RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER STRATEGIES FOR THE NEXT DECADE—AN INDIAN EXAMPLE

By M.C. GOPINATHAN 

E. I. D. Parry (India) Ltd.,
Research & Development Centre,
145, Devanahalli Road, Off Old Madras Road,
Bangalore 560 049, India
GopinathanMC@parry.murugappa.com

KEYWORDS: Sugarcane, Research, Innovation,
Technology Transfer, Parry Way.

Abstract

GLOBALISATIONis driving unprecedented, radical internal and external reforms in sugar
industries across the world.
In addition to this, five major emerging or intensifying forces with extraordinary
implications will shape sugarcane farming and the sugar industry in future—demographic,
economical, socio-political, environmental and technological.
This paper first addresses the growth and status of the sugar industry and impact of
these emerging forces in shaping future Indian sugarcane farming.
Emerging complexities and diversities in farming structure and process demand a
new and more complex model of research and technology transfer.
Consolidation of the best technologies for maximum exploitation, identification of
technology diffusion and adoption gaps, and introduction of new technologies and innovative
practices throughout the farming chain will continue to play a vital role in sugarcane
productivity improvements.
Demographic changes, socioeconomic status of farmers and prices for competing
crops will demand sugar companies provide, in addition to competitive cane price, targeted
delivery of diverse services to farmers to ensure a sustainable cane supply.
Introduction of new sustainability standards and the need for certification from
consumers will drive sugar companies to integrate the entire value chain from farmer to
consumer through various forms of cooperation, relationship and partnership.
These emerging realities will open up untapped potentials and utilise opportunities
throughout the value chain to create a new research and technology transfer architecture and
competitive landscape for the sugar industry in India.

Proc. Int. Soc. Sugar Cane Technol., Vol. 27, 2010 www.issct.org