From the RSS:

• Budget 2025 expectations: Farmers seek cheaper credit, lower taxes, doubling PM-KISAN amount in pre-budget meet with FM Sitharaman

  During a pre-budget consultation with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, farmer representatives urged the government to reduce agricultural loan interest rates to 1%, double PM-KISAN support, and implement zero-premium crop insurance. Key proposals included GST exemptions, a Rs 1,000 crore annual investment in select crops, MSP reviews, and constitutional reforms, with a focus on boosting productivity and farmer welfare.

• Modi govt will purchase all farm produce at MSP: Agriculture Minister in Rajya Sabha

  Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan assured Parliament on Friday that the government will procure all farm produce at minimum support price (MSP). This comes as farmers plan a march to Delhi with their demands. Chouhan contrasted the Modi government's approach with previous administrations, claiming they hadn't accepted the M.S. Swaminathan Commission's recommendations on MSP calculations.

• Indian tea prices surge 18% amidst decline in production

  Indian tea prices have risen by 18% between January and October due to reduced production, with a decline of 66.39 million kg this year. Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal highlighted the importance of quality production and compliance. Adverse weather in Assam and West Bengal has contributed to the production drop, impacting earnings despite recent price surges.

• India needs focus on small farmers for Viksit Bharat: PK Mishra, Principal Secretary to PM

  India should prioritize small farmers with land holdings of less than 2 hectares and develop strategies to enhance their income to achieve the goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047. Key measures include crop diversification, technological advancements, climate-resilient crops, and direct consumer platforms.

• India's winter expected to be warmer, threatening wheat yields

  India is likely to experience above-average temperatures this winter, raising concerns about wheat and rapeseed crops that require cold weather for optimal growth. The India Meteorological Department expects fewer cold wave days from December to February. Lower crop yields may force India to import wheat, pulses, and edible oils to ensure affordable supplies for its population.

• Tea planters demand climate-smart solutions to combat changing weather patterns

  Tea planters in Assam seek climate change mitigation measures like climate-smart cultivars, proper shading, irrigation systems, and rainwater harvesting. The North Eastern Tea Association highlighted this in a memorandum to Union Minister Piyush Goyal, citing challenges faced due to stricter FSSAI compliance and impacts of climate change on tea production.

• India's wheat planting up 6.6%, rapeseed sowing drops

  Indian farmers have increased wheat planting by 6.6% compared to last year, reaching 20 million hectares since October 1. This could boost wheat production and reduce prices. By November 29, rapeseed and mustard planting decreased to 7.6 million hectares from 8 million hectares last year. Crop sowing figures are regularly updated by the Ministry of Agriculture.

• India's sugar industry off to a slow start, October-November output falls

  Indian sugar production has decreased by 35.4% since October 1, with output at 2.79 million metric tons. Maharashtra and Karnataka mills started later than usual, causing the decline. This drop may lead India to halt export quotas and affect global prices. Sugar production for 2024/25 is estimated at 28 million tons, down from 31.9 million tons last year.

• Agriculture growth expected to remain strong in second half of FY25: Bank of Baroda

  The agriculture sector is poised for strong growth in the second half of FY25. Favorable monsoon, higher reservoir levels, and healthy Rabi sowing will drive this growth. Despite challenges in other sectors, resilient agriculture and government measures are expected to support economic recovery and boost rural demand.

• Potato traders threaten strike from Tuesday if West Bengal doesn't allow selling to other states

  Potato traders in West Bengal threaten a strike over restrictions on selling to other states, imposed to control local prices. The wholesale price is Rs 27 per kg but retails at Rs 35-40 per kg. Neighbouring states like Odisha and Jharkhand face rising prices and urge negotiations to alleviate the situation.

• Maize diversion for ethanol raises poultry feed, edible oil prices, sparking concerns for sugar industry, soybean farmers

  Maize, diverted for ethanol production, has caused poultry feed costs to go up, impacted cooking oil prices, and reduced oilseed farmers' profits. The ethanol program has led to consequences like increased maize imports and declining revenues for sugar industry, highlighting the complex trade-offs of biofuel policies.

• India signs $98 mn loan agreement with Asian Development Bank to boost horticulture productivity

  India and the Asian Development Bank signed a USD 98 million loan agreement to improve horticulture crop productivity by establishing disease-free planting material systems. The project, which aligns with the Atmanirbhar Clean Plant Programme, aims to enhance crop yields and quality, and help farmers adapt to climate change.

• Potato prices surge in Odisha as West Bengal restricts supply

  Potato prices in Odisha have risen to Rs 40 per kg as West Bengal restricted supply, causing hundreds of trucks to be stranded at the border. Traders fear further hikes if the disruption continues. The Odisha government is considering sourcing potatoes from Punjab or Uttar Pradesh to mitigate the shortage.

• FCI to offer 25 LMT of wheat in the open market sale till March 25

  The government plans to offload 25 LMT of wheat to bulk buyers like flour millers from FCI's buffer stock by March 31, 2025. This is aimed at preventing price rises. Last year, FCI offloaded 10 MT of wheat. Currently, wheat prices are around Rs 32 per kg. The FCI had a stock of over 10 million tonnes in November.

• Export demand, rainfall delay, damage keep onion prices firm

  Onion prices are currently at a five-year high. Export demand and monsoon-delayed harvests are keeping prices firm. The Lasalgaon market sees onions trading between Rs 15/kg and Rs 53/kg. Exports are up 50%. Nafed is selling onions from its buffer stock at Rs 35/kg in some cities. Prices are expected to decrease by mid-December as arrivals increase and quality improves.

• UP achieves record paddy procurement under Kharif season 2024-25

  Uttar Pradesh's paddy procurement for 2024-25 has exceeded 7.28 lakh metric tons, a significant jump from last year's 5.79 lakh metric tons by the same period. Over 105,000 farmers have received Rs 1,464 crore in payments within 48 hours, facilitated by 4,215 procurement centers. Chief Minister Yogi Aditynath emphasised transparency and efficiency in the process.

• Meat production rises 5 pc to 10.25 mn tonnes in FY24; egg output up 3 pc: Government data

  India's meat production reached 10.25 million tonnes in 2023-24, a 4.95% increase from the previous year. Egg production also saw growth, reaching 142.77 billion, while wool production experienced a slight rise to 33.69 million kg. West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra led in meat production, while Andhra Pradesh dominated egg production. Rajasthan contributed the most to wool production.

• India's milk production up 4% to record 239.3 MT in FY24, despite fall in output of buffaloes

  India's milk production reached a record 239.30 million tonnes in 2023-24. This is a 4% increase. Per capita milk availability rose to 471 grams per day. The government celebrated National Milk Day. The focus is on bringing dairy farmers into the organized sector. The government aims to eradicate livestock diseases by 2030. This will boost dairy exports.

• India to go natural for farming. Cost: ₹2,481 crore

  The Indian government launched a ₹2,481 crore national mission to promote natural farming among 10 million farmers. The initiative aims to improve soil quality and provide chemical-free food through traditional, livestock-integrated methods. The program includes simplified certification, dedicated branding, and online monitoring.

• Indian farmers shift from rapeseed to other crops as temperatures soar

  India's rapeseed and mustard production is likely to fall. High temperatures are affecting the crop. Farmers are opting for wheat and potatoes instead. This could lead to a 10% drop in rapeseed acreage. India may need to import more cooking oils like palm and soyoil. This is due to rising demand and lower domestic production.

• India Gate sets eyes beyond basmati, to foray into mixed spices, rice bran oil

  KRBL Ltd., known for its 'India Gate' basmati rice, is expanding into mixed spices and rice bran edible oil. The company plans to launch a range of spices under the 'India Gate' brand, starting with biryani masala. KRBL will also introduce 'healthy' edible oil, leveraging its existing production of unrefined rice bran oil.

• Government funds 28 innovations to combat tomato price volatility and wastage

  The Department of Consumer Affairs has funded 28 projects aimed at reducing tomato loss and adding value to the crop. These initiatives seek to stabilize tomato prices, minimize waste, and improve supply chain efficiency by implementing affordable solutions that could cost as little as Re 1 per kg.

• Tropical Agrosystem to start work on Kharagpur unit in Dec

  Tropical Agrosystem India Pvt Ltd is set to begin construction of a new manufacturing unit in Kharagpur in December. The facility, scheduled to be operational by the second quarter of the next fiscal year, will cater to the eastern markets and enhance supply chain efficiency.

• Tropical Agrosystem to build new unit in Kharagpur, eyes expansion in Gujarat

  Tropical Agrosystem India Pvt Ltd is set to begin construction of a new manufacturing unit in Kharagpur in December. The facility, located on a four-acre site, will primarily serve the eastern markets and is expected to be operational by the second quarter of the next fiscal year.

• Fifth shipment of 720-tonnes of onion to reach Delhi on November 21: Government

  The Indian government is continuing its efforts to stabilize onion prices by transporting buffer stock from Maharashtra to various cities. A fifth shipment of 720 tonnes is scheduled to arrive in Delhi on November 21st, following four previous shipments.

• Soil degradation on 30 pc of India's land poses threat to agriculture: Agri minister

  India's Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan voiced concerns about soil degradation affecting 30% of the nation's land, emphasizing the urgency for soil health improvement. Chouhan highlighted government initiatives like soil health card distribution and promotion of sustainable farming practices. However, he stressed the need for greater efforts, particularly in light of climate change.

• ₹69,000 crore vanishes in grain leakages: Where is India’s free ration going?

  A new report reveals that India's Public Distribution System (PDS) suffers a 28% leakage of subsidized grains, amounting to 20 million tonnes annually. This equates to a ₹69,000 crore loss, with grains likely diverted to the open market or exported.

• Samunnati ties up with Northern Farmers Mega FPO to boost sustainable agriculture

  Samunnati has partnered with Northern Farmers Mega FPO to empower over 50 Farmer Producer Organizations in northern India. The collaboration will focus on sustainable farming practices, market access, and converting paddy straw waste into clean energy, addressing pollution concerns and boosting agricultural prosperity.

• Garuda Aerospace's agri-drones clock 1 mn flight hours

  Garuda Aerospace, an Indian drone maker, reached a major milestone. Its fleet of agricultural drones completed one million flight hours. The company deployed a drone every two minutes. These drones helped Indian farmers with various tasks. These included spraying pesticides and monitoring crops. Garuda Aerospace plans to expand its services to other countries in Asia and Australia.

• Retail tomato prices drop 22.4 pc on improved supplies: Govt

  Retail tomato prices in India dropped 22.4% in November, falling to Rs 52.35 per kg from Rs 67.50 per kg in October due to improved supplies and favorable weather. Wholesale prices also saw a significant decrease, with Delhi's Azadpur mandi reporting a near 50% decline.

• Another Onion Express from Nashik arrives in Delhi, one more expected in next two days

  An Onion Express train carrying 1,341 tonnes of onions arrived in Delhi from Nashik to combat rising prices. This initiative aims to benefit both farmers and consumers. Another train with a similar quantity is scheduled to arrive within two days. This follows the removal of the minimum export price on onions and previous export restrictions.

• UP CM Yogi Adityanath highlights progress and challenges in empowering farmers at Krishi Bharat 2024

  Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated the Krishi Bharat 2024 program in Lucknow, emphasizing the integration of technology and entrepreneurship in agriculture. The event, featuring over 250 exhibitors, showcases advancements in agriculture, dairy, and food processing, attracting farmers and visitors. Two MoUs were signed between Uttar Pradesh and the Netherlands, the event's partner country, to foster agricultural collaboration.

• Indian sugar output slumps 44 pc in early 2024-25 season as mills delay crushing

  India's sugar production plummeted by 44% in the initial six weeks of the 2024-25 season, reaching a mere 7.10 lakh tonnes. This decline is attributed to a significant decrease in operational sugar mills, with only 144 mills active compared to 264 the previous year. Maharashtra, a leading sugar-producing state, is yet to commence crushing operations, further impacting production.

• Australia keen to explore opportunities in India's agri-tech space: Govt

  Australia's High Commissioner to India, Philip Green, met with Indian Agriculture Secretary Devesh Chaturvedi to discuss collaborations in agriculture and related fields. Green expressed interest in India's agri-tech sector and emphasized strengthening trade ties. Both officials agreed to explore opportunities in agri-tech, horticulture, digital agriculture, and agricultural machinery.

• More tears likely in store for Indians as onion prices to stay high, ICICI Bank says

  While November saw a slight dip in overall vegetable prices, onion prices remained stubbornly high, contributing to India's rising inflation. This price surge, attributed to heavy rains and supply chain disruptions, has significantly impacted essential items like tomatoes, potatoes, and onions, pushing retail inflation to a 14-month high.

• Onion prices likely to cool down further with arrival of new kharif crop: Govt official

  Onion prices in India are anticipated to decrease further due to the arrival of the new kharif crop. The government has been selling onions from its buffer stock at subsidized rates to combat recent price increases. Over 4,850 tonnes of onions have been transported via railway to major cities, including Delhi, to enhance supply and stabilize prices.

• Government taking steps to check onion prices to Rs 35 a kg: Secretary Consumer Affairs

  Concerned by a sharp rise in onion prices driving overall inflation, the Indian government is taking swift action. Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare highlighted the government's efforts to stabilize retail prices, including the introduction of 'Kanda Express' trains to transport onions to high-demand areas. These measures aim to bring retail onion prices down to around Rs. 35 per kilogram.

• Government to offload more onions in markets to stabilise retail prices

  The Indian government is increasing onion supplies from its buffer stock to stabilize rising prices caused by temporary shortages. Along with releasing more onions into retail markets, the government is also ramping up distribution through organizations like NAFED and NCCF. While onion prices have fluctuated, tomato prices are declining due to increased arrivals, and potato prices remain stable.

• Lifting rice export curbs to help push agri shipments over USD 50 bn in FY25: Official

  India anticipates agricultural exports to exceed USD 50 billion in 2024-25, fueled by strong global demand and the recent lifting of export restrictions on non-basmati rice. This positive outlook comes despite previous export curbs on rice, wheat, and sugar, which impacted exports by an estimated USD 6-7 billion.

• Rabi sowing gains pace but southern states lag

  Indian farmers are rapidly planting winter crops like wheat, chana, and mustard, encouraged by strong prices. Heavy rains in southern regions have slowed planting and may cause farmers to favor urad beans. Wheat planting is progressing well in western states, with Rajasthan already exceeding last year's acreage. Potato planting is also expected to increase to address recent price rises.

• Rising costs & harsh weather put tea industry’s future at risk, warns Indian Tea Association

  India's tea industry is facing an economic crisis due to rising production costs, stagnant tea prices, and unfavorable weather conditions. The situation is exacerbated by a global tea surplus. The chairman of the Indian Tea Association called for government support and industry-wide collaboration to address these challenges and improve the industry's long-term sustainability.

• Onion prices soar to 5-year high amid supply woes, exports boost

  Onion prices in India have surged due to poor quality kharif crops and increased export demand. The price spike follows a supply shortage and the depletion of stored onions from the previous year's harvest. Traders anticipate a decline in prices as new crop arrivals increase in the coming days.

• Onion price hikes make wallets weep across India

  Onion prices in India have skyrocketed to Rs 70-80 per kilogram, impacting household budgets and causing distress among consumers. Vendors attribute the price hike to inflation and sourcing costs, while consumers express concerns about the affordability of this essential ingredient. Despite the surge, onions remain a staple, compelling people to purchase them despite the inflated prices.

• November inflation figures may bear imprint of rise in onion prices

  Onion prices in India have surged to a five-year high due to heavy rainfall damaging crops and delaying harvests. This price increase, along with rising costs for potatoes and cooking oil, is expected to impact inflation data for November.

• 840 tonne onions arrive in Guwahati via rail for distribution in northeast

  The Indian government transported 840 tonnes of onions to Guwahati. This initiative aimed to increase onion supply in northeastern states. The onions were distributed in Assam, Meghalaya, and Tripura. This effort is part of a larger government program to stabilize onion prices. The government previously dispatched onions to Delhi and Chennai. These actions helped increase onion availability and decrease prices.

• FinMin asks PSBs to meet loan targets for agri-allied sectors

  The finance ministry has asked public sector banks (PSBs) to meet loan targets for the agri-allied sector during the current financial year. Department of Financial Services Secretary M Nagaraju in a meeting held on Tuesday reviewed the progress of credit disbursement to agri-allied activities like animal husbandry, dairying and fisheries with Public Sector Banks (PSBs), NABARD and State/ UT Level Bankers' Committee.

• Finance Ministry asks PSU banks to take steps to meet loan targets for agri-allied sector

  India's Finance Ministry has urged public sector banks to achieve their loan targets for the agri-allied sector this fiscal year. Secretary M Nagaraju emphasized the sector's importance in boosting agricultural growth and rural employment. He directed banks to conduct regional assessments to ensure credit reaches all areas with potential in allied activities.

• ISMA pegs India’s 2024-25 sugar production at 33.3MT, calls for 26% MSP hike and sugar exports

  India's sugar production is projected to decrease to 33.3 million tonnes in 2024-25, according to the Indian Sugar and Bioenergy Manufacturers' Association (ISMA). The industry body attributes this decline to drought in Maharashtra and calls for an increase in the minimum selling price of sugar, citing rising production costs and declining market prices.

• Kharif output may be better than last year's

  India anticipates a bumper kharif harvest in 2024-25, with rice, pulses, and maize production projected to exceed last year's figures. This positive outlook is attributed to favorable monsoon conditions and an expansion in the cultivated area. While rice and tur production are set to increase, urad output is expected to decline.

• Paddy procurement on track in Haryana, Punjab despite late start; 112 lakh ton purchased so far

  Haryana and Punjab are progressing well towards their paddy procurement targets for the 2024-25 kharif marketing season, with 112 lakh tonnes already purchased. Despite a delayed start due to rains, procurement operations in both states are active, with payments to farmers being made swiftly via direct bank transfers.