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Company News, Live Stock, Poultry, World

The state-of-the-art Proteus production plant will have an initial capacity to produce enough functional protein to treat more than a billion pounds of meat, poultry and protein-based applications

Kemin Industries, a global ingredient manufacturer, has opened a new manufacturing facility in Verona, Missouri, to produce its Proteus line of clean-label functional proteins that are used to increase yield and enhance the quality of meat and poultry products within the food industry.  

Kemin broke ground on the new building in November 2021, the company hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially open the 38,000-square-foot facility. The operation is a $70 million investment that employs nearly 30 full-time workers in the Verona community.

The facility, which will run under FSSC 22000 Certification and completed its first run under United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) inspection on July 25, 2023, will manufacture Kemin Food Technologies – North America’s patented Proteus line of clean-label, functional protein ingredients for a variety of meat and poultry applications. The Proteus portfolio of muscle-based protein ingredients can help food processors naturally retain moisture typically lost in processing, which translates to processing efficiencies with improved quality.

The state-of-the-art Proteus production plant will have an initial capacity to produce enough functional protein to treat more than a billion pounds of meat, poultry and protein-based applications.

“Since acquiring Proteus in April 2021, we’ve been eager to open this site and serve customers, who continue to demand sustainably sourced, technologically advanced solutions,” said Marc Scantlin, President of Kemin Food Technologies – North America. “Opening our first-ever Proteus dry production plant provides the opportunity to partner with more meat and poultry manufacturers, positively impacting the quality of our global food supply.”

Prior to the construction of its Food Technologies site, Kemin established a presence in Southwest Missouri in 2011, with a manufacturing location for Kemin Nutrisurance, the company’s pet food and rendering technologies business unit. Kemin has three locations in Missouri: Kemin Nutrisurance facilities in Verona and Sarcoxie and the new Proteus production plant.

“We’ve found a great pipeline of talent in Verona and the surrounding area that has successfully grown our manufacturing capabilities for our pet food business, and we believe this community will offer the same support for our Proteus production plant to meet the high interest of our customers,” said Dr Chris Nelson, President and CEO, Kemin Industries. “I’ve been impressed with all our team members in Southwest Missouri, and I know even more potential employees are here to help us bring better meals to families around the world.”

The state-of-the-art Proteus production plant will have

Agro chems – Chemicals, Company News, India

Its unique composition provides prophylactic, curative, and eradicative actions, effectively targeting a wide spectrum of crop diseases such as Sheath blight, Powdery Mildew, Scab, and Alternaria

Best Agrolife Limited (BAL), a leading player in the agrochemical industry, unveiled BAL’s latest breakthrough, the fungicide ‘Tricolor’, and facilitated an engaging platform for more than 600 dealers in Kurnool and 1250 dealers in Guntur. The occasion highlighted BAL’s commitment to sustainable agriculture and pioneering agrochemical solutions.

‘Tricolor’, the latest innovation from BAL, was introduced among dealers, with all the benefits and uses. Comprising a potent blend of Trifloxystrobin 10 per cent + Difenoconazole 12.5 per cent + Sulphur 3 per cent SC, this cutting-edge fungicide offers comprehensive disease control measures. Its unique composition provides prophylactic, curative, and eradicative actions, effectively targeting a wide spectrum of crop diseases such as Sheath blight, Powdery Mildew, Scab, and Alternaria. The synergistic integration of the three active ingredients ensures enhanced efficacy, contributing to healthier crops of Rice, Tomato, Grapes, Chilli, Wheat, Mango, and Apple. 

Vimal Kumar, Managing Director, Best Agrolife, speaking at the launch, expressed his enthusiasm for Tricolor and its potential impact on farmers and the agricultural community. He stated, “Tricolor will play a pivotal role in elevating agricultural productivity and fostering the well-being of the farming community, not only in Andhra Pradesh but across India. Tricolor is an exceptionally potent fungicide with its comprehensive approach and a blend of Trifloxystrobin, Difenoconazole, and Sulphur. It addresses the multifaceted challenges faced in cultivating key crops within the region, promising higher yields and healthier produce.”

SBVR Prasad, Executive Director, Best Agrolife, highlighted the company’s vision, stating, “We are committed to providing farmer-needed products and conducting crop pest surveys to deliver the most favourable and beneficial products. What sets us apart is our competitive pricing with multinational companies as we aim to reach every farmer across the country. We look forward to prioritising the needs of our farmers and ensuring their success.”

Its unique composition provides prophylactic, curative, and

Company News, Machinery - Pre-harvesting, World

The T4 Electric Power offers powerful, emission-free and silent energy power with high torque and fast response achieved at the lowest speeds, promoting a new level of driving experience

For 2024, New Holland Agriculture is introducing the first all-electric utility tractor with autonomous features: the T4 Electric Power. This cutting-edge tractor opens a new class in the market, Utility Electric, focused on offering solutions for more efficient field operations. The T4 Electric Power addresses current farming challenges, such as increased total cost ownership and labour shortage, while delivering upon New Holland’s unwavering commitment to helping customers build more sustainable agriculture for this generation and beyond.

The T4 Electric Power is a game-changing innovation that ushers in a new era of modern agriculture. An ideal solution for lower horsepower field operations, it is suitable for multiple applications, such as mixed farm, hay and forage, dairy, livestock, municipality, greenhouse and speciality crops (vegetable and orchard). The tractor is the latest development in New Holland’s strategic plan for electrification and the newest addition to the brand’s lineup of alternative energy sources powered equipment, like the T7 Methane Power LNG (Liquified Natural Gas) and the T6.180 Methane Power. Equipped with a state-of-the-art lithium-ion battery pack, the T4 Electric Power delivers gradual power and continuous torque achieved at the lowest speeds, ensuring a completely new driving experience and seamless operation during loader work cycles and daily farm routines.

“This tractor is a significant step forward for growers, producers and municipalities. The T4 Electric Power addresses a number of challenges they are facing every day on their operations,” states Lena Bioni, product marketing manager for New Holland Agriculture North America. “What New Holland is bringing to our farmers is a convergence of technology – electric propulsion, autonomous features, better performance – in the body of a utility tractor that’s setting the stage for a more efficient, sustainable and resilient future our customers are striving for.”

The T4 Electric Power offers powerful, emission-free

AgroPolicy, Agrotech, India, Interaction, IT

  The event saw participation from the agriculture industry, farmer associations and FPO, delegates from 7 G20 nations, Agri-tech startups, international delegates and investors.

Lauding the strides made in digitising agriculture and harnessing technological innovations, which have been central priorities during India’s G20 presidency this year, India’s G20 Sherpa, Amitabh Kant, underscored the significance of Agricultural digitisation in bringing the next big green revolution and transforming the agriculture sector into a data-driven, adaptive system that can effectively combat challenges of climate change.

Kant was speaking at the G20 India Agri-tech Summit 2023 held on August 28 in Delhi. The Summit showcased India’s commitment to driving innovation, collaboration and sustainability in the realm of agriculture. The Summit, hosted as part of India’s G20 Presidency, brought together thought leaders, experts and stakeholders from across the globe to explore transformative solutions for the future of farming.

The Summit represented a crucial juncture in utilising technology to tackle the challenges confronting the agricultural sector. With a strong focus on sustainability, the event emphasised the significance of incorporating policies, technological progress and farmer-centred perspectives. The Summit’s schedule was enhanced by enlightening keynote presentations, dynamic discussions among panels and informative exhibitions that highlighted cutting-edge advancements in agricultural technology. Attendees participated in engaging conversations covering a wide range of subjects, such as policy shaping, sustainable agricultural practices, AI-powered agribusiness and the welfare of farmers. A diverse array of participants, including start-ups in agri-tech, AI firms, scientists and policymakers, were involved in the four-panel discussions hosted during the Summit.

India’s G20 Sherpa, Amitabh Kant, graced the occasion with his visionary leadership. Addressing the opening plenary of the Summit, Shri Kant said, “Transforming the agriculture sector into a data-driven, smart and adaptive to climate change is integral to the transformation of the agriculture sector. This would entail focusing on aspects like open access agricultural data platforms and recognizing them as global public goods while co-opting startups and responsible investments from the private and public sectors for enhancing the welfare of farmers, especially small and marginal farmers. G20 members, being the major agricultural producers, consumers and exporters, have come together to take a collective responsibility towards transitioning to a sustainable and resilient agricultural food system. Fundamentally, our ambition should be to transform agriculture, the agri-food sector into a very attractive and lucrative modern business enterprise. This needs to be done by keeping the farmers at the core of this digital revolution, by facilitating affordable access to an inclusive digital infrastructure and by exploring digital tools that cater to the needs of the Agri sector.”

 “The creation of a dynamic database that seamlessly interwinds precise information about farmers’ characteristics and agriculture sector statistics, with a wealth of supplementary information encompassing weather patterns, demand and supply dynamics, market trends, and much more, has the potential to empower our farmers to make informed decisions. The implications of such a harmonised database extend far beyond mere convenience. Stakeholders across various domains, including the policymakers and experts who steer the trajectory of our progress, would find themselves empowered by key insights delivered through this data-sharing network,” emphasising the need to create a harmonious database, Kant further added.

During the course of the panel discussions, policymakers, industry experts, innovators, farmers and investors paved the way for innovative approaches that can drive positive change across the agricultural landscape. With participants from across the world sharing agricultural experiences and strategies from different regions, the event presented a unique opportunity to gain a range of insights.

The Agri-tech Summit also recognised outstanding contributions, innovations and initiatives that are shaping the future of agriculture. This spotlight on exceptional efforts served as a driving force for further advancements in the sector.

Learn more about the G20 India Agri-tech Summit at https://g20indiaagritechSummit.com/

  The event saw participation from the

AgroPolicy, Finance, India, Sugar industry

 GST parity will directly contribute to reducing country’s fuel bill while simultaneously curbing carbon emissions from the transportation sector.

With the target of 10 per cent ethanol blending being achieved, the country’s focus now turns to the ambitious goal of reaching 20 per cent blending by 2025-26, a goal charted by the Prime Minister. Industry stakeholders underline the importance of introducing measures that facilitate the adoption of Flex Fuel Vehicles (FFV), recognizing their pivotal role in meeting this target. Parity in GST on FFVs being one of such measures.

Presently, FFVs are levied with a GST rate of 28 per cent, a notable contrast to the 5 per cent GST rate applicable to electric vehicles (EVs). This move will directly contribute to reducing country’s fuel bill while simultaneously curbing carbon emissions from the transportation sector.

In a representation, the Indian Sugar Mills Association (ISMA) has put forth a resounding appeal to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways for a relaxation in the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on Flex-Fuel Vehicles (FFVs).

Recognizing the significance of Flex-Fuel Vehicles (FFVs) as a vital instrument for a greener future, the industry underscores the crucial need for fiscal equilibrium. “Presently, FFVs are levied with a GST rate of 28 per cent, a notable contrast to the 5 per cent GST rate applicable to electric vehicles (EVs). We request parity in the GST rebate for FFVs, a move that will acknowledge ecological importance and empowers consumers to seamlessly embrace environmentally conscious choices without bearing disproportionate financial burdens. Offering tax deductions for FFVs could incentivize the adoption of eco-friendly vehicles, promoting a greener transportation choice”, said Aditya Jhunjhunwala, President, ISMA.

ISMA also reached out to the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), who are working towards development of anhydrous ethanol blends with gasoline, urging for a thorough exploration of the untapped potential inherent in E-100 hydrous ethanol blends. Taking inspiration from Brazil’s successful integration of such blends, India can envision an automotive landscape in which cleaner fuel alternatives merge seamlessly, heralding a transformative era of sustainability.

Benefits of E100

The manifold benefits of ethanol-based fuel are significant and far-reaching. These blends herald an epoch of environmental mindfulness, dramatically curtailing greenhouse gas emissions, lessening dependence on fossil fuels, and elevating air quality. This audacious step aligns harmoniously with the global energy transition narrative, positioning India as a guiding star in the realm of sustainable energy practices.

Ethanol’s inherent economic viability over traditional gasoline further strengthens its stature as a commendable alternative. The cost advantage of E-100 hydrous ethanol in comparison to fuel ethanol facilitates consumer-friendly pricing, catalysing a transition towards eco-conscious choices without imposing financial constraints. Moreover, the production costs, both operational and capital, associated with E-100 (hydrous ethanol) are notably lower than those incurred in the production of fuel ethanol (anhydrous ethanol with 99.6% purity), the latter being used for blending with petrol. This economic advantage can subsequently be conveyed to consumers through lowered prices of ethanol-blended petrol.

The Indian Sugar Mills Association anticipates an invigorating collaborative journey, traversing alongside governmental bodies and industry collaborators, to transmute the vision of a greener and sustainable future into vibrant reality.

 GST parity will directly contribute to reducing

Climate, India, Nature, Sustainable Energy

The power plant, located in Tirunelveli district in the state of Tamil Nadu in India, is expected to generate about 50.7 gigawatt-hours of electricity annually

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Fourth Partner Energy Private Limited (Fourth Partner) signed a long-term loan of up to 1.2 billion Indian rupees (about $14.7 million) to construct and operate a 25-megawatt solar photovoltaic-based power plant to increase clean and low-cost energy supply to commercial and industrial customers.

The power plant, located in Tirunelveli district in the state of Tamil Nadu in India, is expected to generate about 50.7 gigawatt-hours of electricity annually and will directly sell power to commercial and industrial users. India’s progressive open-access renewable energy policy allows a group of consumers to purchase electricity directly from an Independent Power Producer (IPP).

“Open access energy procurement can play an important role in businesses achieving their net zero emissions targets,” said Suzanne Gaboury, ADB’s Private Sector Operations Department Director General. “Solutions like this are being spearheaded by ADB to promote renewable energy across the region. This is ADB’s first direct financing to a renewable energy plant of this nature and is expected to crowd in international commercial financing to further decarbonize the commercial and industrial sector”.

Nearly 41,700 tons of carbon dioxide emissions a year will be avoided through the plant, which would otherwise have been generated by conventional fossil fuel plants.

“We are excited to add ADB to our esteemed list of green financiers as we move closer to our 3.5 GW renewable energy target by 2025.  Fourth Partner is also constructing solar and wind parks across Ottapidaram, Tuticorin, and Nandikundu in Tamil Nadu,” said Vivek Subramanian, Fourth Partner Energy Co-Founder and Executive Director. “We see this project as the beginning of our long-standing partnership with ADB to deliver cleaner, affordable power to India’s commercial and industrial sector,”

The power plant, located in Tirunelveli district

Horticulture, India, Supply Chain, Trade

The Indian government gave Kenya access to the market after notifying the World Trade Organisation

Kenya has been given the green light to export avocados to India starting in September. This move will allow Kenyan farmers to increase their avocado plantings, leading to higher earnings, employment opportunities, and downstream benefits.

Currently, Kenya’s primary export destinations for avocados are European countries such as the Netherlands, France, Spain, the UK, and Germany, making up 60 per cent of exports. In fact, avocados have become the second most valuable imported fruit from developing countries in Europe, surpassing grapes. Kenya also exports avocados to several other countries including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Egypt, Qatar, Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, and Georgia. The Indian government gave Kenya access to the market after notifying the World Trade Organisation. Kenyan avocado growers are required to fumigate the fruits with Methyl bromide or use cold treatment to control pests such as fruit flies. The inaugural shipment will be sent via diplomatic channels, and thereafter exporters will seek out partners to export with the help of KEPHIS. Kenya has been negotiating with India for five years on this export deal and has also recently expanded its avocado exports to China and Mauritius and is in talks with the USA and South Korea for market access.

The Indian government gave Kenya access to

AgroPolicy, Foodgrains, India, Supply Chain, Trade

It has been noticed that despite restrictions on certain varieties, rice exports have been high during the current year

To check the domestic prices and to ensure domestic food security, the Government has been taking measures to restrict the export of rice from India. The export of non-basmati white rice was prohibited on 20th July 2023.

It has been noticed that despite restrictions on certain varieties, rice exports have been high during the current year. Up to 17th August 2023, total exports of rice (other than broken rice, export of which is prohibited) were 7.33 MMT compared to 6.37 MMT during the corresponding period of the previous year, registering an increase of 15.06 per cent. There has been a spurt in the export of parboiled rice and Basmati rice; both of these varieties did not have any restrictions on exports. While the export of parboiled rice has grown by 21.18 per cent (3.29 MMT during the current year compared to 2.72 MMT during the previous year), the export of Basmati rice has increased by 9.35 per cent (1.86 MMT during the current year compared to 1.70 MMT during the previous year). Export of non-basmati white rice, which had an export duty of 20 per cent since 9th September 2022 and has been prohibited w.e.f. 20th July 2023, has also registered an increase of 4.36 per cent (1.97 MMT compared to 1.89 MMT during the previous year). On the other hand, as per the third Advanced Estimate of the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, during the Rabi Season 2022-23, the production was only 158.95 LMT against 184.71 LMT during the Rabi Season of 2021-22 i.e., there was a decline of 13.84 per cent.

Internationally, due to strong demand from Asian buyers, production disruptions registered in 2022/23 in some major producing countries like Thailand, and fears of possible adverse effects of the onset of El Nino, international rice prices have also been rising continuously since last year. The FAO Rice Price Index reached 129.7 points in July 2023; its highest value since September 2011, registering an increase of 19.7 per cent over last year’s levels. As the prices of Indian rice are still cheaper than the international prices, there has been a strong demand for Indian rice, resulting in record exports during 2021-22 and 2022-23. 

The Government has received credible field reports regarding misclassification and illegal export of non-basmati white rice, the export of which has been prohibited with effect from 20th July 2023. It has been reported that non-basmati white rice is being exported under the HS codes of parboiled rice and Basmati rice.

It has been noticed that despite restrictions

SAARC, Supply Chain, Trade, Vegetables

The supply had been halted briefly due to India’s imposition of a 40 per cent export tax on onions

Nepalese traders have resumed importing onions from India to meet the high demand for the vegetable during the upcoming festival season. The supply had been halted briefly due to India’s imposition of a 40 per cent export tax on onions, which is in effect until December 31.

 India is the world’s largest exporter of onions, and the tax was put in place to limit overseas sales and prevent a potential price increase. The new tariff had a significant impact on Nepal, as traders in the Kalimati Fruit and Vegetable Market, the country’s largest wholesale market for agricultural products, reported a sudden shortage of onions. Nepal relies on India for 99 per cent of its onion supply.

The supply had been halted briefly due

Agrotech, Company News, India, Start ups

FPOs will receive an assured incentive on each spraying order (acreage wise) while reducing input costs for farmers, improving operational efficiency, and conserving valuable resources.

With an aim to equip farmers with effective tech-enabled solutions, Salam Kisan, India’s fast-growing data-driven end to end agriculture platform that helps increase productivity and profitability for farmers, introduces a first-of-its-kind drone-based spraying service through FPOs on a rental basis for farmers in the Chandrapur district, Maharashtra. This groundbreaking initiative was unveiled by Sudhir Munagantiwar, Cabinet Minister of Finance & Planning, Forests, Government of Maharashtra during the Wild Vegetable Festival 2023 on Independence Day, and he hoisted the national flag using a drone provided by the company. With this initiative, Salam Kisan aims to equip farmers with cutting-edge technology that not only enhances their agricultural practices and promotes sustainable resource usage but also contributes to their economic well-being.

Under this initiative, Salam Kisan has collaborated with Farmers’ Producer Organizations (FPOs) to make drone spraying services easily accessible and affordable to a broader spectrum of farmers. By making drones an efficient and doorstep solution, the company intends to equip farmers with cutting-edge spraying capabilities for seamless pest management and precise use of agrochemicals. It also reduces water wastage by 85-90 per cent and product usage by 20-30 per cent, making strides toward sustainable agriculture.

At the same time, FPOs will receive an assured incentive on each spraying order (acreage wise). While reducing input costs for farmers, improving operational efficiency, and conserving valuable resources, this strategic initiative intends to provide FPOs with financial benefits and upliftment.

The event witnessed the presence of key dignitaries who have significantly contributed to India’s agricultural progress. Accompanying them were Salam Kisan’s special guides, including Akshay Khobragade, COO; Paresh Kullarkar, Agri-Operational Manager, and the pioneering drone pilots Raj Sidam and Amol Kohare.

Dhanashree Mandhani, Founder & CEO, Salam Kisan, said, “At Salam Kisan, we’re committed to empowering rural communities toward resilience and sustainability, and collaborations between public and private entities will be pivotal in implementing change at the grass-roots level.  Our national agriculture policy aims to set up 10,000 new FPOs by 2025 with a focus on revamping agriculture value chains and catalysing the growth of logistics in rural areas.”

“Usually, traditional pump spraying uses 100 – 120 liters of water per acre, and drone spraying uses 10 liters per acre. Traditional spraying is time-consuming and requires manual labor, while drone spraying takes 7 minutes. By making drone service accessible to farmers, we are helping reduce input costs, increase efficiency, and ensure farmers’ safety. At the core, we intend to benefit farmers, our agricultural ecosystem, and FPOs.”  stated Akshay Khobragade, COO, Salam Kisan. 

FPOs will receive an assured incentive on

Company News, Finance, India, Start ups

Ayekart’s dedication to fostering partnerships is evidenced by over 16,000 MSME partners registered on the platform.

Ayekart, a leading FinTech and integrated digital technology platform specialising in the food and agri value chain, announced significant milestones in the fiscal year 2022-2023 at its Annual General Meeting (AGM). The event highlighted the company’s achievements in facilitating financial transactions, empowering Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), and building strong customer connections.

Ayekart reported a Gross Trade Value (GTV) of Rs 657 crores for the fiscal year 2022-2023, astounding growth of nearly 5X compared to the previous year. The momentum continues in the current fiscal year, with the company already surpassing its previous GTV record.

Debarshi Dutta, Co-Founder & CEO of Ayekart, expressed his commitment to advancing technology, nurturing partnerships, and driving financial empowerment. He stated, “Our growth has been marked by remarkable progress, and our unwavering commitment to empowering traditional businesses and enriching communities is evident. Our core focus on impacting the lives of marginal farmers, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and SMEs across India has been the bedrock of our success. The AGM solidifies Ayekart Fintech’s position as an industry frontrunner, poised to shape the future of financial technology.”

Since its inception in December 2020, Ayekart Fintech has processed over 70,000 transactions, exemplifying its essential role in empowering businesses of all sizes. With a thriving ecosystem and advanced technology, the platform has facilitated a robust financial landscape for entrepreneurs and farmers.

Ayekart’s dedication to fostering partnerships is evidenced by over 16,000 MSME partners registered on the platform. This accomplishment reflects the company’s mission to drive financial inclusivity and prosperity.

Dutta further added, “Ayekart’s strength lies in nurturing connections with customers. By understanding their unique needs, we are committed to enhancing businesses through technology and finance, solidifying our role as a trusted partner for sustainable growth. Since inception, our strategic vision has ensured consistent profitability, contributing to our ability to innovate and deliver value to stakeholders.”

Starting with a team of 30 employees in 2022, Ayekart now boasts over 130 professionals. The expansion to six locations, including four new offices in Pune, Araku, Lucknow, and Gangavaram, has broadened the company’s reach and impact.In July, Ayekart moved to a new head office in Mumbai, aligning with the company’s commitment to delivering unparalleled services and fostering a productive and collaborative work environment.

Ayekart's dedication to fostering partnerships is evidenced

AgroPolicy, India, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation

The new Next-Gen Container terminal will cater to future trade demand from Northern, Western and Central India, connecting the regions to global markets.

A concession agreement signed between Deendayal Port Authority and DP World in the presence of Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping & Waterways and AYUSH, HE Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO, DP World; Rizwan Soomar, DP World, CEO & MD, Middle East, North Africa and India, Sanjay Mehta, IFS, Chairperson and other senior officials of the ministry in New Delhi.

This state-of-the-art container terminal at Tuna-Tekra will cater to future trade demand from Northern, Western and Central India, connecting the regions to global markets. The project involves the construction of a mega-container terminal at Tuna-Tekra near the existing Deendayal Port, at a cost of Rs 4,243.64 crores ($510 million) through a Public Private Partnership (PPP). Once completed the terminal will have an annual capacity of 2.19 million TEUs, and will include a 1,100m berth capable of handling next-generation vessels carrying more than 18,000 TEUs.

The Container Terminal is expected to transform the economic landscape of Kutch, with creation of several ancillary services like warehousing, etc. and also result in creation of direct and indirect employment opportunities to hundreds of people.

In addition to increasing the business potential of Kandla, the project will boost the economy and generate employment. The container terminal will be fully compliant with the green port guidelines ensuring sustainability in port operations by adopting best practices of port environment management contributing towards the long-term sustainability goals set out by the Government of India.

Container Terminal Highlights:

• Annual capacity of 2.19 million TEU

• 1,100m berth to handle next-generation vessels

• Fully compliant with the green port guidelines

• The terminal will connect Northern, Western and Central India with Global market

• The project aligns with India’s Vision 2047 to quadruple port handling capacity

• The terminal will be a part of the National Infrastructure Pipeline complementing PM Gati Shakti

The new Next-Gen Container terminal will cater

Agro Universities, India, Interaction, R&D

Programme aims to equip research managers and leaders with practical tools and strategies to navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and steer agricultural research and development.

Dr Jacqueline Hughes, Director General, ICRISAT, addressed Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) training participants on August 21, 2023, at the invitation of the ICAR – National Academy of Agricultural Research Management (ICAR-NAARM) in Hyderabad, India.

NAARM’s Executive Development Programme (EDP) for leadership development is tailored to empower national research managers and leaders in various roles, including Directors and Assistant Directors General, with enhanced leadership capacities and competencies.

The event began with the Presidential Address by Dr Ch Srinivasa Rao, Director, ICAR-NAARM, followed by an overview by Dr G Venkateshwarlu, Joint Director and Program Director.

Dr Hughes elaborated on the critical role of transformative leadership in driving positive change and fostering innovation within the realm of agricultural research.

Her insights provided a launchpad for the participants to embark on their own leadership journey within the National Agricultural Research and Education System while appreciating the synergies and opportunities through collaboration with international institutes and global research organizations.

The program ends on August 26th and aims to equip research managers and leaders with practical tools and strategies to navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and steer agricultural research and development toward greater efficiency and impact.

Programme aims to equip research managers and

Agrotech, Company News, Europe, India

As collaborators the parties will work together under this MOU to evaluate the business strategies for the Brad technology, manufacturing, distribution and marketing for entry into India.

Clean Seed Capital Group Ltd. has announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (the “MOU”) with Brad Technologies SAS a France based AgriTech company, whose mission is to be the voice of soil health by providing farmers with enhanced real-time knowledge driven by artificial intelligence (“AI”).

Brad is the creator of a decision-helping digital solution aimed at farmers transitioning towards agroecological and regenerative agriculture principles and promoting practices and collaborating to restore and preserve soil health. Brad uses data acquired and returned in real time coupled with AI to provide farmers with an improved knowledge of the state of health of their soils.  

The MOU outlines collaboration opportunities to achieve Brad’s underlying goal of commercializing its technology and Clean Seed’s goal of facilitating progress to support the implementation of agricultural technologies that improve the well-being of the farmer, the land and food production on the ground in India. AgriTech is one of the prevailing solutions to mitigate climate change, satisfy consumer demands to improve yields and restore the heath of the soil.

As collaborators the parties will work together under this MOU to evaluate the business strategies for the Brad technology, manufacturing, distribution and marketing for entry into India and further technology collaboration opportunities between the parties to accelerate growth for both organizations.

Graeme Lempriere, Chairman and CEO of Clean Seed, stated, “We continue to strengthen our relationships in India through a strong collaborative approach on the ground, our SMART Seeder MINI-MAX™ technology has become the cornerstone of our effort to implement advancements in agriculture, our ongoing efforts to prepare for commercialisation with Mahindra are on track. Brad Technologies is a welcomed additional opportunity to expand both our impact on the ground in India and other meaningful opportunities for both parties.” 

As collaborators the parties will work together