From the RSS:

• Dialogue with farmers will continue, says agriculture minister; concludes 15-day agri campaign

  Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan concluded the 'Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan' in Gujarat, emphasizing continued support for farmers. The campaign, reaching over a crore farmers across India, promoted research-based agricultural practices. Chouhan highlighted Gujarat's agricultural achievements and outlined strategies for improvement, including natural farming, aiming to expand it across 7.5 lakh hectares this year.

• Govt approves procurement of 54,166 tonnes moong, 50,750 tonnes groundnut under PSS

  The government has approved the procurement of 54,166 tonnes of moong from Haryana, Gujarat, and Uttar Pradesh, along with 50,750 tonnes of groundnut from Uttar Pradesh, under the Price Support Scheme (PSS) for the 2025-26 season. Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan also extended the procurement period in Andhra Pradesh by 15 days.

• Northeast tightens its hold on rubber as tyre majors scout beyond Kerala

  Northeast India's rubber production is significantly up. Tripura, Assam, and Meghalaya now contribute 17.5% of India's total natural rubber output. This is a rise from 7.8% a decade ago. Tripura's production more than doubled. Assam and Meghalaya also saw substantial increases. Tyre companies are increasingly sourcing from the Northeast. Government initiatives and industry support are driving this growth.

• India's granaries overflow as rice stocks hit record, wheat surges

  India's rice reserves hit a record high in June. Wheat stocks also reached a four-year peak. Increased procurement from farmers boosted wheat inventories. Ample rice supplies could increase exports. The government can now manage wheat prices through open market sales. Ample stocks ensure India meets domestic demand without imports. Food Corporation of India data shows strong wheat procurement.

• AI likely to help enhance sugarcane production by 30 pc: Expert

  Artificial Intelligence (AI) implementation in sugarcane farming could potentially reduce water usage by 50% and increase per acre production by approximately 30%, according to an expert. A collaboration between Vasantdada Sugar Institute and Agricultural Development Trust aims to bring this technology to farmers, with Microsoft already demonstrating promising results.

• Mango prices tumble as record harvest floods markets

  Mango growers and traders in Uttar Pradesh are facing challenges. Mango prices have fallen significantly this year. Increased supply and early harvesting due to monsoon predictions are the main reasons. Totapuri mango farmers in Andhra Pradesh are also experiencing losses. Pulp factories have delayed procurement. West Bengal mango prices have also dropped due to good production and early plucking.

• Murae Organisor agri division bags supply orders worth Rs 297 crore

  Murae Organisor new agri commodity division has secured substantial supply orders worth Rs 297 crore from diverse industries, including FMCG and agri-processing. These orders encompass essential agricultural commodities like mustard seeds, groundnuts, and chickpeas. The company is also investing Rs 25 crore in a distillery and pomegranate plantation in Kutch, signaling its strategic expansion into the agro-industrial sector.

• Agri production increased by 40% in 10 years: Union Minister Chouhan

  Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced a 40% increase in India's agriculture production over the last decade, with a 5.4% growth rate in the fourth quarter of FY2024-25. He credited PM Modi's policies for this success, highlighting record production of key crops and full grain storehouses. The focus remains on food security, farmer income, nutrition, and soil health.

• India faces two years of sugar surplus, growers and officials say

  India's sugar production is poised for a significant rebound, potentially leading to surplus production for two consecutive years. Farmers are expanding sugarcane cultivation, encouraged by abundant rainfall boosting crop yields. This resurgence could allow India, the world's second-largest sugar producer, to increase exports in 2025/26 after recent export restrictions due to drought-affected yields.

• Govt eyes record foodgrain output in 2025-26 Kharif season on good monsoon forecast: Shivraj Singh Chouhan

  India anticipates a record foodgrain production in the 2025-26 kharif season. Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan highlights initiatives to boost yields. The Viksit Krishi Abhiyan addresses farmer concerns and promotes new technologies. Focus is on curbing fake pesticides and improving soil health. The government aims for self-reliance in pulses and oilseeds.

• India will protect farmers' interest in US trade talks: Shivraj Singh Chouhan

  India prioritizes safeguarding its farmers' interests during ongoing trade negotiations with the US regarding agricultural market access. Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan emphasized that India will carefully assess potential gains and losses before finalizing any agreement. While the US seeks greater access for its agricultural products, India remains cautious to protect domestic producers from price volatility and potential backlash.

• India’s agri sector transformed by five-fold budget surge over 11 years: Govt

  The Indian government announced a significant transformation in the agricultural sector over the past 11 years, driven by increased budgetary support and farmer-centric schemes. This has led to a surge in foodgrain production, rising MSP for key crops like wheat and paddy, and substantial financial assistance to farmers through PM-KISAN and Kisan Credit Card schemes.

• UPL's Brazil co to sell assets of Serra Bonita

  Advanta Comercio de Sementes (Advanta Brazil), a UPL Group company, has announced the sale of all assets of its Brazilian associate, Serra Bonita Sementes SA, for $125 million. This strategic move aims to optimize UPL's asset portfolio and unlock value. The sale proceeds will be disbursed to Serra Bonita's shareholders in the coming months.

• Odisha mangoes now in France, Belgium as exports soar

  Odisha has expanded its agricultural exports by adding France and Belgium to its mango export destinations. This success builds upon existing markets like Dubai and London, with exports nearing 100 MT since May 2024. Farmers are benefiting from 40-60% higher prices due to direct export access and improved quality, solidifying Odisha's position as a growing agri-export hub.

• Indian tea prices rise 18% as demand surges from Russia, Iran, Iraq and UAE

  Indian tea prices have surged by 18% in the first four months of this year. This is due to high demand from Russia, Iran, Iraq, and the UAE. Exports are expected to remain strong. Major consumer goods firms are increasing purchases. Auctioneers anticipate prices to stay firm. Packet tea sellers are hesitant to raise prices for local consumers.

• Onion prices rise 20% in past two weeks as rains damage crop

  Pune's onion prices have surged by approximately 20% in the last two weeks due to crop damage from heavy rains, leading to reduced market arrivals. Despite increased production and storage, onions are becoming more expensive. Trade sources anticipate further price increases, potentially fueled by upcoming government onion procurement.

• Sugar industry seeks ethanol price revision as blending share drops to 28% from 73%

  The sugar industry is urging for revised ethanol procurement prices and extended blending targets due to a sharp decline in its contribution to the national ethanol program. They are advocating for accelerated promotion of Flex-Fuel Vehicles to boost ethanol demand.

• Market demand playing key role in reviving nearly extinct mango varieties like Husnara, Ratol

  Changing consumer preferences are revitalizing nearly-extinct mango varieties like Husnara and Ratol in Lucknow's Malihabad orchards. Farmers are shifting focus from Dussehri to meet rising demand for diverse flavors, fetching higher prices for red-fleshed varieties. However, unfavorable weather, rising production costs, and counterfeit pesticides pose challenges to profitability despite increased output.

• Counting losses due to delay in onion procurement by government: Maharashtra farmers

  Maharashtra onion farmers are accusing government agencies of delaying crop procurement under the Price Stabilisation Fund, leading to significant losses due to unseasonal rains in May. The delayed action by NAFED and NCCF resulted in the spoilage of onions that could have been stored, exacerbating financial distress among farmers already struggling with export restrictions and inadequate storage facilities.

• How early, bountiful rains can change a lot of things for India in several significant ways

  India is likely to get above-average monsoon rains in 2025, the IMD said. The monsoon arrived early in Kerala. This is eight days ahead of schedule. The rains are vital for agriculture and the economy. Good rainfall may stabilise food prices. It may allow the Reserve Bank of India to lower interest rates.

• Correcting distortions in input and output pricing will enable climate-resilient growth in agriculture: Ramesh Chand

  Ramesh Chand of NITI Aayog urges the government to tackle distortions like power and fertilizer subsidies to enhance climate resilience in agriculture. He proposes direct payments to farmers for power usage and full urea pricing to boost MSP. Chand also advocates for compensating farmers growing nitrogen-fixing crops and addressing distortions across all sectors for long-term societal benefit.

• Government extends stock limits on wheat till March 2026 to check hoarding, ensure food security

  The government has prolonged wheat stock limits for traders and retailers until March 2026. This action aims to manage food security nationwide. It also seeks to prevent hoarding and market speculation. The new rules specify stock limits for various entities. Strict monitoring will be done by officials. Violators will face penalties under the Essential Commodities Act.

• Government raises 2024-25 foodgrain output forecast to record 353.95 million tons, wheat at 117.50 million tons

  India's foodgrain production is projected to reach a record 353.95 million tonnes in the 2024-25 crop year, driven by bumper harvests of wheat, rice, and maize. The Agriculture Minister attributed this success to supportive government policies, including fair pricing and agricultural schemes. Significant increases are also expected in oilseeds and sugarcane production, contributing to overall agricultural growth.

• India imposes limits on wheat stocks traders can hold

  India has capped wheat stock limits to boost availability and control prices. Traders can hold up to 3,000 metric tons, while retailers are limited to 10 tons, according to a government notification issued Wednesday.

• Cabinet hikes minimum support price of Kharif crops for 2025-26; ups paddy MSP by Rs 69 per quintal

  Amid concerns of an above-normal monsoon disrupting sowing, the Cabinet has declared the Minimum Selling Price for kharif crops for the 2025-26 marketing season. Early pre-monsoon showers have saturated the soil, hindering land preparation for planting. A consistent and uniform monsoon spread is crucial for a successful kharif season and to bolster India's agricultural output and economic growth.

• No imports needed: India's wheat harvest defies market speculation

  India's robust wheat harvest is replenishing reserves, ensuring the nation can meet domestic demand without imports this year, contrary to previous market speculation. Increased production, driven by favorable weather and improved seeds, has led to record procurement levels by the Food Corporation of India.

• Nagaland University researchers identify stingless bee species to increase agricultural yield

  Nagaland University researchers have identified stingless bee species, Tetragonula iridipennis and Lepidotrigona arcifera, as effective pollinators to boost agricultural yields. Studies showed increased fruit set and seed weight in crops like chilli and king chilli when pollinated by these bees. This research promotes stingless bee rearing for honey production and crop pollination, enhancing income and sustainable livelihoods for stakeholders.

• India’s soybean acreage to decline as farmers shift to corn, sugarcane

  Indian farmers are expected to decrease soybean cultivation this year, potentially shifting to corn and sugarcane due to better profitability. This shift could lead to reduced domestic soybean output, compelling India to increase its imports of edible oils like palm oil, soyoil, and sunflower oil from countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, Argentina, and Brazil.

• Jute industry pins hope on June 3 ECJ meet amid supply crunch, soaring prices

  The Expert Committee on Jute will meet in Kolkata to assess raw jute supply. The industry faces high prices and delayed arrivals. The committee will discuss the supply-demand scenario. Jute mills report hoarding and inaction against it. Mills are struggling with rising costs. The industry seeks buffer stock release and strict MSP enforcement. They want to stabilize the market soon.

• Trends of 2024 pinch farmers, Maharashtra soybean cultivation area to drop by 2 lakh hectares

  Maharashtra anticipates a decrease in soybean cultivation by two lakh hectares. Farmers are discouraged by last year's low returns and government policies. Other crops may become more appealing. The agriculture department assures adequate seed and fertilizer availability. The state aims for a substantial food grain and oilseed production target. Quality control measures are in place for seeds.

• Average mandi prices of major food crops ruling below MSP: RBI article

  A recent RBI bulletin reveals that mandi prices for most major food crops, excluding wheat, are below MSP due to abundant harvests. While edible oil prices are rising, driven by soybean, sunflower, and mustard oil, vegetable prices show mixed trends. Favorable monsoon forecasts and increased fertilizer demand suggest a positive outlook for the upcoming kharif season, bolstering food security.

• Tea Board looking at tea tasting certification course to skill youth: Commerce secretary Sunil Barthwal

  The Tea Board of India plans to launch tea tasting certification courses. This initiative aims to skill the youth and boost tea literacy. It will also promote tea tourism in India. Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal announced this on International Tea Day. India's tea exports increased to $920 million in FY25.

• Need 5% annual growth in agriculture for India to become developed nation by 2047: Shivraj Singh Chouhan

  Shivraj Singh Chouhan stated India needs 5% yearly growth in agriculture to develop by 2047. Foodgrain growth is currently at 1.5%. Agricultural institutes play a key role in achieving this growth. The aim is to increase farm exports to 20%. Investment in agricultural research should increase to 1%. Better use of natural resources and germ plasm is essential.

• Govt procures over 290 lakh tons of wheat so far, may hit 320-325 lakh tons: Pralhad Joshi

  Pralhad Joshi announced that wheat procurement exceeded 290 lakh tonnes this year. The government anticipates reaching 320-325 lakh tonnes due to record production. The wheat procurement target is 312 lakh tonnes for the next marketing year. The government will consider wheat exports after assessing stock levels. Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh procured more wheat than last year.

• FSSAI asks States to curb use of illegal ripening agents, synthetic coatings on fruits

  FSSAI has directed states to intensify inspections to curb the illegal use of ripening agents like calcium carbide and synthetic coatings on fruits. Calcium carbide is strictly prohibited due to serious health risks, while ethephon use is permitted only as a source for ethylene gas, following a strict SOP. Violations will attract strict penal action.

• Mango irradiation operations normalised at Mumbai facility after brief data error

  India's mango exports to the United States are showing strong growth. A temporary disruption at a Mumbai irradiation facility is resolved. The issue stemmed from a data recording error. US authorities rejected twelve mango shipments. Mango irradiation and clearance normalized on May 10. India's mango production is up nine percent. Exports to the US have increased significantly.

• Agriculture minister Chouhan signals plan to use Indus water for Indian farmers

  Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan stated that keeping the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance is beneficial for Indian farmers, especially in northern states. He criticized Nehru for signing the treaty and promised a plan to utilize Indus water for agriculture.

• India's foodgrain production rises by 106 lakh tonnes in FY25, hits 1,663.91 lakh tonnes: Agri Minister Shivraj Chouhan

  Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced India's foodgrain production for 2024-25 has increased to 1,663.91 lakh tonnes, a rise of over 106 lakh tonnes from the previous year. The ministry aims to make India the world's food basket, focusing on fulfilling domestic needs and assisting other nations.

• Wheat procurement surpasses last year's level, reaches 28.66 million tonne

  India's wheat procurement has exceeded last year's figures, reaching 28.66 million tonne. This is the highest since 2022-23, boosted by record output projections. Punjab leads procurement, followed by Madhya Pradesh and Haryana. Payments of Rs 62,346.23 crore have been made to 2.27 million farmers. Harvesting is complete in several states, though still ongoing in others.

• India's sugar closing stock sufficient for late-2025 demand despite output drop: NFCSF

  Despite an 18.38% drop in India's sugar production to 25.74 million tonnes by mid-May, closing stocks are projected at 4.8-5 million tonnes, sufficient for domestic demand through November 2025. The NFCSF anticipates a production rebound next season due to better monsoon and increased cane sowing. They also urge the government to raise the minimum selling price and support ethanol production.

• Maharashtra govt to set up irradiation centres after years of battling volatile onion prices

  The Maharashtra government is expediting the establishment of dedicated onion irradiation centers following electoral setbacks in onion-producing regions. Farmers were upset by export controls, leading to losses for the Mahayuti alliance. This policy aims to extend onion shelf life, mitigating price volatility and enabling farmers to store and sell strategically, potentially launching centers within months.

• UP govt targets 12 pc increase in Kharif production to 293 LT

  Uttar Pradesh is set to boost farmers' income with a new Kharif strategy, aiming for a 12% increase in foodgrain and oilseed production, targeting 293 lakh tonnes. The initiative focuses on improved crop planning, promoting maize and paddy, and constructing 8,500 farm ponds for water conservation. Farmers will receive technical training and access to quality seeds and fertilizers.

• Govt sets record foodgrains production target for 2025-26 crop year at 354.64 million tn

  India aims for a significant increase in foodgrain production, targeting 354.64 million tonnes in the 2025-26 crop year, driven by anticipated favorable monsoon rains. This ambitious goal surpasses the current year's target of 341.55 million tonnes. Rice production is projected to reach 147.35 million tonnes, while wheat production is set at 117.40 million tonnes.

• Govt to launch pan-India farmers awareness campaign from May 29 to boost Kharif output

  Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced a 15-day pan-India campaign, 'Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan,' starting May 29, to educate farmers about modern technology and new seed varieties. The campaign aims to reach 1-1.5 crore farmers across 700 districts.

• Govt to launch pan-India farmers awareness campaign from May 29 to boost output: Shivraj Chouhan

  Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announces a nationwide campaign. It aims to educate farmers about modern farming techniques. The 'Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan' will run from May 29 to June 12. Teams will visit 700 districts. They will share information on climate-resilient seeds and government programs. The goal is to boost crop productivity and farmer income.

• India-Pakistan tensions drive up basmati rice prices

  Basmati rice prices in India have surged by up to 10% recently, reversing a previous decline, as West Asian countries increase imports amid rising India-Pakistan tensions. Concerns over potential supply disruptions are driving demand, particularly from Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Yemen. US buyers are also stocking up before potential tariff changes.

• Agri minister Chouhan unveils first genome-edited rice varieties, yield to rise up to 30%

  Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan launched two genome-edited rice varieties, DRR Dhan 100 (Kamala) and Pusa DST Rice 1, developed by ICAR. These varieties promise to boost rice yields by 20-30%, conserve water, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Recommended for major rice-growing states, they offer drought tolerance, high nitrogen-use efficiency, and earlier harvests, addressing climate change and enhancing food security.

• Govt to review restoration of PDS wheat supply after procurement ends

  The Centre plans to review the restoration of wheat entitlements under the Public Distribution System (PDS) after the procurement drive concludes, encouraged by projections of a record 115 million tonnes of wheat production. As of April 30, 256.31 lakh tonnes of wheat have been procured, a 24.78% increase from last year, benefiting over 21 lakh farmers.

• Sugarcane fair price hiked to Rs 355 a quintal

  The cabinet has increased the sugarcane purchase price for sugar mills by 4.41% to ₹355 per quintal for the season starting in October. This decision aims to benefit 50 million sugarcane farmers and 500,000 sugar mill workers. The new price is based on a 10.25% recovery rate, with adjustments for variations in sugar extraction.

• Credit growth to farm sector slows to 10.4% in March: RBI data

  Reserve Bank of India data reveals a slowdown in bank credit growth to agriculture. The growth stood at 10.4 percent. Credit advances to the industry remained steady at 8 percent. Loans to the services sector saw an increase of 13.4 percent. Personal loans also experienced growth, registering 14 percent. Overall, non-food bank credit grew by 12 percent.