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Agribusiness, AgroPolicy, India, Industry Reports / Analysis

International Women’s Day (IWD) observed each year on March 8 is the biggest women-focused fundraising day of the year.  The theme for IWD 2025 #AccelerateAction calls for collective action to speed up progress toward gender equality. Collective action and shared ownership for driving gender parity is what makes IWD impactful.  The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women’s equality. India’s development journey is closely interlinked with the empowerment of its women. Recognising this critical connection, the central government has placed Nari Shakti at the forefront of its agenda over the past ten years. The government understands that women’s empowerment is not a one-time solution; it requires a comprehensive approach that addresses their needs throughout their lives.

“We need to focus on the poor, women, youth and farmers,” mentioned the Finance Minister in her Budget Speech, reiterating the government’s commitment to economic empowerment. A crucial aspect of this vision is increasing women’s participation in the workforce, with a target of 70 per cent participation. This emphasis underscores the government’s broad approach to fostering economic growth and inclusivity.

India’s female workforce participation rate peaked in 2004–05 at 40.8 per cent, although it has subsequently fallen since then. However, following years of decrease, the female labour force participation rate (FLPR) has been trending upward since 2017. Notably, the rural FLPR has shown remarkable growth, rising from 41.5 per cent in 2022–23 to 47.6 per cent in 2023–24. A key driver behind this increase is the rise in self-employed women, especially in the agricultural sector. State-level census data analysis further supports this, highlighting the significance of agriculture in boosting women’s labour participation. These trends signify a positive shift in India’s workforce landscape and emphasise the importance of supporting women’s entrepreneurship, particularly in agriculture.

Given the persistent gender disparities in the agricultural sector, particularly in India, the majority of rural women’s livelihoods are still heavily reliant on agriculture, with limited non-farm employment opportunities. Despite their significant contribution, women farmers often remain unrecognised and marginalised. The stark contrast between the percentage of women engaged in agricultural labour and the percentage of land operated by women illustrates the deep-rooted gender inequality in land ownership and control. This disparity, coupled with limited access to resources and decision-making power, further exacerbates the challenges faced by women in agriculture. We must address these systemic issues to ensure gender equality and empower women in the agricultural sector. This includes promoting non-farm employment opportunities, securing land rights for women, and providing them with equal access to resources, training, and technology.

Keya Salot, Co-Founder, Farm2Fam India Private Limited opined,” Agriculture in India is dominated by a female workforce. To create all-round empowerment opportunities, it is vital to have women in leadership positions. Not only does it create an empathetic work environment, but it also enables women to have role models whom they can relate to. As a community, it creates skill development and thereafter financial freedom in women. In the short term, that causes an impact on the quality of life of women but in the longer term, it will define the shift in the gender dynamics in the society.’’

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

International Women's Day (IWD) observed each year

Agribusiness, AgroPolicy, Opinions

By Madhuparna Bhowmick, Senior Director and Rajarshi Ghosh, Joint Director and Head of Department of Economic Affairs and Policy, Indian Chamber of Commerce.

Union Budget 2025-26 which was presented on February 1, 2025 has focused on structural and medium to long term issues in the agriculture sector. These reforms can ensure that the agro sector remains a major engine of growth, raising real farm income over time while ensuring food and nutrition security. The aim of these measures is to make agriculture an attractive and productive sector to work on and remove disguised unemployment and minimise rural to urban migration. This article focuses on understanding the implications of the agro announcements.

Rationale for improving agro productivity through Structural Measures

Since 2014-15, there has been a mild growth of crop production at a CAGR of 2.1 per cent. If we study major crops, we find that cotton has been stagnant while cereals have shown slightly higher growth. Pulses grew more rapidly but with more volatility and oilseeds production has expanded. Only some of this increase in crop production resulted from area expansion. Our research shows that the gross cropped area increased somewhat for rice, pulses and oilseeds. It was largely stagnant for wheat and cotton and actually declined for traditional cereals. However, yield growth was fastest for cereals, much more than rice and wheat. And yield is uneven area wise too. All these bring us to the need of structural measures to boost agro productivity across the country specially in low yield districts and hence comes the need of structural transformation in agriculture. Basically the second Green Revolution has to be pan India and not restricted to a few States.

I) PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana: The Yojana mainly focuses on developing agricultural district programmes on the lines of the Aspirational Districts Programme (ADP), a Government of India programme aiming to develop some of the country’s most under-developed districts. Nearly two decades ago, in a study,  we had mentioned to the government that there are many developmental schemes and all are not evenly utilised round the year. And if we could merge some of the small schemes a mega developmental scheme can be created and through this scheme the same has been done. Through the convergence of existing schemes and specialised measures, this programme promises to cover 100 districts with low farm productivity, post-harvest losses, inadequate access to irrigation and credit, absence of crop diversification and absence of environmentally sustainable cropping practices.

In short, the scheme objectifies; enhancing agricultural productivity; adoption of crop diversification and sustainable agriculture practices; augmentation of post-harvest storage at the panchayat and block level;  improving irrigation facilities and facilitation of the availability of long-term and short-term credit.

The introduction of PM Dhan Dhaanya Krishi Yojana is expected to have a significant impact on the agricultural landscape in India impacting the lives of 17 million farmers.

2) Building Rural Prosperity and Resilience: A comprehensive multi-sectoral ‘Rural Prosperity and Resilience’ programme would be launched in partnership with the States to address underemployment in agriculture through skilling, investment, technology, and invigorating the rural economy. The prime goal of the announcement is to generate ample opportunities in rural areas so that farming becomes an attractive occupation for one and all. And the scheme wants to work in alignment with the federal structure of India.

Key Focus Areas include Skilling, Investment and Technology to revitalise the Rural Economy; Modernising Agriculture with improved productivity and warehousing; Focus Beneficiaries: Rural women, young farmers, marginal and small farmers and landless families; Implementation Methodology: Adoption of global and domestic best practices, technical and financial assistance from multilateral development banks and Target: 100 developing districts to begin with which would be different from the earlier 100 in the Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana.

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

By Madhuparna Bhowmick, Senior Director and Rajarshi

Agribusiness, Allied Industry, India, Industry Reports / Analysis, Trade

The formation of a Makhana Board will assist farmers in every aspect, including Makhana production, processing, value addition, and marketing. This will help Bihar’s Makhana, considered a superfood and popular part of breakfast in Indian cities, to enter the global market.

By announcing the setting up of the Makhana Board and the National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship, and Management (NIFTEM) in Bihar, the Union Budget 2025 has made a significant contribution to the development of India’s agricultural economy, especially for high-value commodities like Makhana (foxnuts). The formation of a Makhana Board will assist farmers in every aspect, including Makhana production, processing, value addition, and marketing. This will help Bihar’s Makhana, considered a superfood and popular part of breakfast in Indian cities, to enter the global market.

Makhan, a low-fat, gluten-free snack, has gained popularity among fitness enthusiasts worldwide in recent years. Some have even dubbed it a superfood. The price of makhana on the global wholesale market has significantly increased to around eight times in the last 10 years from around Rs 1,000/kg ten years ago to around Rs 8,000 per kg. An estimated 15,000 hectares are used for makhana farming in India. 1,20,000 metric tonnes (MT) of makhana seeds are produced, and 40,000 MT of makhana are produced after processing. The production at the farmer’s end is projected to be worth Rs 250 crore, and at the trader level, it brings in Rs 550 crore.

Bihar is the leader in makhana production as it contributes about 90 per cent of India’s makhana output. A few other states that cultivate makhana include Assam, Manipur, West Bengal, Tripura, and Odisha. India’s top export destinations for makhana include the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, and Gulf countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Oman. Even though makhana is a nutritious cuisine that is high in minerals and nutrients, just 1-2 per cent of it is exported. Approximately, 100 to 150 tonnes of popped makhana are shipped to foreign nations annually.

Speaking on the prospects of business and trade in makhana (Foxnuts),  Arun Raste, MD & CEO, National Commodity & Derivatives Exchange Limited (NCDEX) mentioned,’’ The Union Budget 2025 has laid a strong foundation for the growth of India’s agricultural economy, particularly for high-value crops like foxnuts. We welcome the government’s decision to set up a Makhana Board in Bihar that shall strengthen the sector by providing institutional support, enhancing value addition, and boosting farmer incomes. Increased financial support for FPOs and MSMEs will further enable better processing, storage, and value-chain development besides reducing post-harvest losses. With India’s foxnut exports rising by 30 per cent year-on-year, Bihar can drive both domestic and global markets by leveraging modern trading platforms, efficient price discovery, and robust supply chains. For commodity trading, we believe structured markets and hedging tools can empower farmers and traders, ensuring price stability, reducing risks, and unlocking the full potential of the foxnut economy. This may be considered as the first substantial step undertaken towards transforming Bihar into a key agri-business hub. Of course, the collective efforts of policymakers, industry stakeholders, and farmer cooperatives will be instrumental in this endeavour of driving both rural prosperity and India’s position as a premier supplier in global agricultural markets.’’

Farmers in Bihar have cultivated makhana in flood-prone areas, transforming risk into an opportunity. By monsoon water drains, exposing hundreds of black seeds that resemble marble, hence the term “black diamond.” Farmers physically gather seeds from murky waterways during harvest, which is a labour-intensive process. The crunchy, white makhana pearls are collected by hand-popping the seeds after they have been harvested, sun-dried and roasted in clay ovens.

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

The formation of a Makhana Board will

Agribusiness, Allied Industry, India, Industry Reports / Analysis, Trade

For walnut exports from India to be successful, exporters need to adopt a multifaceted strategy that focuses on quality improvement, market expansion, value-added product development, supply chain efficiency, and building brand recognition.

The Indian appetite for walnuts has continued to rise since COVID-19, as the country’s rapidly rising population learns about its health benefits. Traditional and modern retail shops, including India’s e-commerce sector, are also helping to boost consumer demand. Besides exports, walnut consumption in India has the potential for growth by 50 per cent annually. For walnut exports from India to be successful, exporters need to adopt a multifaceted strategy that focuses on quality improvement, market expansion, value-added product development, supply chain efficiency, and building brand recognition.

According to Mordor Intelligence, the Walnut market size is anticipated to be $9.26 billion in 2025, rising to $11.77 billion by 2030, with a CAGR of 4.9 per cent between 2025 and 2030. The walnut industry is continuously developing, fuelled by rising demand for healthful and nutritious foods, particularly due to walnuts’ high omega-3 content and well-known health benefits. The global production of walnuts is concentrated in a few major regions, with China, the United States, and Chile leading the way.

According to the United States Department of Agriculture, China is the largest producer, accounting for more than half of global walnut production, with 1.4 million metric tonnes predicted in 2023. The country’s extensive walnut growing is assisted by favourable weather and government incentives to boost nut output. The United States, particularly California, is another major supplier, accounting for more than 30 per cent of global walnut production each year, according to the Dried Fruit Association of California.

Walnuts are widely consumed in North America, Europe, and parts of Asia Pacific. The United States and China are not only major producers, but also significant consumers. The walnut oil sector is also growing, driven by demand from the cosmetics and skincare industries, which use walnut oil for its moisturising and anti-aging properties. Furthermore, walnut meal, a byproduct of oil manufacturing, is becoming more popular in the food business as a protein-rich ingredient. According to Fact.MR, the global walnut oil market has been estimated at $1.4 billion in 2024 and projected to reach $1.95 billion by 2034, at a CAGR of 6.5 per cent.

Furthermore, technological advancements in processing and packaging have contributed to the country’s large exports, since walnut manufacturers in the United States employ improved hulling, drying, and packaging techniques to extend the shelf life of walnuts. As a result, while China is the world’s leading producer of walnuts, the United States has established itself as a top exporter due to superior quality, product variety, and access to global markets.

India is the world’s eighth largest producer in walnuts. The state of Jammu and Kashmir is the leading walnut-producing region in India, contributing a significant portion of the country’s total production. The cool, temperate climate of the region is ideal for walnut cultivation. As per the India Brand Equity Foundation, evolving consuming preferences and rapid urbanisation are expected to increase India’s food consumption to $1.2 trillion by 2025-26, thereby accelerating the demand for processed walnuts in the country. In fact, walnut exports can be a game changer towards attracting of foreign currencies owing to a number of reasons:

Firstly, walnuts are used in a variety of industries, including food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. They are popular in snacks, desserts, salads, and even cooking oils, increasing the global market for the nut.

Secondly, walnuts produced in India, especially in regions like Jammu and Kashmir, are often more affordable compared to those grown in other major walnut-producing countries like the United States and China. This cost advantage makes Indian walnuts competitive in international markets, especially in price-sensitive regions such as Southeast Asia and the Middle East.

Thirdly, India’s proximity to markets in the Middle East and Southeast Asia provides logistical advantages, making the shipping process more cost-effective and reducing transit time. This helps in maintaining the freshness and quality of the walnuts during transportation.

Fourthly, the Indian government provides incentives and subsidies to walnut farmers and exporters under various export promotion schemes like the Merchandise Exports from India Scheme (MEIS), thereby reducing the financial burden on exporters and increasing the profitability of walnut exports.

Fifthly, the export of walnut oil, walnut-based snacks, and walnut-derived products adds value to raw walnuts contributing towards higher profit margins compared to raw walnuts, making walnut exports more profitable.

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

For walnut exports from India to be

Agribiotechnology, Agribusiness, AgroPolicy, India, Seeds

Between 2020 and 2024, the state introduced over 46 innovative rice seed varieties, boosting resilience and productivity, further reinforcing the role of biotechnology in agricultural sustainability.

Calling the Andhra Pradesh growth story in agriculture and allied sector as exemplary, with a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8.80 per cent, experts attributed most of this success to the widespread adoption of biotechnology which has boosted agricultural productivity. At a workshop held at the Regional Agricultural Research Station (RARS), Guntur, researchers, experts, and industry leaders discussed advancements in genetic engineering, molecular breeding, and biotechnological innovations for sustainable agriculture.

The workshop was jointly organised by Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University (ANGRAU), Lam, Guntur, and Biotech Consortium India Limited (BCIL), New Delhi, with support from the Federation of Seed Industry of India (FSII).

Water availability will be a major concern for the coastal state of Andhra Pradesh, along with frequent cyclones and flooding. In rice, the largest grown crop, bacterial blight caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. Oryzae is a challenge. To combat these challenges, researchers from ANGRAU and ICAR National Institute for Plant Biotechnology, Delhi, have developed MTU 1232, a high-yielding, flood-tolerant rice variety. Between 2020 and 2024, the state introduced over 46 innovative rice seed varieties, boosting resilience and productivity, further reinforcing the role of biotechnology in agricultural sustainability.

Dr R Sarada Jayalakshmi Devi, Vice Chancellor, ANGRAU, reaffirmed the university’s commitment to agricultural research, citing MTU 1232 as a testament to biotechnology’s impact. “ANGRAU has led the development of resilient seed varieties using biotech tools like MTU 1232 developed using the Sub1A gene, withstands flash floods for 10-14 days and stagnant flooding up to 50 cm for over a month. With an 80 per cent survival rate and yields of 3,792 kg/ha under severe floods and 6,000 kg/ha in normal conditions, it is a game-changer for flood-prone regions,” she said.

Biotechnology’s success extends beyond rice to other crops.  Andhra Pradesh has been a leader in the adoption of Bt Cotton, with 4,73,345 farmers cultivating it in 2023–24. An ICAR-CICR study found Bt cotton increased yields by 3-4 quintals per acre while reducing pesticide use. Such advancements support sustainable, climate-resilient agriculture.

 Ram Kaundinya, Advisor, FSII and Co-founder, AGVAYA, emphasized the role of biotechnology in tackling agricultural challenges. “Biotechnology offers both Transgenic and Non-transgenic solutions. With changing climate conditions and rising productivity demands, biotech innovations are crucial. Bt cotton exemplifies how genetically modified crops boost yields, enhance resilience, and improve livelihoods. Other crops of Andhra Pradesh like Maize, Rice, Chilli, Vegetables, Pulses and Oilseeds can get a big boost with the help of biotechnology” he said.

Dr Vibha Ahuja, Chief General Manager, BCIL, highlighted biotechnology’s transformative impact. “The success of Bt cotton underscores its benefits for farmers. Since the introduction of genetically engineered crops in 1996, yields have improved across maize, soybean, cotton, and canola. Gene editing since 2012 has further accelerated crop improvement, offering faster, more precise solutions. Combined with precision agriculture, these innovations can drive the next wave of progress. These technologies undergo rigorous testing and stringent regulatory studies before they are approved. Farmers and consumers are encouraged to adopt them on a large scale as they are absolutely safe,” she said.

The workshop covered genome editing, pest and disease resistance, soil health, and the economic benefits of biotechnology for smallholder farmers. Experts stressed the importance of investment, policy support, and farmer education to unlock biotechnology’s full potential.

Between 2020 and 2024, the state introduced

Agbiologicals, Agrotech, Company News, Trade, World

As part of the agreement, which is expected to close on June 1st, Syngenta will also lease the Novartis fermentation pilot plant and science laboratories located in Basel, Switzerland.

Syngenta, a world leader in developing the next generation of biologicals products for agricultural use, is significantly expanding its biologicals research and development capabilities. Company announced that it has acquired the Novartis repository of natural compounds and genetic strains for agricultural use, while Novartis maintains exclusive rights to repository for pharmaceutical use. The transaction also includes transfer of the Novartis Natural Products and Biomolecular Chemistry team to Syngenta.

The move gives Syngenta access to an important source of novel leads for agricultural research, and offers Syngenta integrated capabilities in bioengineering, data science, fermentation, downstream processing, as well as analytics. As part of the agreement, which is expected to close on June 1st, Syngenta will also lease the Novartis fermentation pilot plant and science laboratories located in Basel, Switzerland. The acquisition builds upon a successful research collaboration between Syngenta and Novartis since 2019.

This acquisition follows the start-up of Syngenta’s new biologicals production facility in Orangeburg, South Carolina, US. The facility is Syngenta’s first world-scale production facility for agricultural biologicals in the US and will support growing demand for science-based and novel biological solutions in both the North and Latin American markets.

These developments come as Syngenta forges multiple collaborations to accelerate the pace of biologicals innovation, as well as fortify its position in key growth areas such as nutrient use efficiency. Over the past months Syngenta has announced various collaborations, including with: 

  • Provivi for new pheromone solutions, targeting devastating pests in key crops across Asia
  • Ginkgo Bioworks to accelerate the launch of innovative biologicals
  • Intrinsyx Bio in the fast growth area of nutrient use efficiency Lavie Bio to discover and develop novel bio-insecticide
  • Lithos Crop Protect for sprayable pheromone targeting the Western Corn Rootworm pest
  • TraitSeq to leverage AI to accelerate the development of innovative biologicals.

Camilla Corsi, Syngenta’s Global Head of Crop Protection Research and Development, said: “We invest significantly to offer the industry’s most advanced pipeline of innovative agricultural solutions. The integration of these world-class assets opens a new chapter on our ability to develop cutting-edge biological solutions for farmers and reflects our commitment to drive solutions that continue to elevate the sustainability of agriculture.”

Jonathan Brown, Global Head of Syngenta’s Seedcare and Biologicals business, said: “With the broadest and most comprehensive portfolio across all segments of biological products, we have established ourselves as a leader in the industry. In a constantly growing market, it is important to ensure a pipeline capable of supporting continuous evolutions. I am convinced that this acquisition will allow us to maintain our capacity to innovate.”

As part of the agreement, which is

Agribusiness, Agrotech, Digital Technologies, Japan

Yamaha Agriculture, Inc. acquires Robotics Plus and The Yield to enable precision agriculture for growers.

 Japan based Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. announced the launch of Yamaha Agriculture, Inc., a new company focused on delivering autonomous equipment and AI-powered digital solutions that help growers in the specialty crop market become more sustainable, profitable and resilient in the face of scarcer resources and climate change. Through the strategic acquisitions of Robotics Plus1 and The Yield, Yamaha Agriculture will provide robotics solutions for spraying, weeding and other field operations, while leveraging advanced data analytics and AI to enable precision farming and data-driven decision making for growers of wine grapes, apples and other specialty crops in North America, Australia and New Zealand.

“Establishing Yamaha Agriculture is a pivotal milestone in our Long-Term Vision 2030, ART for Human Possibilities. This initiative embodies the three core pillars we aim to achieve in our 2030 Long-Term Vision: Advancing Robotics, Rethinking Solutions and Transforming Mobility,” said Jim Aota, Chief Strategy Officer for Yamaha Motor. “It also aligns with Yamaha’s global technology roadmap, focusing on advanced energy management, intelligent systems and software-driven solutions. With the launch of this new company, we aim to leverage Yamaha’s technological expertise to contribute to sustainable and profitable farming using a customer-centric approach. Growers will be able to better address challenges around labor shortages, resource scarcity and impacts from climate change.”

Robotics Plus provides an autonomous hybrid vehicle capable of multiple activities including spraying and weed control, addressing key labor challenges faced by growers. The Yield brings advanced data analytics and AI-powered models to deliver yield predictions and optimize on and off-farm operations. Leveraging Yamaha’s long heritage as a trusted manufacturer of high-performance products, the new agriculture business will scale these two innovative solutions with a focus on quality, reliability and safety. These complementary technologies will be integrated to create a comprehensive platform that enables precision farming for growers. By combining autonomous equipment with intelligent data insights, Yamaha Agriculture helps growers reduce input costs, optimize resource utilization and improve overall farm productivity and sustainability.

“Guided by our mission to ensure growers are sustainable, profitable and resilient, Yamaha Agriculture recognizes that the challenges facing specialty crop growers require thoughtful solutions that will take time to develop,” said Nolan Paul, Group CEO of Yamaha Agriculture, Inc. “We believe meaningful innovation in agriculture emerges through close collaboration with growers and industry partners. The capabilities of Robotics Plus in robotics and automation and The Yield in AI-powered analytics represent two important building blocks in addressing these challenges. As we work to bring these technologies together, we are committed to a deliberate approach that prioritizes creating real value for growers while maintaining the high standards of quality and reliability for which Yamaha is known.”

Yamaha Agriculture, Inc. acquires Robotics Plus and

Agro Universities, India, Nature, Sustainability

The program brought together 24 participants from 14 countries—Ghana, Tajikistan, South Sudan, Myanmar, Morocco, Ethiopia, Cambodia, Liberia, Mali, Chad, Sri Lanka, Lesotho, Iran, and the Philippines.

A transformative three-week International Training on Landscape Resource Conservation concluded today at the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), strengthening south-south collaboration in the global fight against land degradation and climate change.

The program brought together 24 participants from 14 countries—Ghana, Tajikistan, South Sudan, Myanmar, Morocco, Ethiopia, Cambodia, Liberia, Mali, Chad, Sri Lanka, Lesotho, Iran, and the Philippines—to tackle critical challenges such as land restoration, carbon neutrality, and smallholder farming sustainability.

Organized by ICRISAT, under the aegis of the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Program of the Government of India and supported by ICRISAT’s Dryland Academy, the program provided a platform for sharing global best practices.

Addressing participants, Dr Stanford Blade, Director General-Interim of ICRISAT, highlighted the importance of two-way knowledge exchange and encouraged continued collaboration beyond the workshop.

“This training is not just an academic exercise; it embodies the spirit of South-South collaboration. I urge you to stay connected and build on this resource base to drive meaningful change,” Dr Blade emphasized. He also acknowledged the support of the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, for facilitating the program.

Dr ML Jat, Deputy Director General-Research (Acting) and Global Program Director, Resilient Farm and Food Systems, ICRISAT, encouraged participants to translate their learnings into tangible actions.

“When you return to your countries, consider how you can apply these insights to benefit your communities. We deeply appreciate the support of your governments and institutions in sponsoring your participation,” said Dr Jat.

At the inaugural session, Dr Ramesh Singh, Principal Scientist & Cluster Lead-ICRISAT Development Center, provided an overview of the course, while ICRISAT’s Global Research Program Directors, Dr Sean Mayes and Dr Victor Afari-Sefa, emphasized the role of collaborative research in addressing global challenges.

The training covered key themes such as landscape hydrology, land resource inventory, natural resource management (NRM) structures, digital tools for landscape management, water budgeting, climate-resilient agriculture, sustainable farming practices, and nutrient management.

The program brought together 24 participants from

Company News

The Udaiti Foundation has released a study showcasing the remarkable strides made by Mahindra’s Swaraj Division and Swaraj Engines Limited (Swaraj) in fostering gender diversity on shop floors

The study highlights the efforts of Swaraj in increasing women representation – growing from just 1.5 per cent in 2013 to over 10 per cent in 2024, thereby setting a benchmark for India’s tractor manufacturing sector. Women employees have lower absenteeism and higher retention rates, contributing to enhanced productivity and operational efficiency, hence making a strong case for their inclusion in the manufacturing sector.

Despite challenges such as limited enrolment in technical trades, cultural resistance, and safety concerns, Swaraj has implemented targeted initiatives to overcome these barriers.

One notable achievement is the integration of women into their foundry facilities, a traditionally male-dominated area requiring physical endurance and technical precision.

Key reasons for this transformation are-

· Workplace redesigns have played a pivotal role in making manufacturing roles more inclusive. Ergonomic adjustments, including robotics, raised platforms, and gravity mechanisms, have minimized physical strain while improving efficiency.

· Collaborations with 15 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs), 5 polytechnics, and Advanced Technical Institutes have helped create a robust talent pipeline.

· Tailored training programs such as dexterity modules and on-the-job training have equipped women with the skills needed to excel.

· Safety measures such as GPS-enabled transport, buddy systems, and women security guards ensure a secure and supportive environment.

Swaraj has also actively engaged with communities by conducting parental counseling and organizing shop floor visits, addressing cultural concerns, and encouraging women to explore careers in manufacturing. Pooja Goyal, Founding CEO of The Udaiti Foundation, commended the efforts, saying, “Swaraj’s journey underscores the transformative impact of investing in skills, infrastructure, and community engagement. It offers a replicable model for the manufacturing sector to drive women’s economic empowerment and significantly contribute to India’s growth story.”

Despite these successes, challenges persist. Women remain under-represented in technical education, with only 400 out of 17,000 students in Punjab’s ITIs enrolled in trades like diesel mechanics and machinists. Furthermore, the reliance on contractual roles limits long-term career growth for women in the sector. Addressing these gaps will require sustained efforts and systemic changes.

Swaraj’s achievements demonstrate that prioritizing gender diversity strengthens workforce resilience and drives operational excellence. This progress serves as an inspiration for companies across industries to create equitable workplaces and unlock the potential of women in India’s economic landscape.

The Udaiti Foundation has released a study

AgroPolicy, Finance, India, Start ups

A flagship initiative to support early and growth-stage startups across 11 key sectors.

The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), in collaboration with Avaana Capital, LetsVenture, Karnataka Digital Economy Mission (KDEM), IVCA, HDFC, among others, announced the launch of the Startup Maha Rathi challenge as part of the second edition of Startup Mahakumbh. A flagship initiative aimed at empowering Indian startups through every nook and corner of the country with funding, mentorship, and strategic guidance, this challenge aligns with India’s long-term vision of becoming a developed economy (Viksit Bharat) by 2047. The challenge is set to provide access to up to a Rs 30 crore fund, mentorship from industry experts, and networking opportunities with global investors. In addition, it will also entail special awards for innovative startups from emerging states and union territories through a dedicated program.

Startup Maha Rathi – Rising towards Viksit Bharat – is designed to open doors for budding entrepreneurs across 11 key sectors, including AI & DeepTech, BioTech & Healthtech, Gaming & Sports, Fintech, Incubators & Accelerators, Mobility, Agritech, B2B & Precision Manufacturing, D2C, ClimateTech, and Defence & SpaceTech. The program would be awarded by the Honourable Minister of Commerce and Industry and is aimed at equipping startups with the necessary resources to scale their operations and contribute to India’s technological and economic advancement. Startups selected through this initiative will gain exposure to global markets through Startup India, access to mentorship from industry veterans, investor networking opportunities, and national-level recognition by DPIIT.

The competition will follow a structured, multi-phase selection process, beginning with the application launch on February 26, 2025, and culminate after a 4-step process in an exclusive live pitching finale from April 3-5, 2025, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. While each startup shortlisted for the grand jury round receive a guaranteed Rs 1 Lakh, top two startups from each sector will be awarded Rs 10 lakh respectively, while the next five will receive Rs 5 lakh each. Next 5 startups in each track will gain access to Rs 3 lakhs each in addition to financial grants, participating startups will receive expert guidance and investor access through a jury comprising 100+ leading VCs, angel investors, and domain specialists from Starup India and organizations such as Avaana Capital, LetsVenture, KDEM, IVCA, HDFC among many others.

Sharing his thoughts on the launch, Piyush Goyal, Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, said, “The Startup Maha Rathi initiative marks a pivotal stride toward achieving India’s vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047.’ By offering strategic financial support and expert mentorship, this initiative will empower the nation’s most promising startups to scale, innovate, and drive transformative change, strengthening India’s position as a global leader in entrepreneurship and innovation.”

Amardeep Singh Bhatia, Secretary, DPIIT, added, “India’s startup ecosystem is at an inflection point, and initiatives like this are crucial in ensuring that high-potential ventures receive the right support to thrive. By enabling a strong innovation-driven culture, the initiative will play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of disruptive entrepreneurs.”

Anjali Bansal, Founding Partner, Avaana Capital, stated, “Initiatives like Startup Maha Rathi provide catalytic support to entrepreneurs solving for India’s critical priorities—green growth, sustainability, energy transition, food systems, agriculture, and deep tech. The programs not only showcase India’s entrepreneurial strength but also reinforces our ability to develop scalable solutions aligned with national priorities and position India as a global leader to accelerate towards a sustainable, inclusive and globally competitive Viksit Bharat.”

Applications for Startup Maha Rathi 2025 will open on February 26, 2025, with a deadline of March 7, 2025. The next round for startups that are shortlisted after an initial screening, will need to present virtually a jury panel between March 15 – 25th. Eligible startups must be DPIIT-recognized entities in their early or growth stages, operating in India as a Private Limited Company, LLP, or Partnership Firm. Startups can apply through the official website: https://www.startupindia.gov.in/content/sih/en/ams-application/challenge.html?applicationId=67bdbb76e4b0c167e9f99da2

A flagship initiative to support early and

Agribusiness, India, Supply Chain, Trade, Transportation

This year, BLR Airport expanded its floriculture footprint by adding new destinations like Abu Dhabi, Jeddah, Beirut, Tokyo, Bahrain, and Dammam.

With increasing global demand for fresh roses on the occasion of Valentine’s Day, BLR Airport has set a new record, processing 44 million rose stems weighing 1,649 metric tonnes (MT) for 22 international and 38 domestic destinations in February. This marks a remarkable 50 per cent year-on-year surge in stems processing, and a 35 per cent YoY increase in tonnage, reaffirming BLR Airport’s status as India’s number oneairport for perishable exports for the fourth consecutive year. This year, BLR Airport expanded its floriculture footprint by adding new destinations like Abu Dhabi, Jeddah, Beirut, Tokyo, Bahrain, and Dammam.

With global demand at an all-time high, international rose shipments saw a 51 per cent increase in tonnage and an 86 per cent rise in stem count, with key destinations including Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Sharjah, Kuwait, Auckland, Amman, Manila, Riyadh, Colombo, and Abu Dhabi. Domestically, 1,344 MT of roses were transported — a 32 per cent increase, with major shipments heading to Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Jaipur, Bagdogra, Udaipur, Ahmedabad, Agartala, and Chandigarh.

At BLR Airport, ensuring freshness, speed, and temperature precision is paramount. The state-of-the-art Coolport facility, equipped with real-time tracking and advanced cold chain technology, safeguards every shipment, proactively managing temperature fluctuations for seamless storage, handling, and transport.

With faster turnaround times, enhanced security, and minimal wastage, BLR Airport ensures that every bloom reaches its destination at peak freshness, meeting the soaring Valentine’s Day demand and keeping the spirit of love alive across the globe.

This year, BLR Airport expanded its floriculture

AgroPolicy, Finance, India, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation

Under the MoU, NMDC Group PJSC will invest in developing the offshore land of Vadhvan coast, involving dredging, reclamation, and shore protection.

NMDC Group PJSC, headquartered in Abu Dhabi, has inked an investment proposal worth Rs 21,000 crore with Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) for the upcoming greenfield Vadhvan Port project in Palghar district of Maharashtra.

Under the memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between JNPA Chairman and Managing Director Unmesh Sharad Wagh and NMDC Group Chief Executive Officer Yasser Zaghloul, the latter would make this investment for the development of the land offshore of Vadhvan coast by dredging, reclamation and shore protection of the to-be-built facility.

NMDC Group PJSC, headquartered in Abu Dhabi, UAE, operates across the Middle East and beyond, focusing on engineering, marine dredging, procurement, and construction. Under the MoU, NMDC Group PJSC will invest in developing the offshore land of Vadhvan coast, involving dredging, reclamation, and shore protection.

Unmesh Sharad Wagh, chairman, JNPA, and chief managing director, Vadhvan Port Project Ltd (VPPL), said, “The MoU between JNPA and NMDC Group PJSC is a significant step towards developing Vadhvan Port as a world-class maritime hub. This collaboration brings global expertise to one of India’s most ambitious port projects, ensuring its strategic and sustainable development. With progress ahead of schedule, we are committed to accelerating infrastructure development and enhancing India’s port capabilities to meet future trade demands.”

Under the MoU, NMDC Group PJSC will

Agribusiness, Collaborations, India, Oilseeds, Trade

This MoU aims at improving food safety, regulatory compliance, and promoting the adoption of best practices within the spice industry.

All-India Spice Exporters Forum signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the American Spice Trade Association (AASTA) which marks a significant step forward in fostering global cooperation in the spice industry.

This agreement, finalised at the International Spice Conference – 2025 in Bangalore, is designed to strengthen the relationship between India and the United States in the spice business.

This MoU aims at improving food safety, regulatory compliance, and promoting the adoption of best practices within the spice industry. Special attention will be paid to areas such as information exchange, technical cooperation, and industry promotion.

By keeping each other informed on changes in government policies, market needs, food safety standards, and trade regulations, both organizations aim to enhance communication and ensure that stakeholders in the spice trade stay up-to-date with the latest developments.

The agreement also focuses on the exchange of key market insights. For instance, AASTA will provide the Indian Forum with information regarding the demand and specific requirements for spices in the American market.

In return, AASTA will receive updates on the production and stock status of Indian spices, allowing both sides to adapt their strategies accordingly.

Additionally, India has the potential to assist the United States in improving the quality of various spices, conducting joint research, and enhancing microbiological safety and residue control.

This collaboration is expected to be highly beneficial for India’s spice exports, particularly since the American market presents significant opportunities for growth.

By fostering stronger ties and promoting higher standards in production and trade, this partnership will likely lead to greater success for both nations in the global spice industry

This MoU aims at improving food safety,

Agbiologicals, Agribusiness, New Zealand, R&D, Seeds

This innovative seed treatment will be available for maize, cereals, brassicas and pasture seed, helping growers reduce nitrogen losses and environmental impact while maintaining yield.

BioConsortia, Inc., a California based leader in agricultural technology, specializing in advanced microbial solutions to enhance crop productivity and reduce agriculture’s ecological impact, has announced a commercial agreement with New Zealand-based seed company Hodder and Taylors Ltd (H&T).  H&T, known for improving crop and forage systems on New Zealand farms, will introduce BioConsortia’s AlwaysN microbial seed treatment during the 2025 season. This innovative seed treatment will be available for maize, cereals, brassicas and pasture seed, helping growers reduce nitrogen losses and environmental impact while maintaining yield.

Since 2023, BioConsortia and H&T have conducted successful field trials in New Zealand, demonstrating nitrogen-replacement results consistent with earlier trials conducted since 2021 in the U.S., Canada, Brazil, and Europe.

Paul Oliver, H&T Managing Director, stated, “This technology offers a new opportunity to reduce nitrogen fertiliser use in New Zealand agriculture, delivering both economic and environmental benefits while maintaining crop performance.”

Marcus Meadows-Smith, CEO of BioConsortia, added, “Our proprietary microbes effectively colonise crop roots, ensuring there is always nitrogen available to influence crop yield. These microbes remain active in the root zone throughout the growing season, converting atmospheric nitrogen into plant-accessible forms even after synthetic fertilisers dissipate.”

Setting a New Standard for Shelf Stability and Seed LifeBioConsortia’s nitrogen-fixing seed treatments boast a shelf life exceeding two years and maintain on-seed stability for an additional two years, far surpassing industry norms.

“Our use of Gram-positive microbes, known for their inherent stability and reliability as root colonisers, underpins this breakthrough,” explained Dr. Hong Zhu, Senior VP of R&D at BioConsortia. “Through our proprietary R&D platform, we’ve unlocked the nitrogen-fixing potential of these microbes, creating ideal candidates for seed treatment products.”

BioConsortia’s flexible microbe discovery platform played a pivotal role in this innovation. Given New Zealand’s regulatory restrictions on gene-edited organisms, BioConsortia identified wild-type microbes from its extensive library that naturally fix nitrogen. These microbes, with intrinsic genetic traits enabling nitrogen fixation, deliver reliable yield performance.

Combining cutting-edge discovery and advanced gene-editing capabilities, BioConsortia’s platform represents a breakthrough in microbial seed and fertiliser treatments. “Our seed-applied products offer unmatched ease of use for growers, ensuring strong yields without relying on increased synthetic nitrogen,” said Meadows-Smith.

The collaboration between BioConsortia and H&T marks a significant step forward in sustainable agriculture, providing New Zealand farmers with tools to achieve higher productivity and reduced environmental impact.

This innovative seed treatment will be available