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Home2024February (Page 7)
Acquaculture, India, Opinions

 By Ruchi Dahiya, Associate Consultant, Sathguru Management Consultants

India has demonstrated consistent and robust growth in shrimp exports over the last decade, supported by government focus and organic growth, and has established a dominant position in the global value chain. Diversifying India’s shrimp exports from primarily frozen shrimps to value-added shrimp products could further improve the overall value realisation in the near term.

Shrimp, a popular crustacean delicacy, plays a pivotal role in the global seafood industry. It is in great demand worldwide due to its versatility and nutritional value. Two varieties of shrimp are famous worldwide: Whiteleg Shrimp (Panaeus vannamei) (known as Pacific White Shrimp) and Tiger shrimp (Panaeus mondon). In the global shrimp market, the Pacific White shrimp species leads the production with 77 per cent share, followed by Tiger Shrimp (14 per cent) and others (9 per cent).

The global scenario of shrimps reflects a thriving industry that plays a significant role in the seafood trade, economy, and food security. It shows a dynamic industry that balances economic growth, environmental considerations, and increasing demand for sustainable seafood. The global shrimp industry is $38 billion as of 2021, growing at a CAGR of 9.5 per cent and expected to reach $85 billion by 2030. The shrimp industry is growing due to increasing disposable income, growing health awareness, and rising shrimp use in manufacturing cosmetics, personal care products, and nutraceuticals.

As of 2021, global shrimp production is more than 5 million metric tonnes (MMT). It has increased by 128 per cent since 2011. The Asia-Pacific region has significantly contributed to global shrimp production, followed by the American region. Countries in the Asia-Pacific region, such as China (29 per cent share), India (17 per cent), and Southeast Asian countries (31 per cent) – Vietnam, Indonesia, and Thailand have substantial shrimp farming industries and have consistently been among the top producers globally. Ecuador (18 per cent) is the major shrimp producer in the American region.

To read more click on: https://agrospectrumindia.com/e-magazine

 By Ruchi Dahiya, Associate Consultant, Sathguru Management

AgroPolicy, India, Industry Reports / Analysis, Live Stock, Poultry, Trade

India’s poultry industry is poised for a significant boost as the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) recently approved the country’s self-declaration of freedom from Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in specific poultry compartments. This approval is expected to have a substantial impact on India’s poultry exports.

According to the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), India’s poultry exports reached a peak of 6.64 lakh tonnes valued at $134.04 million during the 2022-23 fiscal year, nearly doubling from the previous year’s figures. In 2021-22, poultry shipment volumes were at 3.20 lakh tonnes, valued at $71.03 million. Alongside the recent self-declaration, global factors such as the impact of the Ukraine war have also contributed to the surge in the global demand for Indian poultry products.

India’s assertion of being HPAI-free in its poultry compartments reinforces its market credibility. This declaration instils confidence among international buyers regarding the safety, quality, and disease-free nature of Indian poultry products. It serves as a testament to the nation’s commitment to stringent biosecurity measures and efficient disease control protocols.

To achieve this benchmark, the government and private players undertook significant steps, including the complete eradication of the poultry population, disposal of infected eggs, feed, litter, and other materials, disinfection and cleaning up of infected premises, as well as the restriction of poultry and poultry products to and from outbreak areas. These measures, outlined in an official statement, were pivotal in obtaining the HPAI-free status.

Putting a magnifying glass on the bundle of advantages of India’s HPAI-free ranking, Shan Kadavil, Co-Founder and CEO, FreshToHome said, “Exporters of poultry from India will benefit from the HPAI-free status. In contrast to products coming from areas still grappling with Avian Influenza outbreaks, they can market theirs as premium, safe, and superior. Indian poultry products can benefit from this competitive edge by experiencing increased demand and preference in the global market.”

Echoing similar thoughts, Abhishek Negi, Co-founder & CEO, Eggoz opined, “The stage is set for an increase in export volumes with the HPAI-free declaration. It draws in new customers looking for safe, high-quality poultry products and encourages current trade partners to increase their imports of poultry from India. The overall export earnings of India are boosted by this surge in exports. The expansion of the poultry export market is due to more than just a rise in profits. It promotes economic stability and adds to the nation’s employment landscape by stimulating job creation throughout the supply chain, from farms to processing units and logistics.”

To read more click on: https://agrospectrumindia.com/e-magazine

India’s poultry industry is poised for a

Agrotech, Digital Technologies, Opinions, Supply Chain

 By Jatinder Alagh, Chief Technology Officer Arya.ag

The supply chain is always a complex task to manage the integrity, accountability, traceability, and quality of the products. The agriculture and food supply chains are more important than any other supply chain. Due to the lack of proper management in the agriculture and food supply chain, many unauthorised small agriculture and food organisations produce false products that are harmful. The modern supply chain is useful to prevent potential fraud a guarantees trade compliance. Blockchain that uses a decentralised ledger to store the information, and this information cannot be changed or modified, solves the problem of complexity in the agriculture and food supply chain.

The agricultural supply chain is a complex network involving farmers, processors, distributors, and consumers, often with numerous intermediaries in between. One of the core challenges in the agricultural industry due to this diversity and fragmentation is the lack of trust, and in our experience, the only means to combat distrust is through transparency.

For this reason, we started developing India’s first public agri-blockchain ledger to provide complete visibility and traceability and build complete assurance for all stakeholders in the agri-value chain. A world where every transaction is secure, transparent, and immutable – That’s what we hope to offer our stakeholders through the blockchain.

What is Blockchain

Blockchain technology is like a digital ledger that keeps a record of transactions or other data across a network of computers. It’s like a chain of digital “blocks” that contain information. Once a block is filled with data, it is chained onto the previous block, creating a timeline of data that is very difficult to alter. This is because each block contains not only details of a transaction but also reference information about the block before it, plus a unique code (called a hash) that is created based on the information in the block itself.

This makes blockchain a secure way to store and manage data, and it’s the technology behind cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. Blockchain aims to reduce fraud, maintain tamper-proof records and streamline transactions and hence is gaining momentum across industries. It is being used to ensure the privacy and reliability of health data, land registry and property management, enhance security in financial institutions and reduce costs of operations like fund transfers and international transactions.

To read more click on: https://agrospectrumindia.com/e-magazine

 By Jatinder Alagh, Chief Technology Officer Arya.agThe

Agribusiness, Digital Technologies, E-commerce, India, Interaction, Start ups

– Shardul Sheth, Co-founder & CEO, AgroStar

Established in 2013, AgroStar stands as a pioneering AgTech startup in India, dedicated to the mission of “Helping Farmers Win.” By providing real-time agronomy advisory services and facilitating access to premium farm inputs, AgroStar has empowered farmers to cultivate higher-quality crops, resulting in remarkable yield increases ranging from 30 to 100 per cent. The key to this success lies in AgroStar’s distinctive omnichannel network, which boasts a massive outreach, engaging over 7.5 million farmers and encompassing a rapidly expanding retail network of more than 7000 agri-input stores in 7 states. Additionally, AgroStar’s strategic acquisition of INI Farms, a prominent fruit and vegetable (F&V) exporter in India, has further amplified its impact by enabling farmers to tap into global markets with more favourable rates for their produce. Shardul Sheth, Co-founder & CEO of AgroStar, shares his insights into the dynamics of the agri-input and output e-commerce market in India, with AgroSpectrum. Edited excerpts;

How is Agrostar contributing to the growth of agri-input digital marketplaces in India?

One of the biggest factors that is driving the growth of agri-input marketplaces is the access these platforms provide to a wider range of products to farmers. While providing access to agri-inputs is the foundational aspect, what sets AgroStar apart is the provision of high-quality bespoke agronomy advisory services alongside a diverse array of superior agri inputs.

One of the primary challenges farmers face is the need for up-to-the-minute information on progressive farming practices. AgroStar addresses this challenge through its farmer advisory centre and mobile app, granting farmers access to a wealth of agronomy knowledge. Through the app, they can stay abreast of the latest farming techniques, pest and disease management, and receive real-time personalised advice from AgroStar’s Agri-Doctors. This empowerment enables farmers to make informed decisions that enhance their crop yields. To date, the AgroStar mobile app has successfully resolved over 12 million queries from farmers, with a monthly influx of 70 million-plus data points into AgroStar’s data stack, reinforcing our capacity to deliver customised agronomy guidance on a large scale.

It is through this tailored agronomy guidance that AgroStar can recommend the most suitable agri inputs to our farmers, who can conveniently make purchases through our app and have them delivered to their doorstep or opt to visit an AgroStar store, also known as AgroStar ki Laal Dukaan in their vicinity. 

What is the status of agri-input and output digital marketplaces in India?

India has seen a proliferation of agri-input and output platforms in recent years. These platforms aim to bring transparency, efficiency, and convenience to agricultural transactions. However, the landscape is dynamic, and several factors influence its current status.

Growth: Agri-input digital marketplaces have been growing due to the increased adoption of technology in rural India. Farmers are increasingly using these platforms to procure quality seeds, fertilisers, pesticides, and other essential inputs.

Government Initiatives: Various government initiatives aimed at promoting digital agriculture platforms have further contributed to the growth of the sector. Visionary programmes like e-NAM (National Agriculture Market) designed to connect agricultural markets online, have the potential to create a substantial impact over time.

Challenges: Persistent challenges such as digital literacy, limited internet connectivity in rural areas, and trust in online transactions continue to pose obstacles. As technology advances rapidly, the essential skills required for its utilisation become crucial. There are still pockets of regions with low or intermittent internet access, even though mobile phone penetration has accelerated over the last few years. Establishing last-mile delivery systems in remote locations remains a challenge.

Opportunity: Despite challenges, new opportunities are emerging that can propel the sector’s growth. Platforms like Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), for instance, can provide an avenue for every seller or brand to reach a broader audience of farmers across the country. This presents an opportunity for brands or sellers to expand their reach and offerings rapidly while providing farmers access to a more extensive range of products.

Which segment of agri-input is leading in the e-commerce market, and what are the driving factors of the agri-input e-commerce market?

We are witnessing a surge in farmers’ interest across various categories within agri-input e-commerce, including Seeds, Crop Nutrition, Crop Protection products and Farm Implements. However, each of these categories requires distinct levels of service in terms of advisory. For example, farmers often seek advisory support to identify the nature of the pest attacks on their crops before using crop protection products.

Some of the factors that are driving the growth of the sector include:

Access to Quality Inputs: E-commerce platforms aim to provide farmers with access to a diverse range of high-quality agricultural inputs, enabling them to make informed choices based on their specific crop and soil requirements. Marketplaces enable brands to reach a broader audience and explore new regions.

Advisory Services: One of the core issues faced by farmers is the lack of information about progressive farming practices. To be an effective agri e-commerce marketplace, companies must prioritise building robust advisory capabilities. This includes offering crop management tips, pest control advice, and guidance on suitable inputs, thereby enhancing the overall value proposition for farmers.

Convenience: Online purchasing offers a convenient alternative to farmers, saving them time and effort compared to traditional methods. Farmers can browse, select, and order products from the comfort of their homes.

To read more click on: https://agrospectrumindia.com/e-magazine

- Shardul Sheth, Co-founder & CEO, AgroStarEstablished

Agribusiness, Digital Technologies, E-commerce, Industry Reports / Analysis

India’s agri-inputs market alone boasts a substantial $44 billion valuation, driven by over five lakh agri-input retailers serving as vital sources for farmers. As this marketplace rapidly evolves, combining the power of technology and agriculture to revolutionise the way farmers, suppliers, and consumers interact, it brings together various stakeholders – farmers, agricultural input suppliers, equipment manufacturers, distributors, processors and retailers in one virtual marketplace.

In the heart of India’s agricultural landscape, a transformation is underway, powered by the rapid growth of e-commerce platforms. Online platforms are becoming the bridge that connects farmers directly with buyers, eliminating the traditional intermediaries and ensuring fair prices. This shift holds the promise of addressing long-standing challenges and propelling the sector into a new era of efficiency and sustainability.

India’s agri-inputs market alone boasts a substantial $44 billion valuation, driven by over five lakh agri-input retailers serving as vital sources for farmers. As this marketplace rapidly evolves, combining the power of technology and agriculture to revolutionise the way farmers, suppliers, and consumers interact, it brings together various stakeholders – farmers, agricultural input suppliers, equipment manufacturers, distributors, processors and retailers in one virtual marketplace.

India’s B2B AgriTech companies have for decades been demonstrating how digital platforms are addressing agricultural challenges by leveraging data, analytics, and innovative technologies to optimise farming practices, reduce wastage, and enhance the overall efficiency of the agricultural supply chain. Now, the promise of India’s agriculture e-commerce sector is poised to contribute significantly to the surge in global agricultural e-commerce. That growth is primarily fueled by the demand for agricultural fertilisers, anticipated to secure the largest market share, closely followed by agricultural pesticides.

Major industry players, including UPL and ITC, are spearheading revolutionary changes. UPL, a key agrochemicals player, is at the forefront, providing mechanisation services and agrochemicals to farmers through its nurture.farm digital platform. Simultaneously companies involved in procurement, processing, or the selling of agricultural products have started to integrate backward into the supply chain, creating crucial market linkages for farmers. ITC, a core outputs player for instance, leveraged its e-Choupal network to expand direct-from-farm procurement over the past 20 years. It recently launched the ITCMAARS (Meta Market for Advanced Agriculture and Rural Services) super app. Using a partnership approach, the app gives farmers access to modern tools, quality inputs at the right prices, and finance.

Notably, B2B fruit marketplace Vegrow, secured $46 million from Government of Singapore Investment Corporation (GIC), Singapore’s sovereign wealth fund. The company aims to utilise the funds to fortify its global network and expand its reach across India.

Market Dynamics

India’s agri-inputs market is powered by retailers who serve as vital sources for farmers, providing seeds, fertilisers, pesticides, and tools. Despite their indispensable role, these retailers grapple with challenges such as limited product variety, poor availability, unclear pricing, and high working capital costs. Unlike some AgriTech players, the majority of agri-input retailers, who significantly contribute to the trade, have yet to benefit from technology or digitisation.

The digital agri-input market in India stands at a transformative juncture, propelled by rapid technological integration in agriculture. Over the past 75 years, India’s agriculture sector has evolved from being the primary economic driver to a critical contributor, now accounting for over 20 per cent of the nation’s income. However, significant challenges, including limited access to basic farming equipment, crop vulnerabilities, and financial constraints, hinder the sector’s untapped potential.

To read more click on :https://agrospectrumindia.com/e-magazine.

India’s agri-inputs market alone boasts a substantial

Award, Company News, India, Supply Chain

The CII Food Safety Award is a respected industry platform benchmarking food safety best practices in manufacturing across the supply chain

Cargill, a leading global food and agriculture company, has been conferred with two recognitions for ‘Significant Achievement in Food Safety’ at the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Food Safety Awards 2023, for its commitment towards best-in-class food safety practices in India.

The 14th edition of the CII Food Safety Award ceremony took place on 31 January 2024, where Cargill’s food safety initiatives were recognised in two award categories: 

Large Manufacturing Food Businesses: Fats and Oils – Kurkumbh plant, Maharashtra

Large Manufacturing Food Business: Sweeteners – Davangere plant, Karnataka

The CII Food Safety Award is a respected industry platform benchmarking food safety best practices in manufacturing across the supply chain. The evaluation criteria for the award cover company performance on stringent domestic food safety standards, and leadership initiatives, besides social and statutory compliances. Winners are selected following a rigorous assessment process that also includes onsite evaluation of food safety practices by a team of experts. 

Simon George, president of Cargill India, and managing director, of Food Solutions South Asia, said, “At Cargill, we are committed to providing safe and quality products. We invest in advanced manufacturing and refining equipment and processes, to ensure compliance with the highest standards of food safety regulations in the country. Our customers and consumers count on us to ensure the safety and quality of our products. This award is a great validation of the progress we have made in our food safety performance over recent years. As we move ahead, we continue to set a higher benchmark for ourselves in this important area.” 

The CII Food Safety Award is a

Acquaculture, AgroPolicy, Finance, India, Schemes - Govt

Budgetary allocation is 15 per cent higher than the current financial year.

Department of Fisheries has been allocated an amount of Rs. 2584.50 crore for financial year 2024-25 which is highest ever annual allocation to the Department of fisheries. The budgetary allocation is 15 per cent higher than the current financial year. The budget allocated is one of the highest ever annual budgetary support for the Department.

The expenditure towards fisheries sector since first five-year plan to 2013-14 was only Rs. 3680.93 crore however, since 2014-15 to 2023-24 an amount of Rs.  6378 crores have already been released for various fisheries developmental activities in the country. The targeted investment in last nine years in the sector is more than Rs 38572 crores, which is highest ever investment in this sunrise sector.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted the development in the sector. The interim budget also emphasises on establishment of digital public infrastructure for formalization of the economy. The Union Finance Minister emphasised that a separate Fisheries Department was established to realise importance of assisting fishermen that has resulted in doubling both inland and aquaculture production, doubling of seafood exports since 2013-14. The flagship scheme, Pradhan Mantri Mastya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) is being stepped up to enhance aquaculture productivity from existing 3 to 5 ton/Ha, doubling exports to Rs 1 lakh crore and generate 55 lakh employment opportunities along with big infrastructural changes of establishing 5 integrated aquaparks. In addition, the Blue economy 2.0 will be launched to focus on promoting climate resilient activities, restoration and adaptation measures and development of coastal aquaculture and mariculture with integrated & multi-sectoral approach.

Fisheries sector plays an important role in the Indian economy. It contributes to the national income, exports, food and nutritional security as well as employment generation. Fisheries sector is recognized as the ‘Sunrise Sector’ and is instrumental in sustaining livelihoods of around 30 million people in India particularly that of the marginalized and vulnerable communities.

The Fisheries sector was given the required boost by carving out Department of Fisheries from the erstwhile Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairying & Fisheries on 5th February 2019 and has been equipped with profound schemes and programs namely Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), Fisheries Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF) and Kisan Credit Card (KCC), the Department is now set to achieve newer heights during the Amrit Kaal.

Budgetary allocation is 15 per cent higher

AgroPolicy, Agrotech, Digital Technologies, IT, Start ups

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the interim Union Budget for forthcoming financial year (2024-25) in the parliament.FM announced schemes and special programmes for the various sectors of agriculture. Agritech industry has appreciates the budget 24 for promoting innovation in the agricultural sector, all of which are crucial for elevating farming practices, mitigating post-harvest losses, and securing a more prosperous future for Indian agriculture.

Anuj Kumbhat, Co-Founder & CEO, WRMS said, “The interim budget 2024 reflects a commendable commitment to supporting our ‘Annadata’—the farmers, who are the backbone of our nation. The allocation of direct financial assistance to 11.8 crore farmers through PM-KISAN SAMMAN Yojana, along with crop insurance for 4 crore farmers under PM Fasal Bima Yojana, underscores the government’s dedication to safeguarding the agricultural community. The emphasis on value addition in the agricultural sector and efforts to boost farmers’ income is a welcome step that aligns with the broader goal of enhancing food production for our country and the world.

The success of initiatives like Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana, benefiting 38 lakh farmers and creating 10 lakh employment opportunities, showcases the positive impact of strategic policies. Additionally, the Pradhan Mantri formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises Yojana, aiding 2.4 lakh SHGs and sixty thousand individuals with credit linkages, demonstrates a holistic approach towards uplifting the rural economy.

Overall, the budget’s focus on reducing postharvest losses, improving productivity, and augmenting farmers’ incomes reflects a comprehensive strategy to strengthen the agricultural sector, ensuring sustainable growth and prosperity for our ‘Annadata.’

Amandeep Panwar, Co-Founder & Director, BharatRohan – Agri-tech Drone Startup opined, “This budget represents a resolute commitment to empowering youth, fostering sustainability, and promoting innovation in the agricultural sector, all of which are crucial for elevating farming practices, mitigating post-harvest losses, and securing a more prosperous future for Indian agriculture.

Rs 20-lakh crore allocation for targeted agricultural credit and the launch of the Agriculture Accelerator Fund are commendable. They ensure vital financial support for farmers to adopt new technologies and improve their farming practices, while also being equally promising for driving rural innovation and supporting agritech startups. I believe this budget announcement demonstrates a promising path forward for Indian agriculture and technology-driven agritech initiatives. “

Alekh Sanghera, Co-founder and CEO, FarMart said,“Budget 2024-2025 is a great step towards a promising and bountiful agritech future. The budget provisions strengthened agriculture value chains through food processing infrastructure, minimized wastage and crop insurance. We, at FarMart, echo the vision of PMKSY & PM-FME, bridging the farm-to-fork gap. Better market access and post-harvest management empower smallholders with sustainable income. We are aligned with the government’s vision to boost productivity and farmer welfare through incentives around credit access, infrastructure, and public-private collaboration. This budget fuels India’s agritech ecosystem, ensuring local and global food security.”

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the

Agrotech, Company News, R&D

The two companies will also explore setting up a research & development facility in the country  

Dhanuka Agritech, one of the leading agri-input companies in India, announced that it has signed a ‘Letter of Intent’ with Spain-based Kimitec to explore various business opportunities, including setting up a joint venture in India for the development and commercialisation of biological products using natural molecules & derived from natural sources. 

 The two companies will also explore setting up a Research & Development facility in the country.  

Biological products are derived from natural sources using botany, microbiology, microalgae, and bioinformatics. These represent a sustainable category of products providing crop protection, soil health, and plant nutrition. These products can be used individually or in combination with conventional chemical products as per the requirements. 

 “As part of our continuous effort to offer the best products and solutions to the Indian farming community, we have signed a non-binding Letter of Intent with Spain’s Kimitec to explore various business opportunities, including setting up a joint venture in India and an R&D facility, as well as the commercialization of biological products. The demand for biological products is increasing globally, and we see an uptrend for these products in India too.” said Rahul Dhanuka, Joint Managing Director, Dhanuka Agritech. 

Kimitec, is a cutting-edge biotech company & founder of MAAVi Innovation Center, the largest European biotech innovation hub dedicated to natural molecules. Kimitec has implemented a revolutionary AI platform at MAAVi Innovation Center. Known by the name of LINNA this AI platform is already providing Kimitec with around 35 per cent of candidate compounds for product development.

“As part of our mission to change the way food is produced globally, we have identified Dhanuka Agritech Ltd as a perfect partner to bring our natural yet as effective as chemicals solutions to farmers in India,” said Félix García, CEO of Kimitec.

Kimitec operates in more than 100 countries around the world and collaborates with MNC’s to develop and commercialize biological products for B2B and B2C markets.

Dhanuka Group already has tie-ups with seven leading agrochemical companies from the US, Japan, and Europe, to introduce the latest technology and products in India. 

The two companies will also explore setting

Agro Universities, Agrotech, Company News, Europe, Foodgrains, R&D, Sustainability

BASF and IRRI to study multiple options to enhance climate smart farming and improve carbon intensity in rice systems.

BASF and the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) have entered into a scientific collaboration to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from rice production. Running by the name “OPTIMA Rice” (Optimizing Management for Reduction of GHG in Rice), the collaboration with IRRI supports BASF’s commitment to enable the reduction of CO2e (carbon dioxide equivalent) emissions by 30 percent per ton of crop produced by 2030. The joint effort is planned for multiple rice seasons in the Philippines and will take place in Laguna, where both organizations maintain research centers for rice.

Rice is one of the five most widely produced cereal crops globally and is consumed by about three billion people every day. Although it is grown all over the world, Asia accounts for the largest share of its production. However, because of its geographic expansion and typical manner of wetland cultivation, worldwide paddy rice production contributes about 10 percent of total GHG emissions from the agricultural sector, mainly coming from continuously flooded wetland rice fields. Due to this large carbon footprint, it is estimated that rice production has the greatest potential within agricultural crop production to reduce GHG emissions.

BASF and IRRI therefore plan to explore multiple topics related to climate smart farming in rice. These include direct-seeded rice varieties, nitrogen stabilizers, nutrient and residue management, novel chemistry tailor-made for rice farmers, and water-saving technologies such as alternate wetting and drying management (AWD). In addition, IRRI has begun further improvements to its ecophysiological model ORYZA, to include new computation algorithms for estimating GHG emissions, for application to the project. BASF will use its AgBalance™ tool to estimate the GHG emission intensity and will work with IRRI on field tests of their products to obtain high-quality agronomic and GHG data. Both BASF and IRRI aim to further develop and apply models for improving scientific understanding on climate mitigation and adaptation options for rice in the Philippines and other rice growing areas in Asia. Ultimately, both BASF and IRRI aim to support farmers growing rice in de-carbonizing their production systems.

BASF and IRRI to study multiple options

AgroPolicy, Dairy, Finance, India, Live Stock

The budget 24 announcement about mandatory blending of CBG in CNG and PNG, financial assistance for procurement of biomass aggregation machinery to support collection will boost dairy industry.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the interim Union Budget for forthcoming financial year (2024-25) in the parliament.FM announced schemes and special programmes for the various sectors of agriculture.

Jayen Mehta, Managing Director, Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation Ltd. (GCMMF) (Amul) said that in her budget speech, Nirmala Sitharaman, Union Finance Minister informed the parliament that India is the largest producer of milk in the world. She mentioned a comprehensive programme for supporting dairy farmers will be formulated. Efforts are already on to control foot and mouth disease. India is the world’s largest milk producer but with low productivity of milch-animals. The programme will be built on the success of existing schemes such Rashtriya Gokul Mission, National Livestock Mission, and Infrastructure Development Funds for dairy processing and animal husbandry.

Mehta said, “Amul welcomes this support to the dairy industry of the country. India contributes to 24 per cent of the total milk production of the world and at the current rate of growth and the world dairy situation, India will contribute to one third of the total milk production in the world in a decade. The proposed comprehensive program for supporting dairy farmers will help India achieve the dream of becoming the ‘Dairy to the world.’

The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has today approved the continuation of Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF) to be implemented under Infrastructure Development Fund (IDF) with an outlay of Rs.29,610.25 crore for another three years up to 2025-26.

The scheme will incentivise investments for Dairy processing and product diversification, Animal Feed Plant, Breed multiplication farm, Animal Waste to Wealth Management (Agri-waste management) and Veterinary vaccine and drug production facilities.”

Government of India will provide 3 per cent interest subvention for 8 years and the Dairy Cooperatives will also avail benefits for modernisation, strengthening of the dairy plants.

Further, Finance Minister also announced that the Government will further promote private and public investment in post-harvest activities including aggregation, modern storage, efficient supply chains, primary and secondary processing and marketing and branding for ensuring faster growth of the food processing sector.

It may be noted that Amul has announced investments of Rs 11500 crores over the next 2-3 years for all round expansion of its dairy processing infrastructure.

 Finance Minister also announced the phased mandatory blending of compressed biogas (CBG) in compressed natural gas (CNG) for transport and piped natural gas (PNG) for domestic purposes will be mandated. Further, financial assistance will be provided for procurement of biomass aggregation machinery to support collection. This will support Amul’s initiative to promote circular economy by collecting dung from its farmers through the cooperative model, process it into compressed biogas (CBG) and bio fertilizer and thereby benefiting the farmers through additional income from dung, the economy by reducing imports of fuel and fertilizer and also supporting the plant. Amul has plans to set up 100 such CBG fuel pumps in the next couple of years across Gujarat.

Cooperatives are a powerful institutional mechanism to connect all these four and provide them sustainable benefits over a long period of time as the Amul model has successfully demonstrated. We believe that the initiatives of new Ministry of Cooperation shall help promote this cause for the betterment of all these four major castes through the several measures being taken for strengthening of cooperatives across the country.

The budget 24 announcement about mandatory blending

Agro chems – Chemicals, Agro chems – Fertilizers, Agro chems – Pesticides, AgroPolicy, India, Inputs

Nirmala Sitharaman, Union Finance Minister presented interim budget 2024 which brought forth a slew of transformative initiatives aimed at bolstering various sectors of the economy. From innovative schemes fostering renewable energy adoption to strategic investments in healthcare and agriculture, this budget outlines a vision for inclusive growth and sustainable development. The agri -input industry has commended that the schemes and initiatives announced in the budget 2024.

Dr K C Ravi, Chief Sustainability Officer, Syngenta India Pvt Ltd & Chairman, CropLife India opined “The robust physical-digital-social infrastructure developed in the last decade has given the economy a good foundation for a Viksit Bharat by 2047. Digital infrastructure and infusion of technology is imperative to not only sustain the momentum but also to take the agriculture growth story to its logical conclusion. The focus on self-reliance in edible oils and investment in post-harvest activities are some of the measures that can make this happen.

The full Budget has to address some pending reforms needed to further boost the impressive growth of India’s agrochemical sector. An enabling predictable science-based policy environment is absolutely essential to provide farmers cutting edge technologies to fight against climate threats besides the ever-increasing complex pests and diseases threatening crop yields. It is important that the industry is encouraged to invest in R&D for bringing newer molecules and technologies complemented by AI and digital technologies. Rationalising GST on agrochemicals to 12 per cent (from current 16 per cent) and allocating sufficient budgetary resources to introduce performance-linked incentives (PLI) will go a long way in consolidating and strengthening the agrochemical sector. Strategic policy decisions will propel India towards this growth, ultimately leading to a significant positive impact on further enhancing farmers’ income. These would give a decisive push for making Atmanirbhar Bharat.

Simon Wiebusch, President of Bayer South Asia and Vice Chairman, MD & CEO of Bayer CropScience Ltd (BCSL) said, “The Finance Minister’s announcement, identifying women and farmers as key focus groups for powering India’s growth, has set the stage for policies that can substantially boost development in rural areas. I am also happy to see the government’s continued push to improve farmer incomes. Policies like the PM Kisan Sampada Yojana and the PM Fasal Bima Yojana, along with measures to promote private and public investment in post-harvest activities including modern storage, efficient supply chains, and marketing and branding will herald a transformative era in Agriculture.

While the budget’s focus on advancing sustainability initiatives across sectors, improving farmer incomes, and women empowerment will help fulfil the Prime Minister’s vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat’, its proactive approach on women’s health is a crucial step towards ensuring preventive healthcare for a large section of the population.”

Rajesh Aggarwal, Managing Director, Insecticides India Ltd, said, “In response to the budget announcement for the fiscal year 2024-25, we, at IIL, welcome the government’s staunch commitment to the welfare and empowerment of our farmers, the providers of sustenance for the nation. The initiatives outlined in the budget, particularly those targeting the agricultural community, resonate strongly with our vision for a resilient and prosperous farming sector. The continuation of flagship schemes such as the PM Kisan Samman Yojana and PM Fasal Bima Yojana, providing direct financial assistance and crop insurance respectively, exemplifies the government’s dedication to safeguarding the livelihoods of our farmers. Moreover, the integration of mandis and the significant trading volume achieved therein highlight the government’s efforts towards modernising agricultural markets and enhancing the efficiency of agricultural trade. This move not only benefits the farmers by providing them with wider market access but also contributes to the overall growth of the agricultural sector. The focus on empowering the youth, particularly in agriculture, is commendable as it ensures the continuity of our farming traditions while infusing new energy and innovation into the sector.  We are particularly encouraged by the emphasis on technology adoption and innovation in agriculture.

 The integration of 1361 mandis into the Electronic National Agricultural Market, serving 1.8 crore farmers, is commendable. Furthermore, the budget’s focus on modern storage, supply chains, and branding, encouraging private and public investment in post-harvest activities, and the widespread adoption of market linkage techniques are steps in the right direction towards building a robust agricultural ecosystem. The budget definitely reflects a positive trajectory for the agricultural sector, emphasising inclusivity, innovation, and sustainability. We look forward to working together with the government and other stakeholders to leverage these opportunities for the benefit of our farmers and the nation as a whole”.

Raju Kapoor, Director, Industry & Public Affairs, FMC India opined, “The interim budget balances the fiscal prudence with growth. It has outlined various proactive measures for the agri industry at large. The allocation of a Rupees 1 lakh crore corpus for a 50-year interest-free loan to private sector is poised to fuel R&D and innovation in India fostering a conducive environment for advancements. The continuity of the ‘PM Kisan Sampada Yojana’ will make available requisite investment at the hands of farmers to promote use of newer technologies in the form of advanced agri-inputs. The emphasis on empowering women self-help groups with significant credit linkages will benefit in rural development and we resonate very well with it. The focus on minimizing post-harvest losses is crucial, and similarly we appreciate the decision to expand nano DAP usage across all agro-climatic conditions, which will undoubtedly catalyse the growth of drone applications in agriculture and improve fertilizer use efficiency. Investments to minimize the post-harvest infrastructure is a welcome step.

The industry was also hoping for the introduction of a Production Linked Incentive (PLI) for ‘new-age’ agro chemicals, positioning India as a global exporter and addressing domestic opportunity. The government could have also rationalized GST on agro chemicals to 12 percent. Additionally, we anticipated tax incentives on R&D investments and extension activities by the industry would further encourage innovation in the sector. We remain optimistic about the positive impacts of the interim budget and look forward to collaborative efforts to addressing more concerns in the future.”

Sanjiv Kanwar, Managing Director, Yara South Asia mentioned, “We welcome and commend the government’s focus on empowering poor, youth, women, and farmers through the interim budget announcement today. The increase in MSP for producers whenever required and the provision of basic goods has raised rural real income, which is a positive step towards ensuring the well-being of our farmers. We are also pleased to see the government’s commitment to modernizing storage, supply chains, and branding in the farm sector, which will benefit both farmers and consumers. Overall, we believe that this budget will provide a much-needed boost to the agriculture sector and encourage private and public investment in post-harvest activities. As a company committed to sustainable agriculture practices, we believe that continued investment in this sector is crucial for the long-term growth and prosperity of our country.”

Nirmala Sitharaman, Union Finance Minister presented interim

Agribusiness, AgroPolicy, India

Experts from the agri sector have praised the announcement that aims to encourage more private and public investment in areas of post-harvest activities

The agricultural sector has expressed its appreciation for the Union Budget 2024. Experts from the agri sector have praised the announcement that aims to encourage more private and public investment in areas of post-harvest activities. This includes aggregation, modern storage, efficient supply chains, primary and secondary processing, as well as marketing and branding. This step is considered laudable and has been welcomed by the industry.

MK Dhanuka, Managing Director, Dhanuka Agritech said,

“We commend the Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s budget announcement for adhering to the path of fiscal consolidation and yet presenting a far-sighted budget.  The announcement to further encourage private and public investment in areas of post-harvest activities including aggregation, modern storage, efficient supply chains, primary and secondary processing and marketing and branding is a laudable step. The move will help reduce huge wastage and in turn, help in enhancing farmers’ income. The focus on promoting ‘Research & Development’ as well as on technological advancement in various aspects including agriculture is also a step in the right direction. The decision to promote the application of Nano DAP on various crops in different agro-climatic zones is in line with the Government’s vision of promoting technological advancement in the rural sector. We have already witnessed the huge amount of savings to the tune of Rs 2.7 lakh crore that ‘Direct Benefit Transfer’ has resulted in.”

Amit Patjoshi, CEO, Palladium India said,

“We commend the government’s strong commitment to the agricultural sector evident in the Budget. The focus on value addition and income augmentation for farmers is pivotal, and the success of initiatives like Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana, benefiting 38 lakh farmers, is truly commendable. The support extended through Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises Yojana, assisting 2.4 lakh SHGs and 60 thousand individuals, reflects a holistic approach towards empowering the agricultural community. The emphasis on reducing postharvest losses and enhancing productivity aligns with the sector’s long-term sustainability. Furthermore, the launch of schemes promoting climate-resilient activities for the blue economy 2.0 is a forward-looking step. This integrated and multi-sectoral approach for coastal aquaculture and mariculture, coupled with restoration and adaptation measures, holds promise for sustainable growth. Overall, this budget signals a positive trajectory for the agricultural sector, laying the foundation for a more resilient and prosperous future.”

Mohan Kumar Mishra, Secretary, National Council of Cooperative Training (NCCT) said,
“This budget is people-centric and focuses on agriculture, rural development, and fisheries, with a strong emphasis on farmer cooperatives and value addition.
Many initiatives are continuations of previous budgets, aiming to strengthen the rural credit structure. Primary Agriculture Cooperative Credit Societies (PACS) are expected to emerge as multi-service centres for rural prosperity with financial support and credit availability.”

Dr Sat Kumar Tomar, Founder & CEO,  Satyukt Analytics said, “The Budget 2024 has resonated positively with the agriculture sector, aligning with our expectations for a technologically driven, sustainable farming approach. While the integration of IoT devices for precision farming wasn’t explicitly mentioned, the focus on farmers is evident. Crop insurance coverage for 4 crore farmers under the PM Fasal Bima Yojana ensures risk mitigation. Additionally, the announcement of rooftop solarisation benefiting 1 crore households aligns with sustainable farming goals. The commitment to Direct financial assistance for 11.8 crore farmers under the PM Kisan Samman Yojana reflects a dedication to enhancing the 3Ps of agricultural business: productivity, predictability, and profitability. However, the industry was expecting more industry-centric announcements in this budget to further catalyze growth and innovation in the agricultural sector.”

Jinesh Shah, Managing Partner, Omnivore opined, “Despite the brevity, the interim budget offered some interesting interventions. Specifically in the agriculture sector, encouraging public-private partnerships for post-harvest activities can directly address the chronic issues around food waste, low-capacity utilization of processing units, and standardised quality. India’s dependence on edible oil imports has been a shadow on the atmanirbhar sentiment of the country. With the Atmanirbhar Oil Seeds Abhiyan, a reboot of the Yellow Revolution is afoot. This not only serves to make India self-sufficient in edible oil but also, with efficient implementation, will have a lasting impact on farmer incomes.

One of the most interesting aspects of the budget was the emphasis on green initiatives, specifically on alternative materials. The government’s support of regenerative practices will provide young startups in this space the necessary credibility in the global markets.”

Experts from the agri sector have praised

AgroPolicy, India, Seeds

FSII appreciates the GST rationalisations on seeds raw materials and services, and Atmanirbhar Oilseeds Abhiyan.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the interim Union Budget for forthcoming financial year (2024-25) in the parliament.FM announced schemes and special programmes for the various sectors of agriculture.

While sharing the post-budget reaction on behalf of Federation of Seed Industry of India (FSII) Ajai Rana, Chairman, FSII, CEO and Managing Director, Savannah Seeds Pvt Ltd said that having steered the economy to a glorious path in the last one decade with progressive reforms in agriculture, it is heartening to see the Finance Minister spell out the vision for making India Viksit by 2047 that relies on continued momentum on advances made so far. The Seed Industry is particularly happy to see the emphasis given on oilseeds and the imperative to make the sector self-reliant in this interim Budget.

We welcome the Finance Minister’s announcement on Atmanirbhar Oilseeds Abhiyan with a focused strategy on achieving self-reliance in oilseeds, such as mustard, groundnut, soyabean, sesame and sunflower. This is a timely and effective step that shall augment our aspirations to become self-reliant in this critical sector. As India continues to make rapid strides towards being a world leader, it is vital that we embrace globally approved technologies. The industry applauds Government’s focus on high yielding varieties of seeds, adoption of modern farming techniques, market linkages, procurement, value addition and crop insurance.

The Rs 1 lakh crore R&D corpus allocation for 50 years with low or nil interest is a visionary move guided by Hon PM’s focus on Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan, Jai Vigya & Jai Anusandhan.

The focus on reform, perform and transform has been evident in the Government’s work in the last one decade. We sincerely hope in the Full Budget after the new government, we shall see the spirit reflected in aspirations of the seeds industry by way of GST rationalizations on seeds raw materials and services, deductions on R&D expenses, progressive environment for enabling more investments in the sector.

FSII appreciates the GST rationalisations on seeds