Media Monitor
| Category | Stories |
|---|---|
| Agriculture Industry | 28 |
| Budget | 11 |
| CLAAS Global Mentions | 2 |
| Competition | 21 |
| Dairy Farming | 5 |
| Farm Mechanization | 5 |
| Technology in Agriculture | 11 |
| Paddy in India | 10 |
| Silage | 1 |
| Stubble Burning | 5 |
| Tractor industry | 4 |
| Uncategorized | 2 |
Agriculture Industry
Raj to adopt Maha solar model in agricultureedit
Rajasthan will adopt the Maharashtra model to supply power to farmers during the day by promoting solar energy production and improving the power distribution system. An energy department team will soon visit Maharashtra to study the policy changes made there and will discuss ways about implementing them in Rajasthan.
Farmers Decry Corporate Exploitation of Agriculture on Republic Day Through Tractor Paradesedit
Farmers’ organisations across the country held tractor rallies on Republic Day to demand an end to the corporate loot of agriculture. The tractor rallies were organised following an appeal by the Samyukta Kisan Morcha, where participants tied the flags of their organisations and the tricolour on the bonnet of their tractors and raised slogans like “Inquilab Zindabad” and “Give MSP to all farmers.”
Here’s what is keeping rice on the boiledit
Some of the key reasons for rice inflation include consistent increase in the minimum support price (MSP), government procurement of rice above MSP to fulfil poll promises, possibility of a decline in India’s kharif rice production by about 4% due to the impact of El Nino on the monsoons, and strong demand from poultry and ethanol industry.
Low rainfall in North India can hit agriculture, says IMDedit
A protracted dry spell in North India for the past six months could hit agriculture and freshwater reserves across the entire northern region, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Lack of rainfall may lead to a scarcity of freshwater, which could significantly impact horticultural and agricultural activities, IMD scientists said.
State begins procuring maize directly from farmersedit
West Bengal Livestock Development Corporation Limited (WBLDCL) has started procurement of maize directly from farmers belonging to Self Help Groups (SHGs) or Farmers’ Producer Company (FPC) for utilising the same in the production of poultry feed.
State begins procuring maize directly from farmersedit
West Bengal Livestock Development Corporation Limited (WBLDCL) has started procurement of maize directly from farmers belonging to Self Help Groups (SHGs) or Farmers’ Producer Company (FPC) for utilising the same in the production of poultry feed. The main objective of the project is to encourage the farmers to cultivate maize as an alternative agriculture in low rainfall areas and less fertile lands so that the farmers are economically benefited.
India’s fight for food security at WTOedit
The 13th Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organization (WTO) will be held in Abu Dhabi from February 26 to 28. India’s main focus at this conference will be to defend its right to purchase food grains from its farmers at minimum support prices (MSPs) without violating the WTO’s Agreement on Agriculture (AoA) rules. India buys grains for later distribution to the poor under its public stock holding (PSH) system.
Record wheat output may ease supply concerns; Rabi production seen at 114 MTedit
Amid concerns over wheat stocks plummeting to a seven-year-low, the government expects the current rabi crop to be robust, and yield and all-time output of 114 million tonne. This allays fears about shortage of the grain pushing the retail prices higher.
Unfounded fears of adverse impact of GM seeds affecting farmers: Centreedit
The Centre told the Supreme Court on Thursday that the ‘unfounded fears’ of the adverse impact of genetically altered oilseeds are hurting farmers, consumers, and the industry. India is already importing huge quantities of edible oil extracted from genetically altered oilseeds for domestic consumption and unfounded fears of their adverse impact are hurting farmers, consumers, and the industry, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, told the court.
Kharif: State gave Rs 102 crore to about 11 lakh farmers in 2023edit
Bengal government has ensured crop insurance worth Rs 2,286.11 crore to the farmers under the crop insurance scheme since its inception. The ruling party Trinamool Congress (TMC) in a post on X said that the state government under the leadership of the Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, the farmers across the state have reached a new height.
Centre withholds release of Rs 7,000 crore to state to procure paddy for National Food Security Actedit
The Centre has withheld the release of Rs 7,000 crore to the state to procure paddy for the National Food Security Act (NFSA), citing that Bengal has not put up the NFSA logo at ration shops. “The state has already procured 8.52 lakh tonnes of paddy for the NFSA in this financial year for the central pool (to run central schemes)…. But the Centre has refused to reimburse the sum saying the state did not follow central guidelines. This could leave a serious impact on paddy procurement in Bengal in the ongoing financial year,” said a senior bureaucrat.
Consumer ministry to ink pacts with cooperatives to set up world’s largest grain storageedit
To set up the world’s largest food grain storage, the ministry of cooperation plans to sign agreements with the Department of Consumer Affairs (DoCA), National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (Nabard), National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC), and National Cooperative Consumers’ Federation of India Ltd (NCCF).
Agriculture Ministry Surrenders Over Rs 1 Lakh Cr In Last Five Years, Reveals Reportedit
In a revelation that has raised eyebrows, a recent report by the Agriculture Ministry indicates that despite a consistent increase in the ministry’s budget in recent years, it has not fully utilised the allocated funds, surrendering a staggering amount exceeding Rs 1 lakh crore over the last five years.
Budget hiked, Agri Ministry returned over Rs 1 Lakh crore in 5 yearsedit
A report by the Agriculture Ministry showed that although the government has hiked the ministry’s budget in recent years, the ministry has not used it fully as it surrendered over Rs 1 lakh crore in the last five years.
FCI agrees to again test fortified rice samplesedit
Three months after rice shellers in Punjab went on a strike against the rejection of samples of fortified rice exceeding the prescribed nutritional value, the Food Corporation of India (FCI) has ordered retesting of the stocks and pointed out “variations in results of micronutrients from lab to lab”.
Food Inflation Up at 9.53% in December, Industrial Output Hits Eight-Month Low of 2.4% in Novemberedit
In December, retail food inflation in India increased to 9.53%, up from 8.7% in November, driven by less favourable base effects. However, the consumer food price index (CFPI) witnessed a sequential decline of 0.88% during the same period. The annual food inflation for December 2022 stood at 4.19%.
No plan to lift ban on onion exports despite falling mandi pricesedit
Despite reports of sharp fall in onion prices across key mandis, the government is taking a cautious approach, with no immediate pan to lift the ban on exports of the key vegetable imposed last month. Official sources told FE that there was an assessment of onion supply situation in the country recently, there was consensus that revoking onion exports ban may not be feasible at current circumstances.
Agriculture exports likely to double to $100 bn by 2030: Commerce Secyedit
India’s agriculture exports, which stood at over USD 50 billion at present, are expected to double by 2030 and reach USD 100 billion, Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal said on Monday. He said that the country is targeting USD 2 trillion worth of exports of goods and services by 2030.
Govt to intervene in retail rice market to curb pricesedit
As the retail inflation in rice continues to be in double digits for more than a year, the government is considering several measures including sale of grain from its stocks, as well as asking retailers to reduce “high margins.”
How farmer-producer organisations could fix India’s several agriculture sector problemsedit
Pushkar, in Rajasthan, is a popular tourist destination. It is also known for its roses. Some 700 hectares in the region are dedicated for rose cultivation. The flowers are mostly exported.
Why natural farming has not been embraced yetedit
Despite the understanding that crops grown naturally without chemical fertilisers and pesticides are good in taste and require less input cost, farmers in Jharkhand have not taken up organic farming, also known as natural farming or regenerative farming, in a big way because of apprehensions and lack of support from government agencies.
Agri growth pegged at 7-year low of 1.8% in FY24 due to poor Kharif harvestedit
The agriculture sector is projected to see a growth of 1.8 per cent in the FY24, a seven-year low, due to poor Kharif harvest and weak initial sowing of Rabi crops, according to the first advance estimates of national income released by the National Statistical Office (NSO) on Friday.
Govt says pulses area marginally less so far on late kharif harvestedit
Sowing of rabi crops has almost ended in most parts of India, with wheat acreage standing at around 33.17 million hectares, which is marginally less than last year but more importantly, way over the normal acreage for the crop.
Amit Shah urges farmers to make India selfreliant in pulses production by Dec 2027edit
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah has appealed to the farmers to focus on the production of pulses to make India self-reliant in this sector before December 2027. Taking another step towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India), Shah launched the ‘e-samridhi portal’ for registration, purchase and payment of ‘tur dal’ producing farmers here today.
Hry govt planning to send farmers to Africaedit
Haryana chief minister Manohar Lal Khattar said on Wednesday that the state government was planning to leverage the vast agricultural potential in African countries by sending state farmers abroad. The endeavour aims to provide new opportunities for Haryana’s farming community.
Uttarakhand bans sale of land to outsiders for agriculture, horticulture purposes: All you need to knowedit
Outsiders will not be able to buy land for agriculture or horticulture purposes in Uttarakhand, the state government has informed in a new order. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami-led BJP government has asked all District Magistrates (DMs) to deny attempts by outsiders to buy land for these purposes until a five-member drafting committee examines the report by the committee on land laws to the government.
India procures 25,000 tonne of kharif onion so far for buffer stockedit
The Centre has so far procured 25,000 tonne of onion grown in the 2023 kharif season for maintaining a buffer stock, Consumer Affairs Secretary Rohit Kumar Singh said on Monday.
Centre plans to restructure PM-AASHA with ₹28,100 crore corpusedit
Ahead of the general elections, the government is planning to consolidate marquee schemes to safeguard the interests of farmers and consumers, under the Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan (PM-AASHA), with an allocation of ₹28,107 crore till 2025-26, three officials aware of the matter said.
Budget
Rural India’s Budget expectationsedit
The performance of agriculture and the rural economy is important as around 70 per cent of the population and workforce reside in rural areas. Increasing their purchasing power is crucial for creating demand in the entire economy. In this context, let’s examine the present state of agriculture, rural economy, and expectations from the interim Budget for 2024-25.
Budget Snapshot: Government to step up focus on agriculture sector, execution keyedit
The government is likely to increase allocations for the farmer and agriculture schemes in the budget 2024-25. The yearly allocations for the Department of the Agriculture and Farmers Welfare more than doubled from FY19 as the government implemented the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-Kisan), a scheme that gives farmers an income support of up to Rs 6,000 per year.
India Union Budget 2024: A glance Budget 2023 announcements for agriculture sectoredit
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the Interim Budget for the financial year 2024-25 (FY25) on February 1, marking the second Interim Budget presentation by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government. The Union Budget for the financial year 2023-24 laid a special emphasis on development in India’s agricultural sector and the welfare of farmers in the country.
4 ways Budget 2024 can boost food and agriculture sector in Indiaedit
The Agri & allied sector Gross Value Added (GVA) is estimated to be about US$ 275 billion in FY23, contributing 15% to the nation’s total GVA. The sector has shown a growth rate of about 4% CAGR during the 5-year period ending FY23.
Spotlight on modernising agriculture, manufacturing: FM Sitharamanedit
Days ahead of the interim budget, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Thursday said modernising post-harvest practices to boost agriculture ecosystem, and pushing manufacturing in sunrise sectors like renewable energy, semiconductors, material sciences are among the government’s top priorities.
Budget 2024 Expectations: Agri-credit to fertilizer subsidy—here’s what agriculture sector expects this yearedit
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will unveil the Interim Budget for the financial year 2024-2025 (FY25) on February 1, 2024, which is likely to keep the focus on fiscal consolidation and increase welfare spending, but may not involve any major policy changes. Since 2024 is an election year, with Lok Sabha Elections expected in April-May, the finance minister will present an Interim Budget or a Vote on Account in February, rather than a comprehensive annual budget.
Budget 2024: Govt To Increase Farmers Agricultural Credit Target To Rs 2225 Lakh Credit
The central government is poised to announce an increase in the agricultural credit target for the upcoming fiscal year in the imminent interim budget, potentially ranging from Rs 22 to 25 lakh crore. This move is anticipated to ensure that eligible farmers have continued access to institutional credit, surpassing the current financial year’s agricultural credit target of Rs 20 lakh crore, sources said.
Union Budget 2024: Expectations from agriculture sectoredit
India’s growing population along with a constant rise in income levels is leading to a constant increase in demand for agricultural products and increasing burden on existing agricultural resources. The prevailing scenario indicates a need to improve productivity along with reducing costs and improving quality to make the most efficient use of the available resources.
Govt may increase agri-credit target to Rs 22-25 trn in interim Budgetedit
The government is likely to announce in the upcoming interim Budget a substantial increase in the agricultural credit target to Rs 22-25 lakh crore for the next fiscal and ensure every eligible farmer has access to institutional credit, according to sources. The government’s agri-credit target is Rs 20 lakh crore for the current fiscal.
Interest subvention scheme for farmers may get Rs 21,000-cr outlay in FY25edit
The government is likely to make an outlay of Rs 21,000 crore for reduce the cost of short-term loans for Kisan Credit Cards (KCCs) holders in the forthcoming interim budget for 2024-25. This amounts to an annual rise of 13%. Sources said that under modified interest subvention scheme (MISS) of the agriculture ministry, against a revised budgetary allocation of Rs 18,500 crore for the current fiscal, around Rs 12,859 crore was disbursed till the beginning of January.
Budget 2024: Fingers crossed for agri sector after El Nino troublesedit
The agriculture sector stood strong during the coronavirus pandemic, growing by 5.1 percent on average in 2019-20 and 2020-21. If not for the farm sector, the economy would have contracted by far more than the average 1 percent in each of the two aforementioned years.
CLAAS Global Mentions
The horsepower race is back on againedit
When the maximum horsepower ratings of production tractors hit 500 several years ago, I recall seeing a magazine editor ask the question, “Will we ever see 600?” For several seasons there’s been a kind of yellow flag in the race as brands just lap the track holding their positions — but all of that seems to have ended.
U.S. Custom Harvesters to gather 800 custom harvesters in Oklahoma Cityedit
U.S. Custom Harvesters, Inc. will have its annual convention in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, from Jan. 25 to 27, and gather more than 800 members in the custom harvesting industry. The Oklahoma City’s new Convention Center will host USCHI members.
Competition
How CNH plans to double its market share in the Indian tractor industryedit
Mittal also shares insights on how CNH’s Greater Noida facility is the leanest in terms of manufacturing, compared to its other plants across the globe; adoption of alternative fuel technologies for tractors, connected technology in the segment, Trem-V production; and India’s potential of becoming a production hub for the world. The Italian-American company, which produces farm machinery under New Holland, has recently completed 25 years for the brand in India. For 2024, it wants to focus on precision technology and localisation in the country.
CNH plans to invest up to USD 50 million in India in 2024; launch 105HP tractor in Mayedit
Italian-American off-road construction and agriculture firm CNH is planning to invest up to USD 50 million in the farm machinery segment in India this year and launch a 105HP tractor in May, according to a top CNH India official. CNH, which produces and sells farm machinery and equipment under the New Holland brand, will focus on the compact range of tractors of below 30-40 horsepower (HP), besides targeting to sell 1,000 baler machines (used for managing stubble) this year.
Case IH presents autonomous and automated solutions at IGW’s Agricultural Engineering Innovation Forumedit
Case IH is capitalising on the Agricultural Engineering Innovation Forum at this year’s International Green Week in Berlin as an opportunity to reinforce its role in resolving concrete challenges in agriculture. The brand is breaking new ground to assist farmers in boosting productivity and profitability, whilst generating additional value and promoting resource conservation.
Issue Special: New Holland 3600 2WD — Farm Candyedit
It has been a while and some more since I’ve actually pulled out a laptop to type a story. The keys, which were once so easy to navigate in my past life as a motoring journalist and a communications specialist for an automobile major, are suddenly so very unfamiliar today. But I hope some of the skills around writing a story for you return soon, as a part of a combined muscle and cerebral memory that must somewhere, deep down, still be alive, under the cobwebs and dust of disuse of some 20+ years.
CNH celebrates 25 years of New Holland in Indiaedit
CNH, a global leader in agricultural and construction solutions, proudly celebrates the 25th anniversary of its brand, New Holland in India. Since its inception, the brand has been at the forefront of introducing cutting-edge technological advancements to the country?s agricultural sector. It has pioneered the baling technique for crop residue and is a market leader in the segment.
Major Belgian factory investment marks development of new harvester set to enhance arable farm efficiencyedit
In a major development in high-capacity harvesting set to help large farms gather their crops more efficiently and more sustainably, New Holland Agriculture is to launch worldwide the new CR11 combine harvester, allowing farmers to cover more hectares in less time to use fuel as efficiently as possible – and all thanks to significant investment in the brand’s factory in Zedelgem, Belgium.
Solis unveils 2 new tractors for global marketsedit
Solis Tractors, part of International Tractors Ltd (ITL), has introduced two new tractors — Solis S 75 Shuttle XL and Solis C 48 — for the international markets. Both tractors were unveiled at the Lamma Show, the UK’s agricultural machinery, equipment and services show. The Solis S 75 Shuttle XL uses an S-Tech, 4-cylinder engine and 12F+12R transmission. It comes with S-Boost hydraulics and a 3,000kg lifting capacity.
Good Design Award 2023. New Holland wins with CR11 Combine Harvester and with T4 Electric Power Tractoredit
New Holland’s CR11 Combine and T4 Electric Power Tractor are the winners of a 2023 GOOD DESIGN Award in the category “Transportation”. The Good Design Award is presented by the Chicago Athenaeum Museum of Architecture and Design and Metropolitan Arts Press Ltd., founded in Chicago in 1950 by Eero Saarinen and Charles and Ray Eames.
Reasons Why John Deere Tractors Are a Great Buyedit
In the world of agriculture, where efficiency and reliability are paramount, one name stands out among the rest – John Deere. Synonymous with innovation and quality, John Deere tractors have become a symbol of trust for farmers worldwide. From the sprawling fields of the Midwest to the rice paddies of Southeast Asia, these green machines have proven their mettle time and again. In this blog, we will look into the reasons why John Deere tractors are not just a purchase but an investment in the future of farming.
Innovative Farming Solutions for Women Farmers by VST Tillers Tractors at the Krushi Odisha 2024 Exhibitionedit
VST Tillers Tractors Ltd, one of India’s leading farm equipment manufacturers, showcased its range of innovative products at the Krushi Odisha exhibition at Janata Maidan, Jaydev Vihar, Bhubaneswar. In line with the theme of the exhibition ‘Celebrating Women in Agriculture’ VST is displaying smart farm machines that are compact, handy, and easy to use for women farmers. Honourable Chief Minister Shri Naveen Patnaik Inaugurated the exhibition.
New Holland targets $75 million investment and 8% market share in India by FY2025edit
New Holland Agriculture, part of the CNH Industrial Group, sees a huge potential for growth in India for its tractor and agri-equipment business over the course of the next few years. The company is building up capacity as well as new products and technologies to meet the needs of the Indian market.
Solis Tractors launches two new products at LAMMA 2024edit
Solis Tractors, part of the International Tractors, one of India’s leading tractor exporters has introduced new tractors at the LAMMA Show, scheduled on January 17 & 18, 2024. LAMMA is United Kingdom’s premier farm machinery show which connects farmers across a range of sectors with companies offering the latest in agricultural machinery, technology and equipment space.
CNH marks 25 years of agricultural innovation with New Holland in Indiaedit
CNH cordially celebrates the 25th anniversary of its renowned brand, New Holland, in India, signifying a quarter-century of revolutionary advancements in the agricultural industry of the country. Since 1998, New Holland has pioneered cutting-edge technology, particularly in crop residue baling, where it leads the market.
CNH New Holland completes 25 years in Indiaedit
CNH, a global leader in agricultural and construction solutions, has completed 25 years of operation in India. Since its inception, the brand has been at the forefront of introducing cutting-edge technological advancements to the country’s agricultural sector. It has pioneered the baling technique for crop residue and is a market leader in the segment.
AutoNxt Automation shines with its 45HP Tractor at KISAN Expoedit
AutoNxt Automation, India’s pioneering electric tractor venture proudly showcased its revolutionary 45HP tractor at the prestigious KISAN Expo held in Pune recently. This event attracted agri-professionals, policymakers and like-minded individuals apart from farmers from various corners of the country, including enthusiastic attendees from Punjab, Rajasthan and across Maharashtra.
U.S. Custom Harvesters to gather 800 custom harvesters in Oklahoma Cityedit
U.S. Custom Harvesters, Inc. will have its annual convention in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, from Jan. 25 to 27, and gather more than 800 members in the custom harvesting industry. The Oklahoma City’s new Convention Center will host USCHI members.
Delay In Delivery Of Number Plate And Registration Certificate, Kangra District Commission Holds Mahindra Tractors Dealer Liableedit
The District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, Kangra at Dharamshala (Himachal Pradesh) bench comprising of Hemanshu Mishra (President), Arti Sood and Narayan Thakur (Members) held Mahindra Tractors dealer liable of deficiency in service for delay in delivery of high security registration plate/number plate and registration certificate to the Complainant. The bench directed it to pay Rs. 20,000/- to the Complainant.
Escorts Kubota domestic sales fall 17% to 4,131 units in Dec 2023edit
Escorts Kubota Limited Agri Machinery Business Division in December 2023 sold 4,536 tractors as against 5,573 tractors in December 2022, which is close to a 19% decline. Domestic tractor sales were down 17% in December 2023 to 4,131 units as against 4,979 units in December 2022.
Claas gives a glimpse into its futuristic cabsedit
With its futuristic Cab 4.0 and Cab10Future, Claas is offering a glimpse at what it envisions is the future operator environment on harvesting machines and tractors.
Autosales December 2023: Mahindra’s Farm Equipment Sector Sells 18,028 Units In Indiaedit
Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd.’s Farm Equipment Sector (FES), part of the Mahindra Group, on Monday announced its tractor sales numbers for December 2023, the company announced through an exchange filing. Domestic sales in December 2023 were at 18,028 units, as against 21,640 units during December 2022.
Mahindra Tractor : A powerful mini tractor for smallholder farmers; Know its featuresedit
In the Mahindra Jivo 225 DI 4WD NT tractor you get a water cooled engine in 2 cylinders with a capacity of 2300 CC. Which generates 66.5 NM of torque along with 20 HP of power. In this small tractor of the company you will find a dry type air filter and it has a maximum PTO power of 18 HP.
Dairy Farming
Milma Ernakulam to pay extra Rs 7 per litre to farmers, societies for two monthsedit
Milma’s Ernakulam Regional Cooperative Milk Producers’ Union (ERCMPU) will give an extra Rs 7 per litre to the societies under it, with Rs 5 per litre going to the farmers, for two months. This was decided by a meeting of ERCMPU held on Thursday.
Women dairy farmers felicitated in Bengaluruedit
Five dairy women farmers from the states of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala were felicitated for their entrepreneurial zeal of producing milk ranging from 60 liters per day to 400 liters per day, at an event organised by the Southern Zone of the Indian Dairy Association at Bengaluru.
Farmers urge dairy officials to clear duesedit
Representatives of the Telangana Rythu Sangham briefed Telangana State Dairy Development Cooperative Federation officials about the challenges faced by dairy farmers. They sought clearance of pending bills and the incentive of Rs 5 per litre promised during the election campaign. In a note to officials, the sangham expressed concern about the overdue bills from Vijaya Dairy for the last two to three phases, leading to a decline in milk collection as farmers turned to alternative private dairies.
Leveraging AI in dairy farming enhances efficiency and productivityedit
AI technologies are reshaping the dairy supply chain through data analytics and predictive modelling, optimising inventory management, distribution routes, and demand forecasting. AI also promotes a more efficient and sustainable dairy industry by reducing wastage and transportation costs.
State cabinet announces Rs 5 subsidy per litre of milkedit
The state cabinet on Thursday announced a Rs 5 subsidy per litre of milk. This will apply to dairy farmers who are supplying milk to both cooperative and private dairies. This will require an outlay of Rs 230 crores per month since the supply of milk is roughly 149 lakh litres per day.
Farm Mechanization
Minister Munda launches framework to promote carbon market in agri sectoredit
Union Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda on Monday launched a framework to promote the Voluntary Carbon Market (VCM) in the farm sector and said this will encourage small and medium farmers to avail benefits of carbon credit. Introducing farmers to the carbon market will not only benefit them but also accelerate the adoption of environment-friendly agricultural practices, the minister said.
Centre of artificial intelligence and machine learning in agriculture to come up in SKUAST-Kashmiredit
The council of the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST) on Sunday gave its nod for setting up state-of-the-art centres of artificial intelligence and machine learning in agriculture, and innovation, incubation and entrepreneurship (IIE) in Jammu and Kashmir.
Plugging in progress with electric tractors for sustainable agricultureedit
In a world grappling with climate change and environmental degradation, the need for sustainable practices in every sector, including agriculture, has never been more pronounced. In India, where agriculture is not just an occupation but a way of life for millions, the adoption of eco-friendly farming practices is pivotal. The Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME) scheme, initiated by the Government of India, has evolved to its third phase, FAME-III, with an ambitious aim to electrify the transport sector.
A Sustainable Market – About Sustainable Agricultureedit
Many agricultural companies understand the importance of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) but do not benefit from the marketing advantages of using the approach because the public at large is not fully aware of them. These advantages can and should be expressed by emphasizing clear and familiar terms, such as soil conservation and biodiversity. Many agricultural companies take pride in the fact that they support sustainable agriculture.
J-K: Chief Secretary reviews implementation of projects under Holistic Agriculture Development Programedit
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo on Tuesday reviewed the major achievements and progress on the implementation of all the 29 projects and sub-projects of the Holistic Agriculture Development Program (HADP) in the Union Territory.
Technology in Agriculture
Drones can revolutionise the agriculture sectoredit
In Punjab, where drones remain associated mostly with dropping drugs and arms from Pakistan in border areas, now they are poised to gain a new skyline to revolutionise the agriculture sector. Kiranpal Kaur of Sekha village in Barnala district, who has only completed her education up to class 10 and has never travelled in a plane, is now a trained drone pilot. She travels across the district to provide rental services for spraying fertilisers and pesticides and undertaking surveys to check for any crop damage in the fields.
India is at the cusp of a farming revolution through AIedit
Down To Earth
The agrarian economy of India is at the cusp of a technological revolution. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is set to transform farming practices. According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, a tripartite agreement between the National Farmers’ Welfare Programme Implementation Society, India AI and Wadhwani Foundation) has been signed to leverage artificial intelligence in the agriculture sector.
Digitizing Indian agriculture with AI, ML, and IoTedit
Recent advancements in deep learning have enabled the development of models for image-based automatic diagnosis of plant disease severity. This rapid and accurate diagnosis can greatly reduce yield losses.
India embarks on AI journey to empower farmers and boost agricultureedit
In a move to accelerate the AI-driven transformation in agriculture, the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare has forged a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Farmers’ Welfare Programme Implementation Society, the National AI Portal of India (IndiaAI), and the Wadhwani Foundation.
What is Digital Agriculture?edit
One of the most important milestones in human development was the transition from hunter gathering communities to agricultural societies. The development of organized farming by our ancestors, perhaps 12,000 years ago, paved the way for the gradual transition towards our modern urban societies.
‘Drone queens’: 4 women farmers turn pilots to make strides in agri fieldedit
Ludhiana deputy commissioner Surabhi Malik and ADC (general) Gautam Jain on Tuesday felicitated four women drone pilots, who have been trained to use the aerial vehicle for agricultural purpose. Farmers Gurinder Kaur, Rupinder Kaur, Mandeep Kaur, and Simranjit Kaur were successfully certified as “skilled drone pilots” after the completion of a training module under “Prime Minister Mahila Kisan Drone Kendra” scheme that was conducted in Haryana’s Manesar in partnership with Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative and a private bank.
Can technological advancements revolutionise agriculture in north-eastern states?edit
Agriculture is the most important sector for the socio-economic development of the north-eastern region, as it provides the maximum contribution to the region’s net domestic product, employment, and livelihood. Despite the heavy dependence on it, agriculture in the region suffers from several problems, including small and scattered land holdings, monocropping, low mechanisation and productivity, post-harvest losses, poor market linkages, subsistence farming, etc.
Experts discuss role of innovations in agricultureedit
A two-day agri start-up conclave on the theme of ‘Cultivating Innovation for a Sustainable Tomorrow’ kicked off at Banaras Hindu University (BHU) on Saturday. Addressing the event, organised by the department of agricultural economics, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, BHU in collaboration with Baroda UP Gramin Bank, National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management (MANAGE) and IGNOU, director of International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) Varanasi, Sudhanshu Singh highlighted some varieties of rice with low glycaemic index and higher protein content.
The “Drone Moment” of Indian Agricultureedit
Travelling through the verdant serenity of the lush green fields of Punjab, my attention was drawn towards a distant buzzing sound. Curious to know the source, I got down from my vehicle, to be greeted by two rustic farmers operating a drone for spraying liquid Nano Urea. I was pleasantly surprised to see such an enthusiastic acceptance of a new concept by the farmers in a rural corner of the country.
How drones are empowering India’s Ascent in Global Aerial Innovationedit
Recognizing the significant potential of drone technology in agriculture, the Indian government has taken a proactive stance. The initiative to empower women’s Self-Help Groups with drone technology underscores India’s emergence as a formidable global player in drone manufacturing. Policy shifts and governmental efforts have provided a boost to startups in this sector, capable of disrupting various multibillion-dollar segments and industries.
Automatic weather station deployed in Kashmir to enhance farming practicesedit
A sophisticated automatic weather station has been deployed in South Kashmir’s Kulgam district in a strategic effort to enhance horticultural and agricultural practices with real-time weather insights and soil analysis.
Paddy in India
Paddy distress for farmers in Odisha’s Ganjamedit
Left out of the procurement process, thousands of small and marginal farmers across Ganjam district are reportedly resorting to distress sale of paddy. Secretary of Rushikulya Rayat Mahasabha Simanchal Nahak said around 60,000 farmers, particularly the sharecroppers, are selling their paddy to traders from Andhra Pradesh.
Chhattisgarh set to create record in paddy procurementedit
Cited as the rice bowl of the country, Chhattisgarh is on its way to set a new record of paddy procurement at support price in the current kharif marketing season. The state has procured paddy weighing 127 lakh metric tons (LMT), the highest so far.
Odisha: Paddy procurement delay leaves farmers frustratededit
Farmers have resorted to distress sale due to the alleged delay in procurement of paddy in some districts. Farmers of Kendrapara expressed resentment alleging that the millers and agents are purchasing paddy at rates below the government-fixed prices, causing significant financial setbacks to them. Mahendra Das, a farmer from Kandarapatia village, said the challenges of reaching the Primary Agriculture Cooperative Society (PACS) at Ramanagar, are enormous.
Odisha: Paddy procurement delay leaves farmers frustratededit
Farmers have resorted to distress sale due to the alleged delay in procurement of paddy in some districts. Farmers of Kendrapara expressed resentment alleging that the millers and agents are purchasing paddy at rates below the government-fixed prices, causing significant financial setbacks to them.
Farmers resort to distress sale in absence of mandisedit
Delay in opening of mandis for paddy procurement is forcing farmers of Cuttack district to sell their produce to local traders at throwaway prices. As per reports, of the total 212 mandis scheduled to be set up in 14 blocks across the district for procuring kharif paddy from the farmers at minimum support price (MSP), only 170 have been opened so far. What’s worse is that paddy is not being procured at mandis that are open.
Paddy procurement in Chhattisgarh jumps after Assembly election resultsedit
Paddy procurement in Chhattisgarh picked up pace after the Assembly election results were declared last month and the state is on course to meet its target of purchasing 13 million tonnes (MT) from farmers at minimum support price (MSP) during the Kharif marketing season 2023-24. The paddy procurement started on November 1, last year, and will continue till January 31, 2024.
Harvest season hits bump due to unseasonal rainfall in Tamil Naduedit
Unseasonal rain continues to give sleepless nights for the farmers of Ramanathapuram, one of the largest paddy cultivators in the state with around 1.39 lakh hectares of cultivated area. While many have started carrying out harvest works, few continue to remain idle in the hope that the rain will recede soon. Some farmers have also begun to place their harvested paddy on the roads, in a bid to reduce its moisture content through sunlight exposure.
Non-basmati prices high on low supplyedit
Prices of non-premium non-basmati rice continue to rule firm despite the central government’s recent instructions to the trade and industry to reduce prices. Surprisingly, rice prices have stayed firm even when the paddy harvest is underway and exports have been banned.Prices of non-premium non-basmati rice continue to rule firm despite the central government’s recent instructions to the trade and industry to reduce prices. Surprisingly, rice prices have stayed firm even when the paddy harvest is underway and exports have been banned.
Single crop farmers in TN cultivate 5k ha of paddy after Vaigai water release, Madurai’s total output at 24k haedit
A few weeks after water from the Vaigai was released for single crops in Melur and Thirumangalam, the acreage of samba paddy has increased by 5,000 hectares, from the 19,000 hectares cultivated by double-crop farmers in 2023, said officials from the agriculture department. The total acreage of paddy in Madurai district now stands at 24,000 hectares.
Chhattisgarh government achieves over 50% of paddy procurement at MSPedit
The Chhattisgarh government has procured over 50 per cent of paddy at minimum support price (MSP) for the kharif marketing season 2023-24 with a month left to complete procurement. The state is looking to purchase 13 million tonnes (mt) of paddy in the current season.
Silage
‘Makki ka Achar’ is new Favourite of Cattle Rearers in Punjabedit
Farmers and cattle rearers have turned to silage-making using green corn to fulfil the nutritional needs of cattle in the wake of wheat shortage, thus earning good milk yields even in summers while reducing own labour.
Stubble Burning
Punjab to seek ₹500 crore from Centre for paddy stubble managementedit
The Punjab agriculture department has decided to seek ₹500 crore grant from the Centre for in-situ and ex-situ management of paddy stubble in the harvest months of October and November this year, according to department officials privy to the development. Punjab to seek ₹500 crore from Centre for paddy stubble management The demand is being prepared as part of the action plan for crop residue management (CRM) for which the union agriculture ministry has asked for requisition.
Opinion | ‘Stubble’ is Not Trouble, Just Need A Sustainable Solutionedit
The recent rebuke of the Supreme Court on stubble burning has highlighted some critical concerns about paddy cultivation in Punjab, implying that farmers need to consider sowing other crops instead of paddy to tackle the issue head-on. The Supreme Court has also asked for a meeting with farmer groups to find a sustainable solution to the problem, which is a crucial step in the right direction. The Central and state governments should take ownership and collaborate to help farmers find a solution to the issue. It’s imperative to realise that if we can send Chandrayaan-3 to the moon, we can certainly find a solution to stubble burning.
Under fire, Punjab targets managing entire 19.58 MT stubble this yearedit
Facing criticism for failing to tackle the perennial issue of stubble burning, Punjab government has set an ambitious goal of effectively managing the entire 19.58 million tonnes (MT) of paddy straw in 2024. Countering stubble burning has become a major challenge as the air quality degrades every year, especially in the national capital, after paddy is harvested in Punjab and Haryana.
More stubble trouble in Punjab: Fires fewer but area affected moreedit
Punjab has touted the fact that the number of farm fires came down from 49,922 in 2022 to 36,623 last year, a fall of 26% in a pollution source blamed for the national capital’s poor air in October and November, but it now emerges that stubble on 19 lakh hectares was burnt in 2023, an increase of 26% over the stubble on 15 lakh hectares burnt in 2022.
Pb aims to lower stubble burning by 50% this yearedit
Punjab government has set a target to reduce the practice of stubble burning by 50% this year, agriculture minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian said here on Wednesday. The minister also said the scheme to provide crop residue management (CRM) machines to farmers was earlier entirely funded by the Centre, but now the state was contributing a 40% share.
Tractor industry
How Used Tractors Can Boost Rural Economy in India?edit
Tractors are essential for boosting productivity and efficiency in farming. The contribution of the Indian agricultural sector to the country’s GDP is around 18-19%. It provides livelihood to nearly 13 crore farming households. However, only 80 lakh farming households in the country have tractors. It indicates low penetration and the potential for growth in this sector.
Tractors enter slow lane after having a field dayedit
Tractors are fast supplanting traditional bullock carts and manual labour, as renting a tractor or owning a low-horsepower (hp) model is cost-effective. Moreover, they generate rental income and help increase cropping intensity, allowing for the cultivation of multiple crops on the same parcel of land. Tractor penetration in India stood at an estimated 1.5 hp/hectare (ha) in fiscal 2022. In developed countries, this figure is estimated at 3-4 hp/ha, resulting in superior crop yields compared to India. Notably, even China, with an average landholding size of 0.6 ha, boasts tractor penetration of 4.1 hp/ha.
Rs 26,400 cr on the cards for FAME-III, Rs 200 cr to support e-tractorsedit
The ministry of heavy industries is working on broad contours of the third phase of Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles or FAME-III. Based on discussions with stakeholders, the ministry is proposing to allocate Rs 26,400 crore for FAME-III subsidy alone with electric two wheelers getting around Rs 8,158 crore, electric buses Rs 9,600 crore and electric three-wheelers Rs 4,100 crore, according to sources in the know.
Unseasonal rains impact December tractor salesedit
Domestic tractor volumes recorded their worst monthly fall in December in nearly 24 months. Manufacturers attribute this to partial damage to crops from unseasonal rains, late kharif harvesting and costlier loans.
Uncategorized
India sends pesticides to Afghanistan to ensure food securityedit
The Indian assistance will ensure food security in Afghanistan and Central Asia, according to the Afghan ministry of agriculture and irrigation. The Afghan ministry expressed its gratitude towards India and said that the assistance will assist to fight locusts within the country and prevents those coming from Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan.
Experts discuss role of innovations in agricultureedit
A two-day agri start-up conclave on the theme of ‘Cultivating Innovation for a Sustainable Tomorrow’ kicked off at Banaras Hindu University (BHU) on Saturday. Addressing the event, organised by the department of agricultural economics, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, BHU in collaboration with Baroda UP Gramin Bank, National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management (MANAGE) and IGNOU, director of International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) Varanasi, Sudhanshu Singh highlighted some varieties of rice with low glycaemic index and higher protein content.