IPL Biologicals and Punjab Agricultural University collaborate to launch groundbreaking bio-fungicide for paddy farmers

Ludhiana, June 7, 2024: IPL Biologicals Limited, a leading agro-biological company, has partnered with Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) to launch Agenor, a cutting-edge bio-fungicide designed to address the challenges faced by paddy farmers.

This collaboration formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), underscores a shared commitment to agricultural innovation and sustainability. The MOU facilitates the exchange of expertise and resources to develop solutions for longstanding issues such as Bakane disease, which has severely impacted paddy farmers.

Agenor demonstrates exceptional efficacy in controlling Bakane disease, also known as foot rot, a detrimental seed-borne ailment that can cause yield reductions ranging from 3% to 95% annually. By incorporating Agenor into their agricultural practices, farmers can significantly enhance their yields. Additionally, the product ensures consistent quality at competitive prices, optimizing benefits for farmers.

The strain of Agenor was developed by distinguished scientists at PAU. Leveraging this partnership, IPL Biologicals spearheaded the research and development efforts, formulating the product into a wettable powder and successfully registering it under the Central Insecticides Board & Registration Committee (CIB&RC) as Trichoderma asperellum 2% WP, now known as Agenor.

“This collaboration with PAU marks a significant milestone in our journey to provide sustainable solutions for farmers. Agenor is a testament to our commitment to innovation and excellence in agricultural biotechnology,” said Harsh Vardhan Bhagchandka, President, IPL Biologicals. “We are confident that Agenor will greatly benefit paddy farmers by effectively controlling Bakane disease and improving crop yields.”

The Vice Chancellor of Punjab Agricultural University, Dr. Satbir Singh Gosal, added, “Our collaboration with IPL Biologicals highlights the importance of partnerships in advancing agricultural research. The development of Agenor is a breakthrough for paddy farmers, especially in regions where Bakane disease is prevalent. We believe this product will make a substantial difference in crop protection and yield improvement.”

Bakane disease is a significant problem in North India, particularly in Basmati rice-growing areas. PAU scientists, with their extensive exposure and knowledge of this disease, identified the strain capable of controlling it. IPL Biologicals invested approximately four years in exhaustive research and development, followed by three years to secure all necessary licenses and registrations, culminating in the successful introduction of Agenor to agricultural communities.

IPL Biologicals Ltd. specializes in biological solutions for agriculture and boasts the widest portfolio of bio-fertilizers and bio-pesticides, with over 60 products for disease and pest management, plant nutrient and health management, and soil management. These products are renowned for their high quality and efficacy. The IPL Biologicals’ Technology and Innovation Centre focuses on microbial product development through advanced high-tech microbial technologies by a team of more than 50 scientists of varied expertise. IPL has a state of art manufacturing unit that has mastered the art of manufacturing microbial-based products in different user-friendly formulations by applying high-tech aseptic conditions to produce the same.