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Agro Universities, India, People, R&D

With over two decades of experience in breeding programs, Dr Gupta is involved in the development and release of several cultivars of pearl millet and pulse crops.

The Executive Council of the Indian Society of Genetics and Plant Breeding (ISGPB) has conferred the prestigious title of “Fellow of the ISGPB” upon ICRISAT scientist ​ Dr S.K. Gupta in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the field of genetics and plant breeding. The award ceremony took place at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi.

With over two decades of experience in breeding programs, Dr Gupta is involved in the development and release of several cultivars of pearl millet and pulse crops. He has managed seed and restorer parental line development programs for pearl millet breeding at ICRISAT, where he developed a series of seed and restorer parental lines.

Dr Gupta is actively engaged in the genetic and cytoplasmic diversification of pearl millet hybrids. He has uncovered the genetics of several important traits in pearl millet and various pulse crops and has identified donors for critical traits.

Globally, while working with many Agricultural Research Institutes, Dr Gupta has been instrumental in standardizing the genomic selection model, enhancing the understanding of heterotic pools, and identifying key mechanisms for flowering period heat tolerance in pearl millet.

Director General of ICRISAT, Dr. Jacqueline Hughes, applauded Dr. Gupta for the well-deserved recognition, stating that this fellowship stands as a powerful testament to his unwavering dedication and significant contributions to plant breeding, particularly in enhancing the productivity and resilience of marginal farms in arid and semi-arid regions.

Dr. Surinder Kumar Vasal, World Food Prize Laureate, presented the fellowship to Dr. Gupta during a ceremony attended by esteemed members of the ISGPB.

The event also featured Dr Vasal’s delivery of the inaugural Bharat Ratna Prof. M. S. Swaminathan Memorial Lecture, before the awards presentation.

With over two decades of experience in

Agribusiness, Foodgrains, India, Industry Reports / Analysis

Policy changes to aid export volume growth; credit profiles to remain stable.

India’s basmati industry will see revenue growth moderate to 4 per cent on-year this fiscal from a phenomenal 20 per cent seen last fiscal. Despite the moderation, revenue will touch an all-time high at nearly Rs 70,000 crore, driven by policy support such as removal of minimum export price (MEP) and rising demand in both domestic and international markets. These tailwinds combined with likely fall in input costs will raise operating margins for players this fiscal.

Strong profitability will also result in minimal need of debt to fund capital expenditure and to replenish inventory, thereby keeping credit profiles stable. An analysis of 43 companies rated by CRISIL Ratings, which account for 45 per cent of overall Indian basmati industry by revenue, indicates as much.

The Government of India, on September 14, 2024, announced an immediate removal of MEP to support the export of basmati rice. The announcement, which follows adequate availability of basmati rice in domestic market, should help to enhance exports. To recall, MEP of $1,200 per tonne was imposed on basmati rice in August 20231 as a temporary measure in response to the rising domestic prices of rice. Following the removal of MEP, players will now be able to export basmati rice where realisation is lower than the MEP. That will help the Indian Basmati industry to cater to overseas markets in lower price segments, thus leading to higher volume.

 “Exports, which form 72 per cent of basmati rice sales, are likely to grow 3-4 per cent on-year this fiscal as countries look to secure their food supplies amid geopolitical uncertainties. Domestic sales are likely to rise 6 per cent, driven by demand from the HoReCa (hotel, restaurant and café) segment, lower prices, and a steady rise in household income”, Nitin Kansal, Director, CRISIL Ratings.

Volume growth is expected to be 10 per cent (9 million tonne), which will be enough to offset a nearly 5 per cent fall in realisation and lead to an increase in the overall industry revenue. The fall in realization will be due to a decline in paddy prices, however, the fall will be limited owing to steady demand.

A steeper fall in input prices will raise operating margins of basmati rice manufacturers by 50-75 bps to ~6.7-7.0 per cent this fiscal. Paddy prices are expected to fall 10-12 per cent this fiscal because of a larger harvest expected owing to a normal monsoon, and an increase in sowing acreage.

The higher paddy output, lower procurement price and steady demand will encourage players to replenish their stocks, which had dropped to the lowest level (110-120 days) seen in past five years as demand outpaced procurement in the post-pandemic world. This re-stocking should cause the inventory to revert to the normative levels of 140-150 days by end of this fiscal. The rise in procurement will, however, crank up the working capital requirement.

Smriti Singh, Team Leader, CRISIL Ratings said, “Basmati rice companies are expected to increase their processing and packaging capacities by 10 per cent on-year this fiscal to meet the growing demand. Debt levels are seen stable as companies are expected to fund capex and increased procurement using healthy accrual flowing from higher revenue and profitability. That would lead to stable credit profiles.”

CRISIL Ratings expects gearing and interest coverage for its rated basmati rice companies at around 1.0 time and 4.5 times, respectively, this fiscal, compared with 0.9 time and 5.0 times, respectively, on average in the past three fiscals.

Policy changes to aid export volume growth;

Agribusiness, AgroPolicy, India, Interaction

As part of the event, the Odisha Government hosted a dedicated session titled “Unlocking the Flavour of Odisha: Opportunities in Food Processing.

The Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) successfully concluded World Food India 2024, with Odisha emerging as a key highlight for its exceptional display of diverse food products, innovative technologies, and significant investment opportunities. The event, held at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, brought together manufacturers, producers, food processors, buyers, investors, policymakers, and global organizations, offering a comprehensive platform for collaboration across the food industry.

World Food India 2024 featured a diverse range of activities, including exhibitions, conferences, thematic knowledge sessions, buyer-seller meetings for B2B engagements, as well as B2G and G2G meetings, and CEO roundtable discussions. Odisha’s Pavilion, led by the Government of Odisha, with Palladium as the Knowledge Partner, stood out as one of the major attractions, captivating visitors with its vibrant representation of the state’s rich cultural heritage. D Prasanth Kumar Reddy, IAS, Director of Industries, Odisha, inaugurated the Odisha Pavilion and interacted with exhibitors, expressing appreciation for the contributions made by local entrepreneurs and their high-quality food products.

As part of the event, the Odisha Government hosted a dedicated session titled “Unlocking the Flavour of Odisha: Opportunities in Food Processing.” The session, moderated by Bibhuti Bhusana Dash (IOFS, Special Secretary to Government, MSME Department, Govt. of Odisha), featured a distinguished panel that included: Hemant Sharma, IAS, Principal Secretary, MSME Department, Govt. of Odisha, Gokulananda Mallik (Minister of MSME Dept., Govt. of Odisha), D. Prasanth Kumar Reddy, IAS, Director of Industries, Odisha), Amit Patjoshi (CEO, Palladium India), Prof. Pravat Kumar Roul (Vice Chancellor, OUAT, Bhubaneswar), Shri Kamlesh Mishra (President, Odisha Seafood Exporters Association). The panel discussion emphasized Odisha’s growth potential in food processing and highlighted its strategic role as an investment hub in the sector.

World Food India 2024 provided a global platform for businesses to network, collaborate, and explore new avenues for growth. Odisha’s active participation underscored the state’s leadership in the food processing industry, positioning it as a preferred destination for investments.

“Key pillars such as facilitation, infrastructure, financing, market access, and entrepreneurship are critical to the development of the food sector. The Government of Odisha plays a pivotal role across these verticals. Both the Central and State Governments continue to support the sector through policy initiatives and schemes for the promotion and sustenance of MSMEs, including food processing units. In addition, MSME multi-product parks are being established in all districts to meet the infrastructure needs of the sector,” said Gokulananda Mallik, Minister of MSME, Government of Odisha.

“We are grateful to the Government of Odisha for making Palladium their trusted partner to support the growth of MSMEs in food processing. As Odisha is one of the fastest growing economies in India, we are keen to take this partnership forward and contribute to its economic growth,” said Amit Patjoshi, CEO, Palladium India.

As part of the event, the Odisha

Agribusiness, Collaborations, Company News, Finance

The group presented its bold plans for future at World Food India 2024 with an ambitious blueprint for growth and MoU with Poland based Arya Capital.

BL Agro Group, a leader in India’s FMCG and agri-food sectors, proudly presented its strategic roadmap, Vision 2030, at World Food India. Unveiled in the presence of Santosh Gangwar, Governor of Jharkhand, the comprehensive plan outlines a bold trajectory. It targets a turnover of Rs 20,000 crores by 2030, with sustainability, innovation, and community upliftment at its core.

The Vision 2030 initiative focuses on four pillars: BL Agro’s Khet Se Kitchen Tak, BL Kamadhenu Farms’ dairy initiatives, Leads Connect’s AgriTech innovations, and Leads Nextech initiatives. Each program reinforces BL Agro’s strategy of leveraging cutting-edge technology to revolutionise farm-to-table processes, empower farmers, and drive efficiency.

Ashish Khandelwal, Managing Director of BL Agro, emphasised, “We don’t see Vision 2030 as a mere growth plan. It’s commitment. We want to drive meaningful change. That, too, is across the agri-food chain. Through investments in innovative solutions like dairy tech, sustainable fodder production, and space-tech-driven analytics, we are building a future where every part of the chain is more efficient, sustainable, and beneficial to our farmers and consumers alike.”

Key Initiatives under Vision 2030:

BL Agro: Expanding to Jharkhand, launching a millet-based venture to uplift tribal communities.

BL Kamadhenu: Working on dairy technology to improve farmer incomes through better cattle breeds and milk production. It will create a model dairy farm and IVF lab housing 5,000 indigenous cows. A contract farm that partners with local farmers to ensure a steady supply of green fodder for their cattle.

An integrated milk processing unit handling 300,000 litres of milk daily. A cattle feed manufacturing unit producing 7500 metric tonnes of balanced cattle feed per month. Finally, to reduce dependence on crude oil and build a circular economy, it will establish a compressed biogas (CBG) plant generating 20 tonnes per day of eco-friendly CBG and organic manure.

Leads Connect: Leading the way in AgriTech, using space-tech AI and geospatial intelligence to address challenges in agriculture faced by all stakeholders. It will create market linkages for the farming community, fostering entrepreneurship.

Leads Nextech: An EarthTech Analytics company that will deliver human-centric solutions in SpaceTech, AI, and geospatial intelligence. Focused on sustainability, scalability, and impact, the cutting-edge technology will address real-world challenges across multiple domains.

Ghanshyam Khandelwal, Chairman of BL Agro, added, “We see a bold future for BL Agro – a future with milestones that will take us, our partners, and our farmers to new heights. Vision 2030 is our way of turning hopeful plans into reality.”

BL Agro Group’s Vision 2030 prioritises being collaborative. It will partner with experts across the globe to achieve its financial target and contribute to the holistic development of the agricultural ecosystem in India.

The group presented its bold plans for

Agribusiness, Agrotech, Company News, Digital Technologies, India, Start ups

The Niqo RoboThinner™ is an ultra-high precision spot sprayer that uses cutting-edge, real-time AI to target spray and selectively remove excess lettuce seedlings.

 Bangalore headquartered   Niqo Robotics a leading provider of AI robotics for sustainable farming, announced that it is expanding into the North American market with the launch of the Niqo RoboThinner™ to substantially improve the commercial viability of lettuce farming.

The Niqo RoboThinner™ is an ultra-high precision spot sprayer that uses cutting-edge, real-time AI to target spray and selectively remove excess lettuce seedlings, allowing the remaining plants the space they need to grow. This is a crucial process in lettuce farming to ensure the final crop is healthy and uniform in size.

After successfully commercialising over 100,000 acres with 50 deployed units and leading Asia in spot spray technology, Niqo Robotics is now expanding into the North America market to reduce the reliance on manual, time-consuming, and resource-intensive process with limited accuracy when farming Lettuce. Achieving optimal profitability for growers requires millimeter-level precision in lettuce thinning which current processes are unable to deliver.

Niqo RoboThinner™ offers a complete solution to current lettuce thinning challenges. Powered by the proprietary Niqo Sense™ AI camera and advanced deep learning models, it selectively targets excess seedlings, delivering a field-proven thinning accuracy of 97%.  It can precisely target plants as small as 1-inch Niqo RoboThinner™ provides exceptional time efficiency gains with the ability to thin 7 acres per hour and operate at speeds of up to 3 miles per hour. Growers adopting this technology are guaranteed a return on investment within two years.

Niqo RoboThinner is designed to be tractor-pulled and can be retrofitted to any tractor on the market, providing growers with a seamless and hassle-free upgrade. Engineered to be versatile, it can be used on any bed configuration making it truly farm friendly.

″We are excited to enter the North American market with Niqo RoboThinner™ as our debut product. Over the past year, we’ve engaged with growers in the Salinas and Yuma regions, gaining insights into their key challenges. Lettuce thinning is an escalating concern, requiring a dependable and sustainable solution. Niqo’s RoboThinner™ is rugged and reliable for effortless farm operations and has been precision engineered for exceptional accuracy and speed,” said Jaisimha Rao, Founder & CEO of Niqo Robotics.

The Niqo RoboThinner™ is an ultra-high precision

AgroPolicy, Foodgrains, India, Oilseeds, Pulses

According to initial ground-level reports presented by the stakeholders, Rice and Maize production is expected to be promising for kharif 2024.

In continuation of the stakeholder consultation initiative held during the early week of this month, the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare (DA&FW) under the Chairmanship of Advisor (AS & DA) Ruchika Gupta conducted second round of stakeholders’ consultation at Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi. The focus of discussion was production scenario of cereals and oilseeds along with cotton and sugarcane, ahead of the release of first advance estimates for the Kharif 2024 season, which are scheduled for October 2024. Key stakeholders, including CRISIL Research, Agriwatch, India Pulses and Grain Association (IPGA), Indian Oilseed and Produce Export Promotion Counsil (IOPEPC), Indian Sugar Mills Association (ISMA), Indian Institute of Oilseed Research (IIOR), Cotton Corporation of India (CCI), Department of Food & Public Distribution (DFPD), Crop Development Directorates of Wheat, Sugarcane, Rice, Oilseeds and Cotton and Department of Consumer affairs (DOCA) were present and actively engaged in the discussions.

The primary objective of this consultation was to gather crucial insights and early assessments from stakeholders regarding the current production outlook of crops for the Kharif 2024 season. These contributions will be integral to formulating the first advance estimates of these agricultural crops.  During the meeting, participants shared valuable expertise on a range of issues, including crop condition assessments and the estimation methodologies. According to initial ground-level reports presented by the stakeholders, the Rice & Maize production is expected to be promising for the upcoming season. However, acreage of cotton is expected to be lesser in this season due to crop diversification.

The consultation concluded with stakeholders unanimously emphasizing the importance of ongoing collaboration and consistent information sharing between the Ministry and industry experts. The initiative marks a significant advancement toward achieving greater precision in crop production forecasting.

According to initial ground-level reports presented by

Agrotech, Company News, Drones, India, Start ups

Company’s initial focus will be on Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh & Gujarat states.

AVPL International is on a mission to transform Indian agriculture through the use of advanced drone technology. In an endeavour to spread awareness on use of drones for progressive agriculture practices, AVPL has recently started a mega campaign. It aims to make cutting-edge drone solutions accessible to farmers nationwide, significantly impacting farming practices.

The campaign kicked off in Gurugram, Haryana, recently with plans to showcase live drone demonstrations in around 600 villages across the region. These demonstrations, supported by the Gurugram Shikohpur Agricultural Science Centre, will illustrate the benefits of drone technology, such as labour and time savings, water conservation, and cost-effective crop spraying. Farmers will experience firsthand how drones can enhance their agricultural practices, improving efficiency and safety.

AVPL International has set an ambitious goal of connecting over 140 million farmers with drone technology over the next five years, which shall be executed with the help of DeHaat and Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) across the states. The campaign also aims to develop a robust ecosystem by creating 65,000 drone entrepreneurs and 80,000 agri-entrepreneurs. The large-scale drone demonstrations will address technical challenges in agriculture, providing practical solutions to the issues faced by farmers.

Preet Sandhu, Founder and Director of AVPL International, stated, “We are thrilled to launch this campaign, aiming to make advanced drone technology accessible to farmers, even in the most remote areas. Our objective is to revolutionise agricultural practices and promote sustainability through innovative solutions.”

To support drone operators, AVPL International is establishing a comprehensive network of drone repair and service centres across India. Initial plans include setting up four Repair and Product Testing Organisations (RPTOs) in Haryana, with further expansion planned for Northern India and beyond. This initiative will provide localised support, ensuring farmers have convenient access to maintenance and repair services.

The campaign also highlights the importance of supporting “Drone Didis” (female drone operators) by offering training and assistance with drone repairs. This component of the initiative addresses challenges such as the difficulty of travelling long distances for repairs and the need for reliable drone maintenance.

Company’s initial focus will be on Rajasthan,

Agribusiness, Collaborations, Company News, Dairy, India

The partnership focuses on promoting a zero-waste economy and long-term sustainability in cattle breeding and dairy technology.

 B.L. Kamdhenu Farms Limited, a pioneering subsidiary of BL Agro Group, has taken a significant step toward revolutionising India’s dairy industry. On day 2 of World Food India 2024, it signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Sweden-based M/s DeLaval. The MoU was signed in the presence of H.E. Jan Thesleff, Ambassador of Sweden, who was the chief guest at the event.

The partnership focuses on promoting a zero-waste economy and long-term sustainability in cattle breeding and dairy technology, with an investment close to Rs 1500 crore. The collaboration is designed to harness advanced technologies and farming solutions including milking essentials, farm management and cow comfort.

By integrating all components of the milk value chain—from feed requirements to waste management—the initiative aims to create a circular economy, driving both economic growth and environmental sustainability.

Speaking on the occasion, Navneet Ravikar, Director of B.L. Kamdhenu Farms, said, “This partnership with DeLaval marks a pivotal moment. It is a crucial step in our efforts to innovate and transform the White Revolution. Through this collaboration, we are committing to creating a fully integrated and sustainable milk value chain. Because only when we ensure zero waste, can we create long-term benefits for farmers and the environment alike.”

DeLaval is a global leader in dairy farming technology that works towards reducing environmental footprint while improving production and the well-being of the animals involved.

It brings expertise in integrated solutions that enhance a) milk quality, b) volume of production, and c) overall quality of life for dairy producers. The partnership will strengthen India’s position in the global dairy industry while significantly contributing to the country’s sustainability goals.

H.E. Jan Thesleff, Ambassador of Sweden, expressed his excitement about the partnership: “Sweden is proud to be part of India’s journey towards sustainable agriculture and dairy innovations. This MoU reflects our shared values of innovation, sustainability, and economic growth. We believe that the collaboration between B.L. Kamdhenu Farms and DeLaval will show the world what partnerships across borders can do for everyone.”

B.L. Kamdhenu Farms Ltd., headquartered in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, is a pioneering entity under BL Agro Group, specialisng in embryo technology, cattle IVF, breeding innovations, and a fully integrated milk value chain. Its focus is on shaping the future of dairy farming in India and creating a circular economy that fosters zero waste and long-term sustainability. It aims to create a future that’s better for farmers, consumers, and the environment.

DeLaval is a global leader in dairy farming technology, providing integrated solutions that improve dairy producers’ production, animal welfare, and overall quality of life. The company has been committed to making sustainable food production possible for over 135 years.

The partnership focuses on promoting a zero-waste

AgroPolicy, Horticulture, India, Supply Chain, Trade

The partnership aims to promote Indian horticulture produce in international markets through LuLu Group’s expansive network of hypermarkets and retail outlets spread across the world.

Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) is leading India’s efforts to showcase diverse food product offerings including fresh produce, processed foods, organic products, and alcoholic beverages at World Food India 2024 organised by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi scheduled from September 19-22, 2024.

 Abhishek Dev signed and exchanged a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with, Chairman, LuLu Group International, Yusuffali MA for the promotion of Indian Horticulture Produce to Middle East Markets and across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. This strategic partnership aims to promote Indian horticulture produce in international markets through LuLu Group’s expansive network of hypermarkets and retail outlets spread across the world. This is a key milestone for Indian Horticulture exports globally.

The APEDA Pavilion in the Exhibition Hall (Hall No. 3) at Bharat Mandapam is hosting 155 exhibitors from across 25 States and 3 Union Territories (UTs) of India at this three-day extravaganza. Prominent participants include states such as Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Haryana, Punjab and Karnataka. Key sectors being showcased include Fresh Fruits & Vegetables, Processed Foods & Value-added Products, Basmati Rice, Animal Products, Cashew Nuts, Geographical Indication (GI) Products, Organic Products and Alcoholic Beverages.

APEDA has invited prominent international buyers from approximately 80+ countries. The Reverse Buyer-Seller Meet (RBSM) is facilitated through an app-based appointment system for B2B meetings, providing a platform for Indian exporters to interact directly with buyers, importers, and international trade representatives. About 1000 B2B meetings were conducted today alone and 3000 are scheduled for the next three days between importers, aggregators, Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), Farmer Producer Companies (FCPs), innovators, and agripreneurs.

The partnership aims to promote Indian horticulture

Agri Genomics, Agribusiness, Collaborations, Company News, R&D, World

The joint venture, which spans five years, will leverage both companies’ advanced gene editing capabilities to accelerate the delivery of gene edited products.

Corteva, Inc., a global leader in agricultural technology and Pairwise, a technology company pioneering the application of gene editing in food and agriculture, have announced a collaboration to accelerate the delivery of advanced gene editing solutions to farmers, ultimately benefitting both the environment and everyday consumers. Gene editing uses a plant’s own DNA to make precise improvements, providing growers with another critical tool to keep pace with the challenges facing food production, including those presented by climate change.

Anchoring the collaboration is Corteva’s $25 million equity investment in Pairwise, made under the umbrella of Corteva Catalyst, the company’s new investment and partnership platform focused on accessing agricultural innovation to drive value creation. The investment aims to help expand the reach and benefits of gene editing to a wide variety of staple and specialty crops.

In addition, Corteva and Pairwise have formed a joint venture to accelerate and expand the delivery of advanced gene edited technologies aimed at increasing crop yield for food, fuel and fiber production, despite increasing climate change.

The joint venture, which spans five years, will leverage both companies’ advanced gene editing capabilities to accelerate the delivery of gene edited products by generating and evaluating unique gene edits across multiple traits in a range of crops. Building on Corteva’s longstanding leadership in plant breeding and genetics, the companies will collaborate on the development and deployment of gene edited products that are more resilient to extreme weather events and climate change.

“Gene editing is a transformational technology for agriculture that will advance climate resilience in farming and drive the increased farm productivity needed to feed and fuel the world’s growing population,” said Sam Eathington, Corteva’s chief technology and digital officer. “As a gene editing technology leader ourselves, we are proud to work with Pairwise to accelerate the benefits of gene editing not only to farmers, but ultimately to those who rely on the availability of sustainably grown and affordable food – and that’s all of us.”

“Gene editing is poised to revolutionize agriculture, enabling the cultivation of crops that are more adaptive to climate change, are more nutritious and convenient for consumers, and deliver greater economics for growers,” said Tom Adams, Pairwise CEO and co-founder. “Through our Fulcrum Platform, we’re proud to be at the helm of applying this transformative technology in agriculture and, alongside partners like Corteva, accelerate the realization of these benefits across global stakeholders.”

Pairwise is a leader in using gene editing to make differentiated crops. Last year, the company launched the first CRISPR food in North America, and has multiple products in development across significant crops, including corn, soy, wheat, canola, blackberries, and more. The Pairwise Fulcrum™ Platform includes proprietary gene editing tools that provide the ability to not only turn a characteristic on or off but also, with base editing and related technologies, “tune” it to find it’s sweet spot for highest performance. Pairwise’s novel editing tools allow scientists to precisely tailor a wide range of genetic variation to develop new, distinctive plant varieties much faster and more effectively than through conventional breeding alone.

This is the first joint venture and major equity investment in gene editing made by Corteva Catalyst, the company’s new investment and partnership platform. The investment reflects Corteva’s nearly century-long track record (through its Pioneer brand) of championing innovation through partnerships, including with the global scientific community.

The joint venture, which spans five years,

Agro chems – Fertilizers, AgroPolicy, Finance, India, Schemes - Govt

The subsidy on P&K fertilizers will be provided based on approved rates for Rabi 2024 (applicable from 01.10.2024 to 31.03.2025) to ensure smooth availability of these fertilizers to the farmers at affordable prices.

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the proposal of the Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers for fixing the Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) rates for RABI Season, 2024 (from 01.10.2024 to 31.03.2025) on Phosphatic and Potassic (P&K) fertilizers.

The tentative budgetary requirement for Rabi season 2024 would be approximately Rs.24,475.53 crore. Benefits:

  • Availability of fertilizers to farmers at subsidized, affordable and reasonable prices will be ensured.
  • Rationalization of subsidy on P&K fertilizers in view of recent trends in the international prices of fertilizers and inputs.
  • Implementation Strategy and targets:
  • The subsidy on P&K fertilizers will be provided based on approved rates for Rabi 2024 (applicable from 01.10.2024 to 31.03.2025) to ensure smooth availability of these fertilizers to the farmers at affordable prices.

Government is making available 28 grades of P&K fertilizers to farmers at subsidized prices through fertilizer manufacturers/importers. The subsidy on P&K fertilizers is governed by NBS Scheme w.e.f. 01 .04.2010. In accordance with its farmer friendly approach, the Government is committed to ensure the availability of P&K fertilizers to the farmers at affordable prices. In view of the recent trends in the international prices of fertilizers & inputs i.e. Urea, DAP, MOP and Sulphur, Government has decided to approve the NBS rates for Rabi 2024 effective from 01.10.24 to 31.03.25 on Phosphatic and Potassic (P&K) fertilizers. The subsidy would be provided to the fertilizer companies as per approved and notified rates so that fertilizers are made available to farmers at affordable prices.

The subsidy on P&K fertilizers will be

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

It aims to analyse the major bioactive components in mustard seed that may have antibiotic and gut health applications in both humans and animals.

MustGrow Biologics Corp. announced funding from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (“AAFC”) to investigate mustard-derived ingredient opportunities in human & animal health and food applications (the “Project”). The funding is provided through the AgriScience Program – Projects Component, under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership.

The work will be conducted in connection with AAFC’s Guelph Research & Development Centre (“GRDC”) located in Guelph, Ontario, Canada, and it will be led by Dr Rong Cao. Costs associated with the Project will be covered by both MustGrow and AAFC through a Collaborative Research and Development Agreement under the AgriScience Program. All investigational research activities will be conducted at the GRDC. The funding amount received from AAFC is subject to the negotiation of the Collaborative Research and Development Agreement. The funding does not imply Government of Canada endorsement of MustGrow’s findings, products, or practices.

MustGrow has always suspected potential product ingredient opportunities of mustard derivatives in human & animal health applications, including functional foods and nutraceuticals for improved immunity and gut health in humans, as natural food preservatives, as well as a replacement for antibiotics in animal feeds. The GRDC is a leading research institute in food health attributes and safety.

MustGrow will continue to focus on its core business in natural agricultural biopesticides, biofumigants, and biofertility products derived from the mustard seed or its processing by-products, while pursuing this opportunity in human and animal health in a cost-effective and expedient structure. MustGrow’s biofertility product, TerraSanteTM, is currently being marketed and sold in the United States, with additional biocontrol development programs underway with four global partners: Bayer, Sumitomo Corporation, Janssen PMP, and NexusBioAg.

Together, MustGrow and AAFC will:

Analyze the major bioactive components in mustard seed that may have antibiotic and gut health applications in both humans and animals.

Assess yellow mustard extracts for efficacy in converting glucosinolates into active ingredients that may have antibiotic and gut health applications in both humans and animals.

Test the selected bioactive components for antifungal and antibacterial activities against food spoilage microbes and disease pathogens, including the banana-plaguing disease Fusarium wilt TR4.

Test the selected bioactive components for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, for use as ingredients in functional foods and nutraceuticals for improved immunity and gut health in both humans and animals.

MustGrow has always believed that there is a potential for new products to be developed and deployed in antibiotic and gut health applications using bioactives derived from the mustard seed. These new applications would be directed at antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory uses in functional foods, gut health, and nutraceuticals in both human and animal health.

It aims to analyse the major bioactive

Agro Universities, Company News, India

Empowering MSMEs and agricultural entrepreneurs through business management and capacity building training.

Yara India, a subsidiary of Yara International and the world’s leading crop nutrition company, announced the launch of the second cohort of the Yara Leadership Academy (YLA) in India. Building on the tremendous success of its first cohort, YLA Cohort 2 aims to improve the leadership and business management abilities of Micro, Small, and Medium-Sized Enterprises (MSMEs) in the agriculture industry with Unifiers Social Ventures Private Limited and Connected Technologies LLP as key partners.

YLA was introduced in 2022 and its first cohort was tested in Kenya and India. As a result, a strong network of about 1,000 agro dealers was established throughout the two countries. 500 MSMEs and their affiliates completed the program successfully in India alone, with an emphasis on encouraging female leaders and youth involvement. Driven by the encouraging responses from stakeholders, Yara has raised its investment in agribusiness capacity building by a substantial margin. The second cohort of the Yara Leadership Academy now includes participants from Eastern Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, alongside continued efforts in Western Uttar Pradesh. This year, the program aims to graduate 700 applicants from over 70 districts across these regions.

The 15-week comprehensive Yara Leadership Academy curriculum covers a broad range of subjects, such as business management, agronomic knowledge, and regenerative agricultural practices. The program contains courses on business establishment, budgeting, growth mindset, product quality, customer service, and other crucial areas of business operations. The program offers participants both digital access via tablets and in-person networking sessions. Through practical tasks and exercises, these modules foster cross-learning and enable participants to immediately apply their newly acquired knowledge to their respective enterprises. A team of 15 coaches supports the 700 candidates on the ground, ensuring they not only complete the program but also effectively apply their new knowledge to their businesses.

Notably, this year has seen a significant increase in female participation, with the ratio of female participants rising from 22 per cent to an impressive 28.3%. Yara is also extending its vision beyond retailers to include Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), Independent Agricultural Entrepreneurs in Bihar, a special group of women from Babrala Self-Help Groups, young girl learners, and participants from Bayer BLF Centres.

Speaking on the initiative, Sanjiv Kanwar, Managing Director, Yara South Asia said, “At Yara, we envision a future where Indian agriculture is not only productive but also sustainable, resilient, and equitable. Achieving this vision requires more than just providing premium inputs, it demands empowering and upskilling all individuals who form the very backbone of the industry, and that includes actively encouraging and supporting the vital contributions of women in agriculture. The Yara Leadership Academy is our commitment to nurturing the next generation of agricultural leaders, equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and networks to build thriving businesses and drive positive change across the entire agricultural landscape.”

Empowering MSMEs and agricultural entrepreneurs through business

Agribusiness, Agrotech, Collaborations, Company News, Drones, India

The initiative aims to cover 30 lakh acres of farmland spraying across 11 Indian states using AGRIBOT drones.

IoTechWorld Avigation, a leading drone technology company, and IFFCO, a premier cooperative society, have positively impacted the lives of over 500 farmers and their families across 11 Indian states within just 8 months since their collaboration began in December 2023. Under this partnership, 500 drones have been committed to enhancing agricultural productivity. This initiative aims to revolutionize farming practices and promote sustainable agriculture in India.

Recently, IoTechWorld and IFFCO also announced a special limited time offer for AGRIBOT drone customers, providing a unique opportunity for farmers and service providers to access cutting-edge drone technology. Under this exclusive incentive, IFFCO is providing AGRIBOT drones without any cap on the number of acres, maximizing the potential gains for participants. This initiative is designed to encourage the widespread use of drone technology in agriculture, improving efficiency and crop management while reducing costs.

The agreement between IoTechWorld and IFFCO aims to cover an impressive 30 lakh acres of farmland, spanning multiple states including Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Jammu & Kashmir, Madhya Pradesh, and Bihar. This extensive coverage demonstrates the ambitious scale of the project and its potential impact on Indian agriculture.

The AGRIBOT MX, touted as India’s No. 1 Agri Drone, boasts impressive features designed specifically for agricultural applications. It is equipped with a powerful 25200 mAh Lithium-Ion battery, capable of covering up to 1500 acres per battery set. The drone’s spraying capacity is up to 6 acres per hour, with the potential to cover 25 acres per day using multiple battery sets.

Commenting on the development, Anoop Upadhyay, Co-founder of IoTechWorld Avigation, said, “Our partnership with IFFCO is a significant milestone in our journey of transforming Indian agriculture through technology. We are elated with the response and impact created in just 8 months under this partnership. Our AGRIBOT drones are designed meticulously with special attention to the challenges faced by Indian farmers. This large-scale deployment of our AGRIBOT Krishi drones bears a solid testament to the advantages of precision agriculture. Drone data is sent to the cloud for real-time monitoring & data analytics using 4G / 5G connectivity. It is exciting to see this collaboration boost crop yields, reduce input costs, and ultimately improve the livelihoods of farmers across the designated states.”

Deepak Bhardwaj, Co-founder of IoTechWorld Avigation, said, “We are honored to take this partnership ahead with IFFCO and positively create impact in farmers’ lives. The impact we’ve seen in just eight months across 11 states is truly encouraging. Farmers have started realizing the benefits of using drones in spraying operations”

The initiative aims to cover 30 lakh