Ankesh Shahra was bestowed with the Globoil “Global YoungEntrepreneur” for his efforts in setting up a global plantation business, aswell as bringing Indian products to global markets. He was presented this awardby Member of Parliamentand legal luminary,Mr Ram Jethmalani.

While accepting theaward, Ankesh Shahra expressed concern about the gap in food security in India.He said that Indian farmers are especially sensitive to climate change, sincetheir operating margins are much lower than other farmers. Therefore, it isimportant for them to look at the most effective technological means to improvetheir productivity, whilst maintaining the level of quality that consumersincreasingly desire. The longer they depend on expensive inputs, the more vulnerablethey will be to the vagaries of Mother Nature.

It was with this thoughtthat Hi-Rich seeds was conceptualized and developed by Ankesh. It is learntthat the Company has spent considerable amount of time on the research anddevelopment to provide farmers with seeds that are more drought and diseaseresistant, so that they can survive even if the climate is not favorable. Thiswill enable the farmer to meet its ongoing debt obligations, and ensure surplusincome to be able to provide for their families. Finally, it will benefit thecountry as a whole, since the overall production will increase.

Recently the steps takenby the Indian Government are also very promising. They recognize the importanceof oilseed cultivation in India and have increased the import duties onvegetable oils the highest levels seen historically. They have also incentivesexports of Oil-Meals, and this will help push the industry, which in turn willbenefit the farmers.

Source - http://www.fnbnews.com/Food-Safety/Shahra-of-Ruchi-Soya-wins-Globoil-Global-Young-Entrepreneur-Award-2012