Asia Research & Engagement (ARE), a sustainability-focused consultancy, has bolstered its India team with two significant appointments, underscoring the country’s pivotal role in Asia’s net-zero transition. This move has substantial implications for both the agritech sector and investors.
For agritech, ARE’s expansion in India signals a heightened focus on sustainable food systems, particularly the protein transition. With Shishir Soti and Arun Kumar joining forces with Rituj Sahu, ARE is poised to drive meaningful change in India’s agricultural sector. Their collective expertise will likely accelerate the adoption of sustainable practices, innovative technologies, and climate-resilient strategies. This is crucial for India, given its vast agricultural landscape and the need to feed a growing population while mitigating environmental impact. Investors in agritech can expect to see more opportunities in areas such as vertical farming, precision agriculture, and sustainable protein sources.
The appointments also highlight the importance of stakeholder engagement and fundraising strategies. Soti’s role in this area could lead to increased investment in agritech startups and projects, fostering growth and innovation. Moreover, ARE’s work on aligning Indian corporates and banks with net-zero goals could spur demand for sustainable agricultural practices and technologies.
For investors, ARE’s expanded India team presents several opportunities. Firstly, it offers a deeper understanding of the regulatory trends and market innovations in India’s power and agricultural sectors. Kumar’s expertise in these areas will be invaluable for investors seeking to navigate the complexities of India’s energy and agricultural transitions.
Secondly, ARE’s investor-informed approach can help shift conversations and drive change. By connecting investor expectations with corporate ambition, ARE can facilitate more sustainable investment decisions. This is particularly relevant for investors focused on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria.
Lastly, ARE’s work on capital mobilisation can bridge global finance with local sustainability outcomes. This is crucial for investors looking to align their portfolios with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Agreement. By working with ARE, investors can gain access to unique insights and opportunities in India’s sustainable transformation.
In essence, ARE’s expansion in India is a significant development for both the agritech sector and investors. It underscores the country’s role in Asia’s sustainability journey and offers a platform for driving meaningful change. As India continues to make bold strides on its decarbonisation journey, stakeholders in the agritech sector and investors would do well to engage with ARE and leverage its expertise.