Yara’s Innovative Crop Nutrition Program Elevates South Indian Farmers, Boosting Gherkin Productivity and Sustainability

National, October, 2024: India stands as a global leader in the gherkin market, and farmers from South India are playing a pivotal role in this success story. Since 2021, over 12,000 gherkin growers in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh have embraced innovative farming techniques and sustainable practices, resulting in a remarkable 20% increase in gherkin productivity and a significant improvement in crop quality.

This transformation is driven by a unique program developed by multiple stakeholders including Yara India, which is a global leader in crop nutrition. The program empowers farmers to overcome challenges and maximize their yields through customized crop nutrition plans and optimized fertilizer use. Yara’s innovative approach of using water-soluble fertilisers and foliar applications significantly transformed gherkin cultivation in India, resulting in higher marketable yields, enhanced quality, and improved profitability. It also contributed to better soil fertility and minimised environmental impact, benefiting both farmers and the environment. This approach has translated into significant financial gains for participating farmers, who have seen an average profit increase of INR 51,000 in 2022-23 alone.

Beyond increased profitability, the program champions environmental sustainability. By optimizing fertilizer application, farmers are using 32% less nitrogen, 52% less phosphorus, and 49% less potassium, resulting in a 36% reduction in the program's carbon footprint and a total reduction of 1,416 MT in greenhouse gas emissions. Yara's commitment to knowledge sharing is evident in the extensive training programs provided to over 10,000 farmers and 54 field technicians, ensuring the widespread adoption of these sustainable practices. The program's success highlights the positive impact of collaboration between industry leaders like Yara and the farmers who form the backbone of India's agricultural success story.