Syngenta's I-RISE Programme Aims to Empower Rural Indian Youth in Agriculture

Syngenta Group Global CEO Jeff Rowe announced the launch of the I-RISE programme in India, which aims to train 100,000 rural youth for various agricultural jobs. The programme includes 30 days of classroom training and a two-month internship, focusing on sustainable development and enhancing livelihood incomes for rural communities.

Syngenta Group Global CEO Jeff Rowe announced the I-RISE (Inculcating Rural India Skill Enhancement) programme during his first visit to India, aiming to tackle the issue of a declining skilled agricultural workforce. The initiative seeks to train 100,000 rural youth for diverse roles in agriculture.

The I-RISE programme will offer training to rural youth aged under 35 with at least class 10 education and farming experience. It includes 30 days of classroom instruction followed by a two-month internship. Post-training, participants can opt for advanced courses or seek job opportunities in the agricultural supply chain and related activities.

Highlighting the programme's alignment with eight sustainable development goals, Rowe described I-RISE as a "safety net for rural prosperity in India." The initiative emphasizes education, engagement, and elevation of livelihoods, providing a comprehensive approach to rural development. Rowe also showcased other Syngenta projects including the Climate Smart Agriculture project and the launch of TechFest, aimed at fostering technological advancements in agriculture.

(With inputs from agencies.)