April 23, 2018

CLFMA: Disruptive innovations key to Indian livestock sector's growth

"Disruptive innovations at every step in the animal protein value chain are necessary to sustain growth and profitability of India's livestock sector in future" said B. Soundararajan, chairman of CLFMA of India, during the World Creativity and Innovation Day being on April 21.

CLFMA of India is the apex body representing the dynamic livestock sector in India. The 50-year old industry association is recognised as one among the oldest and highly reputed in India. It currently has over 230 members representing diverse subsectors of animal protein value chain including feed manufacturing, poultry, dairy and aquaculture business, animal nutrition and health, veterinary services, machinery and equipment, processing, distribution and retailing of meat, and ancillary services such as banking.

"From business perspective, every industry needs fresh ideas from outside the system; every industry needs next-gen, young and bright minds with the clear vision and traits such as grit and perseverance to make a positive contribution to the society. It is impossible to achieve the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) without their significant participation and contribution. We strongly believe the country's fast-growing livestock sector offers huge opportunities for those who are willing to explore," Soundararajan opined.

"In the last decade, the world is witnessing how Internet of Things (IoT) and cloud-based technologies are transforming animal-agribusiness sector in unimaginable ways. For example, wearable devices on animals provide real-time data to monitor feed intake, stress levels or disease symptoms so that these can be addressed promptly not only to enhance productivity but animal welfare as well. Similarly, soil sensors help farmers analyse moisture or nutrient levels to cut down unnecessary irrigation or fertiliser application and contribute greatly to cost savings as well as environmental sustainability. These innovations provide us wealth of information to analyse every process deeper for continuous improvement. It is only a matter of time before we see all these are widely used in India."

Innovations such as e-commerce through mobile phones, coupled with analytics positively disrupted retailing in India in the recent years, according to Soundararajan.

"Through mobile apps and with just a few clicks, consumers can get their preferred type, preparation and variety of meat and seafood delivered at their doorsteps at affordable prices year-round without compromising on their two most important needs - convenience and quality," he added.

"We must be concerned about who is going to feed us in future and how to ensure food and nutritional security of the billion-plus population while remaining focused on sustainability of our unique and precious biological ecosystem. It is important to ensure India's animal-agribusiness sector attracts the best talent, sparkling brains and skilled hands from different fields and retains them."

Soundararajan pointed out that traditional business paradigms, entrenched perceptions and outdated practices must pave way to newer and fresher ideas and concepts that "only today's youth can bring in."

"Only then innovations can sprout and flourish. This industry must be seen as one of the preferred career paths by youngsters, who currently lack awareness about the ocean of opportunities available. Every one of us working in the industry must actively step up to create awareness among students who are aspire to become tomorrow's professionals, entrepreneurs, and leaders," he said.