From the RSS:

• Cabinet nod to Rs 1,718 cr MSP funding to Cotton Corp

  The government has approved Rs 1,718.56 crore for Minimum Support Price funding to the Cotton Corporation of India for the 2023-24 cotton season. This initiative provides direct price support to cotton farmers nationwide. The Cotton Corporation of India procures cotton when market prices fall below MSP levels. This ensures farmers receive fair returns and prevents distress sales.

• CCEA approves Rs 1,718.56 crore funding to CCI for cotton procurement operations

  The government has approved Rs 1,718.56 crore for cotton procurement. This funding will support cotton farmers across India. The Cotton Corporation of India will undertake these operations. This move aims to strengthen farmer welfare and advance the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision. Cotton is a vital cash crop for millions of Indian farmers and supports many allied activities.

• Cabinet approves Rs 11,712 crore MSP support for cotton in 2023-24; 7.25 lakh farmers benefit

  The Union Cabinet has approved significant funding for cotton farmers. Rs 1,718.56 crore will support the Cotton Corporation of India for the 2023-24 season. This ensures farmers receive minimum support prices. It prevents distress sales and guarantees fair returns for cotton growers. This initiative supports millions of farmers and allied workers.

• Big bets, weak ground: Why AI in Indian agriculture needs stronger data, oversight

  Poor, fragmented data continues to limit AI’s impact on farming in India, say experts

• India’s horticulture production to increase marginally in 2025-26: First Advance Estimate

  India's horticulture production is set to remain steady in 2025-26. Vegetable output is expected to rise, driven by onions and potatoes. Fruit production will see a slight increase. Flower production may see a minor dip. Spice output is projected to grow significantly, with gains in cumin, ginger, garlic, and turmeric. This sector is crucial for boosting farmer incomes.

• Backward supply integration to trigger valuation re-rating post demerger: InGovern on UPL Global

  Proxy Firm InGovern notes that UPL's integrated crop protection platform - UPL Global emerges as among the largest listed global crop protection pure-plays by revenue, leveraging consolidated global and Indian scale in herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, and biosolutions. It highlighted UPL Global's backend moat that assured supply from UPL Limited's Superform manufacturing, R&D integration, and specialty chemicals.

• India fast-tracks fertiliser imports to cushion kharif season from West Asia supply shock

  Iran war: India has brought forward a global tender for urea imports and ordered 13.5 lakh tonnes of fertiliser by mid-February. About 90 per cent of this order is expected to arrive by the end of March, the sources said.

• Global sugar prices slide on Brazil surplus, India outlook stable: ICRA

  Global sugar prices have plummeted due to surplus supply from Brazil, though India's domestic sugar sector remains stable. Despite international volatility, India's production is projected to rise, with comfortable stock levels and stable operating margins expected for integrated sugar mills. Ethanol blending progress and increased sugarcane prices are also noted.

• Pulsar International mulls foray into AI-based farm supply chain management solutions

  Pulsar International is exploring a strategic expansion into AI-led Internet of Things technologies for precision farming and advanced agricultural supply chain management. The company plans to scale AI-driven IoT solutions for farm-level applications and enhance agricultural logistics, traceability, and supply chain transparency.

• West Asia conflict could hurt agri input availability: UPL Executive

  Geopolitical tensions and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz are driving up agricultural input costs, with fertilizer prices already surging 50-80%. While shipping, insurance, and energy costs have climbed, immediate agrochemical availability for the upcoming kharif season remains stable due to pre-built inventories.

• India to host global meet on women in agri-food systems from 12-14 March

  India will host the Global Conference on Women in Agri-Food Systems from March 12-14, 2026, inaugurated by President Droupadi Murmu.

• Centre urges farmers to complete e-KYC before release of 22nd PM-KISAN instalment on March 13

  Prime Minister Narendra Modi will digitally transfer the amount to 9.32 crore registered farmers under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme from Guwahati, Assam.

• Congress flags data risk in Farmer ID rollout, seeks probe into role of private agencies

  Concerns arose in the Maharashtra assembly regarding private agencies generating farmer identification numbers. Congress questioned data security and transparent tender processes. The Agriculture Minister assured strict action against any private entity found selling Farmer ID cards. The state has generated over 1.31 crore Farmer IDs. Relief assistance worth Rs 15,817 crore was provided to farmers affected by crop losses.

• Govt set to launch new version of PM KUSUM scheme focusing on agri solar PV component

  The government is preparing to launch PM-KUSUM 2.0, a new version of the scheme aimed at boosting renewable energy in agriculture. This initiative will enable farmers to generate electricity while cultivating crops on the same land, with a dedicated 10 GW agri-PV component planned. The updated scheme is expected to feature higher targets and an increased outlay.

• India's wheat output pegged at record 120.21 million tonnes in 2025-26, up 2%: Ministry

  India anticipates a record wheat harvest of 120.21 million tonnes in the 2025-26 crop year. This marks a significant increase from the previous year. Overall rabi crop production is also projected to rise. Pulses output is expected to grow substantially, helping to bridge the demand-supply gap. Oilseeds and other cereals also show positive production forecasts.

• India's farm exports seen to touch $55 billion in 2025, Piyush Goyal says

  India’s agricultural exports are expected to reach $55 billion in 2025, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said. He also said India will not allow tariff concessions on sugar imports under any trade deal.

• Smart agro-technologies workshop: CSIR showcases AI, IoT for soil and crop health in Kerala

  CSIR organized a national workshop in Kumarakom, Kerala, focusing on smart agro-technologies for soil and crop health. The event showcased AI, IoT, and remote sensing innovations aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability for farmers.

• Women in Indian Agriculture: From participation to systemic leadership

  Women's roles in production, processing, and knowledge transmission are increasingly recognized, driving efforts to empower them as leaders and innovators. Strengthening women's access to resources and institutions is vital for resilient and inclusive agri-food systems.

• Government sets 30.3 million tonne wheat procurement target

  In a strategic move to bolster food security, the government has established an ambitious wheat procurement goal of 30.3 million tonnes for the upcoming 2026-27 Rabi Marketing Season. This decision emerged from a gathering of State Food Secretaries, reflecting a proactive approach towards higher wheat output, which is projected to surpass last year's impressive yield.

• Artificial intelligence in Indian agriculture: The bus India cannot afford to miss

  India is stepping into the future of farming with the integration of artificial intelligence. New initiatives such as AgriStack and Bharat VISTAAR are on the horizon, designed to offer customised guidance to farmers facing the challenges of unpredictable climates and variable market trends.

• Fertiliser stocks at record high, insulated from Middle East supply risks: Govt

  India's fertiliser stocks are at their highest before the kharif season. This assures farmers that domestic supplies are secure despite global tensions. Total reserves have increased significantly. Farmers can proceed with preparations without worry. The government is importing more fertilisers and has secured long-term supply agreements. Gas allocation to the fertiliser sector is a national priority.

• Agriculture a strategic pillar for India’s long-term growth: PM Narendra Modi

  Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised agriculture's crucial role in India's development. He detailed significant financial aid to farmers through the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme. The government has also enhanced credit access and insurance coverage. Reforms in Minimum Support Price have boosted farmer incomes.

• AISTA trims India sugar output estimate to 28.3 mt on weather hit

  India's sugar production for the 2025-26 season is now projected at 28.3 million tonnes. This revision comes after adverse weather conditions affected yields in key producing states like Maharashtra and Karnataka. Despite the downward revision, output is still expected to surpass the previous season's production. Ethanol diversion will account for a portion of the gross production.

• From fertilisers to rice, pulses, tea and apples: Middle East conflict threatens India-Iran agri trade

  India faces a potential squeeze as the war in Iran threatens shipments of rice and other agricultural commodities.

• Is Neo Green Ventures a company worth watching

  Indian agriculture is undergoing a transformation, moving from monsoon dependency to managed business models. Companies like Neo Green Ventures are pioneering hydroponics, aquaculture, and moringa cultivation, attracting institutional investors. This shift emphasizes efficiency, scalability, and export potential, signaling a new era for the sector beyond traditional farming.

• Farm worries crop up as fertiliser companies fear a gas crunch

  While India currently holds about two months of buffer stocks of urea and di-ammonium phosphate (DAP), according to industry estimates, execs warned that any prolonged disruption in gas availability could force a suspension in local manufacturing.

• India's Godavari Biorefineries to start grain-based distillery in June quarter

  Godavari Biorefineries is set to launch a new grain-based distillery in the June quarter. This facility will allow the company to use both sugarcane and corn as feedstock, depending on market prices. The move aims to diversify operations and ensure year-round production.

• India's castor seed production surges 11% to 17.6 lakh tonnes for 2025-26

  India's castor seed production reached 17.6 lakh tonnes for 2025-26, an 11% increase driven by a 3% rise in acreage and an 8% jump in average yield. Gujarat leads production, with Rajasthan also showing significant growth, supported by favorable weather and improved farming practices.

• Government panel said to review future of key GM food crop

  A panel of Indian ministers is set to review a genetically modified rapeseed crop. This decision could pave the way for engineered food varieties in India's vast agricultural market. The government aims to boost farm productivity amid growing population and economic strain. India currently imports significant amounts of vegetable oil. This move follows recent trade talks with the US.

• India braces for unusually hot March that can put key crops at risk, sources say

  India faces a potentially record-breaking warm March. Key farming states are predicted to experience above-average temperatures. This heat could significantly impact wheat and rapeseed yields. Farmers had planted a record area this year. The country relies on these crops for exports and to reduce edible oil imports. Higher temperatures may also increase electricity demand across the nation.

• Fertiliser industry may soon see an end to inspector raj

  The Indian government is planning significant reforms for the fertiliser sector. These changes aim to simplify approval processes, reduce penalties for minor violations, and make regulations more sensible. This move is part of a broader effort to ease rules in a highly controlled industry. The government is seeking industry feedback to address compliance issues and legal hurdles.

• ISMA cuts India’s 2025-26 sugar production estimate by 5.5% due to erratic weather

  The Indian Sugar & Bio-energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA) has lowered its 2025-26 sugar production forecast by 5.5% due to lower sugarcane yields in Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra. Despite these challenges, net sugar production is still projected to be 12% higher than the previous year, with a significant portion diverted for ethanol production.

• India cuts sugar production estimate for 2025-26 on weak yields in top states

  India sugar output: The third advance estimate, released after an executive committee meeting, follows a second projection of 34.35 million tonnes. Output last year was 29.62 million tonnes.

• Big change on cards to how fertiliser subsidy is transferred? What Agriculture Minister is proposing

  Fertiliser subsidies in India are at present primarily transferred to companies rather than directly to farmers. Though the government implemented a DBT system in 2018, the subsidy is released to fertiliser manufacturers only after verified retail sales to farmers.

• Government allows export of 25 lakh tonnes of wheat

  The government has permitted the export of 25 lakh tonnes of wheat, according to a commerce ministry notification. While the overall export policy for wheat remains prohibited, this specific quantity has been allowed. The decision was made earlier this month, with detailed modalities to be announced separately.

• Govt approves MSP procurement of gram, mustard, lentils for Rabi 2026 season

  Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced approval of gram, mustard and lentil procurement under the Price Support Scheme for Rabi 2026, reviewed Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana progress, and urged states to fully utilise central funds before March 31 to safeguard farmer interests.

• Centre hikes raw jute MSP to Rs 5,925 for 2026-27 season

  The Union Cabinet has approved an increase in the Minimum Support Price for raw jute. For the 2026-27 marketing season, the MSP will be Rs 5,925 per quintal. This represents a hike of Rs 275 from the previous season. The decision ensures farmers receive at least 1.5 times their production cost.

• FCI signs MoU with WFP to supply rice to support eradication of global hunger

  India's Food Corporation of India (FCI) has signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding with the World Food Programme (WFP) to supply 2 lakh tonnes of rice. This pact aims to combat global hunger and support humanitarian operations, reinforcing India's commitment to international food security and aiding vulnerable populations.

• India's sugar output likely to reduce

  India's sugar production is projected to dip below earlier expectations, primarily due to heavy rainfall affecting sugarcane yields in major growing regions. This downturn could lead to a decrease in the country's sugar exports, providing a potential buffer for global sugar prices.

• India–US deal under fire as kisan bodies call it ‘anti-farmer’, urge President to stop it

  The farmers' organisation Samyukt Kisan Morcha has expressed strong opposition to the India-US trade deal, deeming it harmful to the agricultural community. They are calling for an urgent cancellation of the agreement. As the Budget session approaches, a series of public gatherings will take place across the country to rally support.

• Pulser International posts four-fold jump in Q3 profit; revenue at Rs 39.6 crore

  Pulsar International reported a significant surge in net profit, reaching Rs 3.29 crore in Q3 FY2025-26, a nearly four-fold increase from the previous year. Revenue from operations also saw a substantial jump to Rs 39.64 crore. The Gujarat-based firm recently concluded a Rs 35.70 crore rights issue to fuel expansion, including cold storage development and contract farming initiatives.

• Bengaluru airport ships over 60 million roses this Valentine's season

  Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport saw a massive surge in rose exports for Valentine's Day. Over 60 million rose stems were shipped globally and domestically. This marks a significant increase in volume and tonnage. The airport's advanced cold chain facilities ensured the freshness of these perishable goods.

• US, EU trade deals could unlock $400 billion for India’s agri sector

  India's agriculture sector has a significant new opportunity. Trade agreements with the United States and the European Union open markets worth 400 billion US dollars. This presents a major chance for growth. Current agricultural exports to the US are 2.8 billion US dollars. Overall exports are valued at 51-52 billion US dollars and are growing.

• No question of ethanol inclusion in India-US deal: ISMA’s Deepak Ballani

  Ethanol is explicitly excluded and limited US farm imports will not disrupt domestic markets, says Deepak Ballani, Director General, ISMA.

• Tea industry seeks policy support as rising costs, labour shortage strain margins

  India's tea industry faces severe financial strain due to escalating input costs, labor shortages, and climate risks, forcing estates to sell below cost. Planters are urging policy support, including a minimum sustainable price mechanism and access to agricultural schemes, to ensure remunerative returns and industry sustainability.

• Infra inefficacies cause wastage of 25 to 35 million tonnes of fish globally every year: Study

  Systemic issues like inadequate cold storage and logistics are identified as critical gaps.

• India's agri export to US set to jump as 75% of export items now enjoy zero tariff: SBI Report

  India US trade deal: This reduction in duty will enhance competitiveness of Indian products, expand market access, and help farmers and exporters increase volumes, thereby strengthening India's agricultural trade surplus with the US.

• India-US trade deal: The apple math triggers anxiety among farmers in Kashmir, Himachal

  Apple growers in Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh fear the proposed India-US trade deal could weaken price protection and trigger a surge in imports.

• US imports pressure sends corn, soybean prices down

  Indian corn and soybean prices dropped Wednesday. This follows a new trade deal allowing duty-free imports of U.S. soyoil and animal feed. Farmers fear cheaper supplies. Farm unions and opposition parties have called for nationwide protests. The agreement has already impacted prices, sparking anger among farmers. The government made the deal without farmer consultation.

• India’s complex fertiliser capacity set to rise 4 MTPA through FY29

  India's complex fertiliser sector is set to add 4 MTPA capacity by fiscal 2029, boosting utilisation to 95% and curbing import dependency. Manufacturers will invest Rs 12,000-13,000 crore, largely funded by accruals, ensuring comfortable credit profiles. Improved backward integration to 60% will stabilize profitability.