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Showing posts from October, 2023

ISMA pegs 9 pc fall in gross sugar output for 2023-24; says sufficient to meet local demand

In August, ISMA had estimated gross sugar production at 369 lakh tonnes, while the net sugar output was projected at 328 lakh tonnes after a diversion of 41 lakh tonnes for ethanol. "With India's domestic consumption average of 278.5 lac tons, the production estimates assure sufficient sugar for domestic consumption," ISMA said. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/K2VuNMm

India braces for 8% sugar output dip as cane crop suffers- trade body

India's sugar production is anticipated to decline by 8% to reach 33.7 million metric tons in the marketing year 2023/24, commencing on October 1. This projection, put forth by a prominent trade association, is attributed to the decreased rainfall in crucial sugar-producing states, which is expected to impact crop yields. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/B9tkJTf

Strategic collaboration: Arya.ag and Fortune Rice advance crop monitoring for agriculture

As part of this collaboration, Fortune Rice Limited will provide details of 2000 acres of farmland under monitoring. Arya.ag will provide comprehensive insights into crop health and growth patterns, empowering farmers, and agribusinesses with data-driven decision-making tools. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/AOZDeaK

Significant drop in number of farm fires in Punjab, Haryana this year: CAQM

Since September 15, there have been about 56 per cent fewer stubble-burning events in Punjab and 40 per cent fewer instances in Haryana than there were during the same period previous year. The total number of farm fires in Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and the NCR regions of Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh between September 15 and October 29 decreased to 6,391 in 2023 from 13,964 in 2022, according to the Center's Commission for Air Quality Management. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/ErlwLoq

Punjab farmers strike gold selling stubble bales

In Punjab, many farmers have found a profitable solution to the issue of stubble, a farming byproduct often burned and blamed for pollution. These farmers are now selling their stubble to biomass plants and boilers. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/GfZWshH

Onion prices soar in Delhi; traders blame it on supply shortage

The price of onions surged significantly on Saturday, nearly doubling from the previous rate, thereby placing additional strain on household budgets. The sudden and substantial increase in onion prices is being attributed by onion traders to a shortage in the supply of this essential kitchen staple. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/WE2Qns8

Onion prices soar by 57%; Centre increases buffer stock sales for consumer relief

from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/hvlbPLN

Government increases bid quantity to 200 tonne under OMSS wheat to stabilise wheat, flour prices

Food Corporation of India, the government's nodal agency for procurement and distribution of foodgrains, is offloading wheat from its buffer stock under the OMSS. Consequently, the total quantity offered per e-auction across the country has also been increased from 2 lakh tonne to 3 lakh tonne, the statement said. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/ZldGU5Y

Pvt sector can provide advisory services, tech to support agricultural development: Ramesh Chand

"Private sector can play a critical role in precision farming In India. It can provide advisory services, agrochemicals, and suitable technology to support agricultural development," the NITI Aayog member said. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/htI0Wiz

Onion prices shoot up 60% in two weeks

According to senior trade sources, the sowing of kharif onions in the southern states of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh was low as farmers incurred losses in the last two years. Below normal rainfall in these states has further reduced the onion production. The country will now get its next new harvest of kharif onions from Alwar in Rajastan. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/9Etr4m5

Rabi season fertiliser subsidy of Rs 22,000 crore gets nod

The Union cabinet has approved nutrient-based fertiliser subsidy rates for the rabi season 2023-24, with an outlay of ₹22,303 crore. This move aims to ensure that farmers can access soil nutrients at reasonable rates despite high global prices. The subsidy rates for nitrogen-based fertiliser, phosphorus, potash, and sulphur have been announced. These rates are lower than those during the kharif season due to the rationalisation of subsidies based on recent international price trends. The government aims to provide fertilisers to farmers at last year's rates. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/uRJ0bd6

Against the grain: The many pressures that are cooking up a rice crisis

Non-basmati white rice constitutes about 25 per cent of total rice exported from the country. India accounts for 40 per cent of global rice exports, but in the last few months, the country has prioritised domestic demand over global demands. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/0r4ueUK

Haryana giving special incentive to farmers to adopt crop diversification

In this direction, the state government took the initiative and started its ambitious Mera Pani-Meri Virasat Scheme, under which the key objective is to ensure water conservation while crop diversification. "This scheme is proving to be very effective, and considering its success, a target of saving 42,480 crore litres of water has been set for the year 2023-24," it said. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/l1P936w

'No proof our wheat exports harming others'

India has defended its wheat exports at a meeting of the World Trade Organization (WTO), stating that there is no evidence of harm to food security or trade distortion. The country called for a food security package at the WTO's 13th Ministerial Conference, emphasizing the need for a solution on public stockholding. India's request has gained support from around 80 countries, including China and South Africa. The European Union has also expressed its support for finding a permanent solution to the public stockholding issue. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/nk5uTAD

Purabi Dairy to release Rs 1.47 crore additional procurement price to dairy farmers in Assam

Purabi Dairy, the largest dairy cooperative in Assam, has announced an additional milk procurement price of Rs 147.91 lakh for dairy farmers. The decision is expected to significantly boost the income of thousands of farmers and strengthen the rural economy. The cooperative aims to encourage farmers to adopt scientific dairying techniques and has expanded its product range and entered new markets to ensure sustainable growth. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/cLXWNiR

Agriculture’s share in global economy up: Ramesh Chand

“The agricultural sector’s contribution to global GDP has increased from 3.2% in 2006 to 4.3% in 2021 while the growth rate in manufacturing and non-agricultural sectors has slowed even in the developing countries,” Ramesh Chand said while speaking at the inaugural session of Kautaliya Economic Conclave 2023 on Friday. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/H4wd1vs

Govt revises down 2022-23 wheat output by 2.19 mn ton to record 110.55 mn ton in final estimate

The Indian government has revised downward its wheat production estimate for the 2022-23 crop year to 110.55 million tonnes, down by 2.19 million tonnes from the previous estimate. Unseasonal rains during harvesting led to some loss, resulting in the downward revision. However, rice production is estimated to reach a record 135.75 million tonnes, coarse cereals production is higher at 57.31 million tonnes, and oilseeds production has reached a record 41.35 million tonnes. Cash crops like sugarcane and cotton also saw increases in production. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/3f0yRi9

Horticulture output rises to 351.92 million tonne in 2022-23: Government data

India's horticulture production is projected to increase by 1.37% to 351.92 million tonnes in 2022-23, driven by higher productivity. The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare released estimates indicating a record-breaking horticulture production for the year. The country's fruit production is expected to reach 108.34 million tonnes, while vegetable production is estimated at 212.91 million tonnes. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/TK9zQR6

Govt hikes wheat MSP by Rs 150 to Rs 2,275 per quintal for 2024-25

The Indian government has increased the minimum support price (MSP) of wheat by Rs 150 to Rs 2,275 per quintal for the 2024-25 marketing season, the highest increase since 2014. The MSP for other rabi crops including gram, barley, lentil, rapeseed-mustard seed, and safflower has also been raised. The decision was made at a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/sHkcZg6

Concerns about productivity prompt India to restrict export of organic sugar

India is planning to restrict the export of organic sugar for the 2023-24 season due to record-high outward shipments. Currently, raw, white, and refined sugar are already on the restricted list until October 31, and the timeline is expected to be extended. The government is concerned about productivity and wants to add organic sugar to the restricted list. There have also been concerns about the impact of a weak monsoon on sugarcane crops. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/Y0XoP5u

How the onion rolls: The politics and economy of India's kitchen staple

The Reserve Bank of India's governor, Shaktikanta Das, highlighted the need to closely monitor onion production during a recent meeting. Onions have played a significant role in Indian politics, with their prices having the ability to influence public sentiment and even determine election outcomes. India is the second-largest onion-growing country globally and exports a substantial amount of onions to countries like Bangladesh, Malaysia, and the UAE. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/pHoc6ZO

Indian wheat prices at 8-month high on festival demand, tight supply

Indian wheat prices have reached an eight-month high due to strong demand for festivals, limited supplies, and import duties making overseas buying unfeasible for domestic flour mills. The government may release more stocks and eliminate import duties to control prices. Rising wheat prices could contribute to food inflation. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/5crEs2J

Cane-derived ethanol prices may be hiked to woo investors

The Indian government is likely to raise the price of ethanol derived from sugarcane juice or syrup in order to incentivize investments in the ethanol industry. Currently priced at ₹65.60 per litre, the Indian Sugar Mills' Association has been urging the government to increase the price by ₹4 per litre. The industry needs to invest ₹17,000 crore to produce 11 billion litres of ethanol, with a target of achieving 20% blending with petrol by 2025. This move is part of a broader effort to increase the use of biofuels and reduce reliance on costly crude oil imports. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/Pi9XMDF

Maharashtra may cut area under chana and wheat, shift to maize and jowar

Maharashtra, the second largest producer of chana and sixth largest for wheat in India, is planning to reduce the area under chana and wheat during the rabi season due to concerns over water availability. Instead, the state plans to increase the area under crops like jowar and maize, which require less water from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/oeYAaRz

India's basmati rice growers face losses as floor price dents exports

India and Pakistan are the only growers of basmati rice. New Delhi exports more than 4 million metric tons of basmati - the premium long-grain variety famed for its aroma - to countries such as Iran, Iraq, Yemen, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and the United States. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/sDuopwN

Potential 'Super El Nino' in 2024 and its implications for India's monsoon

El Nino, characterized by warmer Pacific Ocean waters near South America, significantly influences global weather patterns, impacting food production, water resources, and overall well-being. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/OqZYaUm

Basmati exporters stop buying to protest pricing curbs

Basmati exporters and millers in Haryana, Punjab, and western Uttar Pradesh have stopped purchasing rice from wholesale markets due to the government's decision to maintain the minimum export price (MEP) at $1,200 per tonne. This high MEP makes it difficult for Indian basmati exporters to compete globally. Despite promises to lower the MEP to $900 per tonne, the government has not done so. Farmers are now facing losses as they are unsure where to sell their newly harvested basmati rice, which is primarily exported. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/k3qpNro

Govt gives final warning to sugar sector stakeholders to disclose stocks by Oct 17

The Indian government has issued a final warning to all legal entities involved in the sugar trade to declare their stocks on a food ministry website by October 17. The government has observed that many entities have not registered themselves on the sugar stock management system and are not updating their stock position regularly, which disrupts the sugar market equilibrium. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/Lf6v2Zj

Rice traders demand flat export duty on parboiled rice

Rice exporters in Kolkata have requested the Indian government to impose a flat export duty of USD 80 per tonne for parboiled rice, instead of the current 20% duty. The Indian Rice Exporters Federation (IREF) has also asked the government to reconsider the ban on white rice exports and reduce the minimum export price for basmati rice to USD 850 per tonne. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/USgv9l1

Coffee in India's facing the impact of climate change - but work on mitigation's begun

Climate change is negatively impacting coffee production in India, particularly in the state of Karnataka, which produces 70% of India's coffee. Erratic rainfall and rising temperatures are affecting the growth and yield of coffee plants, reducing production and increasing susceptibility to pests. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/OeVz5T6

Coffee cultivation in India faces climate change challenges: Rising temperatures & erratic rainfall threaten production

Climate change is negatively impacting coffee production in India, particularly in the state of Karnataka, which accounts for over 50% of the country's coffee production. Erratic rainfall and rising temperatures are affecting the growth and yield of coffee plants, reducing production and increasing susceptibility to pests. The areas suitable for coffee cultivation globally are expected to decrease by half by 2050. Farmers are implementing strategies such as maintaining shade, intercropping, and exploring alternative coffee species to mitigate the effects of climate change on their crops. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/MDSkcHQ

Export duty on parboiled rice extended upto March 31, 2024

The Indian government has extended the export duty on parboiled rice until March 31 next year. This move aims to maintain sufficient local stock and control domestic prices. The restrictions apply to all varieties of non-basmati rice, which make up about 25% of the country's total rice exports. Earlier, the government also banned the export of non-basmati white rice to boost domestic supply and control retail prices during the festive season. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/IB9wzR8

West Bengal does not have a single farmer suicide: Agriculture minister Sobhondeb Chattopadhyay

Sobhondeb Chattopadhyay said the income of West Bengal's farmers has tripled, making it the highest growth rate in the country. He was speaking at the seventh Food Processing Conclave organized by CII. He also stressed the crucial role that 864 Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) in teh state should play in bridging the gap between buyers and producers for the benefit of both parties. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/oIsrn34

Assam Chief Secretary asks agriculture department to collect photographs of successful cultivators

The Chief Secretary appreciated the low-cost innovative application of Solar powered pumping station on a floating barge made of recycled UPBC barrels with a flexibility of supplying water at various locations on demand by farmers launched in Boko-Chaygaon Division (Irrigation). Also he has appreciated the idea of providing tank at the tail end of Irrigation canals to store surplus water and practice of pisciculture there. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/Ps01l9W

P2P lending platform Rang De disburses Rs 85 lakh worth of credit to small, marginal, and landless farmers in Assam

Through a strategic collaboration with Siddhi Vinayak Agri Processing Pvt Limited (SV Agri), Rang De is supporting the potato value chain in Assam to tackle the above bottlenecks through an innovative blend of financial solutions. By helping potato farmers connect with suppliers who provide them with resources (backward linkage) and buyers who purchase their produce (forward linkage), along with tailored credit solutions, Rang De is helping farmers create a sustainable ecosystem for growth. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/p26FjkR

Agrochemicals sector to witness 3% dip in revenue in FY24 on tepid demand: Report

The Indian agrochemicals sector is expected to face a 3% decline in revenue this year due to falling prices, weak demand, and lower reservoir levels, according to a report by Crisil. This decline is attributed to a supply deluge from China, reduced demand for exports, and the impact of lower reservoir levels on rabi sowing. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/sJKqRdl

Tur, chana prices fall 4% on rising imports, government actions, fall in demand

The prices of pulses in India have decreased by about 4% in the past month due to increased imports and reduced consumer demand. The price of tur/arhar dal has declined by 4% due to stock limits imposed by the government, while chana dal prices have also fallen by 4% as a result of increased supply and competitive tenders. However, industry executives believe that prices may increase during the festival season. In contrast, tomato prices have significantly dropped, with prices in wholesale markets ranging from Rs 3-6/kg. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/y8bScJ2

NCLAT set aside CCI order imposing penalty on 18 sugar mills, 2 trade associations

The National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) has set aside a penalty of Rs 38.05 crore imposed by the Competition Commission of India (CCI) on 18 sugar mills and two trade associations. The penalty was related to bid rigging in a joint tender for ethanol procurement. The NCLAT ruled that the CCI's order was illegal and did not comply with the principles of natural justice. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/UwRa5Jc

Policy in works to scale up bamboo cultivation

The policy, expected by the end of this year, is expected to lay down of BIS standards for bamboo, food and safety standards certification for bamboo products and geographical indications (GI) tagging to enhance exports opportunities for bamboo. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/FzOJY6j

Rubber industry faces global challenges: Low prices, labor costs, and more

Low prices of rubber, increased labour costs, labour shortages, diseases, climate change, environmental problems are the common challenges that all NR-producing countries face today- M. Vasanthagesan Executive Director of the Rubber Board from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/8JjbrkW

Jammu and Kashmir authorities plan revival of aromatic rice Mushk Budji, expand cultivation to 5,000 hectares

The cultivation area of the indigenous aromatic rice variety, Mushk Budji, from Kashmir is set to expand to 5,000 hectares in the next three years. This variety of rice was on the verge of extinction due to disease susceptibility and poor yield potential. However, efforts by the agriculture department and Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST) have led to its revival. The aim is to transform the agriculture economy in Jammu and Kashmir, boost exports, and improve farmer prosperity. The rice has received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag and is expected to tap into national and international markets. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/sWHv9SE

Govt to computerise 1,851 agri & rural development banks and state cooperative registrars

The government has announced a scheme to computerize state cooperative registrars and Agriculture and Rural Development Banks (ARDBs) offices with a budget of Rs 225.09 crore. This comes after the government started computerizing all Primary Agriculture Credit Societies (PACS) in the country. The scheme aims to bring transparency and efficiency to these offices and save time for users. The government has also decided to computerize the offices of Registrar of Cooperatives of all states and Union Territories. The central government has been taking steps to strengthen all cooperative societies in the country. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/iq27lkz

GST rate on millet-based products slashed to 5%

The Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council on Saturday decided to slash GST on millet flour food preparations from the current 18% GST to 5%. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/Fko21mt

Drought roils crops in 42 lakh hectares in Karnataka worth Rs 30,433 crore

The deficit rainfall in Karnataka has caused crop losses in 42 lakh hectares, worth about Rs 30,433 crore, during the six-month kharif season. The drought has affected agricultural and horticultural crops, leading to a 28% rainfall deficit and the third lowest rainfall in the state since 1973. This has resulted in farmers being unable to sow major crops and has posed a challenge in meeting drinking water needs. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/8SsDEuk

Govt begins kharif paddy procurement; purchases 12.21 lakh tonne so far

The Indian government has begun purchasing paddy from farmers at the minimum support price (MSP), with 12.21 lakh tonne of the grain already bought. The food ministry stated that paddy worth Rs 2,689.77 crore has been procured from 99,675 farmers in Tamil Nadu, Punjab, and Haryana. The harvesting of kharif paddy, which has been sown on a slightly larger area this year, started last week. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/f8dD1tl

Competition among sugar mills for cane to get fierce as drought shrinks crop in Maharashtra, Karnataka

Sugar mills in Maharashtra and Karnataka are preparing for a battle to secure as much sugarcane as possible. Karnataka has set an official date to begin sugar production and will take legal action against mills that do not comply. Meanwhile, the sugar industry in Maharashtra is divided over the best time to start production in order to maximize the chances of obtaining a larger share of the reduced supply of raw material. This situation is causing concern among officials. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/8WF2NXn

Green Gold: How vegetable farming can bolster India's economic health

Vegetable farming in India has the potential to boost the country's GDP and overall economic health. With shorter growth cycles, multiple harvests, and higher profit margins, vegetable farming offers advantages over traditional field crops. The rising demand for fresh and nutritious vegetables, both domestically and internationally, presents export opportunities. Vegetable farming also promotes sustainability, creates jobs, diversifies agriculture, and encourages the adoption of sustainable farming practices. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/5cKgAB9

Onion auctions resume at APMCs in Nashik after traders call off strike

Onion auctions in Nashik, Maharashtra, which were suspended for 13 days due to protests against increased export duty, have resumed. At Asia's largest wholesale onion market, Lasalgaon APMC, 545 vehicles arrived on Tuesday morning. The opening session saw onion prices range from Rs 1,000 to Rs 2,541 per quintal. Traders called off the strike after a meeting with the district Guardian Minister, with the condition that a committee would be formed to address their demands within a month. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/ZYp3DJs

Assam government on Monday announced that the daily wages of tea garden workers is increased by Rs 18

Medical bills under the scheme shall be reimbursed at rates equivalent to that of Central Government Health Schemes (CGHS) and these shall be credited directly towards the accounts of the claimant employees within a stipulated time-frame. The option of cashless payment shall also be introduced in phases. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/v3bn89Q

Tea production decreases by around 4 pc to 177.95 mkgs in August

Tea production across India declined by around four per cent to 177.95 million kilograms in August this year as compared to the output in the year-ago month. The production volume in August last year was 185.48 million kgs (mkgs). from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/gUmp7KD

Manipur moots crop compensation package for violence-affected farmers

An independent survey conducted by Loumee Shinmee Apunba Lup, a farmers' body, claimed that a total of around 9,719 hectares of paddy fields in the valley could face crop failure as farmers are afraid of going into the fields because of sporadic firing from the lower foothills. from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/9eJcL6Q

Punjab Food Secy on procurement, says 'We expect target of 182 lakh tonnes of Paddy this year'

from Agriculture-Economy-News-Economic Times https://ift.tt/pgnQliX