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Acts & Schemes – Centre, Agbiologicals, Agri Genomics, Agribusiness, Agro chems – Chemicals, Agro chems – Fertilizers, Agro chems – Pesticides, Agro Universities, AgroPolicy, Agrotech, Allied Industry, Biostimulants, Cold Storage, Environment, Finance, Foodgrains, Fruits, Funding, Horticulture, Industry Reports / Analysis, Inputs, Institutions, Interaction, Investments, Logistics, Microfinance, Nature, Oilseeds, Opinions, Organic, Packaging & Labelling, Pulses, Schemes - Banks, Schemes - Govt, Soil Health, Speciality Chemicals, Supply Chain, Sustainability, Trade, Transportation, Vegetables, Warehousing

Innovation, Inclusion & Investment are the three engines driving the roadmap for Indian Economy in coming times

The Economic Survey expects India to not only increase the competitiveness at the grassroot level but also develop much needed AI framework for reviving the industry landscape of the nation. The industry is not only looking at ground implementation of big bang legislative policies, but also reforms in tax ecosystems and EoDB.

As a part of introducing Government efforts towards acceleration of growth in Agriculture sector for 2025-26, along with securing inclusive development, invigorating investments and ensuring that farmers make India the ” Food Basket of the World” the Govt launches PM Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojna in partnership with states, covering 100 districts with low productivity, with an agenda of enhancing crop intensity, credit parameters, adoption of crop diversification, along with providing infrastructure for post harvest storage, irrigation facility and credit linkages thereby benefitting 1.7 crore farmers. The Government will also launch Building Rural Prosperity and Resilience Program to address under employment in agriculture as well as generation of employment opportunities to check labour migration.

Reforms are indeed the fuel of India’s development journey. As way forward towards Viksit Bharat, 100 developing agri-districts will be covered in Phase-1. National Mission on Edible Oilseeds to gain traction this year.

The nation has made concerted efforts and achieved self sufficiency in pulses resulting in increase in the consumption of pulses. To fuel this agenda, a 6 year initiative titled “Mission for Atmanirbharta in Pulses” will be launched focusing on Tur, Urad and Masoor.

To further boost agri sector, the Government shall also launch National Mission on High Yielding Seeds, Mission on Enhancing Cotton Productivity as well as fund the re-opening of 3 dormant urea plants in Eastern region. The Govt demonstrates a steadfast commitment towards setting up of Urea plant in Namrup, Assam, to further augment fertiliser supply.

Focusing on development of key agri commodities in Bihar, Finance Minister spoke on establishing Makhana Board for value addition of foxnuts produced in the state. Also, National Institute of Food Technology shall be set up in the state to provide strong fillip to food processing activites in East.

Innovation, Inclusion & Investment are the

AgroPolicy

The Agricultural district programme is expected to benefit 1.7 crore farmers.

 While presenting Union Budget 2024-25, Nirmala Sitharaman Union Finance Minister outlined specific proposals, beginning with agriculture as a key focus. Under the Prime Minister Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana, a new initiative inspired by the success of the Aspirational District Programme. The government will launch an agricultural district programme in partnership with states. This initiative is expected to benefit 1.7 crore farmers.

 Through convergence of existing schemes and specialised measures, the programme will target 100 districts with low productivity, moderate crop intensity, and below-average credit parameters. The program aims to boost agricultural productivity, adopt crop diversification, sustainable farming practices, enhance post-harvest storage at the Panchayat and block levels, improving irrigation facilities, and facilitating availability to both long-term and short-term credit.

The Agricultural district programme is expected to

AgroPolicy, India, Oilseeds, Pulses

This initiative will run over the next four years, ensuring support and guaranteed procurement for farmers.

 Nirmala Sitharaman Union Finance Minister presented Union Budget 2024-25 in the parliament today. The FM announced that the government will launch a 6-year mission aimed at achieving self-reliance in pulses, with a special focus on tur and masoor. Central agencies such as NAFED and NCCF will be prepared to procure these three pulses from farmers who register with the agencies and enter into agreements. This initiative will run over the next four years, ensuring support and guaranteed procurement for farmers.

This initiative will run over the next

Acquaculture, Agribusiness, AgroPolicy, India, Live Stock, Trade

Country’s seafood exports have risen from Rs 46,662.85 crore in FY-20 to Rs 60523.89 crore in 2023-24, reflecting a growth of 29.70 per cent.

The Economic Survey highlights that in the fiscal year FY24, the value of agri-food exports, which includes processed food exports, reached USD 46.44 billion, constituting roughly 11.7 per cent of India’s total exports. Notably, the share of processed food exports within agri-food exports has risen from 14.9 per cent in FY18 to 23.4 per cent in FY24.

The Economic Survey conveys that the government has implemented several initiatives to enhance the fisheries sector’s production which include Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) to boost aquaculture productivity and improve fisheries management, Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF) to provide financial support for developing infrastructure in both marine and inland fisheries. Other initiatives include the establishment of fishing harbours and fish landing centres, the adoption of innovative production technologies such as cages, Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS), bio flocs, pens, and raceways. Due to these initiatives, total fish production (both inland and marine) has surged to 184.02 lakh tonnes in FY 23, up from 95.79 lakh tonnes in FY14. Furthermore, India’s seafood exports have risen from Rs 46,662.85 crore in FY-20 to Rs 60523.89 crore in 2023-24, reflecting a growth of 29.70 per cent. Under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PM-MKSSY), the National Fisheries Digital Platform (NFDP) successfully mobilized and registered 16.35 lakh fish producers, workers, vendors, and processors within a short timeframe of just four months.

Country’s seafood exports have risen from Rs

Agribusiness, AgroPolicy

The livestock sector alone represented 5.5 per cent of the total GVA, reflecting its dynamic growth trajectory, with a robust Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 12.99 per cent.

Nirmala Sitharaman, Union Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs tabled Economic Survey 2024-25, in the Parliament today. The Economic Survey states that Allied Sectors have become key drivers of agriculture growth. The livestock sector alone represented 5.5 per cent of the total GVA, reflecting its dynamic growth trajectory, with a robust Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 12.99 per cent. The economic significance of this sector is clearly illustrated by its escalating output value, which reached an astounding 17.25 lakh crore rupees (equivalent to US$205.81 billion) in FY23. Among the various branches of livestock production, the milk industry stands out, generating over Rs11.16 lakh crore (US$133.16 billion) in revenue. Government has supported the sector through interventions which include the Rashtriya Gokul Mission for the development and conservation of indigenous bovine breeds, the Livestock Health and Disease Control Program to enhance the well-being of livestock, Multipurpose AI Technicians in Rural India (MAITRIs) to deliver breeding inputs to farmers’ doorstep. In the last 4 years, 38736 MAITRIs have been inducted under Rashtriya Gokul Mission.

The livestock sector alone represented 5.5 per

AgroPolicy, India

In recent years, the agriculture sector in India has shown robust growth, averaging 5 per cent annually from FY17 to FY23, demonstrating resilience despite challenges.

India’s agricultural sector has demonstrated remarkable resilience in recent years, marked by consistent growth rates, which can be largely attributed to various government initiatives to enhance productivity, promote crop diversification, and increase farmers’ income, states the Economic Survey 2024-25, tabled by Union Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs, Nirmala Sitharaman in the Parliament.

The Economic Survey highlights that the ‘Agriculture and Allied Activities’ sector has long been the backbone of the Indian economy, playing a vital role in national income and employment. In recent years, the agriculture sector in India has shown robust growth, averaging 5 per cent annually from FY17 to FY23, demonstrating resilience despite challenges. In the second quarter of the 2024-25 fiscal year, the agriculture sector recorded a growth rate of 3.5 per cent. The Gross Value Added (GVA) of agriculture and related sectors, have improved from 24.38 per cent in the fiscal year FY15 to an impressive 30.23 per cent by FY23. Consistent and stable growth of agriculture at around 5 per cent, with a 20 per cent share of overall GVA in the economy, will contribute 1 per cent growth to GVA.

In recent years, the agriculture sector in

Agribusiness

In a landmark achievement for farmer-led enterprises, three Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs) from Odisha were recognized at the prestigious Farmers Business Summit & Leadership Award 2025, organized by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) in Gosaba, West Bengal. Hosted in collaboration with the Government of West Bengal, ICAR-NBFGR, and the State Bank of India, the summit brought together FPCs from 12 Indian states and over 1,200 farmers. This event served as a critical platform for knowledge exchange, business networking, and policy discussions focused on enhancing agricultural exports and integrating smallholder farmers into global value chains

For the first time, Odisha’s FPCs—Madanamohana Farmers Producer Cooperative Society Ltd, Sabujabisoi Farmer Producer Company Limited, and Sabujasanatanpali Farmer Producer Company Limited—were honored with Leadership Awards for their excellence in collective marketing, value addition, and leadership in agricultural exports.

“We never imagined that fresh mangoes from our farms could reach international markets. This recognition is a source of motivation for other farmers in the state. We thank the Government of Odisha, Palladium, and APEDA for their invaluable support,” said Prabhat Mahapatra, CEO, Madanamohana Farmer Producer Cooperative Society Ltd, Odisha.

The awards mark a turning point in Odisha’s agricultural landscape. Until recently, FPOs in the state faced significant challenges in accessing profitable markets. However, through strategic interventions, these organizations have successfully positioned their produce—including fresh mangoes—on the global stage, improving price realization and market access for smallholder farmers.

Palladium, in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ empowerment, Government of Odisha and APEDA, shas played a pivotal role in this transformation. Through targeted initiatives, Palladium has facilitated the mobilization and market-oriented capacity-building of FPOs along with creating sustainable export linkages with remunerative international markets. This has not only improved the profitability and competitiveness of Odisha’s smallholder farmers but has also reinforced the state’s position as an emerging hub for high-quality agricultural exports.

The recognition of Odisha’s FPCs highlights the potential of farmer-led enterprises in integrating smallholder farmers into global supply chains. Strengthening FPOs with access to international markets, financial linkages, and technical expertise can enhance rural incomes, drive inclusive economic growth, and support sustainable development goals.

At the summit, Debarati Ghatak, Private Sector Engagement Specialist at Palladium, emphasized, “Palladium is proud to support and celebrate the achievements of Odisha’s FPCs. By providing them with essential guidance and resources, we are committed to enhancing their global market presence and ensuring their long-term sustainability in competitive agricultural trade.”

As Odisha emerges as a key player in India’s agricultural export landscape, its success story serves as an inspiration for farmer cooperatives worldwide. State government’s ongoing initiatives, such as the Promotion and Stabilization of Farmer Producer Organizations in Odisha, are ensuring that smallholder farmers receive the necessary support to thrive in competitive markets. These efforts contribute to improved income opportunities for rural farmers, stronger market resilience against price fluctuations and sustainable business models for FPOs and farmer collectives.

With continued investment in capacity-building, policy support, and market integration, Odisha’s success reinforces the need for global collaboration to empower smallholder farmers, strengthen agribusiness ecosystems, and drive sustainable rural development.

As the state prepares for the upcoming mango harvesting season, this achievement sets the stage for more FPOs to explore international market opportunities, adopt best practices, and contribute to a more inclusive global agricultural trade system.

In a landmark achievement for farmer-led enterprises,

Agribusiness, AgroPolicy, Allied Industry

During the plenary session on “Agri Industry & Food Processing” on the second day of the Utkarsh Odisha – Make In Odisha Conclave 2025 on Wednesday, the Odisha government signed 17 memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with different investors

A new policy on cold storage in the state was introduced on the occasion by Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Singh Deo, who is also the Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment.

“Now is the best time to invest in Odisha,” Singh Deo said in a statement marking the event.

“The food processing industry in Odisha is capable of bringing new innovations,” he continued. Under the Chief Minister’s Agriculture Industry Scheme, we are promoting farmers or business owners. Our government is pursuing digital marketing and smart farming. Our government is focused on organic farming.

Singh Deo urged investors to visit Odisha and put money into the state’s food processing and agro-industrial sectors. We will introduce a new revolution in this industry if young entrepreneurs step up as well. A new cold storage policy has been introduced by the state government.

Odisha has a lot of promise, according to Gokulananda Mallick, the state’s minister for the development of fisheries and animal resources. The state is prepared to take the lead. We have a lot of room to establish agro-based businesses. Compared to other nations, we lag significantly behind in this area.

There is a lot of promise in Odisha. Odisha is prepared to lead. We are capable of establishing an agro-industry. Odisha, however, lags far behind in terms of exporting and producing fish. across Odisha, the seafood business is only around Rs 2,000 to 3,000 crore, compared to Rs 60,000 crore across India. We must raise it. One of the cornerstones of a thriving Odisha would be young entrepreneurs. Mangoes, dragon fruit, turmeric, and other products are exported from Odisha.

During the plenary session on "Agri Industry

Agribusiness, India, Interaction, Start ups, Sustainability

In an interview with AgroSpectrum, Avinash Rao, CEO & Co-Founder, Agrileaf highlighted the innovations towards ensuring ecological balance and sustainability as well as the impact of such remarkable milestones in rural development.

In December 2024, Agrileaf, one of India’s leading producers and exporters of areca leaf dinnerware, secured funding of Rs 16 crore from Capital A and Samarsh Capital. With the additional funding, Agrileaf is expanding its production capacity thereby enhancing its line of biodegradable dinnerware and packaging and promoting community involvement. Located in Dakshina Kannada, the company’s cutting-edge facility integrates sophisticated robotics, AI-powered quality control, and an effective areca leaf harvesting network creating over 1,000 job possibilities, which supports the economic growth of rural areas.  In an interview with AgroSpectrum, Avinash Rao, CEO & Co-Founder, Agrileaf highlighted the innovations towards ensuring ecological balance and sustainability as well as the impact of such remarkable milestones in rural development. Edited excerpts:

What is the process involved in turning the areca palm leaves into disposable plates and food platters?

We get dried, fallen areca sheaths from nearby farmers, who receive a reasonable payment for the raw material. The collected dry areca leaf sheaths are soaked in water, cleaned, and positioned so that the water drains entirely. After being cleaned, the leaves are pressed into moulds with different sizes and eye-catching patterns based on the needs of the market. A hot moulding procedure is used to sterilise the clean fibre and give the finished product its final shape. Before being packaged and shipped, these biodegradable plates undergo a last quality check and finishing process. After being packaged per the needs of the customer and shipped securely, the fallen leaf plates are still usable six months later. Mostly women farmers are involved in this activity. We pay them between Rs 15,000 and Rs 20,000 per annum.

During processing, the leaves are washed, and hot pressed in moulds to give shape to the plate. Thus, the plates become rigid naturally. In arecanut plantations as such, no harmful chemicals are sprayed. Mostly Copper Sulphate is sprayed as a fungicide. Often lime is also used. The natural layer of film on the leaf sheath keeps the product USP on top.

What are the key environmental benefits of using areca palm leaves compared to traditional plastic or paper plates?

Compared to paper plates where huge energy is wasted to obtain the final product, arecanut plates are manufactured using green energy without depleting water resources or using harmful chemicals for processing. Moreover, areca palm leaf plates are entirely biodegradable and decompose naturally, unlike plastic plates which can take hundreds of years to break down. This reduces landfill waste and the environmental footprint of disposable products. The leaves are collected without harming the tree, and no chemicals or artificial fertilisers are required in their cultivation. This makes the production of these plates more environmentally friendly compared to the resource-intensive processes involved in making plastic or paper plates.

As discussed earlier, the production process of areca palm leaf plates typically involves minimal processing, using no harmful chemicals or energy-intensive machinery. In contrast, plastic plate production relies on petrochemicals and energy-heavy processes, while paper plates require significant water and energy resources for pulp production. Unlike paper plates, which contribute to deforestation, areca palm leaf plates are made from fallen leaves, ensuring no trees are cut down. The leaves naturally shed and are collected, avoiding any additional strain on forests. Areca palm plates are chemical-free, unlike some paper plates that may be coated with wax or synthetic chemicals to make them waterproof or more durable. This ensures that the plates are safe for both human use and the environment.

Speaking from a sustainability point of view, the plates can be composted, contributing to soil health rather than adding to waste. Paper plates may be compostable, but they often contain additional coatings that can hinder the composting process, whereas areca plates are entirely natural. Thus, areca palm plates are an eco-friendly alternative that supports sustainability, reduces waste, and helps protect ecosystems.

Areca palm leaf plates offer versatility and functionality suitable for various occasions and food types. They are heat-resistant, allowing them to withstand hot dishes without warping or leaching harmful chemicals. This makes them ideal for serving both hot and cold food items at events, parties, and restaurants.

Are Agrileaf products available in international markets, or do they primarily serve the local or national market in India?

Agrileaf products, which are made from areca palm leaves, are primarily manufactured in India, where the company is based. However, they have expanded their reach to international markets as well. The growing demand for eco-friendly, biodegradable alternatives to plastic and paper products has encouraged Agrileaf to export its products globally. These products are often available through online platforms, direct export channels, and partnerships with international distributors. While India remains a significant market for Agrileaf products, the company has also tapped into international markets, including regions in Europe, the United States, and the Middle East, where there is a rising awareness and preference for sustainable, environmentally friendly alternatives. Therefore, Agrileaf products are not limited to the local or national market in India and have begun to cater to international consumers and businesses seeking eco-conscious products.

As of date, 90 per cent of revenue comes from the USA. We plan to establish our footprints in Japan as well. As far as growth in the domestic market is concerned, extra marketing cushion in India is not available as arecanut plates are perceived as high-volume price commodities. We need better warehouses to distribute our products to different cities in India which might further add up to the cost of production. On the other hand, for export, it is an immediate dispatch which saves our cost to some extent.

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

In an interview with AgroSpectrum, Avinash Rao,

Agribusiness, Company News

Since its founding in 1987, Tetra Pak, the world leader in food processing and packaging solutions, has revolutionized India. Tetra Pak has previously shown a strong commitment to local production, innovation, and sustainability in the Indian market long before the “Make in India” movement gained traction

Tetra Pak’s modern production plant in Chakan, Pune, is evidence of the business’s enduring dedication to India. With more than 1,500 employees, it is the biggest and most sophisticated Tetra Pak facility outside of Sweden. In addition to producing more than 85 per cent of the equipment sold in India, this plant acts as a center for international exports, training, and research. Remarkably, the plant sources 75% of its ingredients locally, supporting the domestic supply chain.

Over 300 micro, small, and medium-sized businesses (MSMEs) have joined the company as suppliers in the previous three years, demonstrating its commitment to local procurement. These partnerships further strengthen India’s manufacturing ecosystem by providing training and assistance to reach international standards.

The influence of Tetra Pak extends well beyond the boundaries of India. The Pune facility demonstrates India’s potential as a worldwide center for manufacturing and innovation by exporting food processing equipment to more than 50 countries.

Tetra Pak showcased state-of-the-art innovations that are intended to increase environmental sustainability and productivity at its recent flagship event, “Innovation Starts Here.” More than 100 decision-makers from the food and beverage sectors in South Asia attended the event.

Among the major innovations were- Packaging options that promote a circular economy by using certified recycled polymers, tethered caps, and 90% renewable material, tools for increased operational efficiency and lower costs include Asset Health Monitoring and Performance Analytics and advanced ice cream production technology, sugar-reduced juices, and high-protein dairy drinks were on display, providing solutions suited to changing customer tastes.

Tetra Pak is celebrating 37 years in India, and its emphasis on regional innovation, sustainability, and economic growth highlights how well it fits with the country’s growth narrative. Tetra Pak continues to be a key player in developing India’s food and beverage sector and supporting the “Make in India” drive by fusing international experience with local dedication.
Tetra Pak continues to be a key player in developing India’s food and beverage sector and supporting the “Make in India” drive by fusing international experience with local dedication.

Since its founding in 1987, Tetra Pak,

Allied Industry

National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management, Kundli (NIFTEM-K), under the aegis of the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), hosted a high-level international delegation comprising of 17 representatives from the ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) region, National Fortification Alliances, including technical experts and policymakers and officials from the West African Health Organization (WAHO), underlining the regional significance of this knowledge-sharing initiative, visited NIFTEM-K to study India’s successful food fortification initiatives

National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management, Kundli (NIFTEM-K), under the aegis of the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), hosted a high-level international delegation comprising of 17 representatives from the ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) region, National Fortification Alliances, including technical experts and policymakers and officials from the West African Health Organization (WAHO), underlining the regional significance of this knowledge-sharing initiative, visited NIFTEM-K to study India’s successful food fortification initiatives. The visit, organised by German Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) brought together representatives from Burkina Faso, Senegal, Nigeria, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Benin, and Madagascar.

“This exchange represents a significant milestone in international cooperation for food fortification. As an Institute of National Importance, NIFTEM-K is proud to share India’s expertise and technological innovations in food fortification with our partners from Africa, contributing to global nutrition security” said Dr. Harinder Singh Oberoi, Director of NIFTEM-K.

The interactions led to deliberations over the international cooperation for fortification initiative. Mr. Arvind Kumar (Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Food Processing Industries-MoFPI), in his special address, emphasized on the crucial role of the Ministry in supporting such collaborative initiatives to enhance global nutrition. He also mentioned the important flagship schemes of the Ministry including PMKSY, PLISFPPI and the PMFME etc. Interactive session by the experts discussed over fortification standards, regulations, trade practices in India and the globe. Sh Arun Om Lal, Industry Chair Professor, NIFTEM-K while moderating the session provided insights into NIFTEM-K’s infrastructure, research capabilities, fortification facilities and advanced food processing facilities at pilot plants as well as FSSAI notified food testing facility of CFRA, underscoring its role in capacity building and industry partnerships.

Dr. Komal Chauhan, Head-CEFF and Dean (Research & Outreach), NIFTEM-K, warmly welcomed the national and international delegates, fostering meaningful discussions on strengthening fortification policies, scaling up effective interventions, and advancing food security. The visit provided a platform for knowledge exchange, international collaboration, and strategic partnerships, reinforcing NIFTEM’s commitment to driving innovation and excellence in food fortification on a global scale.

National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and

Agribusiness, Agrotech, Digital Technologies, India, IT, Opinions

 By Dhanashree Mandhani, Founder and CEO, Salam Kisan

The agritech ecosystem offers a groundbreaking chance to boost agricultural efficiency by 25-35 per cent, alongside adding $95 billion to the economy. Firms that prioritise technology integration today will enhance their ability to gain market share in the fast-expanding agritech industry. Agribusinesses that adopt these technologies now will be the ones influencing the future of agriculture in the days to come.

Technology is rapidly becoming the cornerstone of agricultural transformation, poised to create a $62.76 billion opportunity for agribusinesses by 2031. As global food demand surges to meet the needs of 9.8 billion people by 2050, traditional farming methods alone cannot deliver the required 70 per cent   increase in production. This gap presents a crucial opportunity for agribusinesses to leverage technology solutions that can revolutionise farming operations, optimise supply chains, and create sustainable growth at scale.

Agribusinesses are bridging this gap and bringing a paradigm shift in the agriculture sector with the integration of advanced technologies to bring operational efficiency. Leading companies are deploying artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and drone technologies to create end-to-end solutions that benefit both their operations and their farming partners.

Why Tech Integration Is Strategic Imperative

The technological revolution has created significant strategic advantages for B2B players across the agricultural sector. Agricultural corporations and startups are developing and deploying AI-powered systems not just for farm-level decisions but to optimise their entire supply chain – from procurement to distribution. Supply chain optimisation through real-time tracking and analytics has enabled agribusinesses to manage inventory more efficiently and reduce wastage substantially. Supply chain technology has also emerged as a critical investment area, with solutions focusing on traceability, quality management, and logistics optimisation.

Another innovation that is empowering farmers and agribusinesses is precision agritech.  They are revolutionising how agribusinesses optimise their operations and support their farming partners. By integrating GPS guidance systems, advanced sensors, and drone technologies, companies can now offer data-driven solutions that transform traditional farming practices. These enterprise-grade systems provide real-time analytics and actionable insights, enabling agribusinesses to help farmers reduce input costs while increasing yields. For instance, leading agricultural corporations are using sensor networks and drone fleets to create detailed field maps, monitor crop health, and implement variable-rate application of inputs – delivering both environmental sustainability and improved profit margins across their supply chain.

Furthermore, IoT-enabled solutions have revolutionised resource allocation across business networks, while advanced sensing technologies have dramatically improved quality assessment and standardisation processes.

Transformative Success Stories and Partnership

Successful technology integration in agriculture increasingly relies on strategic partnerships. India has made substantial investments in sustainable agricultural intensification (SAI) to tackle food security and sustainability challenges. The government, alongside private investors, allocates over $3 billion annually to agricultural innovation. These investments have resulted in the development of innovative solutions that strengthen market linkages, enhance crop resilience, and promote sustainable farming practices.

The impact of technology integration in agriculture is best illustrated through real-world success stories. For instance, the “Saagu Baagu” project, part of the Artificial Intelligence for Agriculture Innovation (AI4AI) initiative, has greatly boosted yields and incomes for 7,000 chilli farmers in Telangana. Developed in collaboration with the Telangana government, with support from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and implemented by Digital Green, the project has leveraged agritech and data management to double farmers’ earnings.

 By Dhanashree Mandhani, Founder and CEO, Salam

R&D

Globally, the vertical farming market is expanding, and by 2034, it is expected to reach a value of about $50.78 billion. With a startling compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19.9 per cent, this industry is growing in importance as the globe struggles with food security issues brought on by population increase and urbanization

The technique of growing crops in layers as opposed to conventional horizontal rows is known as vertical farming, and it makes use of cutting-edge technologies to establish controlled conditions that are perfect for plant growth. Leading companies like AeroFarms and Plenty are leading this transformation by using techniques like hydroponics and aeroponics to maximize the efficiency of food production.

Polaris Market Research states that “vertical farming is farming on vertical surfaces rather than traditional, horizontal agriculture.” This contemporary method of farming aims to improve sustainability and guarantee food security for coming generations, not merely to make the most of available area. With the world’s population expected to grow to around 10 billion people by 2050, there is a greater need than ever for locally grown, fresh vegetables.

Numerous motivating variables are closely related to the market’s growth. First, traditional agriculture faces major challenges as a result of the shrinking amount of fertile land brought on by urbanization and climate change. Vertical farming solutions are becoming more and more popular because to the demand for fresh produce and growing knowledge of the advantages of sustainable agriculture methods.

The market for vertical farming is presently led by North America, which benefits from cutting-edge agricultural technologies and welcoming investment environments. The demand for pesticide-free vegetables is rising in urban areas, which is driving the expansion of vertical farms. According to the Market Research Forecast, “Rising population and demand for food are propelling the vertical farming market” and it emphasizes how cities are adjusting to integrate agricultural methods into their infrastructure.

Vertical farms are becoming more competitive on the inventive front thanks to the integration of technology. Artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) are revolutionizing simple setups for real-time agricultural monitoring. Improved climate control and lighting systems are also essential; businesses are creating systems that adapt to the specific requirements of plants, increasing yields and decreasing waste.

It is interesting to note that vertical farms can maximize plant development conditions without depending on natural sunshine by utilizing artificial illumination, especially LED technology. This feature maximizes the utilization of urban space by enabling farms to function inside a variety of building types, including skyscrapers, abandoned warehouses, and shipping containers.

However, there are several difficulties in the vertical farming sector. Profitability can be elusive for small-scale farmers and new players due to high initial investment expenses. Concerns about energy use also persist, especially for enterprises that need constant artificial lighting and climate control. “High initial investment costs pose barriers to entry for new players,” critics have noted, calling for ways that strike a balance between sustainability and innovation.

In spite of these obstacles, vertical farming appears to have a bright future. There is a lot of interest from investors, and partnerships between important market players are opening the door for innovations. The introduction of urban farms integrated into marketplaces and retail establishments, which provide fresh produce straight to customers, is one recent development.

Vertical farming meets urgent urban agricultural demands and reimagines agricultural processes for sustainability, even though it might not completely replace conventional farming ways. The market is expected to grow significantly, and the combination of technology and agriculture is opening up new and exciting possibilities.

As food production becomes ready to meet the world’s expanding demands, new methods are being inspired by vertical farming concepts that challenge traditional methods. The potential for feeding the future appears limitless when agricultural innovation and urban infrastructure are combined, and this could revolutionize our understanding of food production.

Globally, the vertical farming market is expanding,

Agribusiness, Agrotech, Farm Mechanisation, India, Interaction, Machinery - Pre-harvesting, Machinery – Post-harvesting, Sustainability

In an interaction with AgroSpectrum Anoop Srikantaswamy, Co-founder and CEO, Moonrider shared trends and future of “Indian Electric Tractor Industry.

Moonrider has recently been successful in securing a venture round of funding of $2.2 million (Rs 19 crore). This funding round was jointly led by AdvantEdge Founders and Micelio Technology Fund, in addition to a considerable number of angel investors. Moonrider is an Electric Tractor Technology Company founded in 2023, focused on developing heavy-duty electric tractors (e-tractors) designed to reduce farming costs and improve operational efficiency for farmers and fleet operators. In an interaction with AgroSpectrum, Anoop Srikantaswamy, Co-founder and CEO of Moonrider, shared trends and future of “Indian Electric Tractor Industry.” Edited excerpts:

What is the current market size of the Electric Tractor Market in India?

India is the largest tractor market with 1 million units sold last year amounting to $17 billion in revenue. Globally it is a $30 billion market with 1.8 million units sold. Pheonix Research, an international market research consultancy, projects that the e-tractors market in India will grow at a healthy compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 21.5 per cent between 2021 and 2027.

How do you envisage the future of e-tractors in the Indian agriculture sector?

The agricultural industry is responsible for 18 per cent of India’s gross domestic product, and e-tractors will play a significant part in the development and progress of the sector from this point forward. Farm mechanisation will be made possible by e-tractors, which will also contribute to an increase in farm production and profitability. Within 8-10 years, e-tractors will replace 50 per cent of the diesel tractors that are currently used on farms. When it comes to the promotion of environmentally friendly assets that will lead to the widespread use of e-tractors, we also anticipate more cooperation from the government.

Not only do e-tractors assist in encouraging sustainable agricultural techniques, but they also help reduce the carbon footprint of farmers. The consumption of diesel-by-diesel tractors in India accounts for 7.4 per cent of the country’s annual diesel consumption, which results in increased carbon emissions.

What are the major challenges of the e-tractor sector and how can they be resolved?

We will need to assist users in comprehending and becoming aware of the considerable benefits that are offered, which will ultimately lead to the broad adoption of e-tractors. This is necessary for any new technology or product launch. Another area that presents difficulties in the present day is the financing of the acquisition of e-tractors. It will be easier to accelerate the adoption of e-tractors if there is more participation from nationalised banks that offer favourable interest rates. The supply of electricity in particular locations may be uneven; fixing this issue will make it simpler for farmers to use e-tractors that are suitable for their requirements. With that being said, the backing of the government is necessary; subsidies and policies that are advantageous will assist in increasing the adoption and utilisation of e-tractors.

You have mentioned that your mission is enhancing farm profitability. Can you elaborate on that?

From the perspective of farm equipment, one must lower the operating costs and the initial capital expenditure to improve the profitability of the farm. More money is earned and saved by farmers as a result of this. The fact that our e-tractors are 70 per cent less expensive to operate and maintain has a direct influence on the profitability of farms and the income of farmers. Further, Moonrider e-tractors, such as our 75-horsepower (HP) e-tractors, are priced similarly to their diesel equivalents, which makes them an appealing prospect for consumers and farmers alike.

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In an interaction with AgroSpectrum Anoop Srikantaswamy,