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Home2024December (Page 5)
Acts & Schemes – Centre, AgroPolicy, Finance, Horticulture, Schemes - Banks

Paulrasu expressed satisfaction with the project’s overall performance and stated that the department was eager for the World Bank to finance the project’s second phase.

The Himachal Pradesh Horticulture Development Project will be presented by the World Bank as an example project for other countries. Three years after the project’s 2016 commencement, the World Bank wrote to the Himachal Government in 2019 to shut it down since it had gotten off to a bad start and seemed certain to fail. Since the project didn’t seem to be progressing, the World Bank essentially opted to end it. The World Bank team head, Bekzod Shamshiev, stated, “But then the Himachal government and the implementing agencies turned it around so effectively that we now intend to use it as a model project around the world.”

The World Bank-funded initiative, which was worth about Rs 1,100 crore, was started in 2016 with the goal of improving the production and productivity of temperate fruits, namely apples, as well as the marketing infrastructure. According to government representatives, the project has been highly successful in accomplishing its goal.

“Under the initiative, we have imported more than 30 lakh high-quality plants and rootstocks of different fruits. We now have 47 different types of apples available. The state is currently increasing the amount of imported planting material and making it more affordable for fruit growers, according to Secretary of Horticulture C. Paulrasu.

Sudesh Mokhta, the MD of HPMC, stated that the project has been quite effective in providing the apple growers with market facilities. “As part of the project, we renovated the existing CA stores and constructed new ones. At Parala, a cutting-edge fruit processing facility has been built. Additionally, irrigation facilities have been built and new market yards have been established,” Mokhta stated.

According to Paulrasu, the project’s effects on the state’s diminishing apple production and productivity over the past few years would become apparent over the course of the next four to five years. Paulrasu stated that it would take a few more years for the new plantation to achieve the ideal level of production and increase the state’s total output and productivity.

Paulrasu expressed satisfaction with the project’s overall performance and stated that the department was eager for the World Bank to finance the project’s second phase. “The project’s second phase can be used for horticulture, agriculture, and animal husbandry. But the government should make a decision on it,” Paulrasu stated.

Paulrasu expressed satisfaction with the project's overall

AgroPolicy, Allied Industry, Collaborations, R&D, Schemes - Govt, Sustainability, Sustainable Energy

In a significant push for rural development, the Cabinet also sanctioned 94 projects in the Soil Conservation and Agriculture sectors, with an investment of Rs 70.3332 crore

In a historic step to promote environmental sustainability and rural development, the Assam Cabinet approved the state’s Agroforestry Policy 2024. This strategy establishes a framework for boosting forest cover, reducing the effects of climate change, enhancing the rural economy, and raising farmer incomes.

The Cabinet emphasized that a holistic approach to agroforestry will be ensured under the new policy. The statement said, “This decision will bolster the rural economy and farmers’ incomes, mitigate the effects of climate change, increase the area under Trees Outside Forest, and ensure a dedicated state policy on agriculture.” Strengthening the State Agroforestry Board and creating a trustworthy Quality Planting Material (QPM) supply chain are two of the policy’s main efforts. It also places a strong emphasis on incorporating tree agriculture into current farming methods, making it easier for smallholder farmers to obtain insurance and finance, and encouraging the use of wastelands and underutilized land for tree cultivation.

The Cabinet also approved 94 projects with an investment of Rs 70.3332 crore in the agriculture and soil conservation sectors, marking a major push for rural development. The projects consist of 34 solar shallow tubewell minor irrigation facilities and 64 soil conservation initiatives. The state’s dedication to rural development is shown in these initiatives, which aim to enhance water management and boost sustainable agriculture.

The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development’s (NABARD) Rural Infrastructure Development Fund will provide the money for these projects, guaranteeing sustained advantages for the rural sector. The goal of the policy is to address Assam’s pressing agricultural issues by coordinating irrigation and soil conservation initiatives.

The Cabinet meeting also discussed changes to the State GST Act that would make it easier to do business in the state and streamline tax procedures. It is anticipated that these actions will improve Assam’s business climate, which will further accelerate economic development and growth.

In order to build a sustainable and prosperous future, the Assam government is actively promoting environmental preservation, agricultural expansion, and rural development through these strategic choices.

In a significant push for rural development,

AgroPolicy, Allied Industry, Bamboo industry, Biofuel industry, Collaborations, Funding, Nature

India’s first 2G-Ethanol Bio Refinery in Assam, the Numaligarh Refinery, has also been set up to convert bamboo into ethanol, benefitting local farmers and boosting the economy

With the opening of the first Bamboo Park in the state in Mawtnum village, Meghalaya’s Ri-Bhoi district is poised to make history. The five-acre project intends to establish Meghalaya as a pioneer in bamboo-based industries, promote sustainable development, and generate employment. Bamboo is becoming more and more acknowledged in a variety of industries as an environmentally acceptable substitute. The government has also promoted bamboo’s potential as a sustainable biofuel in recent years, especially for the manufacturing of ethanol. 55 million tonnes of bamboo, or 66 per cent of the nation’s resources, are found in northeastern India. In order to combat climate change, increase farm incomes, and produce bio-ethanol, Prime Minister Narendra Modi established the National Bamboo Mission in 2018. The Numaligarh Refinery, India’s first 2G-Ethanol Bio Refinery, was established in Assam to turn bamboo into ethanol, helping the local farmers and stimulating the economy.

James PK Sangma, Chairman of the Meghalaya Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC), laid the foundation stone for the Ri-Bhoi Bamboo Park on Saturday. Key players such as former Mawhati MLA Donbok Khymdeit, MIDC Managing Director DD Nongmalieh, Ri-Bhoi Additional Deputy Commissioner MB Tongper, Umsning MLA Dr. Celestine Lyngdoh, and Mawtnum village community leaders attended the occasion.

According to James PK Sangma, the initiative represents a major chance for the area. Bamboo has the capacity to transform lives and produce a healthy income, making it similar to “green gold.” Its capacity for sustainable use is what gives it its actual worth, according to Sangma. He emphasized how bamboo can help achieve environmental objectives, particularly in lowering carbon emissions through cleaner substitutes for petroleum and charcoal, such as ethanol and bamboo pellets.

Sangma noted that Meghalaya may see new economic prospects as a result of the rising demand for bamboo and its products worldwide. Bamboo’s role will further grow as India shifts to ethanol blending to reduce emissions. Meghalaya has an edge in this field thanks to its abundant bamboo variety, he said.

By switching from traditional charcoal production to items made from bamboo, the project tackles important environmental problems like pollution and deforestation. The park will feature guest rooms made entirely of bamboo, a training center, and eleven industrial units for companies based on bamboo. The intention is to demonstrate how bamboo may be utilized to fulfill everyday need while preserving the environment. Badhok Nongmalieh, the headman of Mawtnum village, gave his opinion on the project’s objectives. “This park will use the many advantages of bamboo to provide jobs for local farmers and young people. It serves as an example of how bamboo can support daily need while preserving the environment,” he said.

Although he expects for future cooperation, he clarified that the town is presently funding the project fully on its own without assistance from the government. Nongmalieh emphasized bamboo’s rapid development, saying, “Unlike trees, which take 10 to 15 years to mature, bamboo can be harvested in two years.” It is therefore a viable choice for wood-based enterprises.

Badhok Nongmalieh and Kamai Nongmalieh, the project leaders, were commended by Sangma for their vision and commitment. Additionally, he emphasized how crucial community involvement is to the project’s success. Without the active assistance of local communities, no enterprise can thrive. “The collaboration with the Mawtnum village community is an example for others,” he stated.

The Ri-Bhoi Bamboo Park is seen as a significant step toward a greener economy in Meghalaya because of its emphasis on employment development, environmental preservation, and sustainable growth. The project’s focus on sustainable techniques and community involvement has already garnered recognition as a model for other areas to emulate.

India’s first 2G-Ethanol Bio Refinery in Assam,

Agribusiness, Biofuel industry, Finance, Foodgrains, India, Investments

Strategic Investment of approximately Rs 130 Crore to boost ethanol capacity with dual-feedstock flexibility, aligning with India’s green energy.

Godavari Biorefineries Limited (GBL), a pioneer in renewable chemicals and biofuels, has announced an investment in corn/grain-based ethanol to further strengthen its ethanol production capabilities. The company plans to invest approximately Rs 130 crore in a new 200 KLPD corn/grain-based distillery to its existing operations, enhancing flexibility through dual-feedstock capability. The company reported a 25 per cent Y-O-Y increase in revenue growth in H1FY25, demonstrating its operational strength and focus on sustainable growth.

Key Highlights of the Investment:

●       Proposed Capacity: 200 KLPD Corn/grain-based distillery.

●       Investment Required: Approximately Rs 130 crore.

●       Mode of Finance: Internal accruals and debt.

●       Commissioning Timeline: Q4 FY  2026

This strategic move aligns with GBL’s long-term vision of supporting India’s transition to green energy while ensuring resilience against climate-induced risks. The new facility will offer operational fungibility, enabling the use of alternative feedstocks such as maize to mitigate disruptions caused by factors like poor monsoons and policy changes.

 Samir Somaiya, Chairman and Managing Director of Godavari Biorefineries, said, “We are investing in new corn/grain-based ethanol production to complement our existing sugarcane-based operations. This will give us a dual-feedstock capability and will ensure more resilient ethanol production, even during climate-related disruptions, and position us to meet the growing demand under India’s ethanol blending program. This expansion will help us maintain production stability and contribute to India’s energy security goals.”

The expansion comes at a pivotal time as India’s ethanol demand rises, driven by its ambitious blending targets and increasing energy requirements for mobility. By leveraging dual-feedstock technology, GBL aims to strengthen its market position and ensure consistent growth.

Strategic Investment of approximately Rs 130 Crore

Allied Industry, Biofuel industry, Carbon Farming, Environment, Sustainability, Sustainable Energy

Modi Biotech has received an order of Rs.300 crores for 41,600 Kl of ethanol from various Oil Manufacturing Companies (OMCs)

Modi Biotech Private Limited (MBPL), a wholly owned subsidiary of Modi Naturals Limited, is accelerating its growth trajectory with a significant expansion of its production capacity. To achieve this, the company is investing in cutting-edge infrastructure and innovative technology. As part of this expansion, Modi Biotech Private Limited (MBPL) has already placed orders and commenced construction on a new project, which will add a significant 180 KLD to its existing capacity of 130 KLD. Upon completion, MBPL’s total production capacity will increase to 310 KLD, enabling the company to meet the growing demand for biofuels and further solidify its position as a leading player in the industry.” This ambitious endeavour comes with a capital expenditure of Rs.100 crores and is slated for completion within 8-10 months.

This development is a testament to Modi Biotech’s commitment to driving growth and innovation in the biofuel sector. The company’s existing 130 KLD grain-based ethanol distillery, accompanied by a 5 MW captive power generation plant, has already established its presence in Raipur, Chhattisgarh. Modi Biotech has received an order of Rs.300 crores for 41,600 Kl of ethanol from various Oil Manufacturing Companies (OMCs).

“We are committed to driving growth and innovation in the biofuel sector, and this expansion is a significant step towards achieving our goals.” – Mr. Akshay Modi, Managing Director, Modi Naturals Ltd.

He further added, “This significant order is a resounding validation of our capabilities and unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality ethanol. We are proud to be contributing to India’s ambitious vision of reducing dependence on fossil fuels and promoting sustainable energy solutions. We are confident that our expanded production capacity will enable us to meet the growing demand for biofuels, while also supporting the government’s initiatives to reduce carbon emissions and promote energy security.”

This significant milestone marks a new chapter in the company’s growth journey, positively impacting its balance sheet and mission to provide sustainable energy solutions. With the government’s push for cleaner energy alternatives and the extension of the ethanol-blended petrol program nationwide, Modi Biotech is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for biofuels. The company’s dedication to innovation and sustainable growth aligns with the nation’s vision of reducing dependence on fossil fuels and lowering carbon emissions.

Modi Biotech has received an order of

Agbiologicals, Agribusiness, Agro chems – Chemicals, Agro chems – Fertilizers, Agro chems – Pesticides, AgroPolicy, Finance, Inputs, R&D, Sustainability

CRISIL Ratings predicted that the agrochemicals industry would expand at a rate of 7-9 per cent in the upcoming fiscal year, following a modest 5-6 per cent increase in the current financial year

According to CRISIL Ratings, the agrochemical sector is expected to develop at a faster rate in the upcoming fiscal year due to solid domestic demand and a rebound in export volumes. The agrochemicals industry is expected to grow at a rate of 7-9 per cent in the upcoming fiscal year, following a modest 5-6 per cent rise in the current one. A return to double-digit growth prior to the Covid-19 era will be impeded by historically low realisations, despite the fact that this will be supported by stable domestic demand and a recovery in export volumes, according to a statement from CRISIL Ratings.

Additionally, operating margins are showing signs of a sluggish recovery, increasing by roughly 100 basis points to 12–13 per cent, which is still less than the 15–16 per cent pre-pandemic levels. As a result, businesses will continue to exercise caution when making capital expenditures and concentrate on working capital management to maintain stable cash flows and balance sheets. This is supported by our analysis of agrochemical manufacturers, who generated about 90 per cent of the industry’s Rs 82,000 crore in total sales during the previous fiscal year. “CRISIL said.

“Revenue from exports, which comprises half of the sector’s total revenue, is witnessing change. Global firms have largely resolved their excess inventory issues related to low-cost Chinese supplies and are now ordering closer to the cropping season to better manage working capital. While we expect healthy volume growth this fiscal, revenue growth will be modest at 3-4 per cent amid pricing pressures from competitively priced Chinese products. In the next fiscal, this may improve to over 7 per cent as these pressures ease,” said Anuj Sethi, Senior Director, CRISIL Ratings.

“Export revenue, which makes up half of the sector’s overall revenue, is changing. Due to low-cost Chinese suppliers, multinational corporations have mostly overcome their surplus inventory problems. In order to better manage working capital, they are now placing orders closer to the planting season. Although we anticipate robust volume growth this fiscal year, pricing pressures from competitively priced Chinese goods will result in modest revenue growth of 3–4 per cent. As these pressures subside, this might rise to more than 7 per cent in the upcoming fiscal year, according to Anuj Sethi, Senior Director at CRISIL Ratings.

“We anticipate a slight improvement in the sector’s operating margin to approximately 12 per cent this fiscal year and 13 per cent next year,” stated Naren Kartic K, Associate Director, CRISIL Ratings. However, despite increased sales quantities, this growth will be constrained by persistent pricing pressures. As a result, in each of the upcoming fiscal years, the majority of businesses will continue to place a high priority on keeping their balance sheets sound by controlling working capital and keeping capex intensity below 1x.

CRISIL Ratings predicted that the agrochemicals industry

Climate, Collaborations, Company News, Environment, Finance, Funding, Interaction, Microfinance, Sustainability, Sustainable Energy

In partnership with Gram Panchayat, UPL is developing a 11-acre pond in Talodra and a 2.5-acre pond in Dadheda village

UPL, as part its “Inclusive Development and Growth” thematic focus area, in partnership with Gram Panchayat, continues to strengthen its commitment to
sustainable development through impactful projects in Talodra and Dadheda villages in Gujarat. These initiatives focus on preserving natural resources while fostering community engagement. Under this initiative, UPL is developing a 11-acre pond in Talodra village to enhance rainwater conservation and promote sustainability. As part of this effort, a tree plantation drive was conducted along the pond’s boundary, with 100 trees planted to boost biodiversity and foster a greener ecosystem. The event was graced by Mr. Dhandhal, Additional Collector, Bharuch, Mr. R.D. Jadeja, Assistant Conservator of Forests, Bharuch, Ms. Meena, Range Forest Officer (Wildlife), Jhagadia, Mr. R. S. Rahaveer, Range Forest Officer (Social Forestry), Jhagadia, Mr Pravindan Gadhavi, Unit Head, UPL Jhagadia and Mr. Rishi Pathania, Vice President – CSR, UPL Ltd.

The pond is being transformed with walkways and seating, creating a space for both environmental and community benefit. Similarly, in Dadheda, UPL is developing a 2.5-acre pond to enhance water conservation and support sustainable development. The project includes deepening the pond to optimize rainwater harvesting, benefiting local agriculture and replenishing groundwater resources. To engage the community and highlight the importance of collective action in conserving natural resources, a friendly cricket match was organized to promote community engagement. The event brought together local teams in a
spirited competition and was attended by dignitaries such as Police Inspector Mr. Rathod, GIDC Police Station, and Mr. Aakash Vasava, Assistant Engineer, Notified Area Authority, GIDC Jhagadia, and Mr Pravindan Gadhavi, Unit Head, UPL Jhagadia.

Speaking about the initiative, Mr. Rishi Pathania, Vice President – CSR, UPL, said, “At UPL, our objective is to drive sustainable and positive change within society through responsible practices. Inclusive Development and Growth is at the heart of our community initiatives. By developing ponds, planting trees, and promoting ecological balance, we are committed to restoring natural resources and enhancing community well-being. These efforts empower rural communities to become stewards of their environment, aligning with our vision for a greener, more resilient future for all.”

Encouraging the localities, Mr. Dhandhal, Additional Collector, Bharuch, said, “The work being done by UPL in Dadheda and Talodra sets a great example of how public-private partnerships can address critical needs like water conservation and biodiversity. These initiatives will have a lasting impact on
both the environment and the well-being of the community.” In addition to these, UPL has made significant strides in protecting and restoring ecosystems through various conservation efforts. The Sarus Conservation Project has seen a remarkable 186% increase in the crane population, rising to 1,431 in 2023-24 from 500 in 2015-16. In 2023-24, over 132 vultures were documented in Khambhat, Gujarat. UPL has also planted over 2,10,255 trees in different areas of
Gujarat and 4.17 lakh mangrove saplings across 200 acres of the coastal belt in Vagra Taluka, Dahej, Gujarat. In the last five years, 20+ water conservation structures have been built, conserving approximately 24 lakh cubic meters of water. UPL has also established 125 eco-clubs in schools, involving over 5,400 members and sensitizing 17,000+ students to environmental protection. These efforts reflect UPL’s dedication to environment conservation and sustainable development, ensuring that communities thrive alongside a healthier ecosystem.

In partnership with Gram Panchayat, UPL is

Climate, Collaborations, Funding, India, Institutions, Investments, Organic, Schemes - Govt, Sustainability

The project seeks to attract private investment worth $15 million to bolster these efforts

Through increased agricultural productivity, the adoption of digital and climate-resilient practices, and improved market connections, the Uttar Pradesh Agriculture Growth and Rural Enterprise Ecosystem Strengthening (UP-AGREES) Project, a $325.10 million initiative, has received approval from the World Bank. As a way to encourage these initiatives, the project also seeks to garner $15 million in private investment.

Uttar Pradesh, which stands first in wheat production, second in rice production, and third in agricultural exports, has become an important player in Indian agriculture over the last ten years. Nevertheless these advancements, low productivity, constrained access to cutting-edge technology, and sufficient post-harvest infrastructure remained issues for small-scale farmers. The UP-AGREES Project aims to address these barriers, benefiting one million producers, particularly in the Eastern UP and Bundelkhand regions.

Strengthening agricultural value chains, boosting opportunities for value addition, and enabling better access to inexpensive credit through leading-edge financial instruments like the eKisan Credit Card (eKCC) are important project components. In order to lessen agriculture’s environmental impact, the project will also encourage environmentally friendly farming techniques like employing low-methane rice types, turning rice waste into biogas, and using fertilizer with as much effectiveness as necessary.

The World Bank’s Country Director for India, Auguste Tano Kouame, highlighted the project’s emphasis on climate adaptation. “This project will increase productivity while lessening the climatic effect of agriculture. He announced the founding of a specialized instruction facility to teach farmers and government representatives climate-resilient approaches.”

Additionally, the project would fortify the agricultural digital and financial ecosystem, encouraging private sector involvement to provide market-driven solutions. Producers, agribusinesses, and government agencies will be connected by the creation of geographic clusters for important commodities and fisheries. To strengthen ties to international markets, the project will also assist in the setting up of an Integrated Agri-Export Hub close to Jewar Airport in Greater Noida.

Through the use of cutting-edge technologies, better infrastructure, and enhanced local and international market ties, special attention will be paid to empowering women farmers and business owners. Task team leaders Andrew Goodland, Harsh Jhanjaria, and Vinayak Ghatate emphasized the project’s potential to boost wages, create jobs, and increase productivity.

The Gates Foundation, Israel, France, and other parties will provide funding. The International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) granted the $325.10 million loan, which has a 33.5-year maturity with a six-year grace period.

The project seeks to attract private

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

The objective of the MoU is to fulfil the gap of Nitrogen in the soil and reduce the subsidy burden in the country.

HIL (India) Ltd signed an MoU with Meghmani Crop Nutrition Ltd to market Nano Urea under the brand “HIL NANO UREA PLUS”. The objective of the MoU is to fulfil the gap of Nitrogen in the soil and reduce the subsidy burden in the country.

 This strategic collaboration aims to empower farmers with innovative and eco-friendly farming solutions, reinforcing Meghmani’s commitment to sustainable agricultural practices. The initiative aligns with the government’s PM-PRANAM vision, focusing on reducing dependency on chemical fertilizers and promoting environmentally responsible farming methods.

Nano urea is a liquid fertilizer that is environmentally safe and can help enhance crop productivity and nutritional quality. MCNL entered into a licensing agreement in December 2022 that allows them to produce Nano Urea (Liquid) Fertilizer using their domestically developed patented technology. HIL (India) Ltd is a Government of India Enterprise under the Department of Chemicals & Petrochemicals, Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers, Government of India.

The objective of the MoU is to

Agribusiness, AgroPolicy, Agrotech, Collaborations, Company News, India, Inputs

10,000 FPOs to benefit from access to Fertilisers, Seeds, and Agrochemicals through this collaboration.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between CSC e-Governance Services India Limited and Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO) to ensure the provision of critical agricultural inputs to Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), including 10,000 FPOs under the Central Sector Scheme. The signing ceremony witnessed the presence of Sanjay Rakesh, Managing Director and CEO of CSC SPV, and Yogendra Kumar, Marketing Director of IFFCO.

Strengthening FPOs through Essential Agricultural Inputs

The Government of India’s Central Sector Scheme for “Formation and Promotion of 10,000 Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs),” launched in 2020, aims to strengthen farmers, reduce production costs, and enhance incomes through the aggregation of agricultural produce. Under this scheme, FPOs are being empowered as Common Services Centres (CSCs) for sustainability and financial viability, generating employment opportunities and contributing to rural development.

Under this collaboration, FPOs will receive access to vital agricultural inputs, including fertilizers, seeds, and agrochemicals provided by IFFCO. These resources are expected to significantly boost productivity while promoting sustainable agricultural practices across the nation.

Advancing Rural Prosperity and Farmer Welfare

Expressing his thoughts on the occasion, Sanjay Rakesh emphasised the transformative potential of the initiative. “By leveraging the comprehensive services of CSC and IFFCO, small and marginal farmers associated with FPOs will benefit immensely. This collaboration will not only enhance rural development but also contribute to the digital empowerment of India’s farming community,” he remarked.

CSC SPV has been a dedicated partner in rural empowerment, offering services such as the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY), teleconsultations, crop insurance, e-veterinary services, Kisan Credit Card facilitation, and PM Kisan scheme support through its extensive network of Common Services Centres in remote areas.

This MoU marks a new chapter in fostering rural prosperity and advancing the welfare of farmers. With the combined efforts of CSC SPV and IFFCO, the partnership is expected to bolster agricultural growth and create employment opportunities, contributing to holistic rural development.

10,000 FPOs to benefit from access to

Agribusiness, Finance, India, Logistics, Supply Chain

The loan will finance the second subprogram, supporting Indian government’s efforts to create a comprehensive policy, planning, and institutional framework at the state and city levels.

Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a USD 350 million policy-based loan to support India strengthen and modernise logistics sector. The loan will finance the second subprogram, supporting Indian government’s efforts to create a comprehensive policy, planning, and institutional framework at the state and city levels, according to the statement from the regional development bank.

The development of India’s logistics sector is pivotal in enhancing the competitiveness of its manufacturing sector. Through strategic policy reforms, infrastructural improvements, and digital integration, the government’s ongoing reforms are set to transform the logistics landscape, ADB said.

This transformation is expected to not only reduce costs and improve efficiency but also create employment opportunities and promote gender inclusion–driving sustainable economic growth. The Government of India has introduced several strategic policies to address logistics sector constraints, including the Prime Minister Gati Shakti-National Master Plan (PMGS-NMP) and the National Logistics Policy (NLP). These initiatives aim to improve infrastructure, streamline processes, and promote digitisation.

“The development of the logistics sector has a profound impact on the manufacturing sector’s competitiveness. Improved logistics efficiency enhances supply chain resilience, reduces transaction costs, and boosts export competitiveness. The integration of digital technologies and standardised processes facilitates smoother movement of goods, which is crucial for manufacturing growth”, said Sameer Khatiwada, ADB Senior Public Management Economist.

From 2000 to 2022, India’s goods export increased from USD 48.5 billion to USD 467.5 billion while industrial exports grew from USD 39.6 billion to USD 317.4 billion. The government aims to reach USD 2 trillion in exports of goods and services by 2030.

The ADB said its program is helping India achieve this target by enhancing productivity and transfer of goods and reducing logistics cost while contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

The loan will finance the second subprogram,

Acquaculture, Agribusiness, Animal Health, Company News, R&D, World

The programme aims to provide an alternative to traditional feed ingredients whilst expanding the market for Canadian canola.

Onda, a Canadian aquaculture research organisation, has announced a new project to investigate the use of canola as an alternative aquafeed ingredient. The programme aims to provide an alternative to traditional feed ingredients whilst expanding the market for Canadian canola.

The Canadian contract research organisation Onda, which specialises in aquaculture research, has announced a collaboration with the Canola Council of Canada (CCC) on a new Canola AgriScience Cluster research project examining the use of canola-based feed meal for sustainable aquaculture production.

The research programme, which seeks to expand the market for Canadian canola, is being funded under Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership with contributions from the CCC, Alberta Canola, SaskOilseeds, Manitoba Canola Growers and the Ontario Canola Growers Association.

“As global demand for seafood continues to rise, the need for sustainable practices in aquaculture has become more pressing than ever. By advancing research into alternative feed sources, Onda and the canola sector are helping the industry meet these challenges head-on while working to unlock new markets for Canadian canola,” said Myrna Gillis, Onda chief executive, in a press release.

Onda’s 18-month research project will evaluate the use of Canadian canola meal in fish feed and its impact on growth, disease resistance and the environment, providing new data on its use in aquaculture. The research will involve Onda’s Nutrition, Health, FeedTech and LabTech business units and will culminate in shared research and dissemination of the findings.

“This research will enhance our understanding of canola meal’s nutritional value in aquaculture, helping to build market opportunities and further canola’s value-added contributions to our food and feed systems,” commented Chris Manchur, CCC agronomy specialist and research lead.

The findings from this research are expected to contribute to more sustainable aquaculture production methods and support the industry’s commitment to reducing its reliance on marine-based ingredients.

The programme aims to provide an alternative

Agribusiness, Agro chems – Chemicals, China, Collaborations, Company News, India

The partnership will focus on identifying new opportunities for product registrations, exploring factory cooperation through joint ventures, and leveraging best practices to expand market reach.

Best Agrolife has announced a strategic partnership with Shanghai E-Tong Chemical Co., Ltd., a listed agrochemical manufacturer based in Shanghai, China. The partnership, formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Best Agrolife Ltd. and Shanghai E-Tong Chemical Co. Ltd., will focus on collaborative research, manufacturing, and global market development efforts.

The MOU outlines a long-term vision for collaboration between the two companies, emphasizing joint research and development of agrochemical technical, manufacturing intermediates, and introducing cutting-edge products for global customers. The partnership will also focus on identifying new opportunities for product registrations, exploring factory cooperation through joint ventures, and leveraging best practices to expand market reach. Through this collaboration, both companies aim to harness their combined expertise to address the evolving challenges of modern agriculture and deliver solutions that enhance productivity and sustainability.

Commenting on the partnership, Vimal Kumar, Managing Director of Best Agrolife Ltd., said, “This strategic partnership with Shanghai E-Tong Chemical Co., Ltd. is a pivotal milestone in our journey towards redefining agricultural innovation. As our first-ever R&D-focused MoU with a Chinese company, it symbolizes a new era of global collaboration for Best Agrolife. This alliance is not just about technical advancements; it reflects our shared vision of creating transformative solutions that empower farmers and enhance sustainable agricultural practices. We are confident that this partnership will pave the way for groundbreaking innovations and set new benchmarks for excellence in the agrochemical industry. This collaboration with Shanghai E-Tong Chemical Co., Ltd. represents a significant step forward in our mission to innovate and grow in the agrochemical space. It is a step forward in addressing the evolving needs of agriculture and strengthening our position in the global agrochemical industry.”

E-Tong Chemical specializes in the production and export of herbicides, fungicides, insecticides, and public health products. The company holds over 1,000 registrations across markets including Brazil, India, and Vietnam. Since becoming a subsidiary of Yongtai Technology in 2015, E-Tong has expanded its operations to include intermediates and formulations. Yongtai Technology, established in 1999, operates in the pharmaceuticals, pesticides, and advanced materials sectors, with over 3,000 employees worldwide.

The partnership will focus on identifying new

Agribusiness, Agro chems – Fertilizers, India, Inputs

The company shall be manufacturing 1.5 lakh bottles of 500 ml per day at its Nangal plant with the new variant.

Agrochemical major, National Fertilizers Limited (NFL) announced that company shall be making forays in nano urea by launching its latest and ultra effective variant using cutting edge nano technology at its Nangal plant. The company shall be manufacturing 1.5 lakh bottles of 500 ml per day at its Nangal plant with the new variant.

The company is conducting extensive field research through studying the effectiveness and acceptability of various types of nano urea variants presently available in the market.

The Nano Urea is more efficient in terms of nutrient uptake and releases nitrogen more slowly. It is more environmentally friendly because it reduces the amount of nitrogen lost to the atmosphere as greenhouse gases.

NFL is the largest urea producer amongst CPSEs in the country with a strong presence in various types of fertilizers, seeds, crop protection products. The agri business of the company is expanding with addition of a wide range of alternative fertilizers required for the Indian soil.

The company shall be manufacturing 1.5 lakh