Media Monitor
| Category | Stories |
|---|---|
| Agriculture Industry | 22 |
| CLAAS Global Mentions | 14 |
| CLAAS Mentions | 1 |
| Competition | 17 |
| Dairy Farming | 2 |
| Farm Mechanization | 9 |
| Technology in Agriculture | 8 |
| Govt. Policies | 3 |
| Monsoon + Indian Agriculture | 5 |
| Paddy in India | 2 |
| Stubble Burning | 1 |
| Tractor industry | 7 |
| Uncategorized | 1 |
Agriculture Industry
How Can Technology Revolutionize Agriculture Sector to Minimize Food Grain Lossedit
Despite the promising projection of a bountiful foodgrain harvest of 309 million tons for the fiscal year 2023-24 by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, the agricultural sector grapples with a sobering reality. Significant food grain losses plague the landscape, casting a shadow over overall productivity. These losses, occurring throughout the production and storage phases, present formidable challenges for farmers and the entire supply chain, underscoring the human toll of agricultural setbacks.
ICCC: Integrated farm data dashboard for customised solutionsedit
Officials described the ICCC as a “significant leap forward” in leveraging technology for the advancement of agricultural practices.
‘Kisan Mazdoor Commission’ to Look at Rising Challenges for Farmers in Indiaedit
The objective of the KMC is to go “beyond the recommendations of Swaminathan Commission in the light of challenges arising out of the growing corporate control on the supply of farm inputs resulting in the rising cost of production for farmers and on the markets for agricultural produce leading to the loss of incomes from farming”.
This season, a surge in paddy sowingedit
According to the latest sowing data from Gujarat’s Directorate of Agriculture (DAG), farmers had sown paddy in 87,870 hectares (ha), as of March 18.
BS Manthan: Finding common ground in ideologically divided farm sectoredit
India’s farm sector needs a thorough relook as the country marches towards the cherished goal of a developed nation by 2047, which the panel discussions promise to deliver.
Harvesting Joy: Celebrating Holi’s Agricultural Essence and Farmer’s Prideedit
Holi celebrates more than colors and joy; it’s a tribute to the farmers whose labor sustains us, embodying the promise of spring and its abundance.
Groundwater depleting, Punjab farms awash with treated water — and its seeds of successedit
In Punjab, where overexploitation of groundwater is rampant due to the extensive cultivation of water-intensive crops like paddy, ongoing waterconservation projects are offering a ray of hope. These initiatives not only promise to save significant amounts of groundwater but also lessen the burden on farmers, government and promote environmental sustainability.
‘Startup Mahakumbh’: PM Modi to address entrepreneurs at Bharat Mandapam todayedit
A three-day government-initiated event aimed at strengthening the startup ecosystem and drawing investments into the sector. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to attend the “Startup Mahakumbh” on Wednesday at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, a three-day event organised by the government to bolster the startup ecosystem and attract investments in the sector.
NABARD to launch ₹1000-crore blended fund for agri-startups: chairman Shaji KVedit
The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) will launch a ₹1,000-crore fund to bolster technology-driven agri-startups and rural enterprises, said chairman Shaji K.V. on Monday. The fund will back startups facing challenges in scaling up their operations due to limited access to equity and debt instruments, and will seek to foster new linkages in the rural ecosystem, both forward and backward.
Making farming profitableedit
Let us start with a simple question: which state do you think is most productive in terms of value creation in agriculture on per hectare (ha) basis? If Punjab comes to your mind, you could be very much off the mark. Punjab, known for its high physical productivity of rice and wheat, falls at number 13 amongst Indian states when it comes to agri-value created , i.e., agri-GDP on per ha basis. There could be at least two ways to estimate it.
Water-guzzling summer maize add to agri experts’ worriesedit
With more and more farmers in Punjab growing summer maize, agricultural experts are looking at ways to discourage them from cultivating the crop as it requires an equal amount of water used by the water-guzzling paddy crop, adding to the burden on the state’s water table.
Lack of non-agri data hinders computation of farmers’ income: Niti memberedit
The lack of data on cultivators and their income from other sources has become a hindrance in determining whether farmers’ income has actually doubled or not, Niti Aayog member Ramesh Chand said, pointing out that they are earning more from non-agricultural sources. The Niti Aayog member further said that prices of agricultural commodities can not be fixed by a law as it has serious implications, which are neither in the interest of the agriculture sector nor individual farmers.
Crops going dry, provide compensation of Rs 10,000 per acre to farmers: KTRedit
Claiming that crops are going dry due to lack of irrigation water and power issues, BRS working president KT Rama Rao on Sunday demanded that the state government provide a compensation of Rs 10,000 per acre to farmers affected by drought-like situation.
Madhya Pradesh set to offer Rs 125 per quintal bonus over MSP on wheatedit
Madhya Pradesh, on Monday, became the second major wheat producing state to announce a bonus of Rs 125 per quintal for the 2024-25 season. Purchases for the season are about to start in the state. With the bonus, the official purchase price for wheat in MP will be Rs 2,400 per quintal. The bonus will be given over and above the Centre fixed wheat minimum support price (MSP) of Rs 2,275 per quintal.
Union govt is focused on farmers’ welfare: Officialedit
India has achieved 12% ethanol blending in petrol and this year’s target was to achieve 15% ethanol blending, said Manoj Ahuja, secretary to the department of agriculture and farmers’ welfare, Union government, at the 43rd convocation organized by the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU) here on Saturday.
Govt sets up digital centre in Delhi to empower farmersedit
To empower the farmers of the country by equipping them with information, services, and facilities using digital technology, Union minister of agriculture and farmers’ welfare, Arjun Munda, on Friday inaugurated the Agriculture Integrated Command and Control Center at the Krishi Bhawan in the national capital.
Prospects for demand and supply of agricultural commodities towards 2030edit
Demand and supply projections are crucial for formulating farsighted agricultural and food policies to sustain food production, ensure food security and for the efficient functioning of food systems while controlling for external factors such as changing consumption basket, taste, and preferences, changing population growth and income growth.
How to empower women farmers to unlock agri economyedit
In Zaheerabad, Telangana, Misbah’s story is nothing short of inspiring. A farmer by profession and a tractor-driving instructor. After getting married, she convinced her husband to move to Zaheerabad, where she joined a tractor-driving programme. Among 80 men in the programme, she was the only woman.
Punjab: ₹13,784 crore for agri sector, major chunk to be pumped into free power for tubewellsedit
Presenting the budget for the financial year 2024-25, Punjab finance minister Harpal Singh Cheema on Tuesday announced an allocation of ₹13,784 crore for the agriculture and allied sectors, which is nearly on a par with what was allocated in 2023-24.
Union minister assures more opportunities for farmers, pastoralists in J-Kedit
Union Minister Parshottam Rupala has assured all possible support to upscale livestock production, establish a modern fish market and create more livelihood avenues for farmers and pastoralists in Jammu and Kashmir. The minister for fisheries, animal husbandry and dairying along with Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha had on Monday inaugurated a two-day technology exhibition-cum-seed mela at the SKUAST-Kashmir.
We must not let Indian agriculture turn into an unending tragi-comedyedit
The Ides of March came in February. Not in a tragic Shakespearean manner, but in a knotty way nevertheless. Last month saw a resurrection of India’s trickiest vertical in economic policymaking—agriculture—via a political mobilization on the streets of Delhi’s outskirts. Much of it is a throwback to the protests a couple of years ago against the country’s now-withdrawn farm laws, but they do illustrate the unaddressed challenge of Indian agriculture.
Over 5,000 hectares of agricultural land affected by ethnic strife in Manipuredit
Manipur government has stated due to ethnic strife approximately 5127 hectares of agricultural land have been affected. The total loss in paddy crops amounts to 15,437 metric tons, valued around Rs 38.6 crore.
CLAAS Global Mentions
Watch: Confidence and simulated field conditions at Claas HQedit
The three big names that dominate tractor sales in Ireland enjoy a position that, to many, might appear unassailable, but there is one company with a different idea, and that is Claas – which is determined to break into the charmed circle. Naturally, all of the manufacturers are filled with ambition, but the German company has made an investment at its UK base of a significance that has yet to be fully appreciated.
Better visibility promised with new Claas FL front loadersedit
A clutch of new-generation loaders are now available for the Claas Axos and Arion tractor series. The six models, from the FL 40 C to the FL 140, offer lift capacities that range from 940kg to 2,490kg and maximum heights of between 3.5m and 4.5m.
Large Dutch Claas dealer quits selling farm machinery – Agriland.co.ukedit
A major Dutch dealer has decided to stop selling farm machinery in the face of uncertainties within the agricultural sector and the difficulty in attracting staff. Reitman Hasselt’s main tractor franchise is Claas, which it sells alongside a range of other brands such as Kaweco, Strautmann and Kioti compact tractors.
Claas launch new line of front loaders onto the marketedit
CLAAS has introduced a new line of front loaders aimed at enhancing comfort and performance. These loaders, ranging from FL 40 C to FL 140, offer lift capacities from 940 to 2490kg and breakaway forces from 1,820 to 3,120 kg. They also provide maximum lift heights ranging from 3.50 to 4.50 m. The new FL C series of front loaders is designed to enhance the productivity of EAXOS and ARION tractors. Featuring a three-section design, these loaders are tailored to complement CLAAS tractors seamlessly.
Claas revises front loaders for tractors up to 180hpedit
Claas has replaced the FL C front loader series for Elios, Axos and Arion tractors, with six new models offering improved design and performance features and lift capacities from 940kg to 2,490kg.
CLAAS Claims Two of Three Davidson Prizes for Farm Equipment Innovation and Technologyedit
CLAAS of America earned two of the three annual Davidson Prize honors which recognizes the best-of-the best in ag innovation for its CEMOS tractor driving optimization system and its new DISCO 97000 Auto Swather. The Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) and the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE) presented the seventh-annual Davidson Prize to the top three innovative products, selected from the AE50 honorees on March 1, 2024 during Commodity Classic in Houston.
Claas redesigns and upgrades its front loadersedit
Claas has launched a new generation of front loaders which, it claims, significantly improves comfort and performance through extra features in models, which replaces the previous FL C series. The six new loaders, from FL 40 C to FL 140, cover lift capacities from 940kg to 2,490kg (measured 80cm in front of the bucket pivot point), and a breakaway force from 1,820 to 3,120kg.
Manufacturers work to create intelligent tractor-implement connectionedit
Before the invention of autonomous tractors all the intelligence needed to operate the machine and implements sat squarely in the tractor seat — the farmer controlled all aspects of the operation. In this report from Agritechnica 23, RealAgriculture’s Shaun Haney and CLAAS head of technology management, Christoph Molitor, discuss how three manufacturers — CLAAS, AgXeed and Amazone — are collaborating to connect ag machinery intelligence by establishing the first multi-manufacturer autonomy group.
Amazone adds features to sprayeredit
Amazone has introduced a number of new features into its popular range of ‘UF 02’ series of mounted sprayers. Among the new features, active boom guidance has been implemented, as well as quad nozzle pods and an integrated hydraulic pump. Local distributor Claas Harvest Centre says the upgrades mean the UF series now delivers the same convenience and performance as the UX trailed sprayers.
Horsch Leeb PT, VT Sprayers Debut with Enhanced Claas Cab: Elevating Operator Comfortedit
The agricultural industry is witnessing a significant leap in machinery innovation as Horsch unveils its latest Leeb PT and VT self-propelled sprayers, featuring a new cab design that pushes the boundaries of operator comfort. Developed in collaboration with Claas, this new cab aims to set a new standard in the farming equipment sector by offering a quieter, more spacious environment, coupled with intuitively designed controls tailored for efficient crop care.
Farm Equipment Manufacturers Continue Production Amidst Supply Chain Challengesedit
At the heart of the agricultural industry, a significant challenge is unfolding that underscores the resilience and determination of farm equipment manufacturers. Despite facing unprecedented supply chain disruptions, these companies are steadfast in their mission to support farmers with the machinery they need, even as final delivery faces delays. This dedication is particularly evident in the backdrop of the ongoing global scenario, where supply issues have become a common hurdle for various industries.
Living out of a suitcaseedit
That’s because Tim Koep typically spends around 240 days each year away from home in Northern Germany, working for the Agri Expert company, who are contracted to Claas and its importers and dealers around the globe. A machine optimisation specialist for Claas grain and Forage harvesters, alongside the company’s extensive range of tractors, Tim’s task is to help new or existing operators to set up and get the best out of their machines, some of which arrive with seven figure price tags.
Arable equipment sale attracts bidders from UK & Europeedit
Buyers from across the United Kingdom and Europe produced significant bids for an exceptional range of arable equipment sold through the York Auction Centre online bidding platform. The sale followed the sad passing of Bobby Frankland, leaving a surplus of extremely well maintained modern arable equipment with low hours and included three outstanding Massey Ferguson tractors, a Claas combine, Bargam Grimac sprayer and a range of trailers and arable equipment.
‘Classy’ hybrid combine harvester boosts poweredit
Harvesting and tractor specialist Claas has developed and field tested a combine harvester fitted with a part electric drive system. In addition, working with fellow German company Liebherr, it has also developed a 100% electric telehandler. The semi-electric combine, concept allows self-propelled machines that would normally be powered by a 626hp (460kw) powerplant to run on a less powerful 536hp (400kW) engine.
CLAAS Mentions
Claas launch new loader range | Farm Newsedit
Claas plan to introduce a new range of loaders for the Elios, Axios and Arion ranges, James Huyton reports.
Competition
Force Motors Announced to Shut Agricultural Tractor Business from Mar 31, 2024edit
According to Force Motors, in the fiscal year 2023, the segment of agricultural tractors only accounted for 3.66 percent of the company’s total revenue. With effect from March 31, 2024, which is the end of the country’s fiscal year 23–2024, Force Motors, a well-known brand in the automotive industry, has announced the closure of its agricultural tractor business and related operations.
Swaraj Tractors launches ‘Josh Ka Swaran Utsav’, a nationwide campaign honouring Indian farmersedit
Swaraj Tractors, a part of the Mahindra Group, proudly commenced a nationwide van campaign ‘Josh Ka Swaran Utsav’ coinciding with brands Golden Jubilee. Through the campaign Swaraj Tractors aims to pay tribute to Indian farmers instrumental in the brands success, while introducing Swaraj’s new range of tractors – ‘Naya Swaraj’ to forge stronger connections with farmers across the country.
Newly launched Lightweight 4WD Mahindra OJA 3140 promises to transform puddling operations in West Bengaledit
Mahindra Tractors, a part of the Mahindra Group and the world’s largest tractor manufacturer by volume, recently launched its future ready Mahindra OJA 3140 in West Bengal for the Indian farmer. Introduced in the kharif season, the new Mahindra OJA delivered exceptional results in puddling operations for crops like paddy.
CEO speaks: Sowing the Seeds of Change: AI-Powered Renaissance in Agricultureedit
In the annals of agricultural history, India’s transformation from a food-dependent nation to a self-sufficient powerhouse has been nothing short of remarkable. Over the past few decades, technology has played a pivotal role in this journey, propelling India into a realm of agricultural self-sustainability and even as an exporter of food items.
Mizuho initiates Tractor Supply with Buy rating, sets $245 stock targetedit
On Tuesday, Tractor Supply Company (NASDAQ:TSCO), a prominent retailer in the farm and ranch category, received a Buy rating from Mizuho with a stock price target (PT) of $245. The initiation of coverage comes with an expectation of tempered earnings growth for the company due to a slowdown in comparable store sales.
Swaraj Tractors organizes ‘Walk for More Equal World’ at Sukhna Lake in Chandigarhedit
Swaraj Tractors a part of Mahindra Group, organised ‘Walk for More Equal World’ at Sukhna Lake on Sunday morning. The event witnessed an enthusiastic participation of over 500 individuals including Swaraj employees and their families.
Top 10 Escorts Kubota Tractor Models in India 2024 – Price And Specificationsedit
Escorts Kubota tractors have been supporting Indian farmers with durable machinery for over 70 years. In 2024, top models under Escorts Kubota are Farmtrac 60, Farmtrac 45, Farmtrac 45 Powermaxx, Powertrac Euro 439, and Powertrac Euro 47 PowerHouse. These tractors, ranging from 18 HP to 55 HP, are versatile tools for various farming tasks.
This tractor maker is set to invest Rs 1,300 crore in Punjab for 2 new facilitiesedit
Leading tractor manufacturer Sonalika Tractors has announced an investment of Rs 1,300 crore in Hoshiarpur, Punjab, to set up two new facilities, a tractor assembly plant and a high-pressure foundry plant, in the state. The tractor assembly plant will see an investment of Rs 1,000 crore, while Rs 300 crore will be pumped into the high-pressure foundry plant.
Precision Farming Market Forecasted to Achieve US$ 20.36 Billion by 2032edit
The precision farming market is projected to reach a valuation of US$ 6 billion in 2022, with an anticipated compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13% during the assessment period spanning from 2022 to 2032. By the year 2032, the global precision farming market is forecasted to achieve a value of US$ 20.36 billion.
Larry Ellison and Elon Musk teaming up to bring AI to farmingedit
Elon Musk’s SpaceX is teaming up with Larry Ellison’s Oracle to help farms plan and predict their agricultural output using an AI tool. Larry Ellison said on Oracle’s earnings call on Monday that it’s collaborating with Musk and SpaceX to create the AI-powered mapping application for governments. The tool creates a map of a country’s farms and shows what each of them is growing.
Mahindra Tractors Celebrates its Women Employees at its Farm Machinery Manufacturing Facility in Pithampuredit
Mahindra Tractors, part Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., today celebrated its women employees at its Tractor Manufacturing Facility in Pithampur, on International Women’s Day. The daylong celebration witnessed the Mahindra Pithampur plant team conduct various awareness camps related to women empowerment, with other engagement activities like games and lunch meetings.
Retail Tractors Sales Report February 2024 – Tractor Sales Increase By 11%, 76,626 Units Soldedit
FADA released Retail Tractor Sales Data. The data shows the total tractor sales, which were 76626 units in February 2024 compared to 69034 units sold in February 2023. As a result, tractor sales in India showed an upward trend of 11% in February 2024. In February 2024, Mahindra sold 17,490 tractors, which is higher than the 15,889 tractors sold in the same month last year. This shows a growth of 10.08% in sales. However, despite the increase in sales, the company’s market share decreased by 0.19% in February 2024.
Sonalika Records Highest Ever Tractor Market Share in Februaryedit
Sonalika Tractors has clocked its highest-ever February overall market share of 16.1% and the highest market share gain in the industry. It sold a total of 9,722 tractor sales during February’24 which is 6.2% higher than the company’s FY’23 performance of 9154 tractor sales. While the industry continues to struggle with overall sales, Sonalika has continued to remain ahead of the industry’s performance and has become the only leading brand to grow in the tractor industry.
Sonalika Tractors overall sales in February 2024 up 6.2% at 9,722 unitsedit
Sonalika Tractors, a leading tractor export company, has announced its sales for February 2024. Sonalika Tractors has recorded its highest ever February overall market share of 16.1% and highest market share gain in the industry. This includes sales of 9,722 overall tractor sales during February 24 which is 6.2% higher than the company’s February FY23 performance of 9,154 overall tractor sales.
Mahindra Farm Equipment sector domestic sales fall 19% to 20,121 units in February 2024edit
Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd.’s Farm Equipment Sector (FES), part of the Mahindra Group, has reported that its domestic sales in February 2024 were at 20,121 units, as against 24,619 units during February 2023, which saw a decline of 19%. Total tractor sales (Domestic + Exports) during February 2024 were at 21,672 units, as against 25,791 units for the same period last year.
New Holland launches Project Saksham to provide skill development for youthedit
New Holland, a brand of CNH, has launched project “Saksham”, to train and empower underprivileged youth in rural area. This is aligned with the National Skill Development Mission and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In association with SEEDS – Social Empowerment & Economic Development Society, the project aims to create a pool of skilled and certified automotive sales professionals for automotive industry.
Escorts Kubota tractors sales fall 17% in Feb’24edit
Escorts Kubota Limited Agri Machinery Business Division in February 2024 sold 6,481 tractors as against 7,811 tractors sold in February 2023, recording a decline of 17%. Domestic tractor sales in February 2024 declined 16.6% to 6,041 tractors as against 7,245 tractors sold in February 2023. Tractor sales dipped this month due to the continuing impact of uneven monsoon coupled with insufficient rainfall and diminished reservoir levels which impacted the Kharif output.
Dairy Farming
Dairy Farming Program Elevates Women’s Economic Empowermentedit
ACC, the cement and building material company of the diversified Adani Group has made a profound impact in Dungri village of Bargarh district by providing crucial support to individuals like Pala Saha, enabling them to realize their aspirations despite facing financial challenges.
Dairy industry needs to focus on farmers along with consumers: Dr. RS Sodhiedit
The importance of Dairy and Animal Husbandry in the overall contribution to the agrarian based rural economy was highlighted by eminent speakers, including Telangana Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka and President of the Indian Dairy Association Dr. RS Sodhi, at the Golden Jubilee edition of the 50th Dairy Industry Conference in Hyderabad.
Farm Mechanization
Drone Didis to conquer skiesedit
Just a few years ago, the notion of women from villages becoming drone pilots, affectionately known as Drone Didis, seemed unfathomable. Yet, today, it is a reality. Be it Sunita from Sitapur or Devki Rajput from Mainpuri, they stand as harbingers of change and ambassadors of an impending revolution set to sweep the rural enclaves of UP. They are among the ninety village women selected to assume the role of ‘Drone Pilots.’
Agricultural mechanisation in India, the strategic role of EIMA Agrimachedit
The robust growth of the agricultural machinery market has not yet filled the technological deficit of Indian agriculture. Forecasts indicate that the incremental trend, favoured by state subsidy programs, will continue in the coming years with investments in the latest generation of machinery. Agromechanical exhibitions are a knowledge hub.
What does Climate Smart Agriculture mean for India?edit
Not just droughts or shifting monsoons, the current Indian agriculture and food system faces multiple challenges. These include high input costs, deteriorating soil health, continued debt cycles of farmers, inequitable market access, and lack of financial security, particularly for small and medium-landholding farmers. Climate variability has compounded these challenges and threatens the livelihood of around 60 per cent of the rural Indian population.
Use of satellite tech to weed out paddy buying fraud laudableedit
The Odisha government’s decision to remove a staggering 1.7 million plots from this year’s kharif paddy procurement records is a laudable move. After receiving complaints about fabricated data of cultivable land being uploaded, the state food supplies and consumer welfare department went in for a satellite survey and found that at least 1.79 million plots had been faked. Bizarre as it may sound, plots bearing forest, water bodies, orchards and fallow tracts were registered as paddy-growing land.
Automated paddy transplanter launchededit
A remote controlled 2-wheel paddy transplanter was introduced at PAU’s Kisan Mela for transplanting mat type nursery. The machinery has been made by the department of farm machinery and power engineering, PAU. Earlier, mat type paddy nursery had to be transplanted manually using the conventional walk-behind paddy transplanter, however, now the transplanter is fully automated and remote controlled.
Rs 750-cr ‘blended’ fund for agri start-ups soonedit
To promote investment and bring in efficiency in the value chain of agriculture and allied sectors, the government will soon launch a dedicated fund of Rs 750 crore to support and scale up operations of technology-driven agri-startups and rural enterprises.
Scaling sustainable food production in face of climate change is the defining challenge of our timesedit
In July 2023, Dasra, a strategic philanthropy organisation, along with think tank Observer Research Foundation (ORF) launched a report titled Our Uncommon Future: Intersectionality of Climate Change and SDGs in the Global South, which explores the impact of climate change on Sustainable Development Goals and on food insecurity and malnutrition.
Question hour: Farmers to get 90,000 solar water pumps: Aroraedit
Punjab Energy Development Agency (PEDA) will provide 90,000 new solar water pumps to farmers for agriculture purposes in the state. This was disclosed by new and renewable energy sources minister Aman Arora in the Punjab vidhan sabha on Tuesday during the question hour. He was replying to Shutrana MLA Kulwant Singh Bazigar’s query.
Revolutionizing Agriculture: Capsber Agriscience’s Visionary Approach to Sustainable Farmingedit
Capsber Agriscience emerged on agritech landscape in 2022 in the heart of Bengaluru, Karnataka. It is one of the seven revenue-generating startups from the Krishi Mangal second edition cohort. Krishi Mangal is a scale-up accelerator program jointly launched by Cisco and Social Alpha aimed at providing support to startups in the agriculture and allied livelihood sectors.
Technology in Agriculture
India has democratised technology, aims to end digital divide: PM Modiedit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said technology is meant to empower people from all strata of the society and India has achieved democratisation of new technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) to help millions of people especially in rural parts of the country.
Dr. SN Jha Urges Prioritization of Ergonomic Design and Safety Devices in Agricultural Machineryedit
The event saw significant achievements, including the commercialization of five technologies and the filing of two patents and seven design registrations.
Harvesting the future of agriculture with AIedit
Biswarup Das, a farmer from Purulia, West Bengal, faces many challenges like unpredictable weather, droughts, pests, and low yields. Like many others in India, he struggles with the effects of climate change and poor soil condition. Unfortunately, farmers commit suicide, too, in the country due to financial difficulties and harsh weather.
PM Modi distributes agricultural drones to empower women in villagesedit
To empower women in rural India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced the distribution of agricultural drones to girls in villages. Speaking at the India Today Conclave in Delhi on Saturday, PM Modi unveiled the Namo Drone Didi Yojana, through which 1,000 drones have been allocated to women’s self-help groups in villages.
Centre to provide subsidy for solar-powered agriculture pumps in Telanganaedit
As part of its efforts to integrate all agricultural power feeders into a single solar power system under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM), the Centre in principle has reportedly agreed to provide subsidy to about 20,000 solar-powered agriculture pumps on a pilot basis in the State.
Punjab farmers set to take the wheel of improved, easy-to-use surface seedersedit
Punjab Agricultural University’s (PAU) surface seeder, an improved and easy-to-use version of its older counterparts, has found space in the list machines being provided to farmers on subsidy in a bid to bolster crop residue management.
10 U.P. farmers get ICFA awards for innovation in agricultureedit
Presenting the awards, deputy chief minister of U.P Brajesh Pathak who was the chief guest, said that recognizing the farmers for their outstanding work would encourage them for greater innovations in agriculture.
Bill Gates meets PM Modi, discusses AI, innovation in agriculture and health: ‘Inspiring’edit
Microsoft founder Bill Gates met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday and revealed that he discussed aspects such as artificial intelligence, innovation in agriculture and health and climate adaptation with him. Writing on X (formerly Twitter), Gates said that it was inspiring to meet PM Modi and admitted that there was a lot to discuss with him.
Govt. Policies
Stubble will become a source of income for farmers, Government comes with a schemeedit
Farmers are accused of stubble burning and Government has to take strict action to stop stubble burning. To avoid this, UP Government has planned a scheme to help farmers earn income.
Maharashtra to borrow over Rs 17,000 crore for agriculture solar pumpsedit
The Indian Express
The State Cabinet on Wednesday gave its approval for the borrowing of Rs 17,000 crore from two financial institutions in a bid to strengthen network of agriculture solar pumps across the state.
The state will be market borrowing Rs 8,109 crore from Asian Development Bank (ADB) for Maharashtra power distribution enhancement programme for facilitating solarisation and expanding agricultural connections. Under this, power distribution network will be strengthened with increased capacity to ensure solar power is made available to farmers even during day time.
Union Minister Shri Arjun Munda and Shri Giriraj Singh inaugurate four major key initiatives of Agriculture Sectoredit
Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare Shri Arjun Munda and Union Minister for Rural Development Shri Giriraj Singh inaugurated jointly four major key initiatives of Agriculture Sector i.e Revamped Soil health card portal & mobile application, School Soil Health Programme, Krishi Sakhi convergence Programme and Central Fertilizer Quality Control and Training Institutes’ (CFQCTI’s) portal for fertilizer sample testing today in Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi.
Monsoon + Indian Agriculture
Return of La Nina and its impact on Indian monsoon, agricultureedit
For the Indian farmer, this summer may bring good tidings, thanks to favourable weather predictions.
Global weather agencies, including the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Climate Center, have forecast the return of the La Nina phenomenon. This event is generally linked to better southwest monsoon rains in India, a stark contrast to the El Nino, which often results in inadequate monsoon showers.
Above Normal Monsoon Precipitation Seen in India Says APCCedit
According to APEC Climate Center (APCC), monsoon rainfall is likely to be above normal in India this year. In an outlook for April 2024 – September 2024 period, the APCC projected enhanced probability for above normal precipitation is predicted for the eastern off-equatorial North Pacific and the western off-equatorial South Pacific, and region spanning eastern Africa to the western Indian Ocean and the Arabian Sea.
India to Enjoy Above-Normal Rains This Monsoon Due to La Niña Onset: APEC Climate Centeredit
The Pacific-born El Niño phenomenon’s onslaught has dealt blow after blow to the Indian weather in the past year. But after putting us through deficient rainfall, cruel heat and more, the ocean seems to have stuck out a peace flag as a La Niña event prepares to take shape over it.
La Nina set to return in India, above-average monsoon expected from July to Septemberedit
The APCC introduced an ENSO (El Nino-Southern Oscillation) alert system update on March 15, 2024. The ENSO status predicts a La Nina WATCH for the period of April to September 2024.
‘Rain variability in 60 yrs has hit state crop yield’edit
Rainfall variability and temperature anomalies faced by Bengal in the past 60 years are affecting its agricultural production and causing floods. The alarming situation is also raising uncertainties regarding future food security in the state. This has been revealed by rainfall and temperature analysis of data obtained from 339 weather stations in the state, spanning over a century (1901-2020) and covering its seven agro-climate zones, by Indian Statistical Institute (ISI).
Paddy in India
Paddy cultivation, yield decline in Nalgonda due to water scarcityedit
The area under paddy cultivation as well as the yield had decreased in 2023 and is expected to decline further in 2024 compared to the previous rabi seasons from 2019 to 2022 in Nalgonda district due to water scarcity and lack of rainfall during the monsoon. Rabi crops are generally sown around mid-November and December and harvesting begins by April or May. In the 2022 rabi season, paddy was cultivated in 5,56,637 acres, whereas in 2023, it was cultivated in 4,20,523 acres, marking a decrease of about 1,30,000 acres.
Chhattisgarh Government To Transfer Rs 13,000 Crore To Farmers’ Accounts As Paddy Paymentedit
The Chhattisgarh government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, has announced the transfer of Rs 13,000 crore to 2.4 million farmers’ accounts on March 12. This payment is long overdue against the paddy they sold during the kharif marketing season of 2023-24. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government has upheld its promise to pay Rs 3,100 per quintal of paddy procured, surpassing the minimum support price (MSP) set by the central government for the season.
Stubble Burning
Tractor industry
Sonalika Launches Sikander DLX DI 60 Torque Plus Multi-Speed Tractor; Declares Same Price For Farmers Across Indiaedit
Sonalika Tractors widening its heavy-duty tractor range in India has introduced its latest ‘Sikander DLX DI 60 Torque Plus multi-speed tractor’. The tractor has been launched with a special initiative of ‘One Nation, One Price’ where the tractor will be available across India at a special price of Rs 8,49,999 (ex-showroom). Designed to deliver superior torque for a stellar performance even in hard soil, it boasts the biggest engine in the category and 10 DELUXE features for a rigorous performance during on-field/off-field applications.
Sonalika Launches Sikander DLX DI 60 Torque Plus Tractor at Rs. 8,49,999 with ‘One Nation, One Tractor Price’ Initiativeedit
India’s No. 1 tractor export brand, Sonalika is excited to take a transformative towards farm mechanization and has launched a new grandeur under its latest initiative ‘One Nation, One Tractor Price’ at one price.
John Deere 5055 E 4WD: 55HP Tractor with 5 year warranty.edit
Get 2400 RPM with 55 HP engine John Deere 5055 E4WD tractor
Tractor Domestic Market At 4 Yr Low But Exports Boom By 16% In Februaryedit
India’s tractor exports witnessed a revival in February after reporting degrowth for a year, even as domestic sales touched a four-year low. As per data from the Tractor and Mechanisation Association (TMA), total tractor exports reached 8,487 units last month. This figure represents a 16 per cent year-on-year increase compared to February 2023 and an 18 per cent increase compared to January 2024.
Utility vehicles shine, tractor sales stumble in Februaryedit
The standout performers in February were utility vehicles (UVs) and two-wheelers, both domestically and in terms of exports.
Tata Motors Jamshedpur delivers fleet of EVs, LNG vehicles to Tata Steeledit
Tata Motors, India’s largest commercial vehicle manufacturer, today flagged off its next-generation, green-fuel powered commercial vehicles to Tata Steel. The fleet includes Prima tractors, tippers and the Ultra EV bus, powered by Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and battery electric technologies. The vehicles were flagged off by Tata Son’s Chairman, N Chandrasekaran, as part of the Tata Group’s Founder’s Day celebrations in Jamshedpur. Present at the ceremony were T V Narendran, CEO & Managing Director, Tata Steel and Girish Wagh, Executive Director, Tata Motors, along with senior members of their leadership teams.
Tractor stocks may have bumpy ride in near-term; stay selective: Analystsedit
After a stellar run on the bourses that saw tractor stocks rise up to 52 per cent, analysts are turning cautious on the sector as muted demand trends may weigh in the near-term. Total volumes in the tractor segment for the last three quarters of the current financial year (9MFY24) have remained weak with VST Tillers, Escorts Kubota, and M&M seeing declines of 21 per cent, 5 per cent, and 3 per cent year-on-year (Y-o-Y), respectively, during the period, amid patchy rainfall, delayed crop harvest, and lower reservoir level.
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Monsoon forecast accuracy vital for agricultural decisions: Studyedit
In the wake of climate change causing increasingly variable weather patterns, a study from Telangana, India has shown that providing farmers with accurate monsoon forecasts can significantly influence their agricultural planning and economic stability.