Connect with:
Wednesday / February 5. 2025

logo
mobile-logo
Home2025 (Page 13)
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

Company News

Syngenta Crop Protection, LLC, a global leader in crop protection, and Gowan SeedTech LLC, a global, family-owned agriculture solutions business headquartered in Yuma, AZ, announce that they have entered into a sale agreement with Gowan acquiring Syngenta’s FarMore® Technology Vegetable Seed Treatment Platform in the United States

The FarMore Technology Platform is a precise on-seed application of separately registered seed protection products combined into proprietary recipes for use on vegetable crops. The transaction includes the divestment of certain specific Syngenta trademarks, recipes, registrations, and other assets used in the FarMore Technology Platform in the United States. Syngenta also has agreed to supply its proprietary vegetable seed treatment products to Gowan for its use in FarMore Technology offerings.

″We believe that with Gowan’s strategic focus on servicing U.S. vegetable growers and Syngenta’s active ingredient innovation, breeder-producers and seed technology companies alike will benefit from this transaction and our continuing collaboration,″ said Jeff Cecil, head of North America Crop Protection Marketing.

″We are looking forward to building on this precision application technology, with a renewed focus and expanded offerings in the future,″ said Alex Deckey, Gowan SeedTech business manager.

This transaction closed on December 30, 2024, and the financial terms of the transaction are not disclosed. Syngenta and Gowan will work together over the next several months to facilitate an orderly transition to maintain quality customer service for our business partners.

Syngenta Crop Protection, LLC, a global leader

Acquaculture, Agro Universities, India, Live Stock, R&D

The black-collared yellow catfish is important both ecologically and in ornamental trade, but it faces habitat loss and overfishing threats.

Researchers at the Centre for Peninsular Aquatic Genetic Resources, Kochi, under the ICAR-National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources, Lucknow, achieved a breakthrough in aquatic conservation by developing the first-ever captive breeding protocol for the endangered, black-collared yellow catfish (Horabagrus nigricollaris). Published in Aquaculture International, this study represents the first comprehensive research on the species since its discovery in the Chalakudy River, Kerala, in 1994.

The achievement underscores the importance of ex-situ conservation and offers opportunities for sustainable aquaculture, ensuring the survival of H. nigricollaris and other freshwater species of the Western Ghats.

Dr U. K. Sarkar, Director, ICAR-NBFGR, emphasised the efforts to integrate advanced science with community initiatives to preserve biodiversity while supporting livelihoods. Beginning in 2020, the team successfully bred the first-generation stock, a crucial step in conserving this endangered species listed on the IUCN Red List. The black-collared yellow catfish is important both ecologically and in ornamental trade, but it faces habitat loss and overfishing threats. ICAR-NBFGR released advanced fingerlings into the Chalakudy River and worked with local fish farmers to breed the species in captivity.

The black-collared yellow catfish is important both

Collaborations, Horticulture

Indo-Dutch Horticulture Technologies marked Kisan Diwas 2024 with an inspiring event at their Chafi, Bhimtal facility to honor farmers and promote collaboration between farmers and students. Celebrated under the “Unnati-Apple Initiative,” the event highlighted farmers’ invaluable contributions and emphasized innovation and knowledge sharing

CEO & Founder Dr. Sudhir Chadha virtually addressed the gathering, urging youth to stay rooted in agriculture, stating, “Do not leave your land; agriculture has a future.” Director Sushant Chadha led interactive brainstorming sessions, discussing real-world agricultural challenges and opportunities with students. Distinguished faculty members from Graphic Era Hill University, including Dr. Deepa Nainwal (HOD) and Dr. R. S. Rawat (Senior Professor), joined 14 agriculture graduates in “Chaupal – The Farmers Talk,” a unique knowledge exchange platform.

The event brought together 15 successful “Unnati-Apple farmers” from the Kumaon region and 14 horticulture graduates as part of a Community Learning Program, creating a melting pot of inspiration, innovation, technology, and tradition. It began with a soulful Saraswati Vandana by children from Ghingharani Primary School, setting a serene tone. The inaugural lamp lighting was led by Graphic Era Hill University’s HOD, farmers, and students.

Honoring the Heroes

Director Sushant Chadha inaugurated the program by honoring the farmers with “Proud to Be Farmer” badges, acknowledging their dedication & Adoption to advancing agriculture in the region. 15 Unnati Farmers named Ajay K.Pande, Kundan Singh, Prakash Chandra, Santoksh S. Bisht, Devendar Chousali, Arjun Bora, Mukesh Singh, Kishor Singh, Birendar Singh, Naveen S. Bisht. Chandan Singh, Bhaskar Tiwari, Raghuvar Singh, Narayan Singh, Vijay S. Bisht from the Kumaon Region of Bhedapani, Mukteshwar, Bhimtal, Pangot, Ramgarh were honored.

Farmers’ Journeys of Transformation

A key highlight was the “Chaupal – The Farmers Talk” session, where eight “Unnati-Apple” growers shared their inspiring journeys, challenges, and triumphs. These farmers have adopted Ultra-High Density Plantation (UHDP) Apple Technology under the “Unnati-Apple” a joint initiative of Coca-Cola India (CCIPL) and Indo-Dutch Horticulture Technologies (IDHTPL). Their stories exemplified resilience and innovation.

Ajay K. Pande shared his transition from a 14-year pharmaceutical career to apple farming in Ramgarh during the COVID-19 pandemic. Within two years under the Unnati-Apple Initiative, his efforts bore fruit. His quote, “Soch ka farq hai, Kaafi akela hoon, aur akela hi kaafi hoon,” resonated deeply with the audience, symbolizing determination and inspiring others to embrace agriculture.

Santoksh S. Bisht, a YouTube content creator and apple farmer from Pangot, overcame local skepticism to successfully cultivate apples at a lower elevation. Inspired by IDHTPL demo orchard, he established his own orchard, showcasing the endless possibilities for innovative young farmers.

Devendra Chousali highlighted remarkable yields of nearly 10 kg of apple fruit per tree within a year of planting, fetching Rs. 150-200 per kg price of apple in Haldwani Mandi, in comparison to Rs. 20-45/kg Traditional Apple fruit, in Just 1 year of plantation. Farmers from regions like Bhedapani, Ramgarh, Bhimtal, and Mukteshwar have now become role models, proving that apple cultivation in Uttarakhand is both feasible and profitable.

Engaging Student Perspectives

Students in their final year of B.Sc. Agriculture explored technical and commercial farming aspects during the sessions. Inspired by discussions on generating incomes of up to Rs. 10 lakhs per acre, Director Chadha encouraged them to collaborate with local farmers for hands-on learning. He emphasized scientific practices like soil analysis, reducing pesticide use, and improving fruit quality to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical application.

Student-Farmer Interactions

Pratham, a fourth-year student, asked about challenges farmers faced before adopting apple farming. Jagjit shared tips on organic fruit and vegetable cultivation. Aastha raised questions about on-field challenges, while Dr. Deepa Nainwal encouraged integrated farming techniques and eco-friendly pesticide use. Dr. R. S. Rawat stressed promoting self-employment and curbing youth migration from Uttarakhand. Discussions also delved into critical issues like carcinogenic pesticide use, the need for organic farming, and the importance of authentic plant materials and fertilizers.

Farmers proposed the establishment of a “Plant Health Clinic,” an idea Director Chadha suggested developing together with university students.

Closing Remarks and Future Directions
In his closing remarks, Mr. Sushant Chadha shared how his SELP Landmark Community Learning Project has enabled him to work with school and university students, bringing farming closer to them through an experiential learning program to help them “connect with their roots”.

He highlighted the critical role of the farming sector in ensuring a sustainable future and emphasized the importance of clean, healthy, and pest-free produce for future generations. He underscored the potential of young horticulture graduates to elevate the sector and introduced the “Grow-Together, Sell-Together” concept within university campuses, where students not only cultivate crops but also engage in commercial selling, paving the way for future startups.

Mr. Chadha presenting appreciation certificates to the farmers, honoring their dedication and contributions, He also reiterated the potential of young horticulture graduates to elevate the agricultural sector, fostering innovation and progress through collaboration with farmers.

Indo-Dutch Horticulture Technologies marked Kisan Diwas 2024

People

Dr Vibha Dhawan is Director General of TERI – The Energy and Resources Institute & holds a Ph.D. in Biotechnology and is a recognized leader in sustainability. She has led groundbreaking research on climate solutions, agriculture, and energy systems and has driven policies and practices that promote environmental stewardship

Dr Vibha Dhawan’s long association with The Energy and Resources Institute dates back to 1985. During 2005-2007 she led TERI School of Advanced Studies in the capacity of Vice-Chancellor. She is a Fellow of the National Academy of Sciences, India and is currently also serving as an Adjunct Professor, at Consul General South Asia Partnership, Michigan State University. Being driven by a deep academic and research interest, Dr Dhawan has authored 6 books and over 50 publications, which have added immense value in scientific research.

Dr Dhawan’s thought leadership and engagement in research as well as policy development, both at the national and international level is widely acknowledged. She is currently a task force member of National Committees with the Department of Biotechnology, the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council, and the Biotech Consortium India. Dr Dhawan is currently a member of the Networks Strategy Council that advises Sustainable Development Solutions Network – a global initiative for the United Nations and was previously the Co-Chair of the T20 Task Force 4 on Refuelling Growth: Clean Energy and Green Transitions. Under her able leadership, the National Centre of Excellence in Green Port & Shipping, in collaboration with Indian Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, was established at TERI campus.

She played a pivotal role as Co-ordinator for the Asia Pacific Consortium on Agriculture Biotechnology (APCoAB); as Advisor to the Director General, The International Maize and Wheat Improvement Centre (CIMMYT) as well as Deputy Director, Research Partnerships & Co-ordination with the Borlaug Institute for South Asia. She has served on the boards of prestigious organizations in India and overseas including Jawahar Lal Nehru University, Ambedkar University, Ayurvet Foundation and Centre for Agriculture and Bioscience International (CABI).

Dr Dhawan was instrumental in establishing the highly successful Micropropagation Technology Park at TERI. Her other major achievements include developing e-contents for the post-graduate programme in biotechnology for the University Grants Commission. Her recent research interests are in the area of biofuels.

She was the key lead for the DBT-TERI Centre on Integrated Production of Advanced Biofuels and Biocommodities. Her role as an advisor to the Late Tarun Gogoi, the former Chief Minister of Assam specifically in the field of Bioresources and Biotechnology is worth placing on record.

The honour bestowed upon Dr Dhawan as one of Game-Changers from India by H.E. Sheikh Nahayan Bin Mabarak Al Nahayan, a respected Cabinet Member and the Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence in the UAE is another feather in her cap. She has been also conferred with the Woman in Agriculture Award, and Social Impact Leadership Award in 2023. Several other awards Dr Dhawan won include Indian Women Achievers Sammaan 2017 by NRI Achievers; Women Leadership Agriculture Award 2016 by the Indian Council of Food & Agriculture; First Biotech Product and Process Development and Commercialization Award of the Department of Biotechnology in 2000, the Kamal Kumari National Award for Science and Technology and the first All India Biotech Association (AIBA) award in 1998.

Dr Vibha Dhawan is Director General of

Allied Industry, Animal Health

ICAR-Central Sheep and Wool Research Institute, Avikanagar launched a groundbreaking innovation in the field of sheep breeding – the Mobile Artificial Insemination Laboratory for sheep, aptly named Avi MAIL. The facility aims to revolutionize sheep breeding practices by bringing estrus synchronization and artificial insemination (AI) services directly to farmers’ doorsteps

Artificial insemination has been underutilized in the sheep industry due to challenges such as the ewe’s complex cervical canal and the limited 8-10 hour window for using liquid chilled semen. To address these issues, Avi MAIL was developed to bring AI technology directly to farmers, enabling breed improvement programs. The mobile lab ensures hygienic semen collection, evaluation, and processing from elite rams in a sterilized environment. It also offers awareness and health camps for farmers. Avi MAIL is adaptable for use with other livestock, including goats, pigs, and horses.

The Avi MAIL received widespread acclaim from Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare; Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh Alias Lallan Singh, Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying; Prof S.P.S. Baghel, Union Minister of State, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Dr Himashu Pathak, Secretary (DARE) and Director General (ICAR), Dr Sanjay Kumar, Chairman, ASRB, Dr Praveen Malik, CEO, Agrinnovate, Dr O.P. Choudhary, Former Joint Secretary (NLM), Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying along with other ministers, senior officials, and experts.

Dr Arun Tomar, Director, ICAR-CSWRI, emphasized the transformative potential of Avi MAIL. He also spoke about the significant milestone in making advanced reproductive technologies accessible to farmers, particularly in remote and nomadic regions. By overcoming the limitations of conventional AI methods, Avi MAIL enables efficient breed improvement programs, paving the way for enhanced sheep productivity and economic growth in the livestock sector, he added.

Developed by Dr Ajit Singh Mahla and his team, Avi MAIL offers a cost-effective, complete AI solution for sheep breeding in the field, making it ideal for scaling up programs across India. Dr Mahla highlighted that despite India having the world’s second-highest sheep population and seven decades of successful use of Artificial Insemination (AI) in farm animals, the country has yet to achieve significant AI coverage, struggling to reach even four-digit numbers nationwide.

Avi MAIL was deployed in five villages in the Tonk and Jaipur districts of Rajasthan, where AI was successfully performed on 450 sheep from 10 farmers, resulting in a lambing rate of 58%. This success demonstrates Avi MAIL’s potential to enhance sheep productivity and support the economic growth of smallholder farmers.

The innovation has great potential for adoption by animal husbandry departments, research institutes, NGOs, and entrepreneurs involved in breed improvement. With the rise of commercial sheep farming and increasing demand for artificial insemination (AI), especially among progressive farmers, Avi MAIL offers a cost-effective, field-ready solution for AI, helping propagate superior germplasm like Avishaan and Avi-Dumba sheep. This can significantly boost sheep productivity in India. The successful launch of Avi MAIL reinforces ICAR-CSWRI’s leadership in livestock productivity innovation, bringing modern breeding practices directly to farmers and ensuring a sustainable, prosperous future for India’s sheep industry.

ICAR-Central Sheep and Wool Research Institute, Avikanagar

Agribusiness, Company News, Finance, Horticulture, India

The Company will utilise the funds to expand climate-resilient patented varieties of table grapes and citrus and augment its packhouse and processing capacities for fruits and vegetables.

Sahyadri Farms Post Harvest Care Limited, India’s largest fully integrated and tech-enabled horticulture platform, has raised Rs 390 Crore from Europe-based PE fund responsibility, and US-based PE fund GEF Capital Partners, along with participation from all existing investors-FMO, Proparco, Incofin and Korys.

The Company will utilise the funds to expand climate-resilient patented varieties of table grapes and citrus and augment its packhouse and processing capacities for Fruits and Vegetables (FnV) and value-added products like aseptic, IQF, freeze-dried, juice concentrates and dry fruits.

Sahyadri Farms operates an end-to-end FnV supply chain from facilitating farmers/FPOs to grow international- quality produce to primary/secondary processing to marketing the products to marquee international and domestic customers.

Started in 2011 by a handful of grape farmers under the visionary leadership of Vilas Shinde, the Company has grown to become a multi-crop, multi-product and multi-channel distribution network providing digitally enabled fully integrated value chain to 25,000+ registered farmers and more than 200 institutional clients across 40+ countries.

The Company raised its first institutional round of Rs 310 Crore in September 22 from FMO, Proparco, Incofin and Korys. In last two years, the Company has nearly doubled its revenue to Rs 1,482Cr in FY24 with healthy profitability and with this additional funding, the business is projected to further grow at 40 per cent CAGR over the next five years.

The Company will utilise the funds to

Agribusiness, AgroPolicy, Climate, Collaborations

The government has decided that now the crop loss will be assessed correctly and accurately through satellite based i.e. remote sensing. As way forward towards bridging the price gap between the producing and consuming states, the government has decided to bear the cost of transportation and storage as well.

Union Minister said that PM Crop Insurance Scheme is the world’s largest crop insurance scheme. In this, loanee applications are 876 lakh and non-loanee applications are 552 lakh. A total of 14.28 crore farmers have applied, 602 lakh hectare area is insured and the gross insured amount is Rs 2,73,049 crore. 4 crore farmers have benefited from the scheme. Since the inception of the scheme, Rs 17 thousand crore has been given to the farmer brothers in the form of claim.

Union Minister informed that under the Agri Infra Fund, lending institutions will give loans of Rs 1 lakh crore. An amount of Rs 51,783 crore has been approved for projects worth Rs 85,314 crore till 2024. Out of this, Rs 39,148 crore has been covered under scheme benefits. An investment of Rs 85,208 crore has been raised in the agriculture sector from the approved projects.

Shri Chouhan said that it is also necessary to pay attention to the legalization of crops. States are also making better efforts in this direction. Be it grains or horticulture, production has increased continuously. Food grain production was 265.05 million tonnes in 2013-14, which increased to 328.85 million tonnes in 2023-24. Also, horticulture production was recorded at 352.23 million tonnes. Approval to allocate an amount of Rs 99,311.36 lakh to 15 states as central share to promote the cultivation of oil palm in 1.38 lakh hectare area under National Edible Oil Mission.

Regarding the crop insurance scheme, he told that earlier the loss was assessed manually through crop cutting now the Central government has decided that it will now be done through satellite based i.e. remote sensing. This will ensure correct and accurate assessment of crop loss and the amount will be transferred at the right time through DBT, if any insurance company delays in giving the claim, then it will have to pay 12 per cent interest on the amount. He told that the Center will give its share of the amount immediately. He appealed to the states to also make arrangements to give money immediately in such a situation. He said that in the interest of farmers, many arrangements are also being made for weather based crops and many decisions have been taken in the interest of farmers in the recent past.

He told that in the case of top (tomato, onion and potato) crops, to bridge the price difference between the producer and consumer states during the peak time of harvesting, the government has decided to bear the cost of transportation and storage for the work done by the central nodal agencies. States should come forward to implement the Price Deficit Payment Scheme as an alternative to oilseeds, for this the coverage has been increased from the existing 25 per cent to 40 per cent of the state production of oilseeds. The period has also been increased from 3 months to 4 months. Moisture limit in soybean for 2024-25 has been increased from 12 per cent to 15 per cent. So far 11.41 lakh metric tonnes of soybean has been purchased from 6 states and it is still going on. Union Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan said that agriculture is the backbone of the Indian economy and farmers are its soul, serving farmers is worship of God for us. Believing this, the Agriculture Department is working in collaboration with all you states. He said that I am confident that we will share suggestions together regarding the budget, improvement in schemes etc. and we will move forward together in that direction.

The government has decided that now the

Agbiologicals, Agribusiness, Company News, Trade, World

Under MustGrow, this division will market and sell the existing NexusBioAg product lines, MustGrow’s owned products and technology, and potentially other third-party products.

Canada based MustGrow Biologics Corp.  announced the execution and closing of an Asset Purchase Agreement (the “APA”) with Univar Solutions Canada Ltd. for the acquisition of certain assets that represent NexusBioAg.

MustGrow’s acquisition of NexusBioAg positions the Company as a fully integrated provider of biological and regenerative agriculture solutions with a sales, marketing and distribution division in Canada and the opportunity to expand the division’s operations into the U.S. The consideration payable to Univar Solutions pursuant to the APA is (i) a deferred cash payment of approximately $1,662,000.00, subject to adjustment in accordance with the terms of the APA; and (ii) earn-out payments equal to a specified percentage amount of gross margin on certain itemized products sold by MGRO in 2025 and 2026. There are no finder fees payable in connection with the acquisition and the parties are acting at arm’s length. The TSX Venture Exchange has conditionally approved the acquisition, subject to customary post-closing requirements.

Under MustGrow, this division will market and sell the existing NexusBioAg product lines, MustGrow’s owned products and technology, and potentially other third-party products. The NexusBioAg sales and marketing team brings extensive experience in the biological and regenerative agriculture sector to MustGrow’s operations, supported by a broad industry network that is uniquely positioned to drive growth and innovation. The NexusBioAg team has well-established relationships with growers, channel partners, and industry influencers. They are adept at commercialization of new biological and regenerative products as well as at leveraging a proven business model. The Company expects significant sales synergies from the acquisition driven by enhanced market access and reduced distribution costs for MustGrow’s owned products and technology.

“This synergistic acquisition solidifies MustGrow’s position as a fully integrated biological and regenerative agriculture company with an established sales, marketing and distribution division offering the existing NexusBioAg product lines and supporting the commercialization of MustGrow’s own innovative products and technologies. Just like MustGrow’s own products and technologies, we are committed to growing the NexusBioAg division and we welcome the new team to MustGrow,” said Corey Giasson, President & CEO of MustGrow.

Under MustGrow, this division will market and

Agbiologicals, Agribusiness, Company News, Herbicides, India, Trade

 This is amongst the largest acquisitions of Crystal, which shall boost its EBITDA by 20% while bolstering its leadership in the rice herbicide market.

Crystal Crop Protection Limited, a pioneer in agricultural innovation, announced the global acquisition of the active ingredient Ethoxysulfuron from Bayer AG for sales in certain Asian countries. This acquisition mark Crystal’s 13th strategic transaction and second acquisition from Bayer after the acquisition of Indian Cotton, Pearl Millet and Mustard seed portfolio in 2021.

Backed by International Finance Corporation (IFC), Crystal Crop is an R&D-based crop solution company delivering advanced, farmer-centric solutions for over 4 decades. This is amongst the largest acquisitions of Crystal, which shall boost its EBITDA by 20 per cent while bolstering its leadership in the rice herbicide market.

The transaction brings the trusted Sunrice trademark and the mixture product containing Ethoxysulfuron, along with all registrations. Ethoxysulfuron is known for effectively controlling broad-leaved weeds and sedges in rice and cereal crops, making it a key addition to Crystal’s portfolio. The acquisition aligns with Crystal’s mission of providing cost-effective, sustainable solutions by manufacturing the product locally, resulting in enhanced cost synergies and accessibility for farmers in India, South Asia, and South-East Asia (including Vietnam, Bangladesh, Thailand, and Pakistan).

Commenting on the acquisition, Ankur Aggarwal, Managing Director, Crystal Crop Protection Limited, said: “This acquisition is a testament to our focus on strengthening our portfolio with solutions that truly make a difference to farmers’ lives. With this transaction, we are taking a step forward in empowering farmers with advanced weed management solutions. By leveraging our strong distribution network and manufacturing capabilities, we will ensure that these solutions reach farmers efficiently across India, South Asia, and South-East Asia.”

Crystal’s understanding of the rice ecosystem makes this acquisition a natural fit, enhancing its ability to support farmers with comprehensive solutions from seed to harvest. The company’s growing presence in South Asia and South-East Asia through its partnerships and acquisitions strengthens its position as a leader in the agricultural solutions market.

Crystal Crop Protection has built a reputation for driving inorganic growth through strategic acquisitions. This transaction follows the acquisition of I&B Seeds earlier in the year 2024, marking its consistent efforts to diversify and expand its offerings in crop protection, seeds, and farm mechanization. Over the years, Crystal has acquired brands from leading global players like Syngenta, FMC, Bayer, BASF and Dow-Corteva continually reinforcing its position as an industry leader.

 This is amongst the largest acquisitions of

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