Syngenta launches I RISE initiative for rural youth

New Delhi: Syngenta unveils the I RISE initiative, which aims to train over 100,000 rural youth for various agricultural-related livelihood opportunities.

The program, designed to address the challenges of skilled labor shortages in farming and youth migration from rural areas, is expected to play a vital role in sustaining rural prosperity in India.

Speaking at the launch, Jeff Rowe, Global CEO of Syngenta expressed optimism about India’s trajectory, driven by progressive policies, technological adoption, and innovation in agriculture. He praised India’s significant advancements in agriculture, highlighting the country’s potential to become a global leader in the sector. 

Rowe emphasized that I RISE supports as many as eight Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and “will become a safety net for rural prosperity in India, focusing on training and engaging rural youth in agriculture. It is designed to curb youth migration from villages and address the growing challenge of dwindling skilled farm personnel.”

 He highlighted programs such as Start-Up India, Stand-Up India, Skill India, and the National Skill Development Mission, noting that “From these, the Government has been focusing on providing new avenues for work and entrepreneurship.” He added, “Our endeavor is designed to support this agenda by crafting a unique program for rural youth, strengthening the agriculture ecosystem.”

The I RISE program targets rural youth under the age of 35 with at least a Class 10 education and farming experience. Participants undergo a 30-day classroom training followed by a two-month internship, after which they can pursue advanced training or seek employment in agriculture-related fields such as farming, the agricultural supply chain, or micro-businesses. The program follows a 3E approach: Educate, Engage, and Elevate—educating youth in agriculture through training and mentorship, engaging them with employment and entrepreneurship opportunities, and elevating their livelihoods.

The initiative is being implemented through partnerships with the Syngenta Foundation India, Choudhary Charan Singh National Institute of Agricultural Marketing (NIAM), and other key institutions.

Susheel Kumar, Country Head and Managing Director of Syngenta India underscored, “India’s large young population holds immense potential to transform the country into a global powerhouse and a skill hub. With more than 65% of the population under 35, this young workforce can further propel India’s development and economic growth. Keeping this in mind, we have designed I RISE program to engage rural youth in agriculture and provide them appropriate skills to explore dignified and sustainable income earning opportunities.”

He added, “Having engaged with farmers and rural youth through various innovative programs, this initiative represents another significant step in improving the quality of life for smallholder farmers and rural youth. It also aligns with our commitment to addressing the challenges posed by climate change.”

The launch event was attended by key figures from the Ministry of Agriculture & Family Welfare, including Dr. Sahdev Singh, Director of DMI, and Dr. Shailesh Mishra, Director of Extension. Also present were Dr. R.C. Agrawal, Deputy Director General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, and representatives from State Agriculture Universities and Krishi Vigyan Kendras.