Boron for Optimal Crop Production
Agriculture is the largest industry in India, employing nearly 60% of the country’s population. Thanks to its diverse weather, geography, and soil, farmers can produce a range of fruits, vegetables and grains, including vital food crops such as grains and pulses (legumes).
However, these same growing conditions also present potential issues, such as boron deficiency, if not addressed properly. That's why the right source and amount of boron for crop production is key.
Current State of Indian Agriculture
The principal food grain of India is rice, which is grown on more than 30% of the country’s cultivated land and accounts for more than 40% of India’s overall food crop production. Wheat is the second most important cultivated food crop in India and accounts for nearly 9% of the world’s total wheat production.
Yet despite high levels of production, agricultural yield in India is lower than other large producing countries. Although it is the second highest producer of rice in the world, India’s yield is lower than China, Brazil, and the United States. India is also the leading producer of pulses, but its yield is the lowest. Both crops feed a majority of the country’s population, so it is critical that farmers optimize production. Growing consumer demand for high-quality fruits and vegetables is also putting pressure on growers to increase yields and optimize growth.