vippy Industries, Sonic Biochem, Reliance Foundation, Ambuja Cement and Nature Bio foods taken-up initiatives with social, economic and environmental concerns. Directorate of Soybean Research organized 45th annual meet on soybean R&D, through All India Coordinated Research Project on Soybean (AICRPS). This publication mainly presents the facts on the different standards and does not express any preferences. We hope you all will enjoy reading the stakeholders actions. Read closely and you will discern something of the excitement, ambition and sheer energy that is carrying us forward in this endeavour. We wish to maintain this upward momentum with quality information and updates from stakeholders. We are indeed grateful for your contribution to making this platform efficient and dynamic.

An Initiative of National Platform for Sustainable Soy

National Platform for Sustainable Soy

National Platform for Sustainable Soy 2

In India, Solidaridad is supporting close to a million

smallholder farmers and workers to work in collective way in increasing yields with less water and connecting them to high value supply chains for enhancing their profitability. It is dedicated to make farming attractive for rural youths by providing skills, tools and long-term support necessary to be successful. Currently it has various support programmes for major crops in India in close partnership with diverse stakeholders in 2500 villages covering over 8 lakh farmers within 44 districts and 13 states of India.India is the 5th largest soy producer in the world and ranked fourth globally as exporter of soy (meal). Annually around 11-12 million tonnes of soybean is produced by with 6-7 million smallholders. From about 11,000 ha until 1961, soybean occupied over 10 million ha in 2015. Although, the national productivity of soybean is around 1.18 tons/ha, there is silver lining for enhancing productivity in view of varietal potential up to 3-3.5 tons/ha and available environmentally favourable technology suited to smallholders. Only one third of soy is available against the installed capacities of soy crushing industries in India, thus creating a wide gap between supply and demand. However, growth in soy production has consistently been generating substantial revenue for producers and traders and also supporting oil economy of India, it also created environmental and social impacts. Solidaridad developed a large sustainable soy producer support programme with the objectives to introduce and promote sustainable supply chain model for smallholders in India, the first phase was spread over 17 Districts of Madhya Pradesh, in 2008 to 2012, involving 30,000 smallholder soy producers. In the second phase that started from 2013 onwards, Solidaridad

along with its partners are supporting more than 80,000 soy smallholders across 24 Districts of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Rajasthan. The programme partnered with seven local implementing partners (ASA, ACCESS, CARD, IGS, GVT, VRUTTI, SRIJAN).

Solidaridad has tied up with countries apex research institutes on soy such as Directorate of Soybean Research and have emerged as a catalyst for ‘lab to land’ principle. As farmers are a rich source of indigenous knowledge and practice strategies adopted for training of lead farmers, developed farmer field schools amalgamating Indian traditional wisdom with modern technologies. More than 2053 lead farmers trained and skilled about sustainable practices,

Solidaridad Sustainable Soy Programe


adopt all recommended practices in their farms and disseminate knowledge among other fellow farmers. The farmers’ organized into groups with the objectives to increase outreach, act collectively for mutual strengthening, facilitate backward and forward linkages like aggregation of inputs, farm mechanization, and subsequently they federated into FPOs. 28 FPOs are formed; It is assumed that through the collective strength, market oriented approach and entrepreneurship skills they could able to better negotiate with the market. These FPOs have initiated aggregation of inputs, seed production, payment based extension services, market linkages for aggregated produce etc. FPOs are also facilitating the local internal control systems teams, which support farmers on the technical know-hows and facilitate sustainable soy in the sustainability standards framework. The process of risk assessment, internal audit and external audit of farmers’ practices ensures transparency and make supply chain traceable. Programme encouraged women’s participation in training and their decision-making at household level. The impact study done by MART shows increased yields and reduced use of agro-chemicals, thus limiting the cost of cultivation. The efficient use of land led to enhanced net returns and equal remuneration for women. Innovative ICT applications applied and developed for extension and monitoring, like we developed innovative mobile App for soy yield estimation and analyzing effects of GAPs in productivity, these has performed well and enhanced efficiency of programme. Programme has done convergence with various Government and private schemes. New partnerships have been forged with Hindustan Unilever Foundation to increase water use efficiency in soy production. It demonstrated package of interventions for water use efficiency in soy cropping pattern thus saved water could be used for crop diversification or other allied activities. The partnership has allowed setting up one of its first dedicated Agriculture Water Resource Centre (AWRC) to promote optimization of water use in agriculture and allied supply chains. The Centre will develop cutting edge techniques around “more crop per drop” principle leveraging the Public Private Partnership model

and will gradually extend its services to other crops in other region. The water efficiency programme is already showing the potential of enhancing the performance of other crops and supports diversification of cropping systems and improvement in household food security. Programme’s intensive engagement, stakeholders coordination, holistic market oriented approach, sizeable reach and long term vision for sector transformation encourage other stakeholders to join and contribute towards this endeavour, this evolved a multistakeholder platform “National Platform for Sustainable Soy(NPSS)” for coordination and facilitation and playing a catalyst role among stakeholders. The NPSS is emerging as a catalyst to work together for enhancing the accountability and credibility of sustainability in Indian soy sector. The learning and insights of previous programme is going to serve as the building blocks for future strategies. Overall, work through multi-stakeholder engagement has initiated market transformation process with considerable positive social and environmental effects, more new approaches like sustainable landscape development will be incorporated through multi-stakeholder platform to deepen and broaden these impacts towards inclusive sector transformation. Our strategy therefore for future would be based on a combination of continuity through consolidating, scaling up proven concepts, developing innovative approaches and addressing gaps in current approaches, sustainable landscape development in close partnership with companies/businesses/corporates, Research institutions, CSOs, FPOs and increasingly through government engagement.

Soy intercropping with maize


S ustainable Soy Week (SSW), during 1-7 June, 2015, was planned by

National Platform for Sustainable Soy along with its members across the country with the key theme of sustainability at multi-stakeholders’ levels. Sustainability from environmental, social and economic point of view is

of a great concern and tackling this issue responsibly necessarily requires an integrated and a holistic approach. Celebration of Sustainable Soy Week encompassed an approach, which integrates efforts, promotes participatory mode, creates an enabling environment and contributes towards transforming sustainability. It was planned to promote sustainability agenda through the joint, collaborative and coherent efforts in transition towards sustainability at various levels of soy value chain. The intension of celebration SSW was to chalk out the key sustainability issues at stakeholders’ levels was effectively achieved. SSW celebrated with tremendous energy, enthusiasm and initiativ es by the stakeholders. It also successfully created an enabling environment for discussions, campaigning and debate by identifying key issues at national level, which were further crystallized and consolidated in National Conference on Sustainable Soy involving multi-stakeholders.The activities of SSW were organized in participatory manner where different stakeholders jointly planned and organized different activities. SSW celebrated by stakeholders from Government, Industries, Research and extension Institutions, Financial Institutions, Civil Society Organizations and Farmers’ Organizations. SSW activities reached out to more than 3 lakhs farmers directly and indirectly. The activities organized were trainings, mass campaigning, quiz and competitions, etc.

Celebration of Sustainable Soy Week


Solidaridad-South and South East Asia, ICAR-Directorate of Soybean Research,

Indore and Society for Soybean Research and Development, Indore jointly planned and organized multi-stakeholder events i.e. Sustainable Soy Week during 1-7 June, 2015

across the country and National Conference on Sustainable Soy on 10th June, 2015 at Bhopal, India. These events were coordinated by the National Platform for Sustainable Soy (NPSS) in collaboration with its members.The eminent State Agricultural Universities, namely Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidhyala and Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Krishi Vishwa Vidhyala were the knowledge partners and Hindustan Unilever Foundation (HUF), Ruchi Soya Industries, Vippy Industries, Sonic Biochem Extractions and BASF India were partner and associate partners for this multi-stakeholder initiative. National Conference on Sustainable Soy was planned and executed with the objectives of dialogue between stakeholders, panel discussions on sustainability issues and to augment strategic partnerships to support sustainability. More than 200 participants included representatives from Government, academicians, research institutions, scientific community, agricultural universities, extension institutions, industries, traders, corporates, financial institutions, civil society organizations, farmers and farmers’ organizations with interest and expertise in promotion of sustainable approaches participated. It was platform of varied range of stakeholders to discuss and to deliberate

approaches, experiences, challenges and their vision for sustainable soy. The conference was culminated in recommendations by representatives of multi-stakeholders groups to promote NPSS for coordinating multi-stakeholder initiatives and decision on constitution of a coordination committee involving the representative from all the stakeholder categories. Recognising that solutions to the issues identified can only be provided and implemented with the active support of a wide range of stakeholders and hence the agenda of the conference worked out was very comprehensive and enlisted stakeholders group-wise issues. The conference was convened with the aim of identifying challenges experienced, ways and means to address them and to initiate the process of outputs, collaboration and cooperation. It was desired to establish a shared understanding of the issues that confront sector globally and nationally, develop a range of prioritised responses to the issues and associated risks and stakeholders to develop the framework further outside the meeting and to work together on particular aspects of it in coordination with NPSS.Dr Shatadru Chattopadhayay, Managing Director, Solidaridad, South & South East Asia suggested about, three step ladder model that can be used; (i) transfer of technology, (ii) working of all stakeholders together, and (iii) to adopt sustainable approach by all the stakeholders keeping in mind the sustainability of natural resources like land and water and environment. Dr Suresh Motwani, Programme Head, Soy,

National Conference on Sustainable Soy


Dr A N Shrivastava, Professor (Plant Breeding), Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidhyalaya, Jablapur, honoured during the conference by the dignitaries and Dr Akhilesh Sarraf, Director of Ruchi Group of Industries, for the development of different improved soy varieties, which broke the mono-culturing of JS-335 variety, suits to different agro-climatic zones and fits into the cropping systems having maximum coverage in India.

Solidaridad, South & South East Asia deliberated on the growth and present status of soy sector in India and its importance in national economy and in providing food and nutritional security to the Indian masses. Also he highlighted about the Non-GM identity. Along with this he presented the results of Sustainable Soy Programme which is being implemented through multi-stakeholders engagement.Dr V S Bhatia, Director, ICAR-Directorate of Soybean Research, Indore emphasized on the productivity of soy and shared that their yield simulation models revealed that the yield potentials of rainfed soybeans is 2.0-2.2 tonnes per ha and that of irrigated soybeans is more than 3 tonnes per ha under Indian conditions. Thus, there is a huge potential to increase the productivity and multi-stakeholder approach can play a great role in this endeavour.In a recorded message, Mr Gert Van Der Bijl, International Programme Co-ordinator-Soy, Solidaridad, REC, Netherlands said that demand of soybean has been always more than the production world over. It has a growth rate of 4-5 % per annum and this motivates us to meet the demand with quality produce and sustaining the productivity, which is only feasible when all the stakeholders come together and make efforts to sustain soybean supply chain. He said that soybean is extremely important crop to India, where in almost 80% population is protein deficient. Soybean is the most viable option to address this problem.Mr Dinesh Sahara, MD, Ruchi Soy Pvt Ltd said that food and nutrition security is the biggest

issue in the country. Soybean is the solution to these issues and it fulfils oil and protein demand of the country. There is a need for a platform like NPSS to deal with the stakeholders issues. We welcome this movement and is a matter of pleasure for us to be a part of it.Dr M H Mehta, Chairman- The Gujarat Life Sciences (Ex-Vice Chancellor, Gujarat Agril. University) appreciated the efforts of NPSS and said that next revolution will be of sustainable agriculture. He discussed about the 20:20 model of higher farm production with lower input cost using eco-friendly agri Bio inputs is most suited for sustainable soy farming and should be promoted as it will greatly help the small and the marginal farmers. The 20:20 model is basically increasing the productivity by 20 percent and reduction in cost of cultivation by 20 percent by using eco-friendly agri Bio inputs.Dr Rajesh Rajora, the chairman of the session and Principal Secretary, Department of Farmer Welfare and Agriculture Development, Government of Madhya Pradesh in his address said that although soybean is one of the rainfed crop which best suits to the agro-climatic conditions of Madhya Pradesh, it the right time to make efforts to enhance and sustain soybean productivity to a level of possible 2 tons per ha. He also added that in view of increasing cost of inputs and deteriorating soil health, the adoption of new high yielding varieties of soybean along with eco-friendly production technology and co-joint efforts by stakeholders can make the crop more attractive to the farmers and also strengthen the supply chain for other players.

Award for Soy Varieties


Multi-stakeholder dialogue were organized through the panel discussions during the

National Conference on Sustainable Soy. The issues identified were moderated and discussed in thematic discussions. It was focused on the following key issues• Sustainable Soy in market place with respect

to businesses, society and environment• Role of corporate foundations and CSR

with respect to value creation in sustainable agriculture

• Development of sustainable soy production- with emphasis on soil water efficiency

• Soy foods promotion and opportunities for development – food and nutritional security

• Role of civil society & farmers’ organisation with respect to value creation in sustainable socio-economic development

Industries and corporate foundations shared their experiences and initiatives of direct interface with farmers in terms of supporting them with technology transfer, quality inputs like seeds, environmental protection and water conservation etc. CSR initiatives have incorporated integrated development models and initiated programmes to support sustainability in the sector like ADM, Ruchi Soya Industries, Vippy Industries Ltd., Sonic Biochem Extractions Ltd., Arvind Ltd., BASF India, Reliance Foundation, Hindustan Unilever Foundation, ITC ltd., Nature Bio-foods and Yes Bank have initiated certain thematic programmes with long term vision to support sustainability. A multi-stakeholder programme of Hindustan Unilever Foundation is basically

focused on the water in agriculture and treat water as deposit for future. It is concluded that the businesses and corporate foundations’ support can change the scenario rapidly and can play a larger role in this endeavor by appropriately utilizing the CSR and value addition to soy sector through their business. Research institutions like Directorate of Soybean Research and eminent scientists deliberated on the concern of climate change adaptation technologies, environmental issues, soil and water conservation, seed variety development and relevant R&D etc. it was concluded that there is a huge potential to increase the productivity with sustainability and multi-stakeholder approach can play a great role in this endeavour. ICAR-Central Institute of Agricultural Engineering and US Soy Export Council shown their concerns for improving nutrition status of Indian masses by promotion of quality and affordable soy foods. Certain efforts are required like promotion at consumer level, local entrepreneurship development and advocacy to promote quality and affordable soy food in India. Representatives from civil society organizations, farmers’ organizations and academicians deliberated on the critical role of CSOs/FPOs in sustainability.

Multi-stakeholder Dialogue on Sustainable Soy

For stakeholder coordination, facilitation, policy advocacy, and proper functioning

of National Platform it was proposed to constitute a “Coordination Committee” involving the representatives from stakeholders. The deliberations by different stakeholders on the efforts being made by them has given strength and confidence that we can achieve what we have envisaged. NPSS will make efforts for sustainable market-led solutions towards inclusive sector transformation. All out efforts are to be made

to maintain Non-GM status of soybean in the country. Achieve average national productivity of soybean 20 quintals per hectare by year 2020 and optimizes social, environmental and economic performance. Different task forces will be developed consisting of representatives from stakeholders for the issues like soil and water use efficiency, soy based integrated farm system, sustainability frameworks, soy based food and nutrition addressing malnutrition and food security and innovative ICT solutions, etc.

Task Forces for Sustainable Soy


Over time, weather patterns and soil conditions change and epidemics

of pests and diseases come and go, updated information allows the farmers to cope with and even benefit from these changes. Providing such knowledge can be challenging, however, because the highly localized nature of agriculture means that information must be tailored specifically to distinct conditions. ICT could be an effective communication tool for information dissemination, adoption of new technologies and decision making in agriculture with scale of operations; especially in case of smallholders it could be cost effective solution. It is in the context of globalizing agriculture where the need for information becomes most vivid. The smallholders, who still provide a significant portion of the world’s food, need information to advance their work just as much as industrial-scale producers. High attention is required to promote ICT application in agriculture in India, which suffers from poor infrastructure, illiteracy, non-availability of timely relevant content, non-integration of services, poor advisory services and lack of localization, and in particular non availability of agricultural information kiosks/ knowledge centers at the grass root level. The Sustainable Soy Programme has adopted various ICT tools for communication and information dissemination, these tools have great impacts in terms of awareness, decision making and change in farmers’ behaviour for adoption

of sustainable soy practices. These tools are the cost effective and time efficient. Programme adopted certain available ICT tools, which offers information on crops, diseases, and market prices to farmers like Reuters Market Light (RML) which is a subscription-based SMS service and IFFCO Kisan Sanchar Limited (IKSL), another information service for farmers, unlike RML, IKSL’s information arrives via voice rather than text message.

Mobile App for Soy Yield EstimationEstimating soy yield while the crop is standing in the field was a challenging procedure. Yield estimate may be inaccurate when it is conducted

at before seed filling stage. The best estimate can be achieved at reproductive growth stage R6 (full seed stage). There are only few methods available for yield m e a s u r e m e n t , but these are bit complex and time consuming and

sometimes it doesn’t give accurate yield results. Keeping the challenges in estimating the yield and assess the impacts of practices a measure was needed for field extension staff, Solidaridad built a Mobile App on scientific base, tested in field condition, to measure soybean yield. Later result can be viewed at Back End, in-form of reports, print and import the data in various formats for analysis, monitoring and learning purpose etc. The productivity measurement tool helps field teams to capture the field data in scientific and standard manner and for ICS managers/Solidaridad executive analyzing the impacts of GAPs and further data can be stored/ analyzed based on the local climatic conditions. Technical assistance for developing tool is provided by

ICT experiences in Sustainable Soy Programme

(Cont. Pg- 9)


Indian Institute of Soil Science (ICAR-IISS) Indian institute of Soil Science

(ICAR-IISS), a research institute under the

Natural Resource Management (NRM) Division of Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) was established on 16th April, 1988 at Bhopal with a mandate of “Enhancing Soil Productivity with Minimum Environmental Degradation”. IISS has developed Mridaparikshak, a MINILAB that can determine soil health; crop and soil specific fertilizer recommendations can be sent directly to farmer’s through SMS. It is portable, scientific, and economical system for determining soil health. The development of the MRIDAPARIKSHAK (A MINILAB for Soil Testing and Fertilizer Advisory) is an outcome of the initiative taken by the NRM Division of ICAR and the concerted efforts by a team of scientists of IISS, Bhopal in collaboration with M/s Nagarjuna Agrochemicals Pvt. Ltd., Hyderabad to meet the need for having a quick, portable, scientific, and economical system of determining soil health.

A MINILAB for Soil Testing and Fertilizer AdvisoryIndian Institute of Soil Science (ICAR-IISS)

ICT experience...Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwavidyalaya and Barefoot Lightning. Now the tool is ready for the use. One has to just download the application in any android mobile phone and then can enter the data by following the steps given in application and get the productivity estimates.ICT led extension systems could improve agricultural yields if farmers can have the better access to appropriate, timely information and knowledge. It is expected that the ICT led extension systems are going to act as a key agent for changing agrarian situation and smallholder’s lives by improving access

to information and sharing knowledge. ICT capacity building in agricultural research and extension systems, location-specific content generation and digitization, integration of research-extension and IT technology solution providers, integration of pluralistic extension actors, blending ICTs with traditional extension methods, certifications, traceability, monitoring, benchmarking, continuous innovation and refinement need be followed with commitment and accountability are crucial for sustaining momentum in the soy ICT applications. Further it would lead to new business models of service delivery and knowledge transfer through innovative enterprises.

Key Features are • It is a digital mobile quantitative minilab/

soil test kit to provide soil testing service at farmers’ doorsteps.

• It determines all the important soil parameters i.e. soil pH, EC, organic carbon, available nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, sulphur and micronutrients like zinc, boron and iron.

• It also provides crop and soil specific fertilizer recommendations directly to farmer’s mobile through SMS.

• It is highly compatible with soil health card. • It comes with soil sampling tools, GPS,

balance, shaker, hot plate, and a Smart Soil Pro, an instrument for determining the soil parameters and displaying of fertilizer nutrient recommendations.

• It can be operated by young educated farmers/rural youths with short training.


S chouten is a 100 year old family business which first ventured into the Bakery

business and then branched out into Agri business as the market offered good potential. The Schouten family subsequently built up substantial knowledge and experience of the various sources of vegetable protein through many years of international trade in Agri-produce. The company Schouten Europe B.V. was established in 1990. The company was the first Dutch party to focus specifically on the development, production and sale of healthy, yet tasty Vegetarian Concepts. Schouten Europe B.V. has, to a large extent, contributed to the market development of this product group in Europe.Vegetarian concepts worldwideSchouten Europe develops, produces and sells Vegetarian Concepts under its own brand GoodBite based on vegetable proteins and does so worldwide. Over the last 25 years, Schouten Europe has specialized in Tasty Vegetarian Concepts for the Food Service, Retail, Industries and Airline Catering as there was a growing market in this segment. Our brands are widely distributed across Europe, Middle East and other markets we operate in. We also work with big brands in the Food Service/QSR industry and with some major brands in the Retail industry.We offer solutions from Breakfast, Lunch, Snacks and Dinner. All concepts could be adjusted to suite any taste profile.

ProductsSome of our popular products are:• Zing Veg Fillet • Crispy Bites• Vege Burgers• Frankfurters• Tikka Concepts• Falafal• Minced for Indian and Continental recipes.• Veggie Bacon for Salads and toppings• Veggie Balls for tasty curry dishes.The Company has key strengths in R&D and New Product development with the addition of in-house Nutrilab B.V in the area of food safety and analysisSchouten Aahaar, India was established in 2013. For us, India promises to be a good market due to the food preferences and the high youth population who are adventurous. Schouten Aahaar is looking to partner with Fast Food Restaurants and offer solutions in Veg Concepts for this growing market segment.We are also looking for partners in the Retail Trade to either offer the GoodBite brand or Private Label opportunities.For more information, please write to [email protected] Contributed by: Mr. Rajesh Chouhan, SCHOUTEN AAHAAR INDIA PVT. LTD. Ahemedabad, Gujarat,India

Vegetarian concepts, good for you, good for your family!


Indian population is predominantly vegetarian. Our diet is lacking in terms of quantity and

quality of protein. Even the majority of non-vegetarians among us do not

consume animal products on a daily basis in quantities sufficient to provide the recommended amount of protein.Soybeans are a rich source of good quality protein and the cost too is low. Soy products can easily meet the protein requirements of a vegetarian diet. Soybean has been perceived more as poultry and cattle feed than as a good source of protein for human consumption by a lot of people. Also the misconception that soybeans are only used in feeding programs conducted by the government for malnourished children has been prevalent. Besides nutritional benefits soybeans provide several therapeutic benefits too.Soybean is one of the very few plants that provide a high quality protein with minimum saturated fat. Soybeans help people feel better and live longer with an enhanced quality of life. Soybeans contain all the three macronutrients required for good nutrition, as well as fiber, vitamins, minerals. Soybean protein provides all the essential amino acids in the amounts needed for human health. Soybeans have almost 40% protein, making it higher in protein than any other legumes and many animal products. Protein in just 250 grams of soybean is equivalent to protein in 3 liters of milk or 1 kg of mutton or 24 eggs. The quality of soy protein is virtually equivalent in quality to that of milk and egg protein. Unlike many other good sources of protein, soybean not only has higher percentage of oil but also quality fatty acid profile. It has low saturated fat content with high amount of essential fatty acids. Soybean oil is also rich in omega-3 and 6 fatty acids similar to those found in fish oils and cholesterol-free. Soybeans are an excellent source of dietary fiber with both soluble and insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber may help lower serum cholesterol and control blood sugar. Insoluble fiber increases stool bulk, may prevent colon cancer and can help relieve symptoms of some digestive disorders. Soybean has more than two times the amount of most of the minerals, especially calcium, iron, phosphorus and zinc, than any other legume and very low sodium content. Soybean has all the important vitamins and is a very good source for B complex vitamins and Vitamin E.

Soybean and Health BenefitsIn addition to containing rich nutrients, soybean has other beneficial compounds such as, phytosterols, lecithin, etc. Soy protein has a number of health benefits such as, cancer prevention, cholesterol reduction, combating osteoporosis and menopause regulation. Human studies suggest that as little as one serving of soy foods each day may be protective against many types of cancers. For the past 30 years, investigators have shown that consumption of soy protein selectively decreases total and LDL (bad) cholesterol and maintains HDL (good) cholesterol in individuals with elevated blood cholesterol levels. Based on the various research findings, United States Food and Drug Administration has issued a health claim for soy protein in October of 1999. The health claim states “consumption of 25gms of soy protein per day with a diet low in saturated fat may lower the risk of heart diseases”. Another important aspect of soy protein is combating osteoporosis and relieving menopause symptoms. One factor in bone health is limiting the amount of calcium lost from the body. Although protein especially animal protein contributes to calcium loss, soy protein exhibits less calcium leaching effects. The isoflavones found in soybeans may also directly stop bone deterioration. Recent research has shown that soy foods can relieve most menopausal symptoms, thus reduce risks of cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis. Soybean is considered as a natural alternate for hormone replacement therapy for treating women who are in menopause.How to Use Soy DailySoy can be used in many ways in our daily life. Regarding use of soybean imagination is the only limitation. Different soy products such as soybeans, soy flour, and soybean oil can be added to variety of traditional foods. Here are some easy tips and ways to consume soybean protein regularly. Soybeans as such can be used like lobia. They can also be added up to 20 % in dosas, pesarattu, dahi bhalla and vadas etc where whole legumes are added. Soak soybeans along with the whole legumes and make the recipe as is usually done. Soybeans can also be added up o 20 % in recipes such as chole, rajma and dal makhani. Varied range of soy products like Soymilk, Soy Paneer (Tofu), Wheat-soy flour, Besan-soy

Business potential of Soy Foods in India

Cont... Pg- 12


Business potential...flour, Nuggets and Granules (Soy Bari), Soy Nuts,Soy Noodles, Dal/lentil Analogue , Soy bakery products, Snack foods, Soy Papad can be prepared. These products are being manufactured by various entrepreneurs on small, medium and large scale all over the country. Excess capacities are also available. You can buy these products in bulk and could pack in your brand name. Use of soy in Govt. and other Feeding ProgramsSome states of the country are using soy in the feeding programs in the form of the energy foods enriched with protein. This will improve the nutritional status of the country. India is highly malnourished country and soy is the least

expensive source of protein to overcome the malnutrition problem of the country to a great extent. Govt. should take initiative to use the soy in feeding and social welfare programs like its inclusion in Public Distribution System etc. all over the country.There is an enormous business potential exists in the soy food business in India. Interested people/entrepreneurs may contact USSEC for more details. We provide the techno-commercial assistance and may help in product promotion. Please feel free to contact us for any further details on this.Contributed by: Ratan K. Sharma (Ph. D) Director- Soy Food program (Human Nutrition) US Soybean Export Council [email protected]

Soybean, although does not stand among the traditional crop of Marathwada, is rapidly

being adopted by the farmers in the region as a multi-functional alternative crop to cotton. This change of heart of the Marathwada farmers has happened due to the continuous upsurge in input/output cost of cultivating cotton headed by uncompetitive remunerations received in the since last five years. Yet simply changing the cropping pattern does not woo away the worries of the farmer. It requires a holistic approach to reach a sustainable end to initiate a prosperous living. Else, the farmers would meet the same fate of being stuck in the vicious cycle of poverty. Dilasa Janvikas Pratishthan (DJP), a 23 year young organization hailing from the region, identified the needs and limitations of its farmers, who majorly depend upon the 3 ‘M’s i.e. Market, Money and Monsoon. DJP came forward in 2013, to mobilize and organize the Soybean farmers as Farmer associations, to ultimately provide it a legal recognition as Farmer Producer Company (FPC), under the Companies Act, 1956. It could give them a double ended solution in terms of access as well as acquaintance of the two ‘M’s- Market and Money, which are practically attainable.In this wake, DJP has so far initiated the formation and registration of such Soybean farmer Producer companies in Beed (7), Osmanabad (8), Latur (9) and Nanded (9). Thus DJP has successfully organized of 14000 farmers in Marathwada region. Dilasa acts as service provider for these companies by providing them with explicit

support services in terms of agricultural extension along with market information.Considering the last year’s experience of the paucity of soya seeds, the farmers’ groups naturally turned towards the seed making of soybean as profitable business proposition under the ambit of FPCs. To cite the example, Navbharat FPC in Ambajogai and Karadkhed FPC in Udgir block of Latur District initiated the seed production. The agriculture experts of Dilasa gave the trainings for seed production viz. sowing 100 seeds to understand its fertility. Taking the lead, the Nagrajbaba FPC of Latur collected the soybean of its all farmer members in 2014 and made online marketing of 13 Cr. The company made 10% percent profit which is 13 Lakh.Inspired by the successful venture of Nagrajbaba, other FPCs have come forward to trade in the purchase and sale of soya. Walkewadi FPC, which is Adivasi (ST) farmer’s Company in Himayatnagar block in Nanded District set an unique example of producing 10 quintals of Soya seed production in the season. The latest addition to this list is that of Bhushan FPC, Samarudhi FPC, Balaghat FPC and Kartvya FPC which have started seed production this year in Beed district. Taking a step forward, Vitthaleshwar FPC in Nanded is making an effort to start online marketing of soya by submitting the business plan for the same to MACP. In nutshell, Soy culture is positively spreading its roots in the soil of Marathwada. DJP is committed towards hand holding these FPC and achiev the vision of strengthing the farmers’ community.

Soybean Farmer Producer CompanyDilasa Janvikas Pratishthan


USSEC’s national event, “Soy Partnership Summit (SPS) 2015,” was conducted on

July 23 and 24 in Indore, India.SPS has shown positive growth in popularity and commercial utility with unique features added to the event each year. Voluntary industry participation increased by 34 per cent compared to last year’s event with approximately 400 people attending the main event on July 23. About 230 participants from 17 different Indian provinces comprised of soy buyers representing the utilization sector, mainly from animal feeds, attended.Participants provided feedback on five utility avenues: new knowledge received at the USSEC event; ample opportunity to express problems and seek solutions; networking heavily during the event; initiating trade talks and start booking soy meal orders; and, most of all, having access to a valuable, national data base of buyers’ and sellers’ contacts.American Soybean Association (ASA) director, Mr Bret Davis and United Soybean Board (USB) director, Mr C.D. Simmons participated in this event, along with USSEC Director International Program Strategy & Research/Regional Director – ASC Drew Klein and USSEC Marketing Director – Animal Nutrition/Meal Pam Helmsing. Scott Sindelar, Foreign Agricultural Affairs (FAS) Minister-Counsellor for Agricultural Affairs in India, and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) agriculture specialist, Mr Amit Aradhey stressed various aspects of U.S Soy and agriculture. Mr. Davis discussed the quality grading of U.S Soy and Mr. Simmons spoke on the sustainability of U.S Soy. These speeches gave participants a framework in which advanced farming and trade process of the U.S can be compared to that of India. The SPS featured a global supply and demand (S&D) update that spelled out trade flows and global trends with the objective of aligning the soy stakeholders to international trade practices because there is always a disconnect between international and domestic prices of soy meal. USSEC consultant Mr Paul Smolen talked about global S&D in great detail. For the first time in India, USSEC gave a presentation on the “Science and Safety of Agri-Biotechnology.” The information and approaches to biotech aspects was received with full interest and understanding and this is a significant positive move.

Two former USSEC program directors for the feed and food sectors, Dr. Dinesh Bhosale and Dr. Suresh Itapu, spoke on the current status and future potential for soy in animal feed and human food applications in India. These presentations elucidated pathways that have to be adopted by the Indian industry for building businesses using soy as an important protein input.USSEC feed program consultants Dr. Vijay Anand and Dr. Pawan Kumar shared the index of industry interest on SPS that has developed year after year since its conceptualization in 2009. The second part of their presentation, “Soy Industry to our Knowledge,” aligned with facts and observations that were true to the industry. These in turn prompted discussions and formed the basis for analysis and understanding the soy industry and trade in India.The post lunch session titled “The Soy Talk” is what many participants most look forward to: an opportunity to speak out and express their feelings on trade requirements. An almost full house and a 25-member panel comprised of industry stalwarts with experience debated on 14 different soy topics. The main concerns were S&D, price, quality, logistics and the need for the soy industry to recognize and cater to domestic protein requirements.The event’s second day started with a motivational session where renowned writer Mr Soma Valliappan, who presented his impressions on SPS. Following this session, and throughout the two days, buyers and sellers were networking to discuss trade and carry out their business. Some of them also engaged with crushers to go on field trips to their soy crushing facilities and arrive at soy buying agreements.Many key organizations known for their trade strength and functions were part of the more than 400 participants at SPS 2015.Contributed by: Ratan K. Sharma (Ph. D) Director- Soy Food program (Human Nutrition) US Soybean Export Council [email protected]

USSEC’s Soy Partnership Summit 2015


Vippy Industries limited is the pioneer in the soya processing in the country. It

was established in 1973. It has been in the manufacturing and processing of Soy

products for last 42 years. Vippy Industries Ltd. , Dewas initiated “Sammrudha Kheti Programme” - Nahi Soch - Sunhare Bhavishya Ki Aur” to promote sustainable agriculture production technologies to conserve natural resources and reduction in cost of cultivation by promotion of low cost farm inputs and facilitating backward and forward linkages for farmers. Under “Sammrudh Kheti Programme” we worked with 3508 farmers in year 2014-15 and 5000 farmers in year 2015-16.The programme is focused on promotion of sustainable agriculture production techniques so as to conserve natural resource, reduction in cost of production by promotion of low cost locally prepared inputs, building capacities of farmers for better understanding of agriculture production system and its requirement, establish a traceable system of procurement as per international market requirement, introduction of new technology & techniques for betterment of farming community, agri. allied services i.e. veterinary services and animal care, related issues of farming community i.e. health insurance, animal insurance, facilitating credit linkages for agriculture requirement and platform to farming community for marketing through formation of farmer producer company. We have set up a separate team for this initiative. Team prepares an annual plan and it is monitored through the monthly meetings, they also get the trainings on technical issues of various crops grown by farmers. Deputed field team is consisting of 13 members from different technical backgrounds

for Programme. It is providing advisory support to farmers in various crops grown in soybean cropping system. Crop specific advices to farmers are given in written form through Advice Slip. Individual farmer’s crops specific data is recorded in farmer field record book along with the field map. We are also creating database of recommended practice/ best practices in the form of videos and pictures. This will be helpful in training of farmers in coming years in project. We are organizing farmers into the “Learning Groups” and these are the village level community platforms for providing training and other value chain linkages, each group consisting of 20

farmers. Towards environment sustainability and savings in cost of cultivation we are emphasizing farmers to use Bio Pesticides/fertilizers, which has low cost and high productivity with no adverse effect on human and environment. These locally prepared bio-logical materials are bio-fertilizers: matkakhad, amritpaani, bistarakhad and bio-pesticides: neem oil, neem leaf extract, five leaf extract, soybean tonic, fennel tonic and garlic, ginger, onion, pepper and chilli extract. In last season the adoption rate for low cost production techniques among the registered farmers was 30-35 %.Contributed by: Mr. Praneet Mutha, Director, Vippy Industries Ltd. Dewas, Madhya Pradesh, India

Vippy Industries Ltd.“SAMRUDDHA KHETI PROGRAMME


Sonic Biochem, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India, is one of the largest NON-GMO soya

food and pharma ingredient company in central India well known for its ethical and professional business practices. It’s capability

for creating new/niche products and marketing drive has placed it among the fastest growing companies in the country.The vision of Sonic is “to be a global player for Non- GMO and Organic Soya Ingredients for Food, Health Food and Nutritional Supplement to provide value for money by leveraging R&D” and values are Customer Delight, Build Excellence, Ethical, Social Responsibility, Innovation and Creativity.Farmers face various challenges such as lack of technical knowledge, limited access to resources, market and other backward and forward linkages, which culminate into the low productivity and thus low income levels. To support farmers and enhance socio-economic and environmental sustainability at supply side, Sonic Biochem initiated “Sonic Krishi Bazar”- Agri-extension support programme for farmers. This programme was initiated in year 2015 and about 500 farmers of Mandsaur and Neemach Districts of Madhya

Pradesh were sensitised on good agricultural practices and water saving measures for sustaining soybean productivity. The programme is building capacities of farmers through field trainings and advisory support, also field demonstrations are established to demonstrate the sustainable technologies. A team of agri-experts is deputed to support farmers and ensure adoption of technologies by farmers. Market prices of soybean from markets in vicinity is disseminated to farmers, which provides them multiple options for selling their soybean. It also gives an option to them to direct sale to Sonic Krishi Bazar. The corporate is also in the process of supporting farmers for organic soy production. Contributed by: Sonic Biochem Extractions Ltd. Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India

Incorporated in 2010, the Reliance Foundation focuses on five core pillars:

education, health, rural development, urban renewal, and promotion and protection of

India’s art and culture. The Foundation embodies corporate system and process driven organization. It operates on a not for profit basis, with the overall aim to create and support meaningful and innovates activities, that will address some of India’s most pressing development challenges.

An acronym of Bahart India Jodo, bij is Reliance Foundation initiative. Bij aims to bridge the gap between rural and urban areas with an overall goal to make farming a profession of first choice by empowering small-holders farmers.Reliance bij aims to step in to break the vicious cycle of agricultural distress as its various pain points. It intends to establish a new model of sustainability that ensures a balance between ecological, economical and aspirational goals and entails owning, controlling and managing of farms through community associations. It sees

Sonic Biochem Extractions Ltd. “Sonic Krishi Bazar”

Reliance Foundation Bharat India Jodo (Rf BIJ) Sustainable Soybean Inititative


technology and innovations mechanisms as allies to effects rural transformation.Soybean is largely supported in Madhya Pradesh (Agar, Seoni, Mandla, Sendhwa and Jamai), Maharastra (Yavatmal and Gangakhed), Telangana (Kamareddy) and Karnataka (Bidar) in RF BIJ. It is supported in 5000 hectares. Farmers being the primary stakeholders, are being provided with need based trainings on soybean crop production and management throughout the cropping season.

Water security through water harvesting and recharging structures: Water security being one of the core interventions, a number of water harvesting and re-charging structures have been designed and constructed in the program areas. These structures have ensured irrigation to crops during critical growth periods, thereby securing optimum crop yields and income to the farmers. Across the soybean dominating clusters, approximately 5000 hectares have been brought under irrigation for the first time benefitting Soil health improvement: In order to achieve self-sufficiency in manure, farmers are being supported in establishing compost and vermicompost units, biomass plantation, etc. Across the clusters, 2101 number of vermicomposting units (4121 cum capacity) and 4914 numbers of composting units (34055 cum capacity) have been established with a capacity to generate atleast 11000 MT of organic manure. Thus soil health improvement has been perceived as one of the important initiatives to enhance crop production and productivity. Bunding has been one of the core activities, which led to considerable reduction in soil erosion. Across all the 4 states, more than 10000 ha area has been ensured with bunds.Use of quality seeds: As quality seed alone enhances crop yields by 15-20 %, promoting seed of locally adopted soybean varieties from reliable sources has been the major focus. As a quality check measure, seed germination tests are carried out at village farmers association (VFA) level. Also, to ensure proper nutrition to crops, seeds are treated with biofertilisers like Rhizobium, PSB and other biocontrol agents like Trichoderma (to

manage seed and soil borne diseases). JS 335 is the predominant variety being cultivated across the clusters in Agar followed by JS 95-60.Integrated nutrient management : The focus being crop productivity enhancement, soils are being tested for nutrient status, based on which the recommendations are being given to farmers. As an alternative strategy, use of liquid manures is also being encouraged. Using the integrated approach, the nutrient requirement is met through bio fertilizers, organic and inorganic sources.Integrated insect-pests and diseases management: As a part of the strategy, integrated insect-pests and diseases management is being promoted. Measures like deep ploughing, seed treatment with biocontrol agents , promoting intercrops, use of yellow sticky traps against sucking pests, using various biocontrol agents to manage semi-loopers and girdle beetle, use of various botanical extracts (neem oil, neem leaf extract, chilli-garlic extract, etc) to manage commonly encountered insect-pests are promoted. The initiative has been adopted in more than 3000 ha of DFs, thus drastically bringing down the use of harmful pesticides, reducing cost of production and enhancing income of small and marginal farmers.Seed banking: As a step towards achieving self -reliance in seeds, seed production of ruling varieties is being promoted across the clusters. Farmers Seed transaction i.e. required seeds are being supplied by seed bank to farmers and again in multiple quantities as resolved by VFA. Seeds are voluntarily being contributed back by farmers to the seed bank. There are villages (Chikla in Seoni, Kasaidhaheriya in Agar) in the programme, which are self- sufficient as far as soybean seeds are concerned. Producer companies: As a step towards sustainability, producer companies have been established in Yavatmal, Agar and Jamai. The Producer Companies at Yavatmal and Agar were able to aggregate 1322 qtls of soybean (Yavatmal - 1022 and Agar – 300) worth Rs around 43 lakhs.Contributed by: Mr B.G.Mahesh, Food Security Team, RF BIJ, Reliance Foundation, Project Office, 1st Floor, RCP, Navi Mumbai.India


Ambuja Cement Foundation (ACF), established in 1993, is the social development

arm of Ambuja Cements Ltd. We work exclusively with rural communities on issues related to Water Resource Management, Agro & Skill-based Livelihood Generation,

Health, Education, Women’s Empowerment and Rural Infrastructure. ACF’s community development work is based on its mission and underscores our belief in communities and in our role as catalysts to bring in change. ACF undertakes projects and schemes for promoting the social and economic development for communities in and around the manufacturing locations of Ambuja Cement Ltd. These development initiatives are in line with the needs of people, in partnership with them and in close collaboration with likeminded NGOs and the Government. A team of 423 dedicated professionals implement its projects and programms. Our work currently extends to 22 locations in 12 states across India, reaching out to more than 14 lakh people through projects with annual expenditure of Rs. 6293 lakhs. The ACF unit at Chandrapur came into existence in January 2001, and since then quickly made inroads and do assessment of needs of the farming community. With more than 80% of communities in our intervention area of Chandrapur, involved in agriculture and allied activities, Ambuja Cement Foundation has developed a strong agro-based livelihoods generation programme based on sustainable farming practices. ACF has been promoting micro irrigation among farming communities in convergence with State Agriculture Department of Maharashtra. ACF's multi-pronged approaches to agro-based livelihood issues engage various government organizations like NABARD, ATMA, Animal Husbandry Department and MSRLM etc. in addition to collaborate with CICR-Nagpur & KVK-Sindhewahi to encourage scientists to share their knowledge and best practices with the community. ACF also assist farmers to establish

Kisan Clubs and Krushi Vikas Samiti to enable sharing information and technical knowledge while building linkages with the market for better bargains as a group, in row of this ACF promoted Farmers Producer Company to develop business sense amongst them.ACF is also supporting farmers for Integrated Crop Management in Soybean and building their capacity on Integrated Crop Management to enhance the productivity of secondary Soybean crop through extension services like trainings and Farmer Field schools. Demonstration are also organized on new high yielding varieties, Broad Bed Furrows to demonstrate in-situ moisture conservation and seed treatment with Rhizobium, PSB & fungicide. In year 2015, 416 soil testing has been done to ensure soil health management and 23 demonstrations on improved technologies. ACF also provides technical advisory support over the cropping season through SMS and field expert advices.The efforts undertaken for sustainable soybean has resulted into the increased yield of soybean with up to 35 % in varietal trial than control plot, farmers realized benefits of using bio fertilizers and reduction in use of chemical fertilizers and willingness of the farmers increased for varietal replacement in soybean.Contributed By : Mr. Amol Gawande, Ambuja Cement foundation, Chandrapur, Maharashtra, India, www.ambujacement.org

Ambuja Cement Foundation (ACF) Integrated Practices in Soybean


Nature Bio-Foods Ltd. (NBFL), the pioneer in organic food business in India; is a part

of LT Foods Ltd, which commenced its organic business in 1997. Our success results from

our continued involvement in the backward integration - Farm Production, Manufacturing, Packaging and Marketing. Having spent nearly 2 decades of remarkable and glorious period in the organic food business; NBFL takes the pride to be a dedicated company of LTFL to carry on its organic food business to cater excellent services to the valued customers.NBFL’s member farming families increased manifolds to reach over 70000 with a certified organic area under crop production of over 64000 hectares. The farming areas are spread in 12 states across India from the Himalayan mountainous region to coastal plain belt of the southern India covering wider agro-climatic zones for the diversified organic crop cultivation to enrich the organic product portfolio.Apart from the rice and other organic products, Nature Bio-Foods Ltd is continuously working with small and marginal tribal farmers in Chhindwara and Hoshangabad districts of Madhya Pradesh for establishment of an integrated supply chain of organic soybean. During our organic journey, we have developed 34223 ha area certified as per Indian and international standards for organic soybean cultivation and in this endeavour, we are being supported by more than 20 thousand farmers. Over the years, NBFL soybean project is bringing significant development in the overall socio-economic status of the farmers. This success is being achieved through environment friendly, sustainable soybean based diversified cropping system. Knowledge enhancement of the farmers is being done continuously by NBFL through various extension services, training programmes and with the help of appropriate soybean varieties suitable for the local agro-climatic conditions.Besides saving and nurturing the environment and ecology with organic production and serving the nation with healthy and pure foods,

we are committed to contribute for the socio-economical development of associated farmers, their families, local community and society at large. The consistent work performance of NBFL helped in changing the lives of the tribal communities in an area of 6550 ha land spread across 09 villages in Harrai block of Chhindwara as Nature Bio-Foods Ltd is working with M P government through Public Private Partnership for the implementation of Integrated Watershed Management Program (IWMP).In our Fair Trade projects, which spread over more than 80 villages, farmers are becoming more and more aware on modern agriculture techniques and organic farming practices. The realised premium amount and social development fund is helping them to solve their community welfare problems. It has created the win -win model with the farmers.Our association with the farming community is beyond a business relationship. They are our partners in the organic value chain, where practicing organic farming is their responsibility and to support the farmers in terms of technical guidance, training, monitoring, certifications along with market linkages is our responsibility. Aiming at sustainable development, we are looking forward to have never ending relationship with the farmers and continuing our seamless work in the field of organic farming to benefit the human society, environment and ecology.Contributed by: Mr. Abhijeet Bhosale, Project Manager, Nature Bio-Foods Ltd. Sonepat, Haryana, India

Nature Bio-Foods Ltd. (NBFL)Organic Soy


The Directorate of Soybean Research (DSR), a premier institution under the aegis of

Indian Council of Agricultural Research, is engaged in

soybean research and development in the country. It is providing centralized support to the production system research with basic technologies and breeding material. It also looks after the inter-disciplinary and multi-location research through All India Coordinated Research Project on Soybean (AICRPS). 45th AGM of AICRP on Soybean was organized by ICAR-Directorate of Soybean Research, Indore and Regional Research Centre, Amrawati (Dr. P D Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola) from May 9-11, 2015, which was attended by 82 soybean scientists from various states of the country. The meet was inaugurated by Dr Ravi Prakash Dani, Honorable Vice Chancellor, PDKV, Akola and presided over by Dr. B. B. Singh, Asst. Director General (O&P), ICAR. Dr. Dani in his inaugural speech stressed upon addressing the emerging problems in soybean cultivation. He expressed great concern over vagaries of monsoon experienced during last two years which led to significantly low productivity, particularly in the state of Maharashtra. Dr. B. B. Singh assured that soybean scientists would take note of changing situations and orient their research activities to overcome them. Considering the global climatic changes, Dr. V. S. Bhatia, Director, ICAR- Directorate of Soybean Research, Indore stressed upon need to make soybean crop more climate resilient. During the meet the Idea of Sustainable Soy Week (SSW) was shared among the scientists for organizing various activities of awareness among the farmers during Sustainable Soy Week 1-7th June, 2015. As it was planned to organize jointly by DSR and Solidaridad in co-ordination and facilitation with the soy value chain stakeholders.Scientists from all over the country presented research findings of previous year and deliberated upon various issues and finalized the technical programme for Kharif 2015. Highlights of this meeting are presented below.

At Marathwada Agricultural University, Parbhani Soybean variety MAUS 612 developed was identified for Southern Zone which includes Kolhapur, Sangli belt of Maharashtra. The variety has and yield potential of 25 q/ha and matures early 91-95 days. Also at Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana Variety SL 979 developed was also identified for cultivation in Northern Plain Zone. Keeping in view the shortage of quality seed target of 17,000 quintal of breeder seed production has been earmarked which will ensure availability of seed of improved varieties to the farmers in coming years. Many thing related to pest management were also discussed. Considering the growing menace of yellow mosaic virus disease, a strong programme of breeding for resistance to YMV involving many centres has been recommended. As soybean rust is a recurring problem in Southern Maharashtra, efficient management strategy has been developed. A package of integrated management of major insects and diseases in soybean has been developed and recommended for adoption by the farmers. With this in order to reduce cost of plant protection measures, tank-mix formulations of compatible insecticides and weedicides have been recommended for different situations of insect-pests and weeds.Issues on inconsistent rainfall and prolonged dry spells during the season were discussed and strategies to mitigate losses due to such unfavourable conditions have been recommended. To address the issues of water stress (excess and less) conditions planting of soybean with Ridge and Furrow system is recommended. To popularize improved soybean production technology, total 1170 frontline demonstrations have been allotted to research centres and NGOs, across the country. With this it has been decided that DSR, Indore would impart training to soybean scientists on important issues for enhancing their skills and competence. Contributed By: Dr. Amar N. Sharma, PhD, Principal Scientist and Principal Investigator (AICRPS-Entomology) ICAR-Directorate of Soybean Research, Indore 452 001, MP, India

45th Annual Group Meeting of All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Soybean

Directorate of Soybean Research


RTRS’s 10th annual conference (RT10) on 19th – 20th, May, 2015 in Brussels offered

a rare opportunity for responsible soy producers from Brazil, Argentina, Canada and India to come

together and exchange experiences among themselves and with all stakeholders in the soy supply chain. It was organized to explore the road to achieve 10 million tonnes of responsible soy in 2017 together with members, stakeholders and to debate on the required steps and tools needed to reach the destination and discuss solutions to overcome potential roadblocks along the soy chain. Also producers and buyers gave insights into the impact and benefit they experienced with responsible soy. RT10 is the tenth round table since the formal establishment of RTRS in Switzerland in 2006. RTRS established its first standard in 2010. The first certified responsible soy has reached the market in 2011. Now, four years later, the efforts of RTRS members ( producers, traders, brands and other buyers ) have delivered about 1.5 million tonnes of certified responsible soy to the market. There is sufficient supply potential to satisfy new and much higher buying commitments and RTRS is facilitating increases of demand and commitment from brands and other end-buyers is the current focal point of RTRS. RT 10 was a platform for dialogue between global stakeholders, industry commitments and on potentials in even bigger view of recent sustainability pledges of major brands, traders and commodity producing companies to 'deforestation-free', 'no social abuse' or 'zero land grab' supply chains. The focus of this conference, was on developing markets for certified responsible soy. It was also highlighted that RTRS is not yet effective in preventing global warming, increased food production needs, wealth and population increases will put more pressure on climate, on land, water resources and on local communities. Choices made at micro-level - the farm, the region,

the company - , however rational they may seem, still do not lead to sufficient results to combat climate change, to reduce poverty and hunger and to reach global sustainable development goals. One major global ecological challenge was manifest at the conference was deforestation and the time to bring it down to zero is now. Solidaridad shared the RTRS experiences of working with smallholders in India which is being implemented with 7 local NGO partners. Programme has great impact in the lives of smallholders like cost of cultivation is down by 10-15 % because of balanced use of fertilizer and optimal seed utilization and production grew by 15-20% because of improved technologies. The programme also led to an increase in ground water and to an improved soil health due to the use of bio compost, bio pesticides and balanced fertilizer application. It had an important social impact as well like smallholders are organized into the groups this not only strengthen entrepreneurship, but it is also leading to better labour practices, with less child labour and more school attendance, stronger community cohesion, and to less domestic violence and social evils. The lead farmers who are at the front of the soy programme are helping to demonstrate innovations and to change old patterns of behaviour. They are a role model in the society. Indian industries like Ruchi soya industries and Vippy industries Ltd. are also engaged in the programme and supporting RTRS. Altogether among the benefits cited by the stakeholders who participated; increased market opportunities, improved agricultural practices, better farm management, a greater economic, ecological and social impact and a more responsible use of agrochemicals.

RTRS’s 10th Annual Conference


C ontrol Union is an independent, internationally operating organization

that carries out inspections and issues

certificates for sustainable production methods. Control Union is one stop shop for various certification needs. Control Union promotes the proper designation of products which have been produced/ processed according to sustainable production methods by means of supervising, testing, inspecting, assessing and certifying them. To co-ordinate its operations as closely as possible with the local situation, Control Union employs representatives worldwide. It is Control Union’s policy to delegate inspection and certification activities towards local and sister companies members of Control Union Certifications, to reduce the costs and to improve the service. Why Sustainable Agriculture

• To maintain balance between environmental , ecological & agriculture balance

• To promote business in a sustainable way• To anticipate customer demands• To promote sustainable living• To expand agriculture capacity

Control Union is an accredited by Organismo Argentino de Acreditación (OAA) which status is recognized by the Round Table on Responsible

Soy Association to carry out inspections and certification according to the RTRS Responsible Production Scheme.Certification as a market instrumentThe principle of certification can be made clear by the role it plays in society:• Producers prefer distinction from colleagues/

competitors with regard to the supplied (quality of ) products.

• Buyers benefit from a guaranteed performance of the products and from reliable information about the product.

• Certification organizations, independent and without market interests, form the link between (the interests of ) both parties: the production system is inspected according to agreed standards, contractually agreed with the producer and regularly inspected. The specifications and the area of application are laid down in a scope certificate that is available for the buyer as an informative document.

Certification processSuppose you wish to sell your products as certified products with a social and environmental responsible production image, and which production complies with the Sustainability standards. Associação Control Union Certificates (Control Union) can assist you to achieve this objective. As a certification organization, we can carry out reliable inspections and certifications, which are internationally accepted.

Sustainable Soy Certification

For further details please contactControl Union, Address- Plot Number C-113, TTC Industrial Area, Pawane MIDC, Navi Mumbai, India- 400709, Vishal Shinde, [email protected]/[email protected]


G overnment of Maharashtra’s ‘Convergence of Agricultural Interventions in

Maharashtra’s’ (CAIM) assisted by International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and Sir Ratan Tata Trust (SRTT) implement the program at Distressed Districts i.e. Akola, Amravati,

Buldhana, Yavatmal, Washim and Wardha. The programe envisages targeting about 1606 villages of 64 clusters from six districts through various community mobilization activities, women empowerment Programs, Soil and Water Conservation practices, sustainable agriculture development, diversification of cropping patterns, markets and value chain development etc. Around 50 drought-affected villages in Akola Cluster have got permanent relief from the perennial water scarcity, because of the farm Ponds developed under CAIM Project. These Ponds are not only quenching the thirst of the villagers but also catering to their need of water for daily use, for cattle and for irrigation. In last couple of years, the project developed as many as 146 farm ponds in 16 villages falling in the saline belt, thus giving relief to the populace of adjoining 50 villages from the ever persisting drinking water scarcity.Soybean records big leap in yield Umesh Bopte, a young farmer of village Apatapa says that soyabean yield from his farm increased by one and half times from what he used to reap earlier. “Before the construction of a farm pond

close to my farm, I used to reap 6 quintals of soybean per acre, but ever since the project developed a farm pond in 2013, I reaped an average yield of 9 quintals per acre last year.Ramchandra Ghawat, Member, Akola Panchayat, said that there is absence of canal irrigation system in this area, due to which water scarcity for agricultural crops is prominent. Low water table and higher salt contents in available water are the main constraints of very less no.of wells in this area. Which hampers rabi season plantation & cropping intensity. But due to Farm Ponds developed here, they have now provision of protective irrigation for crops in kharif season & availability of water for rabi season to take second crop in a year. Suresh Bhimrao Apotikar, a farmer of village Marodi, has even experimented vegetables cultivation and fishery on the farm ponds in the village. Initially, he did a business of Rs. 70,000 through fishery but it did not last long for want of technical expertise. He also did the business of Vegetables excellently. As he sold fresh vegetables directly from the farm pond, he received good response from villagers.Contributed by: Programme Director, Programme Management Unit, Convergence of Agricultural Interventions in Maharashtra, Amravati Ph.No.0721-2552475.

Convergence of Agricultural Interventions in Maharashtra (CAIM)Success Stroy : Farm Ponds Quench Thirst of Parched Villages

RBI to support farm produce aggregation to facilitate credit flow for FPOsWith a view to facilitate credit flow in the agriculture sector, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) will support arrangements for aggregating farm produce which will help the foreign lenders to meet their Priority Sector Lending (PSL) targets. It is a challenge for foreign banks to meet the PSL targets, especially in lending to the agriculture sector. Aggregating farm produce through Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) would give foreign lenders, an opportunity to lend to the agriculture sector. FPO will help in bringing a professional attitude among the farmers who can then form groups and register as a company that will give technical and financial assistance to its members. FPOs are supposed to prepare a 20-year roadmap for financial inclusion and banks to be considerate in giving loans to poor farmers.


Climate adaptation technology saved the soybean crop during the long dry-spell

I GS is implementing Farmer Support Programme with the support of

Solidaridad. This success story is about one of lead farmer in the programme. Mr. Gajanan Ramrao Vaidya lives in village Dhanora Vaidya District Akola, Maharashtra. Mr. Gajanan adopted all the recommended practices of soybean in his plot of 5 acres i.e. seed treatment, spacing of 18 inches, balanced doses of fertilizers along with standards of sustainability. Experiencing the losses because of drought; this year he decided to adopt the climate adaptation technologies i.e. Broad Bed Furrow (BBF) planting method and inter-cultural operations for in-situ moisture conservation. As an immediate impact of BBF planting method he saved 25 KGs of soybean seed and good seed germination. This year after the sowing there was a long dry spell of more than 30 days, which was very critical for crop survival in the field hence some of the farmers lost their crop whereas Mr. Gajanan saved his crop because of conserved moisture in soil by BBF and timely inter-cultural operations. He is hoping to get yield 2.5 tons per hectare yield of soybean this year.

Samarth Kisan Producer CompanyFarmers dealing with markets

Samarth Kisan Producer Company, which is smallholders’ local organization is able to leverage

collective strength and bargaining power to access financial and non-financial inputs and services and appropriate technologies, reduce transaction costs, tap markets and enter into partnerships with private

and public entities on more equitable terms. Samarth is managed by professional management team who support the BoDs in day to day operations. It provides various services to its members, including aggregation of quality inputs, agri-extension, quality seeds, warehousing, linkages with financial institutions and government schemes. Extension plays an important role for adoption of better practices by farmers, Service Providers who are the local youth trained by Samarth provide extension services to farmers in their locality and their service is being provided on service delivery payment basis. Aggregation of inputs not only solves the issue of availability of timely quality at fair prices also it discourage malpractices in local market. Producer’s groups are facilitated to get the linkages with Banks for credits. It is well known fact that the availability of quality seeds is not only critical but a basic and mandatory factor that affects the increase in production of a particular crop. Therefore, Samarth have taken the initiative to produce and process certified soy and wheat seeds. This ensures supply of locally produced quality seeds at a fair price to farmers in locality as well as near-by Districts and States. Warehouse managed by Samarth provides facility for safe storage of seeds and also finance on pledged stock through financial institutions. In year 2014-15 Samarth produced and marketed 3,500 quintals of soy seeds and 10,000 quintals of wheat seeds. Company’s annual turnover is INR 46.2 Million. As a result farmers are able realize 15-20 percent increase in yields and 10-12 percent reduction in cost of cultivation comparatively because of adoption of sustainable soy practices on the other hand it ensure better integration of smallholders with key value chain players. Ever since its inception, it has been instrumental in bringing about a marked improvement in the social and economic status of members. It encourages self-reliance, while ensuring cooperation among its members, and follows a democratic functioning process essential to the success of any enterprise.


Contact us

The Secretariat National Platform for Sustainable Soy

C/o - Central India OfficeSolidaridad, South and South East Asia

Shreenath Kripa Apartment (G.F.), D-26, BDA,Near Police Chowki, Koh-E-Fiza, Bhopal

India-462001E-mail : [email protected]

Phone : +91755 2548160

C entral Institute of Agricultural Engineering (CIAE) was established

long back in the year 1976 at Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India, with an aim to address, analyse and research on different prospects of agriculture engineering. The institute is focused on developing new innovative technologies (products and methodologies) for agricultural growth. CIAE is having divisions for Agricultural Mechanization, Irrigation & Drainage Engineering, Agricultural Energy & Power, Agro Produce Processing and Technology Transfer. It is an established fact that soy food products are nutritious, health promoting and economical. Incorporation of properly processed soy products in daily diet, is therefore, advocated for deriving nutrition and health benefits at cost affordable by the common man. Considering its nutritional enhancement through the use of soybean its popularization and commercialization is very essential. Agro Produce Processing Division at CIAE regularly organizes six – day hands on trainings to empower the upcoming entrepreneurs for manufacture of quality and safe soy products for making available to the population. The topics for training are : - i) Soymilk and Soy paneer and

Central Institute of Agricultural Engineering (CIAE) Commercialization of Soy-based Food Technology through

Entrepreneurship Training

Month Duration November, 2015 16-21 December, 2015 14 -19

ii) Full-fat Soy-flour, Soy-based Bakery Products and Soy Snacks. Following is the Soy-food Training programme for next two months for upcoming Entrepreneurs. Upcoming entrepreneurs may take advantage of this activity for income and employment generation.

Contributed by : Dr S D Kulkarni, Principal Scientist, Central Institute of Agricultural Engineering, Bhopal