In recognition of its position as the first, and leading, agricultural Contract Research Organisation (CRO) established in India, SynTech Research has just held a global conference in Vizag, Andhra Pradesh, on “Agribusiness Innovations and Contract Research”, in collaboration with the Government of Andhra Pradesh.
Key attendees included: K. Atchannaidu, Minister for Labour and Employment, Factories, Youth & Sports, Skill Development and Entrepreneurship; Prathipati Pulla Rao, Minister for Agriculture, Agri-Processing, Marketing & Warehousing; Ganta Srinivasa Rao, Minister for Human Resource Development, and delegates from over 30 countries.
Commenting on the global agricultural CRO sector, SynTech Research President and CEO Dr. Khosro Khodayari said “Agro-businesses are now investing more in seeds than in agrochemical R&D, and SynTech has developed strong expertise in agricultural biotechnology studies”. He forecasted consolidation over the next 15 years; smaller companies would merge with larger multinational CRO’s. “As a science-based R&D study provider, SynTech’s aim is to be in the top three of global CROs, with a full range of field/laboratory testing and registration services” said Dr Khodayari.
Minister for Agriculture Prathipati Pulla Rao used the occasion to announce that 6,500 multiple extension officers would be employed to deliver the “Chandranna Rythu Kshetram” program, using reduced inputs while increasing outputs and profit for farmers, to be demonstrated on 50,000 acres. “The Government will strive to help farmers realize a 50% return on investment; e-marketing will be introduced and new agro-based industries will improve the prospects for farming” said Mr. Pulla Rao. He welcomed the research efforts of SynTech and said their facilities would act as incubation centers.
Dr. Simma Netaji, Head of SynTech Research India, explained how independent third party research was now in much demand from multinationals, local companies, institutes, government and NGO’s in India. “As the first CRO established in the country, SynTech is best placed to provide independent, high-quality data to these customers” said Dr Netaji.