The SOMS 2025 event took place successfully at the Mahatma Mandir Convention Centre in Gandhinagar. This gathering focused on the theme of “Agri-Entrepreneurship”. It aimed to promote innovations in agriculture, rural entrepreneurship, and responsible journalism. Experts from various fields attended the event, including agri-tech innovators, policymakers, researchers, educators, and rural journalists.
The event was inaugurated by Raghavji Bhai Hansraj Bhai Patel, the Minister of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, Dairying, and Fisheries for Gujarat. In his welcome speech, he praised the contributions of rural journalists and agricultural entrepreneurs. He highlighted the rapid changes in India’s agriculture sector. Innovations are providing farmers with new directions. He noted the potential for India to lead in fertiliser production in the future.
Rajib Chakraborty, the National President of SFIA, emphasised the need for the government to focus on several key issues. These include digitisation, providing equal opportunities for Indian producers to face international competition, and creating policies that boost exports. He stated that by addressing these issues, India could develop alternatives to imports within the next 1 to 1.5 years, thus promoting sustainable agriculture.
One of the main attractions of the SOMS 2025 event was the “Thesis Showdown” session. Here, students from leading agricultural universities presented their research on business opportunities. Notable projects included a study on biogenic nano-potassium fertiliser by TNAU Madurai, a proposal for intelligent sprayers for high-density horticulture from the Kashmir Agricultural University, and a project on ammonia recovery and reuse by Lakshminarayan Innovation Technological University.
Rahul Mirchandani, President of the Indian Micro Fertilizer Manufacturers Association (IMMA), Vijay Thakur, President of OAMMA, and M.N. Vaidyanathan, President of TAPMA, were also present at the event. A panel discussion on the topic of the “Essential Commodities Act – Fertilizer Control Order – Ease of Doing Business” was organised. Mirchandani stressed the need for a “One Nation, One License” policy.
During SOMS 2025, the “Agri Journalism Awards” were given to journalists who raised their voices for rural India. The winners included Pooja Das for English, Mukund Tayba Pingale for Marathi, and Himanshu Mishra for Hindi in the print/digital category. In the broadcast/YouTube category, Sunil Sushil Sharma won for Hindi, Anisha Jain for English, and Dhananjay Shriram Sanap for Marathi. Additionally, the Top National Agri-Business Magazine Excellence Award was presented.
Agricultural entrepreneurship is crucial in today’s world. It helps farmers innovate, improve their income, and contribute to the economy. Events like SOMS 2025 play a significant role in facilitating discussions and collaborations. They also provide a platform for young minds to present their ideas and research.
The government is focusing on enhancing agricultural productivity and rural development. New policies are being developed to support farmers and improve their livelihoods. With initiatives like SOMS 2025, there is hope for a brighter future for agriculture in India. The event not only celebrated achievements but also encouraged further exploration in the field.
In conclusion, SOMS 2025 is a significant step towards modernising agriculture in India. It brings together various stakeholders to discuss challenges and opportunities. The future of agriculture looks promising with innovation and collaboration at the forefront.
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