The agrichemical industry in India has undergone a dynamic transformation, evolving from a nascent sector into a global powerhouse. Spearheading this revolution is United Phosphorus Limited (UPL), which has strategically positioned itself as the world’s fifth-largest agrochemical company. UPL’s ascent is attributed to its relentless focus on sustainable agricultural practices, extensive research and development, and strategic acquisitions. By integrating cutting-edge technology and expanding its product portfolio to include bio-solutions and digital farming tools, UPL has not only catered to the diverse needs of Indian farmers but also penetrated international markets.
United Phosphorus Limited, founded in 1969 by Rajju D Shroff for the pioneering domestic production of red phosphorus, marked the beginning of its export activities in 1976 and completed its first international acquisition in 1994. Subsequently, the company diversified into plant health products to mitigate import reliance. Over the past 15 years, UPL has experienced rapid growth. During the 2014-15 period, its growth rate was 2.6 times the industry average, transforming from a niche specialty-chemicals firm focused on the local market to the world’s fifth-largest producer of post-patent agrochemicals. Initially, innovations were spearheaded by Uniphos Envirotronic.
UPL has successfully leveraged its cost-effective manufacturing base in India, integrating it with essential front-end components such as product registration, marketing, and distribution. This strategy has enabled UPL to bring its branded products to international consumer markets, spanning from Australia to Latin America. With 22 strategic acquisitions both within India and globally, UPL has significantly expanded its footprint, enhancing the prominence of the Made in India brand. As a leader in the agrochemicals and seeds sector, UPL invests heavily in research and development. Operating in 122 countries, UPL has identified key agricultural markets in Africa, Brazil, and China for future growth opportunities.
UPL’s quality control strategy targets ‘zero defects’ by meticulously monitoring every production stage, from raw material sourcing to post-production. The company has made significant investments to uphold and enhance its high environmental care and sustainability standards.
As a global leader in plant breeding and biotechnology, developing value-added hybrids and various crops. Committed to driving sustained future growth through world-class genetics and innovative technology, UPL is leading worldwide in sorghum, sunflower, tropical corn, tropical cauliflower, green peas, and late cabbage. UPL excels in India’s hybrid rice, pearl millet, okra, roots, sweet corn, cucurbits, and mustard.
India is at the pinnacle of global milk production, churning out an impressive 139 million tonnes yearly. The livestock industry is a cornerstone of the nation’s economy, contributing seven percent to the GDP and serving as the backbone for 70 percent of the rural populace’s livelihood. UPL has been actively collaborating with farmers in key agricultural states like Punjab, Haryana, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra, with a goal to engage 1.2 million farmers. This initiative is poised to elevate the dairy sector’s productivity significantly.
In the oilseed cultivation industry, soybean holds a prestigious position due to its extensive cultivation, high yields, profitability, and crucial role in preserving soil health. UPL is at the vanguard, partnering with farmers to bolster soybean production and yields through cutting-edge technologies. One such innovation is IRIS, a groundbreaking weed management system that stands out for its ease of use and non-restrictive impact on crop vitality. Its advantages have garnered widespread acceptance among farmers, positioning IRIS as the go-to solution for soybean cultivation. Furthermore, UPL’s global insights reveal that dual applications of SAAF fungicide can lead to a remarkable 40 percent surge in soybean yields, thanks to healthier, disease-resistant crops. UPL is now transferring this knowledge to Indian farmers, encouraging the adoption of SAAF to realize substantial improvements in their soybean harvests.
UPL Limited’s innovative approaches have laid the foundation for a more sustainable future, improving crop robustness and increasing agricultural output. The company’s reach goes beyond agriculture, providing a range of speciality chemicals and industrial solutions that enhance efficiency and quality across various sectors. This two-pronged influence has strengthened UPL’s position in the marketplace and set the stage for a future where natural processes and human efforts coexist harmoniously and flourish together.
