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Agribusiness, AgroPolicy, Trade

The country’s organic food exports have grown at a steady pace and over the past decade, exports of organic products have grown from $ 213 million in 2012-13 to $ 494.80 million in 2023 -24

Indian exporters have huge opportunities to increase their share in the global agriculture trade from the current 2.4 per cent, a government official said on Wednesday. The global agriculture trade is about USD 2 trillion.

Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) Chairman Abhishek Dev said that given these numbers, “huge opportunities” are there to increase exports from the country.

Despite being the seventh largest agri exporter in the world, “our share is 2.4 per cent in the overall world agri trade and immense possibilities are there to increase this share,” he said at the inauguration of Indusfood 2025 at Greater Noida.

India’s agri export was about $ 50 billion in 2023-24 and this year also, the country is looking at pushing the figure to “new record”, he said. Dev added that the overall focus now is to promote exports of value-added goods.

Talking about exports of organic products, the chairman said India’s share in this segment is about 2.5 per cent, “but we have an ambitious target of increasing the share four-times in the next five years and we are working on that.” The global market for organic goods is $ 147 billion.

The country’s organic food exports have grown at a steady pace and over the past decade, exports of organic products have grown from $ 213 million in 2012-13 to $ 494.80 million in 2023 -24.

Talking about the food show, he said the number of foreign participants is increasing year after year.

Over 2,300 exhibitors from 30 countries and 7,500 international buyers are participating in three-day Indusfood 2025. The integrated trade fair will host 15,000 Indian buyers and trade visitors.

Mohit Singla, Chairman of TPCI, said the exhibition will provide a platform to bridge the gaps between farmers, technology providers and global markets.

“It not only enhances trade opportunities but also directly improves farmer incomes by creating access to better markets and value-addition opportunities,” he said.

Union Minister of Food Processing Industries Chirag Paswan inaugurated the eighth edition of the show, which is being organised by the Trade Promotion Council of India (TPCI) with the support of Department of Commerce.

Apart from the Indusfood food and beverages trade fair at India Expo Mart, Greater Noida, the council is also organising the fourth edition of Indusfood Manufacturing (covering food processing technology, packaging technology, ingredients and hospitality technology) and Indusfood Agritech (showcasing agricultural technology, fisheries technology, dairy and poultry farming technology).

The latter two fairs are scheduled for January 9-11 at Yashobhoomi here.

Speaking at the inauguration, Singla said the exhibition is aimed to promote international collaboration, and innovation across the food value chain.

“Over 1,800 exhibitors are attending. The international exhibitor pavilion launched last year has nearly doubled in terms of representation, with exhibitors from around 30 countries now participating,” he added.

The country's organic food exports have grown

Agribusiness, Company News, India, People

Badri Narayanan, a former Unilever veteran, has been appointed as the Group CEO Designate, and Anil Kumar SG, Founder & Group CEO, will be elevated to the position of Founder & Managing Director.

Samunnati, India’s pioneering agri-value chain enabler, has announced a strategic leadership realignment to deepen its focus on empowering smallholder farmers and driving transformative growth in the agri-ecosystem. In this significant move, Badri Narayanan, a former Unilever veteran, has been appointed as the Group CEO Designate, and Anil Kumar SG, Founder & Group CEO, will be elevated to the position of Founder & Managing Director.

This transition will allow Anil to channel his energy toward shaping long-term strategic initiatives, fostering impactful partnerships, and scaling innovative models that strengthen Samunnati’s role as a thought leader in the agricultural sector. His new role emphasizes advancing sustainable solutions that enable growth for smallholder farmers and build resilient value chains across the ecosystem.

Badri will focus on operational excellence, ensuring seamless execution of Samunnati’s vision and mission. Over the next 6–8 months, upon the completion of the integration processes, Badri will transition to the role of Group CEO, leading Samunnati’s operations and driving impactful initiatives.

With more than 24 years of experience at Unilever, Badri brings a wealth of expertise in general management, sales, marketing, digital commerce, and operations.  He has a proven track record of driving success in emerging markets and leading global initiatives. Badri is recognized for his leadership in driving customer growth, digital commerce, and distribution strategies in consumer goods. A certified ontological and leadership coach, he is also deeply passionate about digital transformation through technology integration across value chains.

Speaking on the leadership realignment, Anil Kumar SG said, “This is a pivotal moment for Samunnati. This elevation provides me the bandwidth to steer the organization’s long-term strategic vision and collaborate across the agri-ecosystem. With Badri’s appointment as Group CEO Designate, Samunnati will further strengthen its operational excellence and ability to scale farmer-centric solutions that enable growth and resilience for smallholder farmers.”

This leadership evolution underscores Samunnati’s commitment to serving India’s agricultural community through innovative solutions and strategic partnerships. By reinforcing its leadership team, Samunnati is poised to address emerging challenges and opportunities within the sector, ensuring its continued focus on creating transformative impact.

Badri Narayanan, a former Unilever veteran, has

Horticulture, Trade

India plans to increase banana exports to Russia, with a goal of reaching $1 billion in the coming years. This initiative follows successful trial shipments to nations such as the Netherlands via sea routes, indicating a movement away from traditional air freight and toward marine channels for exporting fresh goods

Due to low numbers and varying ripening timelines, Indian banana exports, as well as mangoes, pomegranates, and jackfruit, are currently primarily delivered by air. To address these constraints and increase export quantities, the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), a division of the Commerce Ministry, is actively establishing marine protocols. These protocols are intended to ease the export of fresh produce by sea, providing a more cost-effective and scalable method for accessing global markets.

“We are targeting Russia to increase banana exports and will attend buyer-seller meetings in the country,” said APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev. In 2023-24, India exported bananas worth $300 million, up from $176 million the previous year.

India, the world’s largest banana producer, has achieved impressive gains in the worldwide export market. The country’s proportion in banana exports increased from 0.21 per cent in 2013 to 1.74 per cent in 2023. This expansion reflects the government’s proactive attempts to promote banana growing and exports, including as financial assistance to farmers, improved infrastructure, and increased access to international markets.

Indian farmers’ use of sophisticated agricultural practices has also played an important influence in increasing banana yield and quality. By utilizing these technologies and focusing on maritime exports, India has the potential to considerably grow its presence in the global fruit market, with Russia emerging as an important trading partner.

As attempts to secure marine routes for exports ramp up, India’s ambitious $1 billion aim demonstrates the country’s commitment to expanding agricultural exports and establishing a significant position in the global banana trade.

India plans to increase banana exports to

Agribusiness, AgroPolicy, Collaborations, Company News, Horticulture, India, Start ups, Trade

These MoUs aim to bolster the export and value addition of Odisha’s fresh fruits and vegetables, empowering local farmers with better market access, fair pricing, and global recognition.

In a groundbreaking move to advance Odisha’s position in agricultural exports, Directorate of Horticulture, Government of Odisha in collaboration with Palladium Consulting India Pvt. Ltd., signed 11 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with private sector exporters at the prestigious Krushi Odisha 2025. The ceremony took place in the presence of esteemed dignitaries, including Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singhdeo, Principal Secretary (Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment) Arabinda Padhee, Director of Agriculture Prem Chand Chaudhury, Director of Horticulture Sri Nikhil Pavan Kalyan, and Director of Fisheries Ramashish Hazra.

This milestone agreement aims to bolster the export and value addition of Odisha’s fresh fruits and vegetables, empowering local farmers with better market access, fair pricing, and global recognition. The MoUs mark a significant stride in Odisha’s journey to establish itself as a leader in agricultural and horticultural exports, aligning with the state’s strategic vision for sustainable growth.

With nearly 10,000 participants, including farmers, women-led self-help groups (SHGs), Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), exporters, students, and agri-entrepreneurs, Krushi Odisha 2025 serves as a vibrant platform for knowledge exchange and innovation. Featuring 13 technical sessions, farmer-scientist interactions, and over 200 stalls showcasing advanced technology and products, the event underscores Odisha’s commitment to transforming its agricultural sector.

The event spotlighted the launch of the Amala Utkala crop information booklet, developed by the Directorate of Horticulture with Palladium as the Technical Support Unit. This booklet offers a comprehensive overview of Odisha’s crops, detailing varieties, production statistics, and market linkages, empowering farmers with critical insights for informed decisions and export opportunities. The event also celebrated sustainable farming by felicitating progressive farmers, SHGs, and FPOs from all 30 districts of Odisha. Key sessions on ‘Developing Organic Commodity Value Chains: An Opportunity for FPOs,’ and ‘Promoting climate resilient Horticulture through ag-tech adoption and innovation’ organized by the Directorate and Palladium Consulting India, highlighted adoption of climate-smart practices for sustainability, market-led organic production systems, emphasizing FPOs and women farmers. Experts shared valuable insights on supply chain efficiency, export potential, agri-entrepreneurship and role of ag-tech in development of sustainable food systems.

Nikhil Pavan Kalyan, IAS, Director of Horticulture, said, “Odisha is on a transformative path to position itself as a leader in agricultural exports. Our collaboration with exporters supported by Technical support Unit led by Palladium and the signing of these MoUs reflects our dedication to empowering farmers, enhancing value addition, and ensuring remunerative market access for our produce on a global scale.”

Biswajit Behera, Associate Director, Palladium Consulting India Pvt. Ltd., said, “At Palladium, we are committed to creating sustainable value chains and enabling inclusive economic growth. Through these MoUs and our partnership with the Government of Odisha, we aim to unlock the state’s agricultural potential, provide farmers with global market opportunities, and strengthen Odisha’s position in the export ecosystem.”

These MoUs aim to bolster the export

Agro chems – Chemicals, Company News, India

Centran is a unique blend of dual active ingredients for pest control and crop nourishment.

Insecticides (India) Limited (IIL), a leading name in the crop protection and nutrition industry, has launched, a new revolutionary Insecticide, Centran. This will be a pioneering solution for tackling stem borers in paddy. With its dual-action formula, Centran effectively controls stem bores and help the farmers to achieve healthier crops and better productivity.

Paddy is the backbone of the Indian farmers. Stem borers pose a significant threat to their hard work. To address this, new age insecticide Centran has been developed by the R&D Team of Insecticides (India) Limited. Centran is a unique blend of dual active ingredients for pest control and crop nourishment. The product supports robust root development, improves tiller growth, and delivers superior yields, ensuring a higher return on investment for growers.

Commenting on the launch, Rajesh Kumar Aggarwal, Managing Director of Insecticides (India) Limited, said, “Farmers often face the dual challenge of safeguarding their crops from pests while improving their productivity. Centran addresses both aspects with a thoughtful approach to pest control and crop health. By integrating advanced technology and understanding the specific needs of Indian agriculture, Centran helps to optimise farming efficiency while contributing to food security. At IIL, our focus remains on creating solutions that reduce losses, improve farm economics, and support a thriving agricultural ecosystem.”

Adding to the above, Dushyant Sood, Chief Marketing Officer, said “Centran is yet another product developed by the R&D Team of IIL, this not only protects crop against stem borers but also energizes the crop, with stronger root foundation and excellent tiller growth. We are confident that Centran will create waves in all the paddy growing regions of the country.

“With the usage of Centran, farmers can get strong & healthy stems, complete stem borer protection, vigorous tiller growth, deep, robust root system and visible healthier crop.” Mentioned Manoj Bhandari, Crop Manager – Rice.

With a strong distribution network and a legacy of empowering agriculture, IIL continues to bring impactful innovations that resonate with the needs of those who grow the nation’s food.

Centran is a unique blend of dual

R&D

Dr Himanshu Pathak, Secretary (DARE) and Director General (ICAR), visited ICAR-National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics on 1st January 2025. He interacted with the Directors and Heads of various ICAR institutes located in Bengaluru and discussed the ongoing ICAR activities. The discussions reflected the collaborative spirit and strategic alignment of these institutes in advancing agricultural and livestock research in the region

Dr Pathak inaugurated the prestigious World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) Reference Laboratory for Leptospirosis at ICAR-NIVEDI on 2nd January 2025. Leptospirosis, a major zoonotic disease caused by Leptospira bacteria, poses a significant public health challenge, especially in high-prevalence areas. The newly inaugurated laboratory at ICAR-NIVEDI’s advanced biosafety laboratory marks a key step in addressing this re-emerging disease. Equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, the facility supports research, development, and capacity-building programs, strengthening India’s efforts in the global fight against Leptospirosis.

The DG lauded the scientists of ICAR-NIVEDI for securing the prestigious WOAH recognition and their contributions to advancing zoonotic disease diagnostics and control. He also inaugurated the ‘Hoof & Health Gate,’ symbolizing the collaborative commitment between ICAR-NIVEDI and ICAR-IVRI towards livestock health and research excellence. Dr Pathak also highlighted ICAR-NIVEDI’s impactful work in livestock disease informatics, real-time monitoring, predictive analysis, and its efforts in AMR/AMU studies and zoonotic disease surveillance, crucial for protecting livestock health across the country.

Dr Baldev R Gulati, Director, ICAR-NIVEDI, briefed about the achievements and the ongoing activities of the institute.

Dr Pallab Chaudhury, Joint Director, ICAR-IVRI, Regional Campus, Bengaluru, also graced the occasion.

Dr Himanshu Pathak, Secretary (DARE) and Director

Acquaculture

Researchers from the ICAR-National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources have identified a new yellow catfish species, Horabagrus Obscurus, in Kerala’s Chalakudy River

Researchers from the ICAR-National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources have identified a new yellow catfish species, Horabagrus Obscurus, in Kerala’s Chalakudy River. Characterized by its greenish-brown mottled coloration, shorter barbels, and distinct genetic traits, the species coexists with the endangered Horabagrus Nigricollaris. This discovery, led by ICAR-NBFGR’s Centre for Peninsular Aquatic Genetics Resources and published in the Indian Journal of Fisheries, highlights the rich biodiversity of the Western Ghats.

Dr U.K. Sarkar, Director, ICAR-NBFGR, described the discovery as a significant achievement in protecting India’s aquatic resources. He highlighted the importance of conserving Horabagrus obscurus through initiatives like captive breeding and habitat restoration, calling it a vital step towards preserving the delicate ecosystems of the Western Ghats.

Researchers from the ICAR-National Bureau of Fish

Agribusiness, Company News, Farm Mechanisation, Finance, Funding, India, Machinery - Pre-harvesting, Machinery – Post-harvesting

The funds raised will be directed towards fostering innovation and building strong capabilities in vehicle engineering, vehicle software and battery technology.

 Moonrider an Electric Tractor Technology Company headquartered in Bangalore, has raised a seed round of US$2.2M (Rs.19 crores) co-led by AdvantEdge Founders and Micelio Technology Fund, in addition to a clutch of angel investors. Moonrider, founded in August 2023 by Anoop Srikantaswamy and Ravi Kulkarni, leverages their extensive backgrounds in vehicle engineering and electric vehicle R&D from the Volvo Group, Ola Electric & Olectra BYD. Moonrider offers a comprehensive range of heavy-duty electric tractors that significantly reduce operational costs for farmers and fleet operators.

The funds raised will be directed towards fostering innovation and building strong capabilities in vehicle engineering, vehicle software and battery technology. The company’s electric tractor recently captured significant attention at an agricultural event in Hyderabad, drawing interest from farmer producer organizations (FPOs), individual farm owners, and various stakeholders within the agricultural ecosystem across the country.

Commenting on the funding Anoop Srikantaswamy, co-founder and CEO of Moonrider, stated, “Our mission is to enhance farm profitability by empowering farmers to earn more, save more and produce more. Our electric tractors are designed to cater to diverse farming needs, delivering superior performance, boosting farmer income, and promoting climate-friendly farm mechanization. In recent months, we have forged strong partnerships with leading agri-players and fleet operators both in India and internationally. By leveraging our collective expertise, we aim to develop world-class solutions that elevate productivity. We are proudly Made in India, for the world”.

‘AdvantEdge’s fund thesis centers around accelerating the transition from the Internal Combustion Engine to Electric Vehicles and we see electric tractors as the next category since they are fifty percent cheaper to own and maintain,’ said Kunal Khattar, from AdvantEdge Founders, India’s leading mobility technology fund.

Shreyas Shibulal, founder, Micelio Fund stated, ‘We are very excited about our partnership with Anoop, Ravi and the entire Moonrider team. We believe we are at the right intersection point for electric tractors given the technology and business model evolutions. At Micelio Fund, we aim to back disruptive and sustainable innovations that push the envelope of clean mobility and Moonrider feels right at home.’

The funds raised will be directed towards

Finance, Funding, Investments

Sweden is contributing SEK 30 million (approximately CHF 2.4 million) to the Standards and Trade Development Facility (STDF) from 2024 to 2026 to help developing economies and least developed countries (LDCs) meet international food safety, animal and plant health standards for trade

The contribution was confirmed at a signing ceremony on 7 November attended by Ambassador Nina Tornberg of Sweden and the WTO‘s Financial Controller at the Finance and Corporate Services Division, John Breckenridge.

WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala said: “We thank Sweden for its continued generosity and commitment to the STDF, and to improving people’s lives through trade. For two decades, the STDF’s global partnership has successfully provided pathways to trading safely, enabling communities around the world to use trade to sustain inclusive development and growth. STDF’s support has helped small-scale producers in Africa, Asia and the Pacific, Latin America and the Caribbean meet standards and start exporting to regional and international markets, contributing to higher earnings and job creation, including for women and youth; supporting poverty reduction and food security; and creating ‘win-wins’ for development and the environment.

Sweden’s Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade, Benjamin Dousa, said: “STDF’s work to strengthen farmers’, producers’ and traders’ access to international food markets helps boost food security by facilitating trade flows while offering the potential to improve income opportunities for communities. Supporting and strengthening the synergies between trade and development cooperation is a key part of the Swedish Government’s reform agenda for development assistance and STDF’s work is well aligned with this objective”.

The donation underscores Sweden’s commitment to the STDF’s mission, bringing its total contributions to approximately CHF 17.86 million since 2005. Sweden has contributed CHF 66.5 million to WTO trust funds over the past 22 years.

The 2024-2026 contribution will be used to strengthen the ability of small-scale farmers, producers and traders to gain and maintain access to markets for food and agriculture products through the development and roll-out of collaborative and innovative projects to strengthen SPS capacity, knowledge sharing, and monitoring and evaluation of results.

Sweden’s long-standing collaboration has been key over the years to promote the economic inclusion benefits of STDF’s work, which has contributed to increasing capacity in developing economies through contributions to legislation, strategies, structures, and SPS-related processes, as well as improved implementation of trade-focused measures for food safety, plant, and animal health.

Target economies and sectors – including micro-, small- and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) – that have benefitted from STDF support have seen stronger export growth in plants, animals and foods. STDF projects have also contributed to enhancing sustainable economic growth and climate change resilience.

Together with other donors, Sweden has driven work to mainstream cross-cutting issues focused on gender and environment, which enables STDF’s work to achieve stronger and more sustainable results. In addition, Sweden is actively contributing towards developing the next STDF strategy for 2025-2030 and strengthening STDF’s Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning Framework with a view to further improving its performance and impact.

The STDF is a global multi-stakeholder partnership facilitating safe and inclusive trade, established by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), the World Bank Group, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the WTO, which houses and manages the partnership. The STDF responds to evolving sanitary and phytosanitary needs, drives inclusive trade, and contributes to sustainable economic growth and food security, in support of the United Nations’ Global Goals.

Sweden is contributing SEK 30 million (approximately

Dairy, Dairy

Omfed’s managing director, Vijay Amruta Kulange, announced on Monday that plans are on to establish model Khira Dhara Kendras (KDKs) in each panchayat in order to enhance milk production and sales

Kulange, who presided over a meeting of all unit in-charges and supervisors at the Cuttack Milk Union headquarters, emphasized the importance of developing more milk farmers in the state. He recommended everyone present at the meeting to develop a micro-plan for increasing milk output.

He also asked them to identify farmers at the grassroots level and involve them in the Mukhyamantri Kamadhenu Yojana (MKY) and Mukhyamantri Krushi Utkarsa Yojana (MKUY). “This will increase the number of dairy farmers in the state and increase milk production,” according to him.

Kulange emphasized the need of improving fodder cultivation, stating that cows will give more milk if they have access to sufficient fodder. “Farmers are urged to have female calves. Omfed provides farmers with a variety of facilities for producing and maintaining female calves. Everyone should work together to ensure that these benefits reach all farmers. Milk output rises as the number of female calves grows. That is why Omfed offers food, medicines, and medical services at reduced prices,” he explained.

The Omfed MD further stated that elaborate plans have been made to provide Omfed products to the Indian diaspora arriving in the state for the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas. “All arrangements have been made for the display and sale of Omfed products at the tourist destinations where the Indian diaspora will visit,” according to him.

Omfed has set up 21 stalls in Puri, Bhubaneswar, and Cuttack. “We are ready to welcome the Indian diaspora and making all-out efforts to ensure Omfed products, which are a symbol of Odia Asmita, reach them,” Kulange told reporters.

Digamber Nayak, Omfed’s technical advisor and the general manager of Cuttack Milk Union, was also present for the meeting.

Omfed's managing director, Vijay Amruta Kulange, announced

Agribusiness, Allied Industry

As coffee becomes more popular among urban consumers in a traditionally tea-loving nation, India’s out-of-home coffee industry is predicted to increase at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15-20 per cent, reaching $2.6-3.2 billion by 2028

According to a report by Redseer Strategy Consultants, the premium coffee segment (above Rs 200), which accounted for 46 per cent of the market in 2023, is expected to grow to 55-60 per cent of the market at a CAGR of 20-25 per cent, highlighting its dominant role in shaping India’s outside coffee landscape.

This sector focuses on affluent, sophisticated coffee drinkers through artisanal brewing and experience consumption.

The mass market (less Rs 100) had a 50 per cent market share in 2023 and is expected to fall to 30-35 per cent by 2028, expanding at an 8-10 per cent CAGR. While affordability remains its defining characteristic, the market provides little opportunities for premium differentiation, according to the report.

Meanwhile, the mid-price category (Rs 100-Rs 200), which accounted for only 4 per cent of the market in 2023, is predicted to expand to 8-10 per cent by 2028, with an excellent CAGR of 35-40 per cent. This space has enormous potential for launching specialized brews, making it a key driver of industry growth.

“Coffee has evolved from instant and traditional brewing to premium experiences. It is now a lifestyle product for Indian consumers, with the mid-priced category emerging as a whitespace to address the growing demand for inexpensive solutions that provide both quality and an enhanced experience,” said Rohan Agarwal, Partner at Redseer Strategy Consultants.

This market is ready for businesses to enter and provide high-quality, accessible specialty coffee solutions, altering India’s beverage landscape, he said.

While India’s outside coffee industry presents numerous prospects, firms must overcome significant difficulties.

“The intricacies of the supply chain make it difficult to ensure quality and timely delivery across regions. Finding the correct site in high-traffic areas such as malls and technology parks is critical, but it is also extremely competitive,” it noted.

As coffee becomes more popular among urban

Finance, Funding, Institutions, Investments, Microfinance, Schemes - Banks, Schemes - Govt, Schemes - NABARD

The second phase of the NabVentures Fund will fund businesses that address climate change concerns and foster innovation in the agriculture and rural sectors

Following the successful launch of its first fund, NabVentures, a subsidiary of the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), plans to announce a second round of funding in the coming fiscal year. According to NABARD Chairman Shaji K.V., this new effort, termed NavVentures Fund 2, will have a corpus of Rs 1,000 crore and will focus on companies that address climate change concerns in the rural financial ecosystem.

The bank’s first fund, launched last July under the name ‘Agri-Sure,’ had an initial corpus of Rs 750 crore, with NABARD and the Ministry of Agriculture contributing Rs 250 crore each, as well as Rs 250 crore from other institutions. The fund was established to encourage investments in innovative, technology-driven, high-risk, high-impact initiatives in agriculture and related fields.

Shaji K.V. stated that the next round of funding would prioritize ideas to increase agricultural productivity and address rural development concerns. “We believe that the next wave of productivity growth will come through innovations, and venture capital is essential to support these breakthroughs,” he told me. “NabVentures Fund 1 focused on agriculture and rural activities, but Fund 2 will integrate a strong climate component to help address environmental issues in rural India.”

The focus of NavVentures Fund 2 will concentrate on area-based pilot projects that attempt to demonstrate solutions capable of minimizing the effects of climate change. “As a development financing institution, we must establish use cases that demonstrate the potential of such efforts to address climate-related challenges. These solutions would be developed in India and tailored to the country’s specific requirements,” Shaji K.V. stated. He also stated that NABARD is in talks with international institutions such as the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) about bringing in external expertise for the project.

In addition to climate-related initiatives, NABARD is trying to increase the registration of fishery farmers. “We are urging state governments to enhance the registration process for fish producers. “Once these farmers are registered and linked to the activity, we can encourage banks to lend,” Shaji K.V. explained.

As of August 7, 2024, 426,666 Kisan Credit Cards (KCCs) had been distributed to fishermen and fisheries farmers. 75 million KCCs worth Rs 9.4 trillion have been granted to farmers in diverse sectors. NABARD also ensures that agricultural financing is available at fair rates, including an interest-subvention scheme for short-term crop loans. Under this initiative, farmers earn a 2 per cent interest subsidy on loans up to Rs 3 lakh. Farmers who repay their loans on or before the due date are entitled for an additional 3 per cent interest subsidy.

With the launch of the NavVentures Fund 2, NABARD seeks to not only stimulate agricultural innovation but also address growing climate concerns in rural regions, hence promoting the development of sustainable solutions specific to India.

The second phase of the NabVentures Fund

Agbiologicals, Agribusiness, Biofertilizers, Company News, India

Company plans to roll out its full range of bio-fertilizer products across key states such as Gujarat, Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, UP, Uttarakhand, MP, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Kerala.

Ahmedabad based agrochemical and biotechnology company, Super Crop Safe Ltd. announced the launch of Super Gold WP+, a revolutionary bio-fertilizer intended to significantly cut down on chemical fertilizers like urea and DAP while enhancing crop yields.

The company’s innovative offering, developed in its advanced Bio-Technology division, builds upon the successful Super Gold line and features an inoculant mycorrhiza blend that promotes better root growth and nutrient absorption.

Company plans to roll out its full range of bio-fertilizer products, including Super Gold WP+, across key states such as Gujarat, Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Kerala. Field trials have already shown promising results, and discussions are underway with potential distributors to expand market reach.

This product launch positions Super Crop Safe Ltd. to capture additional market share and drive growth in the high-value, high-margin bio-fertilizer segment. The company remains dedicated to leveraging its research-driven approach to develop sustainable solutions for farmers, ensuring a balance between agricultural productivity and environmental responsibility.

Company plans to roll out its full

Acquaculture, Allied Industry

Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Rajiv Ranjan Singh on Monday laid the foundation stone for 50 projects worth Rs 50 crore to enhance the northeast region’s fishery infrastructure, productivity and create job opportunities

The minister launched the ‘Organic Fisheries Cluster’ in the Soreng district for development of organic fisheries and aquaculture in Sikkim under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). Of the total 50 projects under PMMSY, a maximum of 24 projects will be implemented in Sikkim, followed by Assam (12), Tripura and Nagaland (3 each) and Meghalaya (1), according to an official statement. In Assam, an Integrated Aqua Park will be established in the Darrang district with a capacity to produce 150 tonnes of fish annually creating up to 2,000 job opportunities.


A large fish feed plant will come up in the Kamrup district with a capacity to produce 20,000 tonnes of feed annually while hatchery projects in various districts aim to produce 50 million spawns per year, significantly boosting local aquaculture. In Manipur, ice plants and cold storage units will be set up in Thoubal and Imphal districts to preserve fish produce and reduce post-harvest losses. Additionally, hatcheries focusing on locally important fish species will contribute to conserving biodiversity and enhancing fish production in the state.
The projects in Meghalaya will focus on promoting recreational fisheries in the East Khasi Hills District. This initiative, strategically located in a popular tourist area, is expected to attract visitors, generate local employment and enhance the region’s tourism appeal.


In Nagaland, three projects will include the construction of freshwater finfish hatcheries in the Mokokchung and Kiphire districts. These hatcheries will collectively produce 21 million fry annually, helping aquaculture and providing economic opportunities for tribal communities. In Tripura, the projects will include the establishment of ornamental fish rearing units and finfish hatcheries.

Sikkim will implement 24 projects which include the establishment of Recirculatory Aquaculture Systems (RAS) to promote sustainable fish farming, the construction of fish kiosks in Gangtok and other towns, and the development of ornamental fish rearing units. The minister also reviewed the implementation of PMMSY in northeastern states. Union Ministers of State S P Baghel and George Kurian and Fisheries Secretary Abhilaksh Likhi were present at the meeting.

Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and