From the RSS:

• Indian sugar mills seek higher prices; export contracts remain elusive

  Indian traders are finding it difficult to sign export contracts despite New Delhi's approval for exporting 1 million tons of sugar due to high local prices. Mills are demanding a premium over global prices, but overseas buyers are reluctant to pay. As a result, exports have slowed despite a 3.174% uniform export quota for mills.

• Crop protection industry seeks tax cuts, R&D incentives in Budget

  Budget 2025: CropLife India urges the government to lower GST on agrochemicals to 12% and maintain a uniform 10% customs duty on raw materials in the upcoming Budget. Additionally, they seek a 200% weighted deduction on R&D expenses and request funding for agricultural extension. They warn that higher customs duty could make crop protection products less affordable for small farmers.

• India set to raise farm budget by over 15%, biggest increase in six years

  The govt is aiming to boost agricultural spending by 15% to $20 billion in the 2025/26 budget to improve rural incomes and curb inflation. The funds will focus on developing high-yield crops, enhancing storage and supply chain infrastructure, and boosting pulse, oilseed, vegetable, and dairy production.

• Cabinet increases MSP on raw jute by Rs 315 to Rs 5,650 per quintal for 2025-26

• Cabinet decision highlights: Modi govt hikes MSP on raw jute, extends National Health Mission for 5 yrs

  The Union Cabinet has increased the Minimum Support Price (MSP) of raw jute to Rs 5,650 per quintal for the 2025-26 marketing season, providing farmers a 66.8% return over the production cost. Compared to last season’s Rs 5,335, this hike aims to enhance farmers’ incomes and promote sustainable agriculture.

• CISTA urges Piyush Goyal to curb imports of substandard tea to protect Indian tea industry

  The Confederation of Indian Small Tea Growers Association (CISTA) urged Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal to prevent the import of low-quality teas from Kenya and Nepal, which threaten the domestic tea market's quality, demand, and prices. CISTA highlighted a significant increase in tea imports from these countries, undermining local oversupply management efforts.

• Centre extends duty free imports of tur till March 2026

  The Centre has extended duty-free imports of tur dal until March 2026 to curb rising retail food prices. Despite some recent declines, retail prices of tur remain high, with year-on-year figures showing mixed trends across different states. The measure aims to offset the impact of reduced domestic production and ensure sufficient supply amidst ongoing food inflation concerns.

• India seventh largest coffee producer in the world: Government

  India has become the seventh-largest coffee producer globally, with exports nearly doubling to $1.29 billion in FY24. Major buyers include Italy, Belgium, and Russia. The Integrated Coffee Development Project is focusing on improving yields and expanding cultivation to strengthen the coffee industry. Domestic consumption rose to 91,000 tonnes in 2023.

• Govt allows export of 1 million tons sugar in ongoing 2024-25 season

  The Indian government has approved the export of 1 million tonnes of sugar for the 2024-25 season, which will run until September. Food Minister Pralhad Joshi announced the decision on X (formerly Twitter), stating that this move aims to ensure price stability, support five crore farmer families, and benefit five lakh workers in the sugar sector.

• 1,646 projects valued Rs 31,830 crore sanctioned so far under PM Kisan Sampada

  The Ministry of Finance announced that 1,646 food processing projects worth Rs 31,830 crore have been sanctioned under PM Kisan Sampada Yojana, expected to generate 13.42 lakh jobs and benefit 51.24 lakh farmers. The PMFME Yojana supports over 3.10 lakh SHGs and 1,14,388 individuals.

• Union Budget 2025: A game changing budget to revive India’s backbone - agriculture

  India's economic growth aims for significant agriculture sector reforms focusing on productivity, technology adoption, and infrastructure. Priorities include agri-allied sectors, export enhancement, land consolidation, irrigation expansion, and rural workforce skill development to boost rural income and support overall economic growth.

• Sugar output falls 13.62 pc to 130.55 lakh tonne till Jan 15: NFCSFL

  India's sugar production for the 2024-25 marketing season fell by 13.62% to 130.55 lakh tonne, compared to 151.20 lakh tonne the previous year. Major producing states Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Karnataka reported declines. NFCSFL estimates total production for the season at 270 lakh tonne, down from 319 lakh tonne last year.

• Looking to double turmeric production to 20 lakh tonnes in 5 years, says Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal

  The National Turmeric Board, inaugurated by Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, aims to double India's turmeric production to 20 lakh tonnes in five years and boost exports. The Board will focus on developing new markets, enhancing research, and leveraging traditional knowledge for value-added products. India, the largest turmeric producer, targets $1 billion in exports by 2030.

• Optimistic about higher agri growth in FY25 on good monsoon: Principal secy to PM

  India's agriculture sector is expected to grow stronger in the 2024-25 fiscal year, driven by favourable monsoon conditions. The sector had seen a reduction in growth rate to 1.4 per cent in FY24. It could see a 3.5-4 per cent growth this fiscal year. Challenges remain in achieving self-sufficiency in pulses and oilseeds production.

• Govt sets wheat procurement target at 30 MT for 2025-26 season

  The government sets a conservative wheat procurement target of 30 million tonnes for the 2025-26 rabi marketing season, despite targeting a record production of 115 million tonnes for the 2024-25 crop year. The minimum support price for wheat has been fixed at Rs 2,425 per quintal.

• Nadella lauds Sharad Pawar-led body on AI use for farmers

  Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella commended the Agricultural Development Trust (ADT) of Baramati for utilizing AI to assist farmers in achieving healthier and more sustainable harvests. ADT, founded by Sharad Pawar and Appasaheb Pawar, focuses on agricultural and educational development, including early efforts in improving water access in drought-prone areas.

• India must speed up hybrid technology adoption in pulses, oilseeds to reduce imports, says PK Mishra, Principal Secretary to PM

  India must accelerate the adoption of hybrid technology in pulses and oilseeds to address production deficits, despite challenges faced by farmers, Principal Secretary to Prime Minister PK Mishra stated at a national symposium.

• Government selling wheat to millers as prices rise over 8% in 2 weeks

  Wheat prices have surged over 8% in a fortnight, hitting ₹32-33 per kg in wholesale trade, raising inflation concerns. Despite government efforts to control prices by selling wheat to flour millers, prices remain high. The wheat processing industry cites insufficient government stock as a reason for the price hike.

• Gujarat witnesses growth in Rabi crop-sowing areas

  Gujarat's Rabi crop sowing has exceeded 47.55 lakh hectares, surpassing the three-year average, driven by favorable rains and high prices. Notable increases include wheat (13.42 lakh hectares), gram (8.39 lakh hectares), onions (92,000 hectares), and potatoes (1.56 lakh hectares), signaling a potentially profitable year for farmers.

• China to impose anti-dumping deposits on cypermethrin from India

  Cypermethrin, an insecticide used in agriculture and sanitation, controls pests on crops such as cotton, vegetables, corn, and flowers, according to the ministry.

• Farm credit offtake expected to surpass ₹27 lakh cr

  Farm credit is poised to exceed ₹27 lakh crore this fiscal year, with substantial contributions from RRBs and RCBs. Improved rural consumption is anticipated to surpass urban demand. Enhanced productivity, adequate resources, and digitalisation in agriculture are key points highlighted by Shaji KV, Chairman of Nabard.

• Budget 2025: Agri minister reviews schemes with states; expects 3.5-4 pc growth in FY25

  Agriculture minister Shivaraj Singh Chouhan reviewed various schemes with state agriculture ministers. He sought their suggestions for ongoing programmes and budget allocation ahead of the Union Budget. Chouhan expressed satisfaction with the agriculture sector's growth and progress in key schemes like PM-KISAN and Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana. He urged state governments to work faster.

• Govt moves to tighten rules for transparency in GM crop panel decisions

  The Centre has proposed amendments for greater transparency in the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee. Members will need to disclose any interests that might affect their judgment. Experts will submit and update written declarations of conflicts of interest. These measures aim to safeguard environmental and human health. Public objections and suggestions can be made within 60 days.

• India sugar production declines by 16pc to 95.40 lakh tn in Oct-Dec: ISMA

  Sugar production decreased by 16 per cent to 95.40 lakh tonne in the first quarter of the current marketing year starting in October. Production declined mainly due to lower output in Maharashtra. Mills had manufactured 113.01 lakh tonnes in the same period last year. The data excludes sugar diverted for ethanol production.

• IIT Madras collaborates with Agriculture Ministry on Project VISTAAR

  IIT Madras is working with the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer Welfare on Project VISTAAR. The digital platform aims to enhance agricultural extension systems, providing farmers with access to Agri start-up technologies. This initiative will help farmers in crop production, marketing, supply chain management, and accessing government schemes related to agriculture and rural development.

• Govt will abide by apex court direction on farmers' protest: Agri Min Shivraj Singh Chouhan

  Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan stated that the government will follow the Supreme Court's decision on the farmers protest at the Punjab-Haryana border. The minister mentioned that the Supreme Court is handling the matter and will take subsequent action based on the court's direction. The court is set to hear a plea concerning farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal's medical aid.

• Govt extends 2 crop insurance schemes till 2025-26; creates Rs 824.77 cr fund for tech infusion

  The Indian government has extended crop insurance schemes PMFBY and RWBCIS till 2025-26. They also allocated Rs 824.77 crore for technology infusion. This will enhance crop damage assessment and claim settlement. The extension aligns with the 15th Finance Commission period. This move aims to improve insurance coverage and benefits for farmers.

• Cabinet extends One-Time Special Package for DAP fertilisers to farmers

  The Union Cabinet, led by PM Narendra Modi, approved extending the One-time Special Package for Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP) at Rs 3,500 per metric ton from January 2025 to ensure farmers access affordable DAP fertilizers amid global market fluctuations and geopolitical tensions.

• Cabinet approves Rs 69,515 crore boost for PM Fasal Bima Yojana

  The Union Cabinet approved the extension of the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana and Restructured Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme until 2025-26, with a total outlay of Rs 69,515.71 crore. Additionally, a Fund for Innovation and Technology with Rs 824.77 crore was created to enhance yield estimation and weather data systems.

• Foodgrain output set to scale new peak in 2025 as farm sector eyes 4 pc growth

  India's agricultural sector is set for a strong recovery in 2025, with record foodgrain production thanks to a favorable monsoon. The National Mission on Edible Oils - Oilseeds will address self-sufficiency challenges. The government introduces several new schemes to boost agriculture. Despite progress, challenges such as farmer unrest and high input costs remain.

• Farmers borrowing more from banks and are creditworthy, too

  The number of farmers’ accounts opting for credit through institutional sources increased by 381 lakh from March 2020 to March 2024. A large number of urban labourers moved back to their rural homes postCovid, fostering growth in agricultural activities.

• Centre launches 10,000 new PACS, eyes 2 lakh target before 5-year timelines: Amit Shah

  Cooperation Minister Amit Shah launched 10,000 new PACS, aiming to establish 2 lakh such societies ahead of the five-year target. The initiative involves NABARD, NDDB, and NFDB creating numerous new cooperatives across the country. Emphasis was placed on effective cooperation at the panchayat level and the importance of trained manpower.

• Cotton farmers from Telangana may get central price support

  The Centre plans to launch a pilot of the Bhavantar Bhugtan Yojana next month for cotton farmers in Adilabad, Telangana. The scheme aims to compensate farmers when market prices fall below the minimum support price (MSP). The decision follows a recent committee meeting and the promise to support cotton and soyabean farmers.

• Govt working on new scheme to help farmers transport farm produce to other states, markets: Agri Min Shivraj Singh Chouhan

  The Centre and state governments are developing a new scheme to help farmers transport their products to other states and markets. The initiative aims to boost the agriculture sector, which contributes 18 percent to the country's GDP. The government is also focusing on natural farming, efficient water use, and bridging the gap between researchers and farmers through a television programme.

• Weather woes to crush India's sugar production, export hopes

  India's sugar production is expected to fall. Drought and excessive rains have hurt sugarcane yields. Output may drop to 27 million metric tons. This is below India's annual sugar consumption. Lower production could stop sugar exports. Key sugar-producing states are facing challenges. Maharashtra and Karnataka had less rain. Uttar Pradesh faced crop disease. This situation may impact global sugar prices.

• Nano urea demand pegged at 2.36 crore bottle for rabi season; six plants operational

  India projects a need for 2.36 crore bottles of nano urea for the 2024-25 rabi season. Uttar Pradesh has the highest demand, followed by Maharashtra and Punjab. Six plants nationwide, including three newly commissioned in 2024, can produce 27.22 crore bottles annually. Several states, including Gujarat, reported no nano urea requirement.

• Govt asks retailers to lower price of pulses

  Wholesale pulse prices dropped 5-20% recently. The government urged retailers to match these reductions. Retail prices remain high. Officials met with industry representatives. The government may increase Bharat brand pulse sales if retail prices don't fall. Good harvests and imports have eased pulse prices.

• Cabinet approves copra MSP by upto Rs 420 to Rs 12,100 per qtl for 2025 season

• Cabinet approves minimum support price for Copra for the 2025 season

  The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for copra for the 2025 season. The MSP for milling copra is set at ₹11,582 per quintal and ₹12,100 per quintal for ball copra, a substantial increase from 2014. This aims to provide better returns for coconut growers and boost copra production.

• Onion prices crash by 55% in a week

  With onion prices plummeting over 50% in a week, Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar urged Union Minister Piyush Goyal to remove the 20% export duty. Increased arrivals and export promotion could stabilize prices and benefit farmers, struggling with unseasonal rain losses.

• FAIFA releases agricultural roadmap, pushes for digital reform

  FAIFA unveiled a roadmap for India's agricultural growth until 2040. The plan focuses on digital infrastructure and sustainable farming. It projects a 5.5% growth rate, reaching Rs 42 lakh crore by 2030. Foodgrain production is expected to rise 25%. The roadmap includes short, medium, and long-term goals. These involve strengthening e-NAM, expanding irrigation, and promoting natural farming.

• Sugar mills pay Rs 8,126 cr to farmers in first 70 days of 2024-25 season

  Indian sugar mills have disbursed ₹8,126 crore to sugarcane farmers within the first 70 days of the 2024-25 sugar season. Total dues amounted to ₹11,141 crore as of December 13, leaving ₹3,015 crore outstanding. Karnataka holds the highest arrears. Last season's dues were nearly cleared, with only ₹1,275 crore pending.

• West Bengal's potato crisis: Ban on inter-state movement threatens growers, cold storages

  West Bengal's ban on interstate potato movement is crippling the cold storage industry and threatening potato growers with financial ruin. Unsold stocks are piling up, risking spoilage and distress sales. The ban disrupts the usual 60:40 consumption-trade ratio, impacting farmers and the rural economy, particularly in southern districts.

• Sugar production till Dec 15 trails by 17%, says ISMA

  India's sugar production for the 2024-25 season is down 17% compared to last year, reaching 61.39 lakh tonnes by December. Increased sugar diversion for ethanol (40 lakh tonnes versus 21.5 lakh tonnes last year) and delayed crushing operations in Maharashtra and Karnataka due to elections contributed to the lower output.

• Implement legally binding MSP, waive farm loans: House panel

  A parliamentary panel recommended implementing a legally binding minimum support price (MSP) for farm produce, along with loan waivers for farmers and laborers. This recommendation aligns with the demands of protesting farmers, particularly from Punjab, who are seeking financial stability and a reduction in farmer suicides.

• DMEO to evaluate decentralized procurement of wheat and paddy under the Minimum Support Price (MSP) scheme

  The Development Monitoring and Evaluation Office, under the NITI Aayog, has invited bids from consultancy firms to support in the evaluation of the scheme which entails an annual expenditure of over Rs 70,000 crore. The move is aimed at rationalizing the food subsidy outgo.

• Government launches Rs 1,000-cr credit guarantee scheme to help farmers access post harvest loans

  Union food minister Pralhad Joshi launched a Rs 1,000 crore credit guarantee scheme to boost farmers' access to post-harvest loans using electronic warehouse receipts. The scheme aims to encourage bank lending against e-NWRs, with a target to increase post-harvest lending from Rs 40,000 crore to Rs 5.5 lakh crore over the next decade.

• UPL-SAS sees tech, climate solutions as key to growth after $200 mn investment

  UPL-Sustainable AgriSolutions (UPL-SAS) is transforming Indian agriculture with technology and a holistic strategy. CEO Ashish Dobhal highlighted their shift from product sales to comprehensive solutions, focusing on climate-smart technologies, bio-solutions, and digital platforms like Nurture. A $200 million investment will fuel innovation, addressing challenges like pest outbreaks and water scarcity to ensure food security.

• RBI raises collateral-free agricultural loan limit to Rs 2 lakh to aid farmers

  The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has raised the collateral-free loan limit for farmers from Rs 1.6 lakh to Rs 2 lakh, effective January 1, 2025, to help small and marginal farmers manage rising input costs. The new policy waives collateral and margin requirements for loans up to Rs 2 lakh, benefiting over 86% of farmers.

• Asia rice:New season supplies rise in India; Vietnam rates drop

  Indian parboiled rice prices held steady this week due to strong African demand, counteracting pressure from new crop yields. Vietnamese prices fell on strong supplies, while Thai prices edged up slightly due to baht appreciation. The Indian rupee's record low boosted exporter margins.