News

From the RSS:

• Nagaland University study generates insights on climate variability effects on soil microbes & biological health in Assam’s tea plantations

  The study identified climatic conditions that support beneficial microbial activity and enzyme functions. Findings established soil microbial communities as sensitive indicators of environmental change and sustainable tea production. This work will support climate-resilient tea production by improving soil health monitoring.

• Govt cracks down on sugar hoarding, imposes 30-day stock limit from Aug 1 till Nov 30

  The Centre has imposed stock holding limits on sugar dealers nationwide from August 1 to November 30. This measure aims to curb hoarding and speculative trading, ensuring adequate domestic availability. The government will closely monitor market activities and take further steps if needed. Sugar prices have climbed to record highs recently, prompting government intervention. Genuine trade and distribution activities will continue without disruption during this period.

• India's January to June rice exports climb 5% as non-basmati shipments rise, sources say

  India's rice exports grew five percent in early 2026, driven by non-basmati shipments. Higher demand from African nations boosted non-basmati rice exports significantly. Basmati rice exports saw a decline due to trade disruptions with Gulf markets. Corn exports surged four hundred percent, and wheat exports also increased substantially. These export trends ensure affordable supplies for many global buyers.

• Monsoon revival boosts summer crop planting in India

  A revival in monsoon rains has accelerated the sowing of key summer crops across India, helping farmers recover from an early-season slowdown caused by delayed and below-normal rainfall. The sowing gap has narrowed to less than 5%, with rice, soybean and cotton planting picking up after widespread July rains, although some regions continue to face significant rainfall deficits.

• Erratic monsoon pushes farmers towards low-water crops, vegetables

  Erratic monsoon is reshaping India's kharif sowing patterns this season. Farmers are shifting acreage from staples to hardy crops and vegetables. Sunflower acreage has jumped significantly, and other crops like sesamum have also risen. Seed companies report increased demand for short-duration vegetables and onion seeds. Sweet corn has also emerged as another preferred crop for farmers.

• Centre to release Rs 335 crore to Maharashtra as second instalment under RKVY scheme: Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan

  According to an official statement, the minister chaired a virtual review meeting to assess the utilisation of funds released under the RKVY and to consider the issuance of the Second Installment (Second Mother Sanction) to the Government of Maharashtra.

• Steps likely to safeguard FCV tobacco farmers

  The government is currently investigating ways to protect the interests of FCV tobacco farmers. On July 25, a ministry team traveled to Andhra Pradesh to review the ongoing market climate. Their discussions emphasized strategies to support growers while ensuring the industry's stability. Additional Secretary Nitin Kumar Yadav reassured farmers about ongoing oversight, underscoring the government's commitment to considering effective protective measures.

• Need for balanced regulatory system to promote use of bio-tech in farm sector: ICAR DG

  According to a statement by the Agriculture Ministry on Sunday, Trust for Advancement of Agricultural Sciences (TAAS), in collaboration with ICAR, and the Federation of Seed Industry of India (FSII), organised a high-level roundtable on biotech crops.

• Crop prices hit three-year high as heat, war stoke supply fears

  Scorching temperatures across Europe also raise concerns over potential crop losses. This situation could lift costs for staples like bread and cooking oil.

• Conservation agriculture can boost wheat protein content by up to 12%, improve water efficiency: Study

  A study finds conservation agriculture with drip irrigation can boost wheat protein content by up to 12% while improving yield and resource efficiency.

• Pulses import bill shrinks as global prices fall, local production rises

  India's import bill for key pulses significantly decreased in FY26 due to robust domestic production. Lower global prices and import curbs also contributed to this substantial reduction. Exports of certain pulses, like Kabuli chana, saw a notable increase during the same period. This shift reflects India's growing self-sufficiency and improved market position for these commodities. Domestic policies and strong harvests have bolstered India's pulse sector performance.

• India needs income-centric agri policies, greater Centre-state coordination: EAC-PM chairman

  India must transition agriculture towards income generation, emphasizing crop diversification and market reforms, said S Mahendra Dev, Chairman of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM).

• Farmers should be ‘businessmen’ who respond to market demand, not just grow rice and wheat: NITI Aayog’s Ashok Lahiri

  Lahiri stressed the need for greater adoption of science and technology, noting that productivity per acre for several Indian crops remains significantly below global benchmarks.

• India has achieved self-reliance in food; now it's time for value addition: Chirag Paswan

  Chirag Paswan said India must now shift from food self-reliance to value addition through processing, infrastructure, innovation and better farmer market access.

• Sugar stock limits may offer temporary relief but risk disrupting the supply chain: Industry

  India is unlikely to face any immediate sugar shortage, as domestic stocks are expected to be sufficient to meet demand until the next crushing season begins, says Atul Chaturvedi of Shree Renuka Sugars.

• Fertiliser vessels stuck at ports, raise supply fears for peak kharif sowing

  Fertiliser vessels are stranded at Indian ports, hindering crop nutrient supplies. Sowing has accelerated after rainfall revival, increasing demand for timely distribution. Port congestion and supply chain issues are delaying crucial fertiliser dispatches. West Asia crisis and rerouting of vessels contribute to these significant delays. Industry executives express concerns over potential disruptions to the kharif sowing season.

• From Assam to Nilgiri: How regional teas are becoming premium brands

  India's tea market is shifting towards premium products and regional diversity. Gen Z and millennials are driving this growth, seeking authenticity and unique flavors. Regional teas from Assam, Darjeeling, and Nilgiri are gaining new recognition. Changing lifestyles and modern retail are expanding tea consumption and accessibility. Innovation and heritage are key for the industry's future growth.

• Kharif sowing gap narrows despite widening rainfall deficit; East, Central India may see improved rains: Report

  India's Kharif sowing gap narrowed significantly last week. This progress occurred despite a widening cumulative rainfall deficit over recent weeks. Rice acreage has nearly matched last year's pace, leading the recovery. Other crops like pulses and oilseeds also saw their shortfalls decrease. Improved rainfall is forecast for East and Central India in the coming weeks.

• Protein inflation surges as costlier fodder pushes up milk, chicken prices

  Protein inflation was 4.6% in May and 2.6% in January, it showed. Inflation in vegetarian protein sources also gathered pace, rising to 3.5% in June from 2.7% in May, after remaining flat in January.

• ICAR @98: Science, innovation and sustainability for Viksit Bharat 2047

  Achieving Viksit Bharat 2047 requires agriculture to move beyond production towards value addition, food processing, exports, bio-based industries, carbon markets, and rural entrepreneurship.

• A yo-yo monsoon is threatening India's crops and the power grid

  India's monsoon rainfall is becoming more erratic due to El Niño and global warming, with the shift threatening agricultural output and straining the nation's power grids. Dry spells and sudden downpours have disrupted summer crop sowing and rural incomes. Urban areas are seeing increased power demand for cooling during monsoon pauses.

• Dr Reddy's Foundation soil testing lab set to hit 1-lakh sample mark ahead of 2026 rabi season

  Dr Reddy's Foundation is expanding its soil testing operations significantly. The Hyderabad lab aims to process one lakh samples before the next Rabi season. This initiative addresses concerns about depleting soil health and government scheme implementation gaps. The foundation also partners with a startup for biological soil amendments. Collaboration with ICAR-IISS will build a digital soil health repository and advanced advisories.

• Complaints on quality of seeds, fertilisers and pesticides to be probed, resolved in 7 days: Bharane

  Maharashtra's agriculture minister announced revamped taluka committees for faster complaint resolution. These committees will now investigate seed, fertiliser, and pesticide quality issues within seven days. Field inspections and sample testing will ensure impartial inquiries into farmer complaints. Representatives of companies and retailers must attend inspections and provide purchase receipts. Strict action will follow against manufacturers and dealers supplying substandard agricultural inputs.

• Onion growers welcome agri market near Vadhvan port, urge govt to develop Nashik as export hub

  Maharashtra's onion growers welcome a new agricultural market near Vadhvan port. They propose developing Nashik as a national onion export hub for global trade. This initiative aims to boost farmer incomes and India's position in the onion market. The growers seek direct farmer benefits and improved export infrastructure. A stable export policy and processing incentives are also requested.

• Sugar prices hit record highs amid supply concerns in India

  Record high sugar prices in India have emerged due to pressing supply issues, though industry leaders assure that domestic stocks are adequate for consumer needs. This rise in prices has mainly transpired over the last month, influenced by low inventories in Maharashtra and Karnataka. Optimistically, the upcoming season is expected to see a notable boost in production.

• India has adequate sugar stocks, no basis for speculation: ISMA, NFCSF

  Indian sugar associations confirm ample domestic stocks and urge against speculative buying. The industry will start the 2026-27 crushing season early to ensure market supplies.

• DS Group launches wearable safety filter for women farmers in Uttar Pradesh

  DS Group introduced protective filters for women farmers in Uttar Pradesh. These nano-fibre filters are designed to be stitched into traditional attire. The initiative includes awareness campaigns and free health check-ups for participants. Mobile vans and street plays will also spread safety messages. This program aims to make agricultural work safer and healthier for women.

• FAI hails Cabinet nod to NIPU-2026, calls it a major boost to fertiliser self-reliance

  The policy offers investors a secure return and protects them from currency fluctuations. These reforms will enhance financial viability and promote self-reliance in urea.

• Agri Minister targets fake seeds, pesticides; aims to expand ICAR outreach

  ICAR aims for financial self-reliance through innovation and tech commercialisation by 2029. The institution released 43 new crop varieties and 17 technologies at the event.

• Development of India's highest commercial Lilium cultivation field starts in Ladakh

  India's highest commercial Lilium cultivation field development has commenced in Ladakh. Over fifty thousand premium Lilium bulbs were planted, with the first bloom expected soon. This high-altitude floriculture project aims to create sustainable livelihoods for local communities. The agriculture department will manage the field initially, then transfer it to self-help groups. Marketing support will be provided to help access national and international markets.

• If countries without GM seeds can get better yields in pulses, why can't India: Chouhan to ICAR scientists

  Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan urged ICAR to increase pulse and oilseed productivity. He emphasized research must address ground-level farmer needs and improve crop quality. The minister called for greater fertiliser self-sufficiency and integrated farming models. ICAR will develop climate-smart villages and deploy young scientists to frontier areas. The institution aims to provide 10 crore farmers direct access to scientific solutions.

• India aims for FMD-free status in nine states within two years, eyes Europe's dairy market

  India aims for foot-and-mouth disease-free status in nine states within two years. This initiative seeks to unlock Europe's lucrative dairy market for Indian producers. Sustained vaccination efforts have significantly reduced disease outbreaks across the nation. The government is also developing indigenous vaccines for various animal diseases. Efforts are underway to enhance fish exports and develop untapped aquaculture potential.

• ICAR to cap rice, wheat area under crop diversification plan; forms 52 task teams for 2047 roadmap

  The Indian Council of Agricultural Research plans crop diversification by 2047. This roadmap aims to significantly increase agricultural and horticultural production. Farm mechanization and nutrient use efficiency will also see substantial improvements.

• Rubber plantation of 1.80 lakh hectares completed in North East under Project INROAD in 5 years

  Project INROAD has established over 179,000 hectares of new natural rubber plantations. This initiative, funded by four tyre companies, is nearing its 200,000-hectare target. The project has also strengthened local nurseries and grower capacities significantly.

• Maharashtra govt to waive Rs 48,000 crore pending farm power dues: Devendra Fadnavis

  Maharashtra's Chief Minister announced a Rs 48,000 crore waiver for farmer electricity dues. This move facilitates new agricultural power connections for many farmers. The government also launched a Rs 36,585 crore farm loan waiver scheme. This scheme will benefit 56 lakh farmers across the state. Investments are also being made in sustainable agriculture and water conservation projects.

• Kharif crop acreage to rise as sowing window remains open till August 15: Shivraj Singh Chouhan

  In response to current crop shortages, farmers are set to expand acreage for essential kharif crops. Increased rainfall is expected in the next few weeks, enhancing cultivation conditions. A previous drop in paddy, pulses, and oilseeds sowing contributed to rising prices in these food categories. The sowing season for these crops will remain open until August 15.

• Bio-input demand may rise, but skill gap threatens India's green farming push: Agriculture Commissioner

  Agriculture Commissioner said widespread adoption of bio-inputs by India's nearly 14 crore farmers could generate annual demand of 20–30 crore tonnes.

• Skill shortage could derail India's bio-input ambitions: Agriculture Commissioner

  India's bio-input expansion faces a skilled workforce shortage. This gap requires urgent development of training programs for biological systems. The government must detail specific workforce needs and educational pathways. This initiative mirrors past AI skill development efforts. Such measures are crucial for India's natural farming ambitions.

• Ladakh exports first apricot consignment to UAE; LG Saxena pitches processing unit

  Ladakh's Lieutenant Governor flagged off the first fresh apricot export consignment to the UAE. This historic shipment marks a significant step for the region's horticulture sector and its farmers. Over one thousand metric tonnes of apricots are slated for export this season under a new agreement. The administration is also working to establish a world-class apricot processing unit within a year.

• Rice, oilseed, pulses prices rise as Kharif crop sowing declines

  Retail prices are rising due to reduced sowing of key kharif crops. Inflation has increased for rice, oilseeds, and major pulses in June. Acreage for these crops declined significantly compared to last year. Traders are holding produce, limiting supply and pushing prices higher. Below normal rainfall further exacerbates concerns about future availability.

• DP World to pilot atmospheric water generation technology across global operations after strategic investment in Maithri Aquatech

  Maithri Aquatech develops atmospheric water generation systems that produce potable water from atmospheric humidity.

• Two of Gujarat's leading Agricultural products, Unjha Cumin and Fennel, receive GI tag

  Unjha Cumin and Unjha Fennel have received prestigious Geographical Indication tags. This recognition strengthens their brand value and global market presence significantly. The GI tags will improve market value and enhance export opportunities for these spices. Farmers' incomes are expected to increase, boosting the local agricultural economy. Gujarat's portfolio of GI-tagged agricultural products has now expanded further.

• FCI calls media reports of Rs 1,160 crore ethanol rice diversion 'factually incorrect'

  The Food Corporation of India has denied reports of a large-scale rice diversion for ethanol. Investigations are focused on a small quantity of rice, not the entire supply. Government agencies detected irregularities and initiated action before media reports surfaced. An FIR was registered, and a joint inspection confirmed a prima facie link. Appropriate legal action will be taken against those found responsible.

• Area sown to kharif crops remains 16% on weak monsoon; paddy, pulses acreage down: Agriculture Ministry

  Kharif crop sowing is 16 percent lower this season. This delay is attributed to a weak monsoon and El Nino effects. Area under pulses and coarse cereals has significantly declined. Oilseeds and cotton coverage also shows a notable decrease. Sugarcane and jute acreage, however, have seen slight increases.

• Monsoon gains lift kharif hopes, but El Nino threat remains; govt support on seeds, diesel and livestock key

  While the narrowing rainfall deficit has eased immediate concerns, experts say it is far too early to conclude that El Niño’s influence has weakened.

• Deficit shrinks to 15% but uneven rains fan Kharif concerns

  Monsoon recovery follows a weak June, but uneven distribution persists. Many key agricultural districts still face deficient rainfall, impacting crops. Economists warn of slowed agricultural growth and increased food inflation risks. Nearly one hundred rain-fed districts are predominantly affected by moisture stress. This situation poses significant challenges for the ongoing kharif agricultural season.

• Cotton sowing picks up in July as monsoon revives, still below last year

  Cotton sowing has accelerated in July as the southwest monsoon strengthens across India. Acreage has narrowed the gap compared to last year after initial delays. Improved rains in states like Maharashtra and Gujarat are encouraging farmers to plant cotton. Some farmers are shifting from paddy to cotton due to better price prospects. Overall kharif sowing is progressing well, with July being a crucial month for planting.

• Soybean sowing gains pace, acreage seen surpassing last year

  Soybean sowing has accelerated across key Indian states after a monsoon delay. Nearly ninety percent of targeted areas in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan are covered. Maharashtra has completed eighty to ninety percent of its soybean planting. The Soybean Processors Association of India expects total acreage to exceed last year. Favorable rainfall will determine the final soybean production outcome this season.

• Rainfall deficit narrows to 24%, to boost Kharif sowing in July

  Improved July rainfall has narrowed the country's deficit to twenty-four percent. This development raises hopes for faster kharif sowing across several regions. However, overall sowing still trails last year's pace significantly. Government plans include contingency measures and a national seed reserve. Farmers are advised to shift to short-duration, less water-intensive crops.

• Centre approves procurement of copra, Totapuri mangoes from Tamil Nadu farmers

  The Centre approved copra and Totapuri mango procurement for Tamil Nadu farmers. This move aims to shield growers from distress sales due to falling market prices. The government will buy 87,226 metric tonnes of copra at MSP. Additionally, 96,879 metric tonnes of Totapuri mangoes will be procured under MIS. These interventions ensure remunerative prices and protect farmers from losses.