News

From the RSS:

• Sugar output remains slightly lower at 31.09 million tonnes till Apr 15 of 2023-24 season: ISMA

  India is a major sugar producing country in the world. Sugar season runs from October to September. Currently, there are curbs on sugar exports for an indefinite period. Indian Sugar Mills Association (ISMA) has revised the net sugar production estimate for 2023-24 season to 32 million tonnes.

• No reports of impact of rains on wheat, other crops: Agriculture ministry officials

  Recent rains have not impacted wheat and other rabi crops, with harvesting progressing smoothly. The IMD predicts continued rain and hailstorms due to a fresh western disturbance. The agriculture ministry assures no damage to crops, with potential benefits for summer crops like rice. Wheat harvesting in Punjab and Haryana is underway, with productivity levels expected to result in a record wheat production for the year. Late-sown wheat crop is also expected to be ready for harvest soon.

• India won't be feeding sugar to the world this season

  Sugar export: The government has rejected sugar export possibility for the current season despite industry demand. Indian Sugar Mills Association seeks to export 10 lakh tonnes, citing healthy closing stock. Sugar production exceeded 30 million tonnes and ISMA has revised estimate to 32 million tonnes. Government may allow use of excess B-heavy molasses for ethanol production.

• Potato costlier by 10% as output falls

  The all-India retail price for potato was Rs 26 per kg on Saturday, up 10.18% month-on-month and 32% year-on-year, showed data from the Department of Consumer Affairs.

• Indian coffee growers cheer as robusta production drops globally, prices hit record high

  India's robusta coffee prices skyrocket to Rs 10,080 per 50 kg, a historic high. Growers face challenges, but the surge brings relief. Supply-demand dynamics and shifts in production contribute to this windfall, offering hope for the industry.

• Govt mulls allowing excess stock of B-heavy molasses for ethanol making

  The government is contemplating allowing sugar mills to produce ethanol using their surplus B-heavy molasses amid stable sugar prices and ample supply. With more than 8 lakh tonnes of excess B-heavy molasses in storage, the industry seeks to use it for ethanol production following a ban reversal. Discussions on the proposal are ongoing.

• Tur dal prices rise more than 10% despite open import policy

  In Pune, tur dal prices rose by over 10% in less than a month despite an open import policy. The industry cites raw material shortages and hoarding as reasons for the hike.

• Konkan Ratnagiri Bhoomi Agro Producer co launches Aamoré: A new D2C brand of Alphonso mangoes

  The initiative is focused on empowering local farmers by equipping them with the tools and knowledge necessary to produce export-ready fruit. This includes the establishment of state-of-the-art packhouse operations, sophisticated scanning technology for each mango, strategies to eliminate spongy tissue, and comprehensive traceability from farm to fork.

• Sugar mills paid Rs 78,000 cr to cane farmers in H1 of 2023-24 season

  Sugar mills in India have paid Rs 78,000 crore to sugarcane farmers in the first six months of the current marketing season, a food ministry official said. Mills have cleared 87% of the total cane payment of Rs 90,000 crore till March 31 of the 2023-24 season. They have produced over 300 lakh tonnes of sugar so far this season.

• Disclosure of pulses stock mandatory from April 15

  Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare will meet pulses traders, representatives of various government departments such as customs and state government representatives in separate meetings to discuss measures for bringing imported pulses, which are lying in customs warehouses, to the market. ET had reported that the government is planning to make it mandatory for pulses traders and retailers to disclose stocks of yellow peas (matar), tur (pigeon peas) and urad as prices in some markets show an increasing trend in its April 5 edition.

• India uses peace clause fifth time, for rice subsidies given in 2022

  India invoked the peace clause for exceeding the 10% support ceiling for rice farmers, breaching WTO subsidy ceilings with $52.8B rice production and $6.39B subsidies, surpassing the 10% de minimis limit.

• SC upholds NAFED tender for export of 35,000 tonne non-basmati white rice

  Supreme Court approves NAFED's 35,000-tonne rice export to Cote D'Ivoire, dismissing the Rice Exporters Association of India's appeal. Delhi High Court had earlier supported NAFED's tender. No conflict of interest found by the Supreme Court.

• India's 2024 wheat output seen at 105 mln tons, 6.25% below govt estimates

  India will likely produce 105 million metric tons of wheat this year, lower than the government's estimate. The country, a top wheat consumer and grower, banned exports in 2022 due to a crop shortage. The government aims to bolster stocks and control prices through bumper harvests and strategic reserves management.

• India's coffee exports rise 13.35 pc to 1.25 lakh tonnes in January-March

  India's coffee shipments surged 13.35% to 1,25,631 tonnes in January-March 2024, driven by robust demand for Robusta coffee. Arabica and Robusta are the two varieties grown in India, with Arabica having a smoother taste and Robusta being more bitter. Export of Robusta beans increased by 18%, while Arabica exports declined. Instant coffee exports and re-exports also saw growth. The total coffee export value during this period was Rs 3,644 crore, with major destinations including Italy, Russia, the UAE, Germany, and Turkey.

• Private firm pegs wheat output at 105 MT against government’s 112 MT

  Agriwatch estimates India's wheat production at 105.6 million tonnes, lower than the government's forecast, urging wheat imports to stabilize supply. A supply crunch has depleted Food Corporation of India stocks, forcing the government to offer wheat to traders. Food inflation concerns rise amid lower production projections for 2023-24 due to poor monsoon

• India better prepared than Pakistan to handle climate shocks in wheat crop: Agri scientists

  One of the reasons behind Pakistan still being dependent on imports to meet domestic requirements is its failure to develop indigenous varieties of climate-resilient seeds.

• Rising prices: Traders may be asked to declare stocks of yellow peas, tur and urad dal regularly

  The Wholesale Price Index inflation in pulses was 18.48% in February, up from 16.06% in January. With the general election scheduled for April-May, the government has made several attempts to curb the price rise in food items, such as imposing export restrictions, limiting stock, offloading its own stocks, and removing import duties.

• Centre aims 7-fold jump in wheat procurement from UP, Rajasthan, Bihar this year

  "UP, Bihar, and Rajasthan have been contributing much less than they could have. We are targeting total wheat procurement of 310 lakh tonne this year. Of which, we are hoping to procure at least 50 lakh tonne from three non-traditional procurement states alone," he said.

• No proposal to resume sale of subsidised rice for ethanol production: Food secretary

  Government remains firm on not resuming subsidised rice sale for ethanol. Chopra encourages maize ethanol production and highlights the impact on distillery investments. Increased sugarcane FRP aims to boost cultivation for the upcoming season.

• No proposal to resume sale of subsidised rice for ethanol production: Food Secy

  The rice sale for ethanol makers was discontinued for various reasons, including apprehensions about domestic output and high retail prices, and economic unviability, he said. On the impact on investments on grain-based distilleries, Chopra said, "This is not a policy which is cast in stone. This policy will be renewed... Maize is being encouraged for ethanol production."

• Centre to increase wheat procurement from Bihar, Rajasthan UP drastically

  The Indian government plans to increase wheat procurement from Bihar, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh to 50 LMT in Rabi Marketing Season 2024-25, aiming to meet its procurement target of 310 LMT and restore wheat allocation in various food security programs. The government has identified 59 districts for procurement, increased the number of procurement centres from 10,366 to 12,253, and increased the number of registered farmers from 2.22 lakh to 3.58 lakhs in RMS 2024-25.

• India's mustard seed output may touch all-time high of 12 million tonnes this year: SEA

  In a statement, the Solvent Extractors' Association of India (SEA) said the concerted efforts to expand the area through the mustard model farm project, coupled with favourable weather and prices, India has witnessed a remarkable increase in mustard production year after year.

• Ahead of polls, govt acts tough to keep a lid on sugar, wheat prices; penalises those selling more sugar than their quota

  The Indian government has increased vigilance on agricultural commodity companies and traders to control food prices ahead of the general election. The government has penalised nearly 80 sugar firms for selling more than their quota, asked wheat companies to disclose their stock during the harvest season, and directed rice exporters to pay export duty even on freight charges to discourage exports.

• ICAR issues advisory to wheat farmers on prediction of a harsher summer

  ICAR-Indian Institute of Wheat and Barley Research issued an advisory to wheat farmers based on Indian Meteorological Department's prediction of a harsher summer. Farmers in various states were advised on moisture content and irrigation methods for the wheat crop.

• Mango output to see 14 pc rise this year; heat wave unlikely to impact yields: ICAR-CISH Director

  India anticipates a 14% increase in mango production to 24 million tonnes, despite predicted heat waves. South India plays a crucial role, facing challenges from thrips insects that farmers combat with Imidacloprid.

• Govt waives duty on export of 1,000 tonnes of kalanamak rice

  The government lifted duty on Kalanamak rice, facilitating up to 1,000 tonnes exports via specified customs stations. This waiver, effective immediately, was previously taxed at 20% on overseas shipments. The Finance Ministry's notification outlined the authorized customs points.

• Assam urges Centre to consider deferring enforcement of sale of 100% dust grades tea through auction

  "We urge you to issue appropriate orders on priority, keeping in mind the best interests of the tea industry in Assam and, more importantly, the welfare of small tea growers and associated stakeholders. Your prompt action in this regard will be highly appreciated."

• India asks traders to avoid buying new-season wheat to shore up state stocks

  India has urged both global and domestic trade houses to refrain from purchasing new-season wheat from local farmers in order to support the government-backed Food Corporation of India (FCI) in procuring large quantities to replenish its diminishing reserves, according to sources. The country, a major consumer and producer of wheat, banned exports in 2022 and seeks to bolster stocks and stabilize prices following adverse weather conditions affecting output in 2022 and 2023.

• India asks traders to avoid buying new-season wheat to shore up state stocks

  India urges global and local trade entities to refrain from purchasing new-season wheat from farmers to support the Food Corporation of India (FCI) in bolstering its diminishing reserves. Dry weather has impacted wheat output, prompting the government to intervene to stabilize prices and ensure sufficient supply for welfare programs.

• Increased heat unlikely to impact wheat crop: IMD

  The IMD assured that the increase in maximum temperatures will not affect the harvest-ready wheat crop. India is bracing for extreme heat from April to June, particularly in central and western regions, according to IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra. While no heatwave warning exists for wheat-producing states except Madhya Pradesh, temperatures rising to 42 degrees Celsius are expected there next week.

• Potato prices in Bengal likely to ease to Rs 20-21/kg this week

  Patit Paban De, senior member of the West Bengal Cold Storage Association, said there will be an estimated 10 per cent lower production of tubers, given the trend and reports of loading of crops in cold storages. "Till now, loading is only between 70-75 per cent on average. At the maximum, loading will not cross 80 per cent at best given the trend. Last year loading was 88-89 per cent," he said.

• Maize prices surge, procurement for ethanol may be hit

  Government's maize procurement for ethanol impacts prices, leading to concerns over reduced state procurement. Farmers may opt for private traders due to high prices. India promotes maize as a sugar alternative for ethanol production amid declining sugar production.

• Wheat stock declaration requirement extended indefinitely

  The Indian government has indefinitely extended the requirement for the wheat industry to declare their stock positions, which was initially set to expire on March 31. Traders, wholesalers, retailers, and processors are mandated to declare their stocks on a portal every Friday starting from April 1 until further notice.

• Wholesalers, retailers, processors told to declare wheat stock; stock limit expires on March 31: Govt

  The Indian government has directed wholesalers, retailers, and processors to declare their wheat stock position as the stock limit on wheat expires on Sunday. This move aims to prevent hoarding and speculation, keeping prices stable. Traders are required to declare their stocks on a portal every Friday starting from April 1.

• In a first, more government agencies allowed to source wheat directly for Bharat Atta

  Government pushes Bharat brand staples to curb food inflation, targeting consumers ineligible for free foodgrains. Quality control measures planned. Bharat products cheaper and sold directly to consumers, including through ecommerce and retail stores.

• India emerges as key player in growth and innovation, global vegetable seeds market thrives: S&P GCI

  The global vegetable seeds market, valued at around USD 8 billion in 2022, is expanding due to rising demand for diverse vegetable varieties worldwide. India, alongside China, Japan, and the United States, is a major player. Despite fragmentation, the market offers opportunities, driven by research, innovation, and hybridization, meeting evolving consumer preferences and driving industry growth.

• Private companies may have to let government buy wheat first

  Private wheat industry and trade are eyeing Uttar Pradesh, currently the source of the cheapest wheat in India, as the central government's wheat stock is expected to fall below the buffer norm on April 1 for the first time in over a decade. However, they may have to wait before refilling their silos until the government meets its procurement targets. The government has signaled to the industry not to hoard wheat during the arrival season to allow for procurement. While the new crop will start arriving in April, larger volumes are expected after mid-April.

• Government to begin procurement of 5 lakh tonnes of rabi onion in 2-3 days to protect farmers' interest

  Government ensures procurement of 5 lakh tonnes of rabi onion to support farmers amidst export ban extension. Measures to stabilize mandi prices, involve key officials, and protect farmers' interests are highlighted. Initiatives like Direct Benefit Transfer and radiation treatment for onion preservation are emphasized.

• India has robust regulatory, safety framework for seafood units: Commerce min

  MPEDA also enrols aquafarms to bolster the traceability system of aquaculture products and adhere to national and international regulatory provisions, including Seafood Import Monitoring Programme (SIMP) of the US.

• India extends onion export ban till further orders

  India exported onions worth $431.78 million in April-January FY24 with $187.5 million shipped to Bangladesh and $48.12 million to Sri Lanka. In December last year, the government prohibited the export of onions till March 31, 2024 but allowed their shipments based on permission granted by the central government to other countries on the request of other countries.

• India's water usage for per tonne crop production 2-3 times more than developed nations: Niti Aayog's Ramesh Chand

  Professor Ramesh Chand, a member of Niti Aayog, highlighted India's excessive water usage in agriculture compared to other nations and called for promoting sustainable practices. He emphasized the need for state governments to promote crop cultivation based on local conditions. Paddy and sugarcane, major crops in India, are particularly water-intensive. The country has three cropping seasons, with Rabi crops relying on irrigation. Despite significant investments in irrigation projects, the area under irrigation remained stagnant until 2015. Singh, the Agriculture Commissioner, discussed exploring methods to increase irrigation area using the same water amount, collaborating with the Jal Shakti ministry.

• Non-basmati rice prices down 10% in a month

  Bharat rice is being sold in 5 kg and 10 kg packs, at a price of Rs 29 per kg, through the National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Ltd, the National Cooperative Consumers' Federation of India and retail chain Kendriya Bhandar. It is also available in certain pockets of the country on Reliance group’s JioMart platform and will shortly be sold through e-commerce platforms such as Amazon and Flipkart.

• Net sugar output dips marginally at 280.79 lakh tonnes so far in 2023-24 mkt yr ending Sep: ISMA

  India's sugar production declined to 280.79 lakh tonnes by March 15. Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Uttar Pradesh experienced varying levels of decrease. ISMA reported 371 active factories. Ethanol manufacturing and FRP hike were notable developments.

• Govt to buy 1,650 tonnes of onions from traders for Bangladesh

  This will be the first official export of the key kitchen staple from India in more than three months since the country banned its export from December 8 to March 31. In March first week, the Centre allowed export of 64,400 tonnes of onions to countries from which it had received requests through diplomatic channels, government officials said at the time.

• Three new coop societies will help solve many agri problems, raise farmers' income: Amit Shah

  Cooperation Minister Amit Shah inaugurated Bhartiya Beej Sahakari Samiti Ltd, National Cooperative Organics Ltd, and National Cooperative Export Ltd to promote organic farming, exports, and seed production. A laboratory will certify organic farm and products. Shah aims to increase India's organic exports.

• Industry body ISMA revises 2023-24 sugar production estimate upwards by 2.9%

  According to the data provided by Maharashtra government, the state’ sugar production as on March 12 stood at 9.9 million tonnes against 10.15 million tonnes produced on the same day of previous year; down by 2.42%. “The sugarcane availability in Maharashtra and Karnataka is higher than what was expected earlier. However, cane availability in another major state Uttar Pradesh is predicted to be lower than earlier estimates,” said ISMA in a statement.

• Wheat stock with Food Corporation of India falls below 100 lakh tonnes for the first time since 2018

  The Food Corporation of India (FCI) has reported a decrease in wheat stocks, falling below 100 lakh tonnes for the first time since 2018. However, rice stocks held by FCI currently exceed four times the buffer norm. Despite the drop in wheat stocks, the current level remains above the statutory buffer stock requirement. FCI anticipates a notable improvement in wheat procurement this year.

• Onion export ban unlikely to be lifted before Lok Sabha polls

  Despite falling onion prices, the government won't lift export ban before elections. Limited exports continue. Poor crop leads to farmers holding produce; industry insiders fear high prices. Onion smuggling reported amid unclear modalities of actual exports.

• Govt sets up digital centre in Delhi to empower farmers

  Union minister Arjun Munda inaugurated the Agriculture Integrated Command and Control Center at Krishi Bhawan to empower farmers with information and services using digital technology. The center showcases digital innovations in agriculture, in line with PM Modi's vision, displayed on a big screen.

• Crop diversification to fetch farmers MSP for pulses, cotton

  The Union government plans to procure pulses, maize, and cotton at the minimum support price (MSP) to encourage diversification from rice. It will sell subsidised urad dal under the brand 'Bharat'. The initiative aims to restore groundwater levels, benefit protesting farmers, and gather accurate data on cropping and yield estimates.