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Agribusiness, Agrotech, Farm Mechanisation, India

Manufactured at TAFE’s Alwar plant, these engines will serve domestic and Asia-Pacific markets.

TAFE Motors and Tractors Ltd which is a subsidiary of TAFE Ltd has formed a joint venture with DEUTZ AG to manufacture DEUTZ engines in India. TAFE Motors will manufacture from 30,000 to 30000 DEUTZ engines per year, in the power range of 50-100hp to complement and expand its current lineup of engines. The deal also marks the German company’s expansion into the Indian market, mentioned in the statement.

TAFE Motors will produce engines to suit newer applications in the Indian market as well as for Deutz’s requirements. The engines will be produced in TAFE Motors’ manufacturing facility at Alwar, Rajasthan in India. The Alwar unit currently manufactures diesel engines and gensets in the 5 to 125 kVA range, which are marketed as Eicher Engines (up to 45 kVA) and TMTL Engines (62.5 kVA & above). Deutz will use the Indian manufacturing base to promote the remaining engines in neighbouring markets (Asia Pacific region in particular), benefitting from cost advantages in production and logistics.

“This strategic cooperation between TAFE Motors and Deutz will be mutually beneficial, as it will offer access to shared resources and technologies to produce engines that complement TAFE Motors’ and the Group’s existing range to meet the demand for both domestic and international markets,” said Sandeep Sinha, CEO of TAFE Motors.

DEUTZ would like to utilise TAFE Motors’ manufacturing capacity for the domestic as well as international markets in the Asia-Pacific region.

According to DEUTZ CEO Sebastian C Schulte, such a partnership is crucial for the company’s development since it opens new geography, allows for lower costs and minimises dependence on sensitive supply chains.

Manufactured at TAFE’s Alwar plant, these engines

Agribusiness, Agrotech, Company News, Middle East countries, R&D, Water

Life cycle analysis by precision irrigation pioneer proves the environmental benefit of methods for potato growing in the face of climate change with over 50 per cent reduction GWP.

Israel based Netafim, an Orbia business and a global leader in precision agriculture solutions, announced today the findings of a comprehensive Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) that demonstrates the significant environmental benefits of using drip irrigation for potato cultivation, particularly in reducing Global Warming Potential (GWP) and water consumption. Adopted by the IPCC for assessing the science of climate change, GWP is a measure of how much heat a greenhouse gas traps in the atmosphere over a specific time period, relative to carbon dioxide.

Demand for potato products is at an all-time high while growers are increasingly motivated to improve water efficiency and reduce the environmental cost of production.  The LCA study focused on the environmental impacts of drip versus rain gun irrigation systems for both fresh and processed potatoes. 

Conducted in partnership with Potato Solutions and Drip UK, the trial took place in Norfolk, East Anglia, from March to October 2022. The key findings below underscore the efficiency and sustainability of drip irrigation over irrigation by rain gun for potato production. 

Potatoes grown with drip irrigation exhibit a 54% reduction in GWP for fresh potatoes to those irrigated with rain guns.

Drip irrigation for processing potatoes requires 40% less water per ton of potato than rain gun systems, highlighting the technology’s ability to conserve one of our most precious resources.

“In the fight against climate change, drip irrigation technology emerges as a powerful ally, paving the way for a more sustainable agricultural landscape.” Said Max Moldavsky, Director of Innovation and Climate Solutions at Orbia Netafim. He added, “Amidst mounting environmental pressures, farmers and companies are confronted with urgent calls to mitigate their impact, sustainable growing is not just a choice but a necessity to meet these demands and safeguard our planet’s future.”

Tim Kitson, of Potato Solutions, highlighted the adaptability and efficiency of drip irrigation, especially in regions facing water scarcity, “Even under ever-changing conditions and the looming threat of water scarcity, drip irrigation has shown remarkable reliability and resilience, ensuring water preservation and effective energy management.”

This study not only reaffirms Orbia Netafim’s commitment to sustainable agriculture but also highlights the importance of innovative irrigation solutions in addressing global challenges such as climate change and water scarcity. By leveraging precision irrigation technologies, Orbia Netafim continues to drive forward its mission of growing more with less, benefiting farmers, the environment, and communities worldwide.

Life cycle analysis by precision irrigation pioneer

Agribusiness, Company News, Middle East countries, Poultry

Certified companies are consistently adhering to the stringent criteria set forth by BRCGS, covering aspects such as food safety management, site standards, product control, process control, and personnel hygiene.

 Saudi Arabia based Tanmiah Food Company, one of the leading Saudi-made halal Food brands in the region, announces its achievement of the highest AA+ BRCGS International Certification in its Poultry Facility. This certification sets Tanmiah apart as a distinguished food provider in the industry, reflecting its unwavering commitment to food safety and the highest quality standards.

The BRCGS Global Standard for Food Safety is recognized worldwide as the benchmark for best practices in the food industry. Headquartered in London, BRCGS team ensures supplier compliance while securing the ability to guarantee the safety and quality of food products. Tanmiah has become the first Fresh Chicken producer in Saudi Arabia to attain a BRCGS AA+ rating in an unannounced audit and evaluation, solidifying its position as one of the leaders in the industry. Achieving an AA+ rating is a testament to the rigorous and consistent adherence to these standards by Tanmiah.

“We are incredibly proud to have achieved the highest BRCGS AA+ International Certification in the protein industry in Saudi Arabia. This accomplishment underscores our dedication to food safety, while aligning with global standards in our continuous pursuit of excellence. Tanmiah extends its gratitude to its dedicated team, whose hard work and commitment to quality have been integral to achieving this milestone. The company also thanks its customers and partners for their continued trust and support.” said Zulfiqar Hamadani, Group CEO of Tanmiah Food company.

The unannounced audit programme is designed to assess a facility’s day-to-day operational standards and practices. This rigorous process ensures that certified companies are consistently adhering to the stringent criteria set forth by BRCGS, covering aspects such as food safety management, site standards, product control, process control, and personnel hygiene.

Marcos Delorenzo, CEO of ADC, Tanmiah Poultry’s Division, commented, “We achieved this level of rating due to our commitment to the highest food safety procedures. In our work, we are striving to go over and beyond in being the best at what we do. The AA+ rating from BRCGS is not just a badge of honour for us; it allows us to go to our customers and give them the confidence to consume the best product in market and is a clear signal to our customers and partners that Tanmiah is committed to delivering products of the utmost quality and safety.”

“With a rich history spanning 60 years, Tanmiah has been at the forefront of the food production industry in Saudi Arabia. The company is renowned for its diverse range of halal protein products, dedication to sustainability, commitment to excellence through its state-of-the-art facilities & stringent quality control measures. To be the first one in Saudi Arabia to reach this achievement of highest BRCGS AA+ rating reinforces our complete commitment to food quality in the kingdom in total alignment with Saudi Vision 2030.”, commented Ahmed Osilan, Executive Board Member & Managing Director of Tanmiah Food Company.

Certified companies are consistently adhering to the

Agribusiness, Farm Mechanisation, India, Machinery - Pre-harvesting

Spanning 60 years, Mahindra has broadened its tractor offerings to encompass a diverse range of more than 390 tractor models.

Celebrating 60- years of the Mahindra Tractor and the sale of 40 lakh tractor units since 1963, Mahindra Tractors – India’s number one tractor brand and part of the Farm Equipment Sector at Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. (M&M) today unveiled ‘Desh ka Tractor: Mitti se Juda, Junoon se Saja’, a unique initiative in honour of the Indian farming community.

A tribute to the hardworking farming community in India, Mahindra Tractors showcased a life-sized tractor-themed sculpture that embodies the spirit of toughness of the farming community, inspired by the design of Mahindra’s renowned ‘Yuvo Tech Plus’ tractor. Innovative and imaginative, the sculpture reflects the diversity of Indian farming and crafted with blends of varied soils collected from over 4000 farms across the country, showcasing the strong bond that exists between Mahindra and Indian farmers.

The essence of ‘Mitti se Juda Junoon se Saja’, embodies Mahindra Tractors spirit to create farming solutions that are connected to the land, with the practicality to work across all kinds of terrain efficiently and effectively. It symbolizes our ‘junoon’ (obsession) to transform farming and enrich lives across India and the world – over the last 60 years and beyond.

The sculpture was unveiled today, in the presence of Vikram Wagh, CEO, Farm Division, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. at a function held at the company’s Nagpur manufacturing facility.

 Wagh explained the essence of the initiative, saying, “As we celebrate this milestone of serving 40 lakh customers over 60 years, we wish to acknowledge the farmers’ trust that has enabled us to achieve this feat. It has inspired us to create ‘Desh ka tractor’, showcasing the strong bond between Mahindra Tractors and the hardworking, relentless, and courageous Indian farmer. I extend my heartfelt appreciation to all who helped us reach this milestone.”

Spanning 60 years, Mahindra has broadened its tractor offerings to encompass a diverse range of more than 390 tractor models. During this period, Mahindra Tractors has also established a robust network of over 1200 dealer partners across India, with a customer first orientation that has enabled the brand to provide unparalleled levels of sales, service and spares support to an expanding base of 40 lakh Mahindra Tractors customers.

Spanning 60 years, Mahindra has broadened its

Agri Genomics, Agribusiness, Agrotech, Company News, R&D

PeaMAX addresses these challenges head-on. Through targeted gene editing, BetterSeeds has optimised PeaMAX for mechanised.

BetterSeeds announced that PeaMAX, the company’s innovative gene-edited cowpea, has been granted approval for commercialisation in the United States by the USDA. This marks a historic moment, as PeaMAX is not only a game-changer for American agriculture but also the world’s first-ever gene-edited cowpea.

Cowpea, a high-protein legume lauded for its drought and heat tolerance, has traditionally faced limitations for large-scale production. Its long growing season and unsuitability for mechanized harvesting have hindered its widespread adoption. PeaMAX addresses these challenges head-on. Through targeted gene editing, BetterSeeds has optimised PeaMAX for mechanised harvesting using existing soybean growing machinery. Additionally, the improved variety boasts a shortened growing season, making it ideal for summer cultivation by soybean growers in the USA, Brazil, and Argentina.

This USDA approval marks a significant milestone for PeaMAX and paves the way for its introduction to the American market. BetterSeeds believes PeaMAX represents the next generation of cowpea, empowering soybean growers with a high-profit legume option for seasons where traditional soybean cultivation faces challenges due to climate change.

Key benefits of PeaMAX:

Suitable for mechanized harvesting: Integrates seamlessly with existing soybean harvesting equipment.

Shorter growing season: Ideal for summer planting in key soybean growing regions.

High protein content: Provides a valuable source of plant-based protein.

Drought and heat tolerant: Thrives in challenging climates.

BetterSeeds is confident that PeaMAX will empower farmers and revolutionize cowpea production. The company looks forward to bringing this innovative new option to soybean growers across the USA.

PeaMAX addresses these challenges head-on. Through targeted

Agribusiness, Agro chems – Fertilizers, Company News, India

Farmers of 800 villages are being given a subsidy of 25 per cent on the price (MRP) of Nano Urea Plus, Nano DAP and Sagarika by IFFCO

To promote the use of nano fertilizers, the Nano Fertilizer Usage Promotion Mahaabhiyan has been launched by IFFCO on 1st July 2024. Under this, 200 model nano village clusters have been selected by IFFCO. Through this, farmers of 800 villages are being given a subsidy of 25 per cent on the price (MRP) of Nano Urea Plus, Nano DAP and Sagarika by IFFCO so that farmers can use nano fertilizers more and more in their fields. Along with this, IFFCO will give a grant of Rs 100 per acre to the drone entrepreneur so that farmers can get the facility of spraying at low rates. Farmers will be made aware of the increase in the quality and production of the crop in these model nano villages.

Prime Minister has also launched 100 days action plan to increase the use of nano fertilizers in agriculture, under which 1270 demonstrations of Nano DAP (liquid) will be conducted in 413 districts and 200 trials of Nano Urea Plus (liquid) in 100 districts. In these trials, the help of Krishi Vigyan Kendra, State Agricultural University and other research institutions will be taken and monitored by the Government of India.

Nano fertilizers will be made available by IFFCO to the cooperative society and other sales outlets.  Farmers will be told about the benefits of nano fertilizers. IFFCO is providing 2500 agricultural drones for farmers for spraying nano fertilizers, for which 300 ‘Namo Drone Didi’ and drone entrepreneurs have been prepared. Apart from this, other types of sprayers have also been made available through which farmers will be able to easily spray nano fertilizers in their fields. Contracts have been made with 15 institutions to spray 245 lakh acres of area by drones which will spray in the fields of farmers. An incentive of Rs 100 per acre will also be provided on each spray.

From August 2021 to June 26, 2024, a total of 7.55 crore Nano Urea and 0.69 crore Nano DAP bottles produced by IFFCO have been used by farmers. In order to provide maximum benefit to the farmers, IFFCO has set a target of producing 4 crore Nano Urea Plus and 2 crore Nano DAP bottles in the year 2024-25. In this sequence, from April 2024, IFFCO has made available Nano Urea Plus (liquid) 20% w/v N of high concentration to the farmers, which will help in increasing quality crop productivity and environmental protection.

Under this campaign, IFFCO has also planned publicity, field testing, training of secretaries of cooperative societies etc. in all the districts of the country. The Ministry of Fertilizers will also collaborate to implement this scheme so that the use of nano fertilizers in place of chemical fertilizers in the fields can be encouraged. Under this mega campaign, it has been planned to provide 6 crore bottles of nano fertilizers which will be distributed through 36000 member cooperative societies of IFFCO and other cooperative societies.

Farmers of 800 villages are being given

Agribusiness, Agrotech, Digital Technologies, India, Start ups

This new feature will allow buyers to inspect and purchase essential agro-commodities instantly, thus reducing the delivery time from days to minutes.

TradeBridge, India’s leading B2B agri-tech marketplace, was launched in 2020 to improve and digitise trade. TradeBridge has chosen to merge its existing technology expertise with increasing accessibility to upgrade the agro-commodity market by announcing its latest innovation, “TB’s AgroMobile: Dark Store on Wheels” India’s first movable dark store. This new feature will allow buyers to inspect and purchase essential agro-commodities instantly, thus reducing the delivery time from days to minutes.

In phase 1, TB’s AgroMobile will be available in Mumbai. They will gradually increase their presence to five more cities across Tier-1 and Tier-2 cities by the end of 2024. This movable dark store will also allow purchasers to place orders online at any given time to align their delivery as per their convenience. Through this, TradeBridge intends to targer and uplift the 1.3 crore kirana stores all over India.

Sameer Bhanushali, Co-founder of TradeBridge, says, “Since our inception in 2020, TradeBridge has been dedicated to revolutionising the agri-commodity trade landscape in India. We recognise the need for a seamless, transparent, and equitable system. This new feature reflects our commitment to the growth of the ecosystem through businesses and farmers. It is also a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire TradeBridge team, and I am proud of the success our team has achieved so far. Our ambition is to become an agri-unicorn, and we believe this innovative platform is a major step towards achieving that goal.”

TB’s AgroMobile feature provides farmers with another opportunity to bypass traditional market limitations. The model will decrease 4–5 layers of middlemen, allowing products to be more affordable for buyers while offering farmers a better selling price.

Bilal Khimji, Co-founder of TradeBridge, expresses his enthusiasm for the new launch, “TB’s AgroMobile: Dark Store on Wheels is a feature that simplifies the purchasing process and accelerates turnaround time while ensuring quality isn’t compromised. It also ensures that small and medium-sized business owners manage their working capital more efficiently. We are attempting to enter micromarkets in Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities with this model. When combined, these micromarkets have a sizable purchase gap that needs to be filled. Based on customer preferences, we intend to extend our reach to multiple densely populated pockets across the country, starting with Mumbai. We want to create increasing opportunities for the entire agro-ecosystem in the coming years.”

The concept of TB’s AgroMobile will not only decrease turn-around time but will also allow buyers to shorten their inventory cycles. This, in turn, has a bundle of opportunities and benefits for purchasers to explore.

This new feature will allow buyers to

Agribusiness, Agrotech, Company News, Oilseeds, R&D, Sustainability, World

Sustainable Castor Caring for Environmental and Social Standards (SuCCESS) code the first global standard that certifies castor oil and its derivatives – such as bio-based polyurethane.

 BASF together with the world’s first castor bean program ‘Pragati’ (Pragati), introduces certified traceability for bio-based solutions in footwear. Pragati was established with the unified sustainability code SuCCESS (Sustainable Castor Caring for Environmental and Social Standards) that sets a standard for certified sustainable castor oil.

“The footwear segment has been at the forefront of implementing sustainable solutions at BASF. With the availability of certified traceable bio-based polyurethane solutions, we are well-positioned to serve the growing demand for eco-friendly solutions for the footwear business in Asia,” said Andy Postlethwaite, Senior Vice President, Performance Materials Asia Pacific, BASF.

The demand for sustainable footwear solutions has been growing steadily in tandem with consumer awareness. Footwear brands and manufacturers have a clear goal to enhance the sustainability aspects of their products without compromising on cost, performance or quality. Bio-based solutions offer enhanced sustainability by reducing fossil resource consumption. Additionally, castor oil is derived from the seeds of the non-edible castor oil plant (Ricinus communis). As it can grow in arid or semi-arid regions, it requires less water as well. The dried beans also have a long shelf life.

“Meanwhile, we are looking to extend the use of this bio-based solution to other segment applications as well,” added Postlethwaite.

Pragati was launched in May 2016 in Gujarat, India as the region produces about 70% of the world’s supply of castor beans. Over 7,000 hectares of generally semi-arid land are now farmed according to the SuCCESS sustainability code since its introduction in the region. More than 7,000 farmers have been trained, audited, and certified. Over 74,500 tons of certified castor seeds have been cultivated, and year 7 yield is 36% higher than the yield published by the local government for this region.

Sustainable Castor Caring for Environmental and Social

AgroPolicy, Sugar industry

ISMA has urged the Government to re-consider permitting the export of surplus sugar after due consideration of domestic demand and supply.

The Indian Sugar and Bio-Energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA), the apex body in the sugar and bio-energy industry in the country, predicts a significant sugar surplus of up to 36 lakh tonne for the current season. According to the experts, the opening stock of approximately 56 lac tons in October 2023 in addition to forecasted domestic consumption of nearly 285 lac ton for the season, will result in significantly higher closing stock of 91 lac ton by the end of September 2024. This estimated surplus, amounting to 36 lac tons above the normative stock of 55 lac tons, can potentially lead to additional costs for the millers on account of idle inventory and carrying costs.

In light of these projections, it is clear that the domestic consumption and availability situation is more than comfortable; the Ethanol Blending Program (EBP) can be very well managed within the sugarcane production and that the surplus sugar left thereafter because of the sudden pause of ethanol blending from sugarcane and sugar syrup, is in excess and cannot be converted back to Ethanol. In this situation, ISMA has urged the Government to re-consider permitting the export of surplus sugar after due consideration of domestic demand and supply. This will boost the financial liquidity of sugar mills and enable timely payments to cane farmers. ISMA believes that allowing exports will contribute to the smooth functioning of the sugar industry and foster economic stability.

Impact of FRP

Government has increased Fair Renumeration Price of sugarcane for 2024-25 SS by Rs. 25 per qtl to Rs. 340 per qtl. This huge increase in FRP will directly increase cane cost and thereby cost of production of sugar. This increase in FRP will also act as an additional burden to the already financially stressed mills as mills are mandated to pay the cane price payment within 14 days of supply of cane.

Utilising the surplus for the larger benefit

While being aligned with policies laid out by the government, ISMA urges the government to consider our request for exports as it will be win – win for all stakeholders, including farmers. Commenting on this, Deepak Ballani, Director General of the Indian Sugar and Bio-Energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA) said, “We at ISMA share the government’s policy objectives for ensuring betterment of sugarcane farmers and the sustained growth of the sugar industry in India ensuring stability in sugar sector. We are constantly working with the government to find ways for economic wellbeing of the farming community and implement workable solutions to utilise the surplus generated this season. Allowing exports would not only ensure a comfortable stock for domestic consumption and sustain the Ethanol Blending Program (EBP) but also contribute to maintaining the financial liquidity of sugar mills, enabling timely payments to farmers”.

ISMA has urged the Government to re-consider

Acquaculture, AgroPolicy, India, Live Stock

The book aims to provide a comprehensive reference for researchers, academicians, policymakers, and conservationists involved in fish biodiversity and conservation.

The Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav released the book ‘Barcode Atlas of Indian Fishes’ during the 109th Foundation Day Celebration of ZSI and the Animal Taxonomy Summit 2024 held in Kolkata.

The book is a collaboration between ICAR-NBFGR and Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) to document and catalogue the diverse fish species in the Indian subcontinent using DNA barcoding techniques. It aims to provide a comprehensive reference for researchers, academicians, policymakers, and conservationists involved in fish biodiversity and conservation. The atlas includes scientific, common, and vernacular names, order, family, habitat, distribution, economic importance, and conservation status as per IUCN categories. DNA barcoding, which uses a short genetic sequence from a standardized genome region, enhances the accuracy of fish identification, especially in subtle morphological differences or processed fish products.

Yadav has said that India has become the first country in the world to prepare a checklist of its entire fauna, covering 104,561 species, positioning itself as a global leader in biodiversity documentation. He said, the silver lining is that India is a global champion in biodiversity conservation, adding that our tradition, ethos and values respect nature and promote biodiversity conservation. Yadav launched the Fauna of India Checklist Portal on the occasion of 109th Foundation Day of Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) in Kolkata.

Yadav also released an iconic publication of ZSI, ‘Animal Discoveries– 2023’ comprising 641 new animal species and new records from India and ‘Plant Discoveries- 2023’ of Botanical Survey of India (BSI) comprising 339 new plant species and new records from the country published by scientists, faculties and researchers from India.

Other important publications ‘Fauna of India–109 barcodes’, ‘Catalogue of Hoverflies’, ‘Catalogue of Muscidae’ & ‘Flora of India Series’ were released by the union minister. The first-ever ‘Barcode Atlas of Indian Fishes’- a joint publication by the ICAR-NBFGR, Lucknow & ZSI, Kolkata and ‘ROAR – Celebrating 50 years of Project Tiger’ a book written by Shiladitya Chaudhury & Ketan Sengupta were also released on the occasion.

Jitendra Kumar, IFS, Director General, Forests & Special Secretary, MoEFCC, Ms. Nameeta Prasad, Joint Secretary, MoEFCC, Dr. A.A. Mao, Director, Botanical Survey of India, Dr. Uttam Kumar Sarkar, Director, ICAR-NBFGR, Lucknow, Dr. Dhriti Banerjee, Director, Zoological Survey of India, Kolkata and other scientists, researchers, and academicians of the country, were present during the programme.

The book aims to provide a comprehensive

Agribusiness, Agrotech, Collaborations, Company News, Sustainability, World

The collaborative effort involves the Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development (SADER), the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), the National Union of Cane Growers (UNC-CNPR), Syngenta and Bonsucro, Biofábrica Siglo XXI.

Biome Makers, a global agtech company, has announced its selection as a partner in an alliance to promote sustainable and profitable sugarcane production. This collaborative effort involves the Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development (SADER), the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), the National Union of Cane Growers (UNC-CNPR), Syngenta, Bonsucro, Biofábrica Siglo XXI and Biome Makers.

The initiative empowers farmers to integrate microbial fertilizers, organic matter, biological pest control, mechanized harvesting, and efficient water use to enhance soil health and significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Biome Makers’ innovative BeCrop technology will be essential in evaluating and optimizing soil conditions, enabling farmers to achieve higher yields and greater sustainability.

Collaborating with Biome Makers marks a significant advancement for sustainable agriculture. Their leading expertise in soil health analytics will help transform sugarcane production in Mexico, making it more efficient, sustainable, and eco-friendly,” said Marcel Morales, Director of Biofábrica Siglo XXI.

BeCrop technology by Biome Makers employs advanced DNA sequencing and machine learning to analyze and monitor the soil microbiome and provide actionable insights. These insights are critical for predicting crop performance, identifying potential disease threats, and guiding sustainable soil management practices. Accessible via the BeCrop Portal, the data provides detailed soil microbial community reports in a user-friendly format, assisting farmers, agronomists, and advisors in making informed decisions for the next growing season.

“We are honoured to be part of this groundbreaking alliance. Our BeCrop technology will deliver crucial insights into soil health, aiding farmers in implementing sustainable practices that enhance productivity and environmental stewardship,” states Adrian Ferrero, Cofounder and CEO of Biome Makers. This partnership perfectly aligns with our mission to advance agricultural sustainability through innovative biotechnological solutions.”

The collaborative effort involves the Secretary of

AgroPolicy, Agrotech, Finance, India, Schemes - Govt, Schemes - NABARD

Investments worth Rs 72,000 crore have been mobilised with Rs 43,000 crore already sanctioned for 67,871 projects under Agriculture Infrastructure Fund till date.

Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan launched a web portal developed jointly by the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare (DA&FW) and NABARD to automate and speed up the process of settlement of interest subvention claims of banks submitted under the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF). Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Bhagirath Choudhary, Chairman, NABARD, senior officers of DA&FW and banks were also present.

Addressing on the occasion, Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said that newly launched automation of credit claims will ensure timely settlement of claims within a day, which otherwise took months for manual settlement. He said the move will also ensure transparency and check corrupt methods. Shri Chauhan said the new portal on sharing of farmers experience will enable the farming community to gain from each other’s experiences. He said there are several farmers who are self-experimenting and their successful stories should be brought forward for others to emulate. Union Minister said that the investments worth Rs 72,000 crore have been mobilised with Rs 43,000 crore already sanctioned for 67,871 projects under Agriculture Infrastructure Fund till today. Additionally, banks can anticipate quicker settlement of interest subvention claims.

Chouhan also informed that the automated system would help in calculating accurate eligible interest subvention through the portal avoiding the possible human error in manual processing and also help in faster settlement of the claims. The portal shall be used by banks, Central Project Management Unit (CPMU) of DA&FW and NABARD. The automation of the interest subvention claim and credit guarantee fee claim processing will help the government in releasing accurate interest subvention, reduce the turn-around time and in turn help the farmers and agri entrepreneurs financially and encourage them to take up more such projects for development of agriculture in the country.

Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan also launched Krishi Katha, a blogsite meant to serve as a digital platform to showcase the voice of the Indian farmers, dedicated to amplifying the experiences, insights and success stories of farmers across the country.”Krishi Katha” aims to provide a comprehensive and immersive storytelling space where the narratives of India’s agricultural community can be shared and celebrated.

Union Minister highlighted that the launch of Krishi Katha is a significant move towards acknowledging and amplifying the voice of our farmers. He emphasised that their stories of resilience and innovation are the cornerstone of our agricultural sector and expressed confidence that this platform will serve as a wellspring of inspiration for others. The objectives behind this initiative will be helpful in raising awareness, facilitating exchange of knowledge, fostering collaboration and empowering farmers.

Investments worth Rs 72,000 crore have been

AgroPolicy, Foodgrains, India, Interaction

Global wheat industry leaders gathered for WPPS 2024 Global CEO Conclave to unveil the wheat industry’s path forward vision 2030.

The Global CEO Conclave 2024, organized by the Wheat Products Promotion Society (WPPS), continued to build on impactful discussions under the theme “WPPS Global CEO Conclave Wheat and Wheat Products Vision 2030: Trade Dynamics, Trends, and Technologies.” The event concluded with a synthesis of profound insights and strategic recommendations aimed at shaping the future of the global wheat industry.

The conclave provided a crucial platform for addressing the challenges facing the global wheat market, which is projected to reach $258.7 billion by 2027 amidst issues such as climate change and fluctuating demand. Over 50 speakers from India and abroad participated in focused business sessions and panel discussions, delving into critical aspects of the wheat industry. Discussions centered around flour fortification, aimed at reducing micronutrient deficiencies in 30% of the global population, as well as examining wheat economics amidst market volatility. India’s pivotal role in enhancing global food security, as the world’s second-largest wheat producer, was also prominently featured.

Clay M. Hamilton, Agricultural Minister-Counselor at the U.S. Department of Agriculture/Foreign Agricultural Service, recently delivered a keynote presentation on “US-India Agricultural Collaboration for Food Security.” The session, held within the framework of international agricultural cooperation, highlighted strategic efforts between the United States and India aimed at bolstering global food security through technological and partnership initiatives.

The presentation underscored the critical role of agricultural collaboration between two of the world’s largest democracies, the United States and India. Both nations face significant challenges in meeting the food demands of their populations amidst increasing global population growth, changing dietary patterns, and environmental uncertainties. By leveraging their respective strengths and fostering strategic partnerships, the U.S. and India aim to enhance agricultural productivity, improve food distribution systems, and ensure sustainable food security solutions.

Ajay Goyal, Chairman of WPPS, emphasized the importance of the strategic recommendations discussed during the conclave: “Our industry is at a pivotal point where collaboration and innovation are more crucial than ever. By leveraging the insights and recommendations from this conclave, we can navigate the challenges ahead and build a sustainable and prosperous future for the global wheat sector.”

Global Implications and Local actions

The theme of the conclave emphasized the critical role of sustainable agricultural practices in ensuring the long-term viability of the wheat industry. As the industry faces the dual challenge of increasing production to meet rising demand while minimizing environmental impact, the conclave highlighted the need for policy frameworks that support sustainable farming. Recommendations included promoting the adoption of eco-friendly fertilizers, efficient water management systems, and precision agriculture technologies that enhance productivity while reducing the ecological footprint of wheat production.

Policymakers were urged to develop and implement regulations that encourage sustainable practices and provide incentives for farmers to adopt environmentally friendly technologies. By aligning policy initiatives with sustainability goals, the wheat industry can significantly reduce its carbon footprint, conserve natural resources, and contribute to global efforts to combat climate change. This approach not only ensures the sustainability of wheat farming but also enhances the resilience of the entire agricultural sector.

Strengthening International Partnerships

In light of the theme focusing on trade dynamics and trends, the conclave placed significant emphasis on the importance of strengthening international partnerships. The global wheat supply chain is characterized by its complexity and interdependence, with production, processing, and distribution spanning multiple countries. The conclave’s recommendations called for enhanced cooperation and coordination among nations to build resilient supply chains that can withstand disruptions caused by geopolitical tensions, economic fluctuations, and climate-related challenges.

By fostering international collaboration, the wheat industry can ensure a stable and reliable supply of wheat and wheat products, even in the face of global uncertainties. This includes establishing trade agreements that facilitate the smooth flow of goods, sharing best practices, and investing in infrastructure that supports efficient logistics and distribution. Strengthening these partnerships is crucial for maintaining the integrity and stability of the global wheat market, thereby securing food supplies for populations worldwide.

The Global CEO Conclave 2024 provided a comprehensive roadmap for the future of the wheat industry, with recommendations that emphasize innovation, sustainability, and collaboration. By embracing these recommendations, industry stakeholders can work together to ensure a prosperous future for the global wheat sector, one that benefits producers, consumers, and the environment alike. As the wheat industry moves forward, the insights and recommendations from the conclave will serve as a guiding framework for achieving lasting growth and sustainability, in line with the vision for 2030.

Global wheat industry leaders gathered for WPPS

Agribusiness, Agro chems – Fertilizers, Collaborations, Company News, India

IFFCO has formed partnership with Nanoventions Private Limited (NVPL) and Fausto Caron from Nanofert for introducing Nano fertilizers in Brazil market.

IFFCO, India’s largest cooperative, has signed a partnership to introduce these innovative products to the Brazilian market. Through Nanoventions Private Limited (NVPL), IFFCO will initially license and market its products to Nanofert, a venture by entrepreneurs Fausto Caron and Ritesh Sharma. Eventually, IFFCO plan to produce these nanoinputs locally.  

Dr Arunachalam Lakshmanan from NVPL, Yogendra Kumar Board of Director IFFCO, and Fausto Caron from Nanofert have formed an unprecedented partnership. We recently had the honour of meeting the Governor of Mato Grosso, where fascinating discussions about advancing nanotechnology in Brazil took place.

Nanotechnology in agriculture is gaining traction, and our project marks the first commercial adoption of this cutting-edge technology in Brazil. Since 2017, we have been researching nanotechnology, and by 2019, our first promising results emerged. Despite challenges, including adverse weather conditions in 2020, fields treated with nano fertilizers showed remarkable resilience and productivity.  

The secret lies in the nanometric scale of our inputs, allowing for extensive coverage and efficient nutrient delivery. As Arunachalam Lakshmanan, General Director of NVPL, explains, “It’s like dividing an apple into thin slices to increase its coverage area. This innovation addresses a significant challenge in fertilizer use—high product loss. Currently, plants absorb only 20-30 per cent of chemical fertilizers, with the rest lost as gas or in the soil. Our nano fertilizers aim to change that, reducing environmental impact and enhancing agricultural productivity.”

IFFCO has formed partnership with Nanoventions Private