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AgroPolicy, India, Supply Chain, Transportation

Denmark, a global leader in sustainable maritime technologies, has been sharing its expertise in green and digital solutions, aligning with India’s goals under the Sagarmala initiative and the Maritime India Vision 2030.

India and Denmark’s maritime relations continue to strengthen, with both nations working closely to advance sustainable maritime practices. Under the India-Denmark Green Strategic Partnership, the collaboration has expanded across key areas such as Quality shipping, Cooperation on Port State Control, Maritime training and education, research and development, Piracy, Green maritime technology, shipbuilding and green shipping. Denmark, a global leader in sustainable maritime technologies, has been sharing its expertise in green and digital solutions, aligning with India’s goals under the Sagarmala initiative and the Maritime India Vision 2030.

Scope of the MoU signed in 2019 and revised in 2022, has been widened by adding a dedicated clause for the establishment of a Centre of Excellence (CoE) in India. This underscores the commitment to deepening expertise in green maritime technologies and fostering knowledge exchange between the two nations. Additionally, Denmark’s expertise in port digitalization, automation, and cybersecurity has been instrumental in helping India achieve its vision of becoming a global leader in smart ports.

Danish dignitaries have played a pivotal role in furthering this cooperation, with key figures such as H.E. Mr. Morten Bødskov, Hon’ble Minister of Industry, Business and Financial Affairs; H.E. Mr. Freddy Svane, Ambassador of Denmark; Mr. Søren Andersen, Special Advisor to the Minister; Mr. Brian Wessel, Deputy Permanent Secretary for Legal and International Affairs; Ms. Amalie Elisabeth Knudsen, Private Secretary to the Minister; Ms. Kia Ris Skræddergaard, Head of Section; Ms. Maja Mohr Mortensen, Official Photographer; Ms. Josefine Eva Lilly Pallesen, Counsellor; and Mr. Mathias Emil Bengtsson, First Secretary, Trade Policy / Trade & Commercial Affairs, all contributing to the advancement of these initiatives.

Both countries are focusing on decarbonisation efforts, with joint projects aimed at developing hydrogen and ammonia-based fuels for ships. India’s Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 aims to decarbonize its ports, and Denmark’s success in offshore wind energy is expected to further contribute to renewable energy solutions in Indian ports. Denmark’s leadership in maritime training and polar navigation also opens up opportunities for collaboration, with plans to upgrade Indian seafarer training programs in line with global standards.

Commenting on the growing partnership, Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, stated, “India and Denmark’s collaboration in the maritime sector is a testament to shared commitment towards sustainable development and innovation. Together, we will not only enhance port infrastructure and shipping capabilities but also setting a global benchmark in green maritime practices. This partnership will play a pivotal role in India’s journey towards achieving a carbon-neutral maritime industry.”

As part of the Joint Action Plan on Green Strategic Partnership (2021-2026), both countries are set to continue their collaboration on port modernization, maritime digitalization, green fuel development, and advanced seafarer training. With Denmark’s leadership in green maritime technologies and India’s growing maritime infrastructure, this partnership is poised to drive global innovation and sustainability in the maritime sector.

Denmark, a global leader in sustainable maritime

AgroPolicy, India, Oilseeds

To bolster domestic oilseed farmers, increase in Basic Customs Duty on various edible oils effective from September 14th, 2024.

The Secretary, Department of Food and Public Distribution (DFPD), Government of India chaired a meeting with the Representatives from Solvent Extraction Association of India (SEAI), Indian Vegetable Oil Producers’ Association (IVPA) and Soyabean Oil Producers Association (SOPA), to discuss the pricing strategy. The leading Edible Oil Associations were advised to ensure that the MRP of each oil is maintained till the availability of edible oil stocks imported at 0 per cent & 12.5 per cent Basic Customs Duty (BCD) and take up the issue with their members immediately.

Earlier also, in pursuance of the Department’s meetings with leading edible oil associations, the MRP of edible oils such as Sunflower Oil, Soyabean Oil and Mustard Oil were reduced by the industry. The reduction in oil prices had come in the wake of reduction of international prices and reduced import duty on edible oils making them cheaper. The industry has been advised from time to time to align the domestic prices with the international prices so as to reduce the burden on the consumers.

The Government of India has implemented an increase in the Basic Customs Duty on various edible oils to support domestic oilseed prices. Effective September 14, 2024, the Basic Customs Duty on Crude Soybean Oil, Crude Palm Oil, and Crude Sunflower Oil has been raised from 0 per cent to 20 per cent, making the effective duty on crude oils to 27.5 per cent. Additionally, the Basic Customs Duty on Refined Palm Oil, Refined Sunflower Oil, and Refined Soybean Oil has been increased from 12.5 per cent to 32.5 per cent making the effective duty on Refined oils as 35.75 per cent.

These adjustments are part of the government’s ongoing efforts to bolster domestic oilseed farmers, especially with the new soybean and groundnut crops expected to arrive in markets from October 2024.

The decision follows comprehensive deliberations and is influenced by several factors: increased global production of soybean, oil palm, and other oilseeds; higher global ending stocks of edible oils compared to last year; and falling global prices due to surplus production. This situation has led to a surge in imports of inexpensive oils, exerting downward pressure on domestic prices. By raising the landed cost of imported edible oils, these measures aim to enhance domestic oilseed prices, support increased production, and ensure that farmers receive fair compensation for their produce.

Central Government is also aware that there is close to 30 LMT stock of edible oils imported at lower duty which is sufficient for 45 to 50 days domestic consumption.

To bolster domestic oilseed farmers, increase in

Agribusiness, Agro chems – Chemicals, Agrotech, Company News, India

This expansion of 200 MT per month has taken the overall capacity to 3,700 MT per annum, which will give the facility one of its largest production capacities.

Agrochemical major, Shivalik Rasayan Ltd. has announced an expansion project for Dimethaote tech at its Dahej, India facility, which will become operational by October 2024. This expansion of 200 MT per month has taken the overall capacity to 3,700 MT per annum, which will give the facility one of its largest production capacities. Shivalik will now have 2,500 MT capacity in its Dahej plants and 1,200 MT at its Dehradun plant.

Dimethoate tech was the first agrochemical started by Shivalik Rasayan in 1981. The company started with a capacity of 300 MT per year in 1981 and has grown every year to reach this milestone of 3,700 MT. This expansion will further help Shivalik to cater to the Indian agrochemicals market, as well as for the global market.

This expansion of 200 MT per month

Agribusiness, Animal Health, Company News, India, R&D, Start ups

Since obtaining GMP+ is a necessity for several international locations, especially in Europe, it allows Loopworm to penetrate those markets.

Loopworm, a Biosciences and Biomanufacturing company that transforms farmed insects into sustainable value-added products, has announced that it has successfully secured the ISO 22000, GMP+, and HACCP certifications for LoopFactory, a 6000 Tonnes/ annum insect protein production unit in Bangalore. These prestigious certifications underscores Loopworm’s dedication towards ensuring safety, quality, and industry compliance in providing insect-derived protein for pet foods as well as animal feed.

Obtaining the ISO 22000 certificate demonstrates that all products manufactured by Loopworm adhere to rigorous food safety standards. It ensures that Loopworm’s insect-derived products are produced in a controlled and hygienic environment to eliminate any possibility of contamination. It also guarantees that Loopworm products are safe for animal consumption and won’t introduce harmful pathogens into the supply chain avoiding disease outbreaks.

The GMP+ (Good Manufacturing Practices for Feed) certification proves the consistent production and quality control of Loopworm’s feed products. This ensures that their insect protein and fat ingredients meet high standards across every batch. GMP+ certification is also important to demonstrate compliance with international quality and safety requirements for feed. Since obtaining GMP+ is a necessity for several international locations, especially in Europe, it allows Loopworm to penetrate those markets. Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points HACCP) certification also highlights Loopworm’s preemptive measures for risk management. By observing and controlling hazards in the production process, HACCP guarantees that Loopworm’s products do not contain biological, chemical, or physical contamination.

Speaking at the occasion, Ankit Alok Bagaria, Co-Founder at Loopworm Private Limited said, “These certifications position Loopworm as a credible and responsible supplier, aligning with global pet food safety and animal feed industry standards. Certifications like GMP+ are critical for entry into key markets like Europe, where strict regulations are in place for feed and pet food ingredients. Whether dealing with pet food companies or animal feed manufacturers, these certifications demonstrate Loopworm’s commitment to delivering safe, high-quality, and sustainable products, which is crucial in industries increasingly focused on animal health and welfare.”

These certificates help Loopworm establish itself as a reliable company in the supply of pet food and animal feed products in global markets. Abiding to the food safety and quality standards would mark Loopworm as a benchmark in the insect protein market. These certifications not only safeguard the animals but also strengthens the confidence of pet food manufacturers and feed companies in Loopworm’s unyielding determination for safety from the start of production until the end.

Since obtaining GMP+ is a necessity for

Agribusiness, Company News, Drones, India, Start ups

The company also provides dedicated RPC training, ensuring that farmers are equipped with the skills necessary to make the most of this technology.

IoTechWorld Avigation, a leader in agri-drone technology, successfully exhibited its innovative Agribot drone at the prestigious Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana. The event, which attracted a crowd of over 1.5 lakh attendees, generated tremendous interest in the company’s advanced agricultural solutions.

The Agribot drone, designed for precision agriculture, was the centrepiece of IoTechWorld’s booth, capturing the attention of both farmers and industry professionals. Throughout the day, the team demonstrated the ease of use, cost-effectiveness, and versatility of the drone, emphasizing its potential to revolutionize the Indian agricultural landscape. 

IoTechWorld Avigation’s innovative agri-drones are built to address the unique challenges of Indian farmers, offering a cost-effective solution with up to lower 6 per cent interest rates, swift processing, and attractive financing options through AIF. The company also offers dedicated RPC training, ensuring that farmers are equipped with the skills necessary to make the most of this technology. IoTechworld has a strategic alliance with KS Agrotech Private Limited as a distribution partner.

The company also provides dedicated RPC training,

AgroPolicy, India, Interaction, Seeds

Surya Pratap Shahi, Minister of Agriculture, Government of Uttar Pradesh, was addressing conference organised by Federation of Seed Industry of India (FSII).

 Seed and agriculture experts called for enhancing collaborations for outcome-driven research, achieving self-reliance in oilseeds, cotton, and maize, implement IPR effectively to boost R&D investments. They also called for developing progressive trade policies to ensure a dynamic and future-ready agriculture sector, at a conference organised by Federation of Seed Industry of India (FSII), an apex body of India’s seeds industry.

This conference was held as part of its 8th Annual General Meeting. Minister of Agriculture, Government of Uttar Pradesh, Surya Pratap Shahi, emphasised on the importance of creating an enabling environment for augmenting the agriculture sector through progressive trade policies and introduction of modern agricultural technologies. “Technology intervention is the key to bringing convenience and prosperity to our farmers. With Uttar Pradesh contributing a third of the nation’s wheat production, we recognise our state’s immense potential in the seed industry. Yogi Adityanath’s Government in UP seeks to establish a seed park and a common resource centre for advanced research with support of the private seed industry”, said the Minister Shahi.

Extending an invitation to the seed industry for investments in Uttar Pradesh, Shahi announced, “We are poised to establish a State-of-the-art seed park in Lucknow, spanning 200 acres. This initiative aims to provide our farmers with high-quality, high-yielding, and climate-resilient seed varieties, paving the way for enhanced productivity and prosperity of the farmers. We welcome insights and collaboration from all stakeholders and invite the seed industry for public-private partnership. Together, we will make India self-reliant in production of superior seeds, contributing to a resilient and prosperous agricultural future.”

Ajay Vir Jhakar, Chairman, Bharat Krishak Samaj, strongly advocated for deploying modern science and technology to address the challenges facing Indian agriculture. “It is important to ensure investments in agricultural R&D and ensure alignment between state and central governments to effectively leverage innovative technologies for the benefit of the farmers. Furthermore, strengthening extension system for promoting good agronomic practices that conserve natural resources and developing climate-resilient crops are essential for sustainable progress” he said.

With a renewed focus by the Government, India’s agricultural sector is currently undergoing a significant realignment to meet the evolving priorities outlined for Amrit Kaal, a period described by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a time for transformative growth. The sector’s focus is shifting towards achieving self-reliance, streamlining agricultural research, increasing investments in sustainable technologies, and strengthening intellectual property frameworks. Experts highlighted emerging opportunities in seed technology and agri-business, which have the potential to revolutionize agricultural production.

Prof Vijay Paul Sharma, Chairman of the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP), Govt of India, emphasized, “Agriculture must shift from a subsistence model to a commercial, industry-oriented approach. As a country, we need to focus more on pulses and edible oilseeds, invest in research, and develop climate-resilient crop varieties. Our four-pillar strategy includes Technology deployment, Institutional mechanisms, Infrastructure development, and ensuring remunerative prices for the farmers. Mechanization and enhanced market infrastructure are crucial”.

Ajai Rana, Chairman of FSII and MD & CEO of Savannah Seeds, commented, “Creating an enabling environment for this transition requires the development of appropriate policies and institutions, an encouraging regulatory environment, and significant public and private investments in agriculture and agri-business. Strengthening Intellectual Property Rights is crucial to achieving these objectives, which will in turn support India’s goal of Viksit Bharat through inclusive development, green growth, and employment generation during Amrit Kaal.”

Strengthening agricultural research and embracing public-private partnerships (PPP) is essential for addressing climate change challenges and enhancing India’s agricultural resilience. Investing in advanced research will develop crop varieties with better drought tolerance, flood resistance, and improved nutrient efficiency, ensuring productivity and food security. Simultaneously, effective PPPs pool resources and expertise, driving innovation and creating a supportive environment for agricultural advancement. This collaboration bridges research gaps, streamlines technology transfer, and builds capacity, helping to achieve India’s ambitious agricultural goals and ensuring long-term sustainability.

Surya Pratap Shahi, Minister of Agriculture, Government

Agbiologicals, Agro Universities, Biofertilizers, People, R&D

He is recognized for spearheading the development of novel, low-cost technologies for recycling organic waste into nutrient-rich, disease- and pest-resistant, insect-composted organic fertilizers.

Dr Dennis Beesigamukama, Postdoctoral Fellow at the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe), has been named the 2024 Recipient of the Norman E. Borlaug Award for Field Research and Application, endowed by The Rockefeller Foundation. He is recognized for spearheading the development of novel, low-cost technologies for recycling organic waste into nutrient-rich, disease- and pest-resistant, insect-composted organic fertilizers within a fraction of the time it takes to produce other organic fertilizers, addressing agricultural soil degradation challenges for over 100,000 farmers in East Africa and beyond.

Beesigamukama comes from a farming family in Southwestern Uganda. His early exposure to the challenges of rural agriculture and soil degradation fueled his passion for soil science, which led him to Makerere University, where he earned his B.Sc. in agricultural land use and management and his M.Sc. in soil science. His thesis research on composting water hyacinth weed into organic fertilizer for managing the highly weathered soils in Central Uganda showed him the great need for affordable, locally produced fertilizers. The need for local solutions to soil fertility has only grown in recent years, with escalating costs and unavailability of synthetic fertilizers due to disruptions in supply chains caused by the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

In 2017, Beesigamukama began his Ph.D. at Kenyatta University, working with icipe to research the development of insect-based compost for sustainable soil health management and crop productivity. He used black soldier fly larvae, a common edible insect raised for animal feed, to recycle organic waste into nutrient-rich organic fertilizer made from the insects’ frass, or shed skins and feces. By doing this, he expedited the natural composting process to yield nutrient-rich fertilizer in just five weeks, in contrast to the usual methods, which require six months.

His research also demonstrated insect-composted organic fertilizer had a higher nutrient content than commercial organic fertilizers, animal manure and plant-based compost. In comparison to commercial fertilizers, he showed insect-based fertilizers could significantly increase yields of major grain and vegetable crops, including maize, amaranth, tomatoes and beans.

He is recognized for spearheading the development

Agribusiness, Carbon Farming, Company News, Nature, Sustainability, World

Results show reduction of greenhouse gas emissions of up to 30 percent in key crops using tailored solutions.

In a recently published report, BASF has shared the first results from its multi-year Global Carbon Field Trials. The results demonstrate that a reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in agriculture of up to 30 percent is possible compared to standard farming approaches – a target to which the company committed in 2020 to help farmers reduce their GHG emissions per ton of crop produced. The emissions reduction requires tailored climate smart approaches and varies by specific crop and region.

The trials were conducted across various geographies and key crops (wheat, corn, canola/oilseed rape, rice and soy), with the results from 2021 to 2023 revealing that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to mitigate agriculture’s contribution to climate change. Instead, reducing GHG emissions requires a tailored combination of interventions, products, and technologies. The report highlights the success of approaches to lower GHG emissions, such as optimized fertilizer use with digital decision support systems and nitrogen stabilizers, and the use of high-performing seeds, while also considering crop yields.

“Climate change is already happening. Farming methods need to be adapted to meaningfully reduce emissions without compromising yield. This is a challenge, but we have the right solutions to support farmers and I am convinced that if you love agriculture, you must be committed to sustainability as we are,” said Marko Grozdanovic, Senior Vice President Global Marketing at BASF Agricultural Solutions. “The insights we gain from our field trials support our Global Carbon Farming Program, where our recommendations empower farmers to become pioneers for positive change in climate and nature.”

The trials also underscore the challenges farmers face to reduce emissions, particularly adverse weather conditions or emissions-reduction practices that negatively affect yield. This is why BASF will continue to field-test farming strategies through its Global Carbon Farming Trials together with partners to find practical climate-smart solutions supported by science and data for farmers around the globe.

Results show reduction of greenhouse gas emissions

Agbiologicals, Agribusiness, Biofertilizers, Company News

Mustard-derived TerraSanteTM focuses on soil and soil microbiome health, nutrient/water use efficiencies, and plant yields.

Canada based. announced receipt of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services registration approval for its mustard plant-based TerraSanteTM, an organic biofertility product. The Florida organic certification is included under MustGrow’s existing Organic OMRI Listed® certifications in Arizona, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington State.

MustGrow’s Florida registration and organic certification is a key pillar in the commercialisation strategy with BioAg Product Strategies. In addition to Florida, and recently awarded Arizona, Idaho, California, Oregon, and Washington State, MustGrow expects to continue its efforts towards further state-level registrations in other pertinent U.S. states.

Florida has approximately 47,300 farms, citrus groves, and ranches totalling 9.7 million acres, producing a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and floriculture. In 2022, Florida ranked first in the U.S. in the production value of bell peppers (US$262 million), floriculture (US$1.16 billion), foliage plants for indoor use (US$481 million), Valencia oranges (US$289 million), grapefruit (US$706 million), sugarcane (US$752 million), fresh market tomatoes (US$323 million) and watermelons (US$216 million). Florida ranked second in the U.S. in production value for all oranges (US$491 million), strawberries (US$511 million), and sweet corn (US$124 million).

TerraSanteTM for Soil and Ecological Health

MustGrow’s soil amendment and biofertility development programs focus on soil and soil microbiome health, nutrient and water use efficiencies, and plant yields. Soil is a farmer’s most valuable asset, and MustGrow’s mustard plant-based technologies are being developed with the intention to improve not only the health of the soil, but also the surrounding ecological environment.

As an organic biofertilizer in soluble mixable form, TerraSanteTM contains nutritious plant proteins and carbohydrates that feed the soil and soil microbes, potentially improving beneficial microbial activity and ensuring long-term sustainable soil health. These targeted micro-communities have been shown to work to improve nutrient availability, which can potentially increase plant Vigor and yields, while reducing plant stress. TerraSanteTM has the potential to improve crop nutrient uptake and, hence, overall crop performance. There are no artificial additives or preservatives used during its manufacturing.

Mustard-derived TerraSanteTM focuses on soil and soil

Agribusiness, Agrotech, Animal Health, Animal Husbandry, Collaborations, Company News, Dairy, India, Live Stock, R&D

The latest IVF media would make the IVF technology more affordable to farmers, reducing costs and enhancing the farmer-centric model of animal husbandry and dairy development.

 Indian Immunologicals Limited (IIL), a leading vaccine manufacturer, has announced the launch of “Shashthi” an indigenous In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF) media developed in collaboration with National Dairy Development Board (NDDB). This launch of IVF media would make the IVF technology more affordable to farmers, reducing costs and enhancing the farmer-centric model of animal husbandry and dairy development. This will promote self-reliance and reduce dependency on imported media and aligns with the vision of “Atmanirbhar Bharat”.

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a significant advancement in reproductive technology. IVF involves fertilizing an egg in a controlled laboratory environment and selecting the healthiest embryos for transfer. During the last couple of years, Ovum Pick Up and In vitro Embryo Production (OPU-IVEP) have emerged as a replacement for the in vivo embryo production technique. It is envisaged that using this technology to multiply the superior bovine germplasm can change the face of dairying in India.

Presently, around 8,000 to 10,000 embryos are transferred annually in India, leading to the birth of approximately 2,000 to 2,500 calves, benefiting same number of farmers. However, with increasing coverage of IVF and generous government subsidies, this penetration is expected to rise significantly.

Globally, OPU-IVEP-ET is on a rising trend, with around 15.95 lakh IVF embryos produced during 2022, as per information from the International Embryo Technology Society (IETS). In India, the adoption of OPU-IVEP technology is gradually increasing, thanks to recent emphasis from the Government of India. However, several challenges hinder its widespread application in the field. One of the most significant obstacles is the high cost of the media required for various procedures. Approximately 50 per cent of the total cost of embryo production is attributed to the media. The complete reliance on imported commercial media significantly increases the overall cost of embryo production, posing a barrier to the widespread adoption of this technology in India.

The latest IVF media would make the

Acquaculture, AgroPolicy, Agrotech, Digital Technologies, India

The app is designed to meet the growing needs of the ornamental fisheries sector, providing crucial knowledge resources for hobbyists, aquarium shop owners, and fish farmers.

Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Rajiv Ranjan Singh launched the “Rangeen Machhli” mobile app at ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (ICAR-CIFA), Bhubaneswar. Developed by ICAR-CIFA with support from the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), the app is designed to meet the growing needs of the ornamental fisheries sector, providing crucial knowledge resources for hobbyists, aquarium shop owners, and fish farmers.

The “Rangeen Machhli” app provides multilingual information on popular ornamental fish species in eight Indian languages, making it accessible to a wide audience. Whether hobbyists are seeking guidance on fish care or farmers looking to diversify their breeds, the app offers comprehensive details on care, breeding, and maintenance practices. One of its key features is the “Find Aquarium Shops” tool, which allows users to locate nearby aquarium shops through a dynamic directory updated by shop owners, promoting local businesses and connecting users with reliable sources for ornamental fish and aquarium-related products. In addition, the app includes educational modules for both newcomers and professionals in the ornamental fish industry. The “Basics of Aquarium Care” module covers essential topics such as types of aquariums, fishes, water filtration, lighting, feeding, day to day maintenance, while the “Ornamental Aquaculture” module focuses on breeding, rearing of different ornamental fish. The app can be downloaded from the Google Play store from this link https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ornamentalfish

During his address, Rajiv Ranjan Singh highlighted the increasing importance of the ornamental fisheries sector, stating that the Ministry is placing a strong emphasis on its development, recognizing the sector’s potential for generating employment and contributing to the economy. He also stated that aquarium hobby has to be promoted in a bigger way in the country.

The app is designed to meet the

Agribusiness, Company News, India, Packaging & Labelling, Start ups, Supply Chain

Launched in 2017 in Ayodhya, CHUK aims to work towards a cleaner planet by producing toxin-free products made from sugarcane pulp.

CHUK, the flagship brand of Pakka, has unveiled new products in its 100 per cent compostable tableware collection, with an aim to reduce the use of single-use plastic and work towards its vision to contribute towards a cleaner planet. The latest products include a beverage cup, 4-inch dona, and 3cp snack tray, all made from bagasse, the agri-residue of sugarcane.

CHUK’s innovative and eco-friendly products have been designed to meet the sustainability needs of the food service industry. The bagasse beverage cup, a first of its kind, offers a sturdy, heat-resistant, and compostable solution for hot and cold drinks, ideal for cafes and restaurants.

These innovative products are designed to benefit a wide range of businesses, from QSRs to catering services and established food chains. They offer sustainable alternatives that meet the growing demand for environmentally responsible food packaging solutions.

Satish Chamyvelumani, Business Head, Compostables Division, said, “The newly launched compostable tableware is a result of our continuous research, trials, and customer feedback. CHUK stands at the forefront of sustainable and innovative packaging solutions, and the new offerings are yet another step towards transforming the food service industry by offering high-quality, compostable alternatives to single-use plastics. We look forward to helping brands as well as individuals from the food industry to contribute towards cleaner earth and transform the way people consume food.”

In 2023, CHUK launched compostable delivery containers that have already gained popularity among leading brands such as Haldiram’s, Bikanervala, Chaipoint and Taco Bell. Additionally, specialty food services like Shri Mata Vaishnodevi Shrine Board, Ram Mandir Trust, FabCafe, Salad Point, Greenit, and Basil Box have adopted CHUK’s delivery containers.

Over the years, the company has earned prestigious design awards, including the Red Dot Award from Germany, the Good Design Award from Japan, the India Design Award, and the NCII Award. These achievements are a testament to CHUK’s dedication to providing ergonomic and aesthetically pleasing designs for food service and delivery.

Launched in 2017 in Ayodhya, CHUK aims to work towards a cleaner planet by producing toxin-free products made from sugarcane pulp. Through its unbleached, eco-friendly, carcinogen-free, and hygienic range of products, the brand aims to positively transform the catering and food ecosystem by setting it down the greenway.

Launched in 2017 in Ayodhya, CHUK aims

Acquaculture, AgroPolicy, India, Live Stock

Union Minister released the SoP on Production and Processing Clusters under the Fisheries Cluster Development Program and also launched the National Fisheries Development Program Portal.

Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying and Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Rajeev Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh launched and unveiled a series of initiatives and projects aimed at transforming the fisheries sector and strengthening India’s blue economy at the 4th Anniversary of Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojna in New Delhi.

Union Minister launched the NFDP (National Fisheries Development Program) Portal, and which will serve as a central hub for registry of fisheries’ stakeholders, information, services, and support related to fisheries, and the released the PM-MKSSY Operational Guidelines. NFDP has been created under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PM-MKSSY), a sub scheme under Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) and will provide digital identities to various stakeholders by creating a registry of fish workers and enterprises engaged in the fisheries value chain across the country. Various benefits such as institutional credit, performance grants, aquaculture insurance etc. can be availed through NFDP.

Union Minister also released the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) on Production and Processing Clusters under the Fisheries Cluster Development Program and announced the establishment of three specialized fisheries production and processing clusters dedicated to Pearl cultivation, Ornamental fisheries and Seaweed cultivation. These clusters aim to promote collectivisation, collaboration and innovation within these niche sectors, enhancing both production and market reach.

Union Minister also unveiled the guidelines for developing 100 coastal villages across coastal States and Union Territories into Climate Resilient Coastal Fishermen Villages (CRCFVs) was released. With an allocation of Rs. 200 crores, this initiative will focus on sustainable fishing, infrastructure improvement, and climate-smart livelihoods to ensure food security and socio-economic stability for fishing communities amid changing environmental conditions.

In a step towards integrating technology in fisheries, a Pilot project on the Use of Drone Technology for fish transportation to be done by Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (CIFRI) was unveiled. This study aims to explore the potential of drones in monitoring and managing inland fisheries, improving efficiency and sustainability.

Union Minister unveiled the notifications for establishing a Mandapam Regional Centre of the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (ICAR-CMFRI) as a Centre of Excellence for promoting seaweed farming and research. Centre of Excellence will serve as a national hub for innovation and development in seaweed cultivation, focusing on refining farming techniques, establishing a seed bank, and ensuring sustainable practices. In addition, setting up Nucleus Breeding Centres for both marine and inland species was also unveiled for enhancing seed quality through genetic enhancement of economically important species. Department of Fisheries, GoI, has designated the ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (ICAR-CIFA), Bhubaneswar, Odisha, as the Nodal Institute for establishing NBCs for freshwater species and Regional Centre of ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (ICAR-CMFRI) in Mandapam, Tamil Nadu, as the Nodal Institute for NBCs focused on marine fish species. Establishment of 3 Incubation Centres for promoting at least 100 fisheries start-ups, cooperatives, FPOs, and SHGs was also notified. The centres will be hosted at premier institutions like the National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management (MANAGE) in Hyderabad, ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education (CIFE) in Mumbai, and ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (CIFT) in Kochi.

Union Minister released the SoP on Production

Agro Universities, Climate, Collaborations, India, R&D, Soil Health

 The technology is rapid, non-invasive and involves no chemical use, for estimating multiple soil parameters.

In a recent study by IIT Kharagpur in collaboration with the International Crops Research Institute of Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), Hyderabad, has developed and validated the efficiency of Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy (DRS) models for high throughput soil analysis for impact at scale in smallholder systems.

Years of research at the Agricultural and Food Engineering (AgFE) Department of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur shows that Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy (DRS) may be used safely for rapid soil assessment. Conventional soil testing laboratories use wet chemistry-based soil testing methods that are time consuming and can become expensive when a large number of samples to be analysed. On the other hand, spectral reflectance of a soil sample can be rapidly measured in a non-contact mode and the results can be transformed to multiple soil parameters using calibrated spectral algorithms. Once the Diffused Reflectance Spectroscopy (DRS) algorithms are developed for a region, the algorithms may be used for analysing soil samples collected from different fields and at different time of sampling. The technology is rapid, non-invasive and involves no chemical use, for estimating multiple soil parameters.

The DRS approach was shown to be effective for estimating 8 out of 17 soil parameters with as high as 80 per cent accuracy. Specifically, the soil test crop response (STCR) ratings estimated through the DRS approach matched the wet chemistry-based STCR ratings to the tune of 43 to 100%. “This is a great opportunity because most nutrient management strategies are based on STCR ratings and these ratings may be safely estimated using the DRS approach in a very rapid manner,” says Professor B. S. Das from IIT Kharagpur. More than 60 per cent of the new samples estimated with more than 70% accuracy indicates a huge opportunity to apply the DRS technique at different spatial and temporal scales. The partnership with ICRISAT has been very productive in developing these innovative methods for rapid soil health assessment, Prof Das further added.

“ICRISAT has been at the forefront of global efforts to advance sensor-based technologies,” says Dr Jacqueline Hughes, Director General of ICRISAT. “Our recent work with NIRS-based spectroscopy for soil nutrient analysis, along with this pioneering research towards DRS models for soil analysis, ensures our commitment to deliver rapid and cost-effective alternatives to resource-poor agriculture systems.”

This is a step forward in making soil testing a feasibility through remote sensing. As the IEEE Standards Association embarks on standardizing soil spectroscopy as a standard method of soil testing (P4005 – Standards and protocols for soil spectroscopy), the efforts at IIT Kharagpur are a step forward in making soil testing through reflectance spectroscopy a reality. Developing methods for rapid soil testing for the benefit of millions of smallholder farmers of our country resonates well with IIT Kharagpur’s long commitment for low-cost soil analysis for improved agricultural practices.

 The technology is rapid, non-invasive and involves