Connect with:
Friday / January 3. 2025

logo
mobile-logo
Home2025January
Agribusiness, India, Oilseeds, Opinions

 By Bhavna Shah, Deputy CEO, N.K. Proteins Pvt Ltd. & Vice President, Indian Vegetable oil Producers’ Association & India Country Chair, Environment, Climate Change, Biodiversity & Oceans, All Ladies League

India is a major producer of oilseeds, but its average yield is much lower than the global standard. In order to meet its domestic demand, India imports edible oil at a cost of around $16 billion a year. The industry can achieve sustainable growth and adjust to a constantly shifting global environment with careful planning and focused execution.

Based on recent industry data, India’s oilseed and vegetable oil sector is a key component of its agricultural economy, driven by rising demand and strategic import management. India is the world’s largest importer of edible oils, sourcing nearly 14 million tonnes annually, including palm, soybean, and sunflower oils. Despite being a top oilseed producer, India’s average oilseed yield is significantly lower than the global benchmark, with soybean yields at approximately 1.3 tonnes per hectare, compared to the global average of 2.7-3.0 tonnes.

Key crops like rapeseed, soybean, and groundnut dominate the sector. Recent government interventions, such as increasing import duties and boosting oilseed Minimum Support Prices (MSPs), aim to enhance domestic production and farmer income. These measures are crucial as India spends nearly $16 billion annually on edible oil imports​.

India’s vegetable oil sector faces a complex landscape shaped by rising domestic demand, global market fluctuations, and the strategic goal of achieving self-reliance. With 60–65 per cent of its edible oil consumption dependent on imports, the country remains exposed to supply chain disruptions, price volatility, and geopolitical uncertainties.

Policy responses from the Government of India, shaped by shifting global dynamics, highlight the need for a measured approach that balances market stability, farmer welfare, and consumer interests. The government’s decision to maintain the current import duty structure on vegetable oils reflects a calculated response to global uncertainties.

Recent geopolitical events—including the Russia-Ukraine conflict, tensions in the Middle East, and erratic weather patterns—have tightened global edible oil supplies. Rising bio-fuel mandates which account for almost 25 per cent of global edible oil supplies have further amplified market unpredictability. In such a context, abrupt policy adjustments risk destabilising domestic markets, fueling inflation, and straining consumers. The government’s steady policy stance signals its commitment to stability while laying the groundwork for long-term solutions.

However, tinkering with import duties alone cannot resolve India’s deep-rooted challenges in the edible oil sector. India’s oilseed productivity ranks among the lowest globally, with soybean yields averaging just 1 tonne per hectare, far below the global average of 3–4 tonnes per hectare. Systemic issues such as insufficient irrigation, suboptimal seed quality, fragmented landholdings, and limited mechanisation hinder progress. Structural reforms targeting these bottlenecks are imperative for achieving long-term resilience.

The recent import duty hike—up to 20 per cent in September—was intended to support soybean prices and stabilise the domestic market. Simultaneously, the government’s procurement of over 1.5 million tonnes of mustard seeds at MSP strengthened farmer confidence and ensured price stability. These steps reflect a clear policy direction toward boosting domestic oilseed production, though meaningful gains will require productivity-focused initiatives.

The National Mission on Oilseeds, launched in August, marks a critical step toward reducing import dependency. Backed by substantial budgetary allocations, the mission seeks to expand oilseed cultivation into non-traditional regions, introduce high-yield seed varieties, and enhance farming practices. Strengthening supply chains and ensuring fair farmer remuneration are central to this strategy.

Additionally, the Edible Oil and Oilseed Mission announced by the Government of India highlights the country’s long-term vision for achieving self-sufficiency. This integrated initiative focuses on enhancing domestic oilseed production through targeted investments in research, technological advancements, and improved infrastructure. By addressing productivity gaps, fostering sustainable agricultural practices, and enabling greater private-sector participation, the mission aims to build a resilient supply chain while supporting both farmers and consumers.

Achieving long-term self-sufficiency also calls for crop diversification. Oil palm, with its significantly higher yield potential compared to traditional oilseeds, presents a compelling opportunity. Past efforts to promote oil palm cultivation were hampered by water resource concerns and farmer hesitancy. Advances in agricultural technology and improved practices now offer a renewed chance to scale oil palm production sustainably.

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

 By Bhavna Shah, Deputy CEO, N.K. Proteins

Agribusiness, Floriculture, Opinions

 By Dr Narendra Dadlani, Former Director Technical Affairs, the Asia & Pacific Seed Association (APSA), Bangkok, Thailand

The floriculture market is growing due to a number of causes, including the development of organised retail and e-commerce platforms nationwide, the increase in government programmes and regulations promoting floriculture, and the ongoing improvements in agricultural methods and technology. In 2024–2032, the Indian floriculture industry is expected to increase at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.4 per cent, up from Rs 26,210 crore in 2023, according to IMARC Group.

Indian floriculture is based on traditions, and we have a rich heritage on the use of flowers all through our lives from our birth to death, with indispensable roles in various social and religious ceremonies. Flowers have been recognised as an excellent tool for expressing our most tender and delicate emotions. A single flower is known to be the reason for a million smiles. Floriculture, over a period of time, has been recognised to possess enormous potential for increasing the income of everyone in the production and marketing streams. Floriculture activity is known to generate gainful self- employment, particularly farm women.

The fast-changing preferences of the consumers and increasing disposable income levels have contributed immensely to the growth of the floriculture sector, not only in India but globally. From a lowly subsistence farming of flowers, less than fifty years ago, India today has a floriculture trade value exceeding Rs 25,000 crore. Growing at a fast rate, we may soon treble this figure in another decade or so. India has the second largest production base (after China) of more than 300,000 hectare area under various crops / products. While floriculture products are grown in every nook and corner of the country, the major producing states are Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal. It is becoming extremely difficult to track the growth of the sector, largely in view of the small size of operations, which often go unreported.

The floriculture basket has enhanced significantly. Earlier we used loose flowers (mainly, marigold, jasmine, rose, etc. for making garlands and using them for self and premises decoration. Now we focus more on cut flowers (also known as exotic flowers) like rose, gladiolus, chrysanthemum, tuberose, gerbera, orchids, etc. The range of products among flowers has increased. Among the loose flowers, the range has been enhanced with addition of asters, loose annual chrysanthemums, crossandra (particularly in South India), tuberose, gomphrena, stock, etc. and among the trending cut flowers are carnations, lilium, calla lily, limonium, anthuriums, heliconia, lisianthus, ranunculus, peonies, hydrangea, etc. Even, gypsophila, earlier offered free in bouquets, is fast emerging as a cut flower of value with its increasing range of varieties. Besides the flowers (loose & exotic cut), there is huge trade in ornamental plants for interior and outdoor decoration.

The COVID time inculcated in our minds the increased value of house plants (potted ornamentals) for their increased value in beautification of our houses, besides their role in improving the micro environment and helping us breathe fresh air. Landscaping of our external (outside) environment with flowers and plants, has become a billion dollar industry in the outside world and is fast gaining importance in India too.

The landscape artists (knowledgeable experts with an eye for beauty) are extremely expansive and a very busy lot. It has become an essential activity to decorate our environment, more particularly, public spaces like offices, hotels, etc. with plants and flowers. It’s common to find our outside walls, be it office or even metro rail / highway pillars, decorated with plants to provide a green environment for us. For the outdoor landscaping (beautification), we use many different flowers in beautifully laid beds. Often termed as bedding plants, these are important revenue earners in the western world. Alongside many shrubs and flowering trees, they constitute the main ingredients for outdoor landscaping and provide huge employment opportunities.

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

 By Dr Narendra Dadlani, Former Director Technical

Agribusiness, India, Live Stock, Opinions, Poultry

 By Amit Saraogi, Managing Director, Anmol Feeds Pvt Ltd

Urbanisation, increased wages, and consumer preferences for high-protein diets are all predicted to contribute to the 9 per cent growth in the Indian poultry industry in 2025. A rapidly growing sector of the Indian agricultural economy, the poultry industry provides the nation with affordable, high-quality protein.

The global poultry market is expected to surpass $420 billion by 2025, with India contributing nearly 6 per cent. The growth is driven by increasing per capita meat and egg consumption, urbanisation, and a growing middle class.

In India’s varied food consumption pattern, chicken and eggs have become important staples assisting in closing nutritional disparities in both rural and urban populations. In addition to reflecting shifting dietary habits, this increase in poultry consumption also reflects the economic and social forces that have shaped contemporary India.

Owing to their high protein content, eggs and chicken have become staples in everyday diets in rural India. High-quality protein sources are in high demand as a result of the middle class’s ascent and growing health consciousness. Owing to its lean protein advantages and versatility, chicken in particular has emerged as a popular option among urban consumers. Precooked and ready-to-eat chicken items are becoming more and more popular in the urban market, which further shows a trend towards convenience.

According to CareEdge Ratings, the Indian poultry market is expected to rise by 8–10 per cent in 2025 due to urbanisation, rising incomes, and customer preferences for foods high in protein. A rapidly expanding segment of the Indian agricultural economy, the poultry business offers the country high-quality, reasonably priced protein. Breeding and genetic selection are the first steps in the poultry value chain, producing birds that are best suited for producing eggs or meat.

Globally, the poultry industry is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.5 per cent from 2024 to 2034. India is projected to outpace this with a CAGR of 6.2 per cent, fuelled by technology developments, the usage of camera-based weighing systems, the adoption of organic poultry methods, the use of artificial intelligence, rising investments, and strategic alliances and acquisitions are some of the major trends anticipated throughout the projected period.

India’s changing poultry consumption landscape is influenced by a number of economic factors, including growing incomes, urbanisation, health consciousness, price competition, technological developments, government backing, organised retail expansion, and export prospects. Together, these elements have made poultry a staple of the Indian diet, mirroring the nation’s larger socioeconomic shifts and trends. The poultry sector in India is expected to see steady growth and development as long as these factors continue to affect consumer behaviour.

Given that poultry is typically less expensive than other meats, a wider range of people can afford it. Poultry’s appeal has been aided by its affordability when compared to fish and red meat. Economies of scale brought about by developments in poultry farming have lowered production costs and, as a result, retail pricing. As a result, poultry is now even more affordable. Poultry output and quality have greatly grown with the use of contemporary farming techniques, such as improved breeding methods, effective feed utilisation, and cutting-edge disease control strategies. Poultry goods are now more widely available and consumed because of advancements in cold chain logistics and distribution networks, which guarantee that they arrive at consumers’ locations cheaper and in better condition.

According to ResearchAndMarkets.com, the Indian Poultry Feed Market was valued at $3.27 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to project impressive growth in the forecast period with a CAGR of 6.21 per cent through 2030.

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

 By Amit Saraogi, Managing Director, Anmol Feeds

Agrotech, Digital Technologies, Drones, India, IT, Opinions

 By Dr Sat Kumar Tomer, Founder & CEO, Satyukt Analytics

By tackling current challenges and harnessing new-age technologies, India will emerge as the world leader in agritech in 2025, driving a resilient and thriving agricultural future.

India’s agriculture, which is the backbone of the entire economy, is undergoing a major change, which includes the use of advanced technologies. If 2024 taught us one thing in agri-tech, it was that the industry is heading toward a major path of transformation. This year saw major activity in terms of expansion – mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, and new techs like generative AI, precision farming, drones, predictive analysis, and many more.

But we’ve still got some major hurdles ahead. According to the FAO, global and national food production will have to increase by 60 per cent to keep pace with the growing population by 2050. In simple terms, a common farming method will not be enough.

On the positive side, sustainable practices and next-gen technologies are gaining momentum. As we enter 2025, the industry promises to redefine the way it grows, manages, and consumes food.

Agritech in 2024

In 2024, India witnessed a surge in agritech solutions aimed at empowering farmers and enhancing productivity. Key technologies that gained momentum include:

Precision Agriculture– These included IoT devices, GPS, and drones to enhance the use of resources, especially in terms of healthy soil, water demands as well as crop status.

Farm Management Software (FMS)- Farmers found information from digital platforms valuable because it helped them make good decisions and it included information about the market and weather among others.

Vertical and Hydroponic Farming– Farm production in urban areas got a boost with the use of hydroponic systems thus creating opportunities for year-round farming without necessarily using a lot of water. 

Agri-Fintech Solutions– Financial environment emerged as important, while digital lending technologies and insurance products decreased risks for farmers.

Blockchain for Traceability– Creating transparency in the supply chain, due to the application of block chain technology, the consumers were able to track their meals from production right to their plate.

Emerging Trends in 2025

Building on the advancements of 2024, the agritech industry in 2025 is expected to witness the following trends:

AI-Driven Crop Management- AI and machine learning are emerging and finding their way into the centre as tools for the prediction of pests, yields, and early detection of crop diseases.

Climate-Resilient Farming– Due to the rising climate changes, these new agritech startups are concentrating to come up with drought-tolerant seeds, better reports and forecasts on the weather, and parametric insurance to safeguard farmers from harsh political production conditions.

Robotics in Agriculture– Hired helpers, self-propelled tractors, robotic harvesters, and intelligent watering systems are redefining labour–driven processes in farming.

Carbon Farming Initiatives– New social initiatives like approving carbon credit markets, which pay farmers for practicing sustainable methods that decrease greenhouse gas production are good steps.

Using Digital Twins to Optimise Field Trials – A digital copy of a farm—a “twin” that replicates the real conditions of the soil, crops, and even the weather. Agriculture is likely to see an increased use of digital twins in 2025; it will allow farmers to experiment and fine-tune their approaches in a simulated setting before applying them to the actual field.

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

 By Dr Sat Kumar Tomer, Founder &

Agribusiness, Fruits, Horticulture, India, Opinions

By Purnima Khandelwal, CRO, Output business, AgroStar Group

With its extensive fruit production base and improvements in quality control, India is in a strong position to increase its market share internationally. Through the adoption of these trends and the utilisation of its innate advantages, the Indian fruit export industry might potentially achieve unparalleled expansion and make a substantial contribution to the global food chain. 2025 will see a dynamic fruit export business characterised by innovation, sustainability, and a customer-focused mindset.  

India’s horticulture sector is gaining global recognition, with its produce now more widely accepted in international markets. This progress results from significant advancements in cold chain infrastructure, quality assurance protocols, and collaborative efforts from both the public and private sectors. According to the FAO (2022), India is the world leader in the production of bananas (25.56 per cent), mangoes (44.46 per cent), and papayas (38.64 per cent), positioning the country with a strong production base and vast export potential.

India exported fresh fruits and vegetables worth Rs 15,039.27 crore ($1,814.58 million), including Rs 8,178.22 crore ($986.32 million) in fresh fruits and Rs 6,861.05 crore ($828.26 million) in vegetables in the 2023-24 fiscal year. With such a solid foundation, India’s horticultural exporters are poised for significant growth, which is crucial in elevating India’s standing in the global market. The global fruit export industry is undergoing a transformation driven by evolving consumer preferences, innovations in logistics, and an increasing focus on sustainability.

As we enter 2025, the fruit export market continues to evolve, presenting opportunities and challenges for stakeholders. Below are the key trends shaping the industry in 2025.

1. Commerce ministry’s push for exports and increasing role of enablers like APEDA: The Indian Commerce Ministry has recently intensified its efforts to boost exports of fresh fruits and vegetables, targeting key markets such as the US, the EU, and African countries. Aiming to double agricultural exports to $100 billion by 2030, the government is focusing on harnessing the potential of emerging markets across Africa while consolidating India’s position in established markets like Europe and North America. To ensure Indian produce meets international standards and reaches global markets efficiently, bodies like the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) play a vital role. APEDA is instrumental in streamlining the export process by implementing quality assurance measures, providing infrastructure subsidies, and facilitating compliance with global regulations. This shift is encouraging farmers to diversify from traditional crops to high-value cash crops, enhancing their income and contributing to addressing trade imbalances.

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

By Purnima Khandelwal, CRO, Output business, AgroStar

Agribusiness, India, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation

The facility will significantly contribute to the country’s agro trade by improving the processing, storage capabilities, and transportation infrastructure for agricultural commodities.

Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) said that it has issued a Letter of Award (LoA) to Trident Agrocom Exports and Man Infraconstruction consortium for the development of an export-import cum domestic agriculture commodity-based processing and storage facility at its port.

Once operational, the export-import-cum-domestic agricultural commodity-based processing and storage facility coming up on a 27-acre land parcel within the port complex, is expected to handle about 1.2 million tonnes of cargo annually. The facility will significantly contribute to the country’s agro trade by improving the processing, storage capabilities, and transportation infrastructure for agricultural commodities.

This project will enhance India’s agricultural logistics capabilities and support the growth of both domestic and international agro trade. It also shows JNPA’s focus on accelerating key projects to ensure timely completion, reflecting the port’s commitment to driving economic growth in the agriculture sector.

This is India’s first one-of-its-kind facility provided by JN Port which is designed to provide comprehensive services including processing, sorting, packing, and laboratory facilities, emphasizing its commitment to ensuring compliance with food safety and trade regulations. It shall cater to the agricultural commodities not only of Maharashtra but also of other states such as Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat.

The facility will significantly contribute to the

Allied Industry

The non-implementation of the revised formula for the pricing of finished jute goods supplied to the government remains a ‘pressing concern’ for mill owners

The jute industry faced a nearly “30 per cent reduction in demand” for food grains and sugar packaging bags, resulting in trimmed working hours in mills in 2024, while subdued prices for the finished product and the raw material affected both millers and farmers, stakeholders said.

The non-implementation of the revised formula for the pricing of finished jute goods supplied to the government remains a “pressing concern” for mill owners as the existing price mechanism is “old and outdated” and has led to “reduced profitability”, they said.

Although the government has decided to revise the pricing formula, details are still awaited, according to the Indian Jute Mills Association (IJMA).

Jute mills have complained of a “nearly 30 per cent reduction in demand for jute bags during the 2024-25 period”, and this decline has mainly been attributed to “decreased procurement” of packaging bags by the sugar industry.

As a result, mills have had to make operational adjustments, such as reduced shifts and working hours, leading to job losses, a mill owner said. This had an adverse impact on jute farmers across West Bengal, a major producer of golden fibre, in terms of realisation, he said.

IJMA deputy chairman Rishav Kajaria raised concerns about the challenges of the jute industry. “The reverse auctions on the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal are forcing mills to bid below fair prices set by the jute commissioner, threatening the financial stability of mills and jeopardising statutory payments to workers,” he said.

Kajaria also highlighted the sugar industry’s “non-compliance with the mandatory 20 per cent jute packaging requirement under JPMA, 1987” and this has “reduced demand for jute bags, further harming the sector”.

“The jute sector’s survival depends on immediate and decisive intervention to address these pressing issues and safeguard the livelihoods of millions dependent on this vital industry,” Kajaria said. However, Jute Commissioner Moloy Chandra Chakravorty had a different perspective on the year. “The year was a normal year without any major hiccups, and the lower production in the 2024-25 jute season to around 73 lakh bales, down from 91 lakh bales the year before, was a boon to stabilise the price, which the preceding two years faced glut and huge carryforward,” he said.

Chakravorty denied that demand from the government was lower, saying, “The industry was crying for unrealistic demand of 36 lakh bales. The government demand of 30-32 lakh bales was in line with the last few years, but this hue and cry by the industry was due to low private demand.” The government raised the minimum support price of raw jute during the current season, and the Jute Corporation of India claimed record raw jute procurement to protect farmers.

“The price was fixed at Rs 5,335 per quintal for the 2024-25 season, which is Rs 285 more than the previous year. This would ensure a return of 64.8 per cent over the all-India weighted average cost of production,” another government official said. As the jute sector looks to the future, it is clear that addressing the issue of non-implementation of the revised pricing formula and ensuring compliance will be crucial to its survival and growth, industry stakeholders said.

As for the West Bengal government, there is a need for policies aimed at the development of labour colonies and quarters, the implementation of night shifts for women workers, and improved procurement practices, IJMA officials said.

The non-implementation of the revised formula for

Agribusiness, Collaborations, Company News

The biggest retail company in Australia, Woolworths, has partnered with HyFun Foods, a well-known leader in the frozen food sector

Through this partnership, HyFun’s hash browns will be available in more than 1,000 Woolworths locations, which is a big step in the company’s global growth. The action demonstrates the rising demand for high-quality frozen foods in retail regions such as Australia and India.

HyFun will sell its well-liked hash browns and tots to Australian customers under the “Your Spud Co” brand. The brand’s worldwide goal to satisfy consumer demand for premium frozen food options is strengthened by this endeavor. Following HyFun Foods’ fruitful partnership with Walmart USA, which established the business as a dependable partner for extensive international retail operations, comes this most recent development. HyFun Foods, which is well-established in the American market, is currently using its knowledge to duplicate that success in Australia.

Kamlesh Karamchandani, Executive Director of HyFun Foods mentioned- “Our partnership with Woolworths is an exciting opportunity to bring HyFun Foods’ premium products to Australian households under the Your Spud Co brand. “

Joshua Biggs, Managing Director of Your Spud Co mentioned, “We, at Your Spud Co, have had the privilege of working closely with HyFun to launch and pioneer Indian potatoes and frozen products into the Australian market. Their commitment to high-quality products and consistent innovation has played a key role in the success of this partnership.”

Australia’s frozen food market continues to grow, driven by increasing per capita consumption and demand for convenient food solutions. By leveraging Woolworths’ extensive retail network, HyFun Foods is positioned to meet this demand effectively. This partnership not only strengthens HyFun Foods’ presence in the Australian retail market but also reinforces its standing as a global leader in the frozen food sector, paving the way for further expansion and success.

The biggest retail company in Australia, Woolworths,

Collaborations, Horticulture, R&D

A high-level meeting to enhance Jammu and Kashmir’s agricultural and horticultural sectors was held today at ICAR-Central Institute of Temperate Horticulture (ICAR-CITH), Rangret, Srinagar

The meeting, chaired by Dr. Mahendra Kumar Verma, Director of ICAR-CITH, focused on addressing the significant challenges faced by stakeholders, particularly the rising costs associated with apple cultivation, a statement issued to Ziraat Times said.
The gathering brought together prominent stakeholders, including the President of the Jammu and Kashmir Fruits and Vegetables Processing and Integrated Cold Chain Association (JKPICCA), Bashir Ahmad Naik, and representatives from the Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers cum Dealers Union. Discussions centered on collaborative strategies to bolster the region’s horticultural landscape and improve the livelihoods of fruit growers.
Bashir Ahmad Naik, President of JKPICCA, expressed his gratitude to Dr. Verma for organizing the meeting and acknowledged the contributions of all participants.
“The insights shared during this session have laid a solid foundation for addressing the pressing issues faced by the horticulture community,” he said, appreciating the commitment of the Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers cum Dealers Union to the sector’s development.
The meeting concluded with optimism as stakeholders committed to implementing the collaborative initiatives discussed. These efforts aim to create a positive impact on Jammu and Kashmir’s agricultural and horticultural sectors, fostering growth and sustainability for the region’s fruit growers.

A high-level meeting to enhance Jammu and

Biofuel industry, Environment, Sustainability, Sustainable Energy

Maize is the primary feed for poultry but the rising demands of the ethanol industry, has increased the prices

The poultry industry in India is facing a multitude of challenges, ranging from soaring feed costs to regulatory obstacles, according to Uday Singh Bias, President, Poultry India and the Indian Poultry Equipment Manufacturers Association.

Bias reiterated that the industry is actively pushing for government support on several fronts. Maize is the primary feed for poultry but the rising demands of the ethanol industry, has increased the prices. Farmers are selling their maize to that sector, he said adding, “We need the government to double maize production to meet poultry needs. Unfortunately, this has not happened at the expected level. We have also requested permission for free imports of maize and soya.”

The rising cost of feed remains the sector’s most pressing issue. “Maize and soya prices increase by 2–3 percent every year. On top of that, unpredictable weather, seasonal demand fluctuations, and disease outbreaks are making it increasingly difficult for poultry farmers to remain viable,” he added.

He emphasised the need for greater maize and soya cultivation to meet the sector’s demands, but stressed that government intervention is essential. “We are encouraging farmers to grow more maize and soya, but the government must implement policies to address the challenges we face. With the right support, the poultry industry can continue to play a crucial role in providing affordable nutrition and food security for the nation,” Bias said.

Maize is the primary feed for poultry

Country, Trade

With the recent relaxation of export limitations on non-basmati rice and robust global demand, India expects agricultural exports to surpass $50 billion in 2024–2025. Despite earlier export restrictions on rice, wheat, and sugar that affected exports by an estimated $6-7 billion, this optimistic forecast

The country’s agri exports are expected to cross $50 billion in 2024-25 on account of healthy demand and lifting on curbs on non-basmati rice, an official said on Tuesday. The official said export curbs on rice, wheat, and sugar impact agri exports to the tune of about $6-7 billion. “But now the curbs have been removed on rice, we expect that the agri exports will cross USD 50 billion. So far the trend is good, though the growth rate is not positive but as now rice is opened, by December-end, we will be in the positive zone,” the official added. Rice exports are likely to reach 17-18 million tonnes this fiscal year as against 14-15 million tonnes last year.

“It will give a big boost to exports,” the official said, adding that basmati shipments may touch 5.5 million tonnes, while parboiled could be around 7-8 million tonnes and over 4 million tonnes of non-basmati rice.

The main commodities, which are registering healthy growth included fruits, vegetables, meat and its products, beverages, and food processing.

The commerce ministry is aiming at taking the agri exports to $100 billion by 2030.

In October, the government removed curbs on overseas shipments of non-basmati white rice and exempted parboiled rice and husked (brown) rice from export duty.

These measures came at a time when the country has ample stock of rice at government godowns and retail prices are also under control.

The country exported non-basmati white rice worth $201 million during April-August this fiscal. It was $852.52 million in 2023-24.

Though there was a ban on the exports, the government was allowing the shipments to friendly nations like Maldives, Mauritius, the UAE, and African countries. This variety of rice is widely consumed in India and it also has demand in global markets, particularly in nations with a large Indian diaspora. The ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine is among the factors that have disrupted the foodgrain supply chain.

With the recent relaxation of export limitations

Carbon Farming, Climate, Country, Environment, Investments, Nature, Soil Health, Supply Chain, Sustainability

With FAO’s support, 22 countries access financing to address biodiversity loss, land degradation, climate change, and pollution

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has helped 22 countries unlock $68 million in financing from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) to address biodiversity loss, groundwater management, climate change, land degradation, and pollution.

The projects were approved by the GEF Secretariat and Councils for the GEF Trust Fund, the Least Developed Countries Fund (LDCF), and the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF) meeting this week in Washington D.C. The projects expect to leverage an additional $273 million in co-financing to advance global goals for biodiversity, social inclusion, land and water management, and reducing use of hazardous chemicals.

“The approval of this batch of projects comes at the end of a year of environmental summits that highlighted both the need for finance to unlock transformation of global agrifood systems to this critical agenda,” said QU Dongyu, FAO Director-General. “We look forward to supporting countries to meet their biodiversity, climate, land, water, and pollution goals through agrifood systems solutions under the overall guidance of the Four Betters.”

“These projects will help change the way we produce our food, fuel, and fiber to address global environmental crises. They will enhance coherence between agricultural and environmental sectors and support countries and communities to tackle environmental challenges, food insecurity, and poverty. With this new financing in place, it is now equally important to their success to effectively communicate their goals and impacts,” said Carlos Manuel Rodríguez, CEO and Chairperson, GEF.

As part of the funding, the Council approved a $19 million allocation for FAO’s first activities as a new implementing agency for the Small Grants Program. The project builds upon 30 years of impact by bringing FAO’s expertise in working with smallholder producers to support civil society organizations and community-based organizations in co-designing and delivering locally led initiatives. The project will develop strategies, provide financial and technical assistance, and foster South-South Cooperation, with a strong focus on innovation, scalability, and social inclusion of women, Indigenous Peoples and youth.

The project will work with local organizations across 14 countries: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Chile, Cook Islands, Cuba, Guyana, Indonesia, Jamaica, Kenya, Marshall Islands, Nicaragua, South Sudan, Tajikistan, Uganda and Venezuela. It aims to restore 20,000 hectares of land, improve practices across 350,000 hectares, and benefit 45,000 people.

Five projects funded by the GBFF will help mainstream biodiversity in agrifood sectors, foster sustainable livelihoods, and empower Indigenous Peoples. These projects aim to improve the management of 500,000 hectares of protected areas, restore 13,000 hectares of landscapes, improve practices on 2.4 million hectares of land and sea, mitigate 1.2 million metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions, and benefit 100,000 people.

The $1.7 million project in Laos will enhance biodiversity through ecosystem restoration and biodiversity-friendly One Health practices. The $6.4 million project in Papua New Guinea will improve ecosystem connectivity and climate resilience with integrated landscape management. In the Solomon Islands, $2.4 million will support community-led management of key biodiversity areas by Indigenous Peoples, including through spatial management and other effective area-based conservation mechanisms (OECM). In Cuba, the $3 million project will address unsustainable fishing and agriculture in Northeastern Cuba, and the $1.3 million project in Nepal will help conserve endangered freshwater fish through ecosystem-based fisheries management.

A $8 million project funded by the GEF Trust Fund will enhance biodiversity, ecosystem service, and carbon sequestration in Areas Important for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (AIBDES), including areas inside and outside protected areas in South Sumatra and Central Java, Indonesia. The project aims to conserve and restore 91,000 hectares of natural ecosystems that house species such as the Javan Leopard and Sumatran Elephant. The project will also improve practices on 565,000 hectares of land, mitigate 6.2 million metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions, and benefit 40,000 people.

Under the Integrated Collaborative Approaches for Sustainable Tourism Program (iCOAST), FAO will support Vanuatu in promoting sustainable practices within the tourism industry through bioeconomy and circular approaches. The project will channel $4 million to update the national tourism strategy, restore over 32,000 hectares of degraded ecosystems, improve practices on 62,000 hectares of land and sea, and benefit over 246,000 people.

Under the Financing Agrochemical Reduction and Management Plus Program (FARM+), FAO will support Gambia to reduce harmful agrochemical use and transition to climate-resilient, agroecological practices in rice, millet and maize production. With $9.6 million from the GEF Trust Fund and the LDCF, the project aims to restore 10,000 hectares of land, improve practices on 120,000 hectares of land and sea, mitigate over 15,000 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions, and benefit 240,000 people.

The program closes a year of record growth in the FAO-GEF partnership. In addition to $440 million approved across the February, June and December work programs in 2024, 13 FAO projects worth $14 million in GEF resources and $24 million in co-financing are providing global and national support in meeting reporting commitments for climate change and LDN.

With FAO’s support, 22 countries access financing

Agribusiness, Fruits, Horticulture, India

The programme seeks to reinforce domestic nut production, reduce reliance on imports and create economic opportunities for local farmers.

The Nuts and Dry Fruit Council of India, NDFC(I), launched a walnut plantation initiative at Chakrata, Uttarakhand on 28-29th of December. The ambitious initiative seeks to introduce grafted walnut plants in India for the first time, with 300 saplings planted in the region of Chakrata. The programme seeks to reinforce domestic nut production, reduce reliance on imports and create economic opportunities for local farmers. The initiative is intended to usher an increase in the nut production of the region and serves as the steppingstone for a 3-year project that would subsequently encompass over 1000 cultivators.

The initiative envisages the planting of 300 saplings in a cluster centred around 3 villages in the region with over 70 farmers being involved. Apart from the 300 saplings, the programme will provide comprehensive support to the farmers in terms of in-depth training on optimal plantation techniques, including proper care and maintenance during critical growth stages. The high-yielding saplings have been provisioned from a Turkish horticultural company, AGRONOM, and imported by an Indian counterpart, Kalason Nursery. As NDFC(I) gears up for the 2nd edition of MEWA in February 2025, this initiative marks a cornerstone in the attempt to popularise and increase production of nuts in India.

This initiative emphasizes long-term sustainability with a focus on continuous plantation efforts and the establishment of world-class nut plant nurseries in India to ensure easy access to high-yielding grafted plants for farmers. This project is expected to significantly boost the local economy by increasing walnut production and creating new job opportunities for the community

NDFC(I) is collaborating with WANGAI (Walnuts and other Nut Fruit Growers Association of India), an organization promoting the cultivation of nuts.  The collaborative effort seeks to position India as a leading producer and exporter of walnuts and subsequently delve into other nut categories. The initiative serves as a gateway to expanding nut production, with a plan to increase cultivation in the Chakrata and Tuni regions and incorporating 1000 farmers. 

Speaking about the initiative, Achin Aggarwal, Chair, Committee for Agriculture and Farmers Connect at NDFC(I) stated, “With this initiative, we hope to cater to the growing popularity and demand for Walnuts. As India and the world moves towards a healthier lifestyle, we hope that the initiative will help expand the walnut production base. Beyond expanding production, the initiative will assist in the economy of the region and we hope that in the coming years, it becomes a major exporting location for Walnuts. The introduction of Grafted walnut plants should also spur a slate of innovation and research that would further increase yield and production.”

.

The programme seeks to reinforce domestic nut

Agribusiness, Environment, Schemes - Govt, Sustainability

Tobacco farmers income doubled over last 5 years

The Tobacco Board has undertaken several strategic activities to ensure the sustainability and growth of the tobacco industry. These include crop planning and regulation of production to meet both domestic and export demands.

The Board supports farmers by providing handholding assistance to produce tobacco of requisite quality to meet the standards of importing countries. The Tobacco Board was established on 1st January 1976 by an Act of Parliament “Tobacco Board Act, 1975 (Act 4 of 1975)” for the overall development of the tobacco industry. The Board’s primary role is to ensure the smooth functioning of the farming system and to ensure fair and remunerative prices for tobacco farmers and the promotion of exports. Financial assistance is extended to farmers through banks, along with the necessary inputs for the production of quality tobacco. The Board also engages in extension and developmental activities to promote sustainable tobacco cultivation practices.

India is the 2nd largest producer of tobacco in the world after China. India is the 4th largest producer of FCV tobacco in the world after China, Brazil and Zimbabwe. India is the 2nd largest exporter of unmanufactured tobacco (quantity terms) after Brazil. Tobacco exports contribute sizable foreign exchange to the Indian exchequer. During 2023-24 the value of Indian tobacco exports reached Rs.12005.89 crore (1449.54 in US dollars). Tobacco farmers income has also doubled over the last 5 years.

To ensure better price discovery and secure remunerative prices for farmers, the Tobacco Board has implemented an IT-enabled electronic auctioning system for FCV tobacco. Additionally, export promotion activities are carried out to sustain and improve India’s tobacco exports. Welfare measures are extended to tobacco farmers, providing financial relief in the form of grants and loans during times of need.

As the Board celebrates its formation day, it proudly highlights that Flue Cured Virginia (FCV) tobacco farmers’ earnings have more than doubled between 2019-20 and 2023-24 from Rs.124.00 per kg in 2019-20 to Rs.279.54 in 2023-24.

This success is attributed to effective government policies and efficient market mechanisms that have enhanced the livelihoods of approximately 83,000 farmers. The Tobacco Board’s efforts have played a crucial role in ensuring better returns, demonstrating the positive impact of strategic support to the tobacco farmers.

The efficient and transparent electronic auction system being implemented by the Tobacco Board for the sale of tobacco produced by the farmers helped in achieving the Government’s vision of doubling farmers’ income in the FCV tobacco sector.

The 2023-24 crop season has turned out to be a remarkable year for FCV (Flue-Cured Virginia) tobacco farmers across Andhra Pradesh. Despite facing natural calamities, our farmers’ determination and resilience resulted in a record-high production of 215.35 million kg kilograms of tobacco. This is an outstanding achievement, further complemented by a record-high price realization of Rs 288.65 per kilogram.

The surge in international demand for Indian FCV tobacco this year has played a pivotal role in achieving these unprecedented figures. Not only has this benefited the farmers, who have reaped the rewards of their hard work, but it has also significantly contributed to the national exchequer by generating foreign exchange through exports.

The auctions for the sale of the 2023-24 Andhra Pradesh FCV tobacco crop commenced on 29th February 2024 and concluded on 14th October 2024. A total of 16 auction platforms were operated, distributed as follows: 5 platforms in NLS, 5 in SBS, and 6 in SLS. Over the course of 178 auction days, 43,021 growers participated, resulting in a record-high volume of 215.35 million kg of FCV tobacco marketed, including 9.46 million kg of scrap and bits of tobacco. Farmers realized an average price of Rs 288.65 per kg, which is the highest average price ever recorded, and collectively earned Rs 6,313.58 crore during the season. This season’s average price was Rs 62.92 per kg higher than the previous year’s average of Rs 225.73 per kg, with the highest price achieved being Rs 411 per kg, compared to Rs 289 per kg last year.

Additionally, 38,751 registered growers benefited from a penalty waiver for the sale of 76.84 million kg of excess tobacco, resulting in savings of Rs 184 crore for the farmers. The Tobacco Board employees and growers also contributed Rs 92.70 lakh to the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund to support victims of recent cyclones in Andhra Pradesh.

Tobacco farmers income doubled over last 5