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Agribiotechnology, AgroPolicy, Agrotech, Digital Technologies, IT, Trade

Trade, knowledge sharing, and digital agriculture were the topics of a high-level meeting at Krishi Bhawan aimed at enhancing India-Brazil agricultural connections. Through cooperation, the discussion sought to increase productivity, food security, and creativity

In a major attempt to improve agricultural cooperation, Governor Ronaldo Caiado of the Brazilian State of Goiás met with Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Bhagirath Choudhary at Krishi Bhawan in New Delhi. Strengthening bilateral ties between Brazil and India was the main goal of the high-level summit, with a focus on trade and cooperation in the areas of sugarcane, ethanol, pulses, R&D, innovation, and digital agriculture.

In the course of the talks, Bhagirath Choudhary emphasized the two countries’ robust and complex bilateral and multilateral ties. He underlined that the governor’s visit will open up new avenues for collaboration and further ongoing projects. Through information exchange and technological breakthroughs, both nations want to increase agricultural output, develop food security, and improve the wellbeing of their populations.

Governor Ronaldo Caiado recognized the close agricultural relations between the State of Goias and India, pointing out the parallels between their climates and agricultural landscapes. He emphasized that these similarities open doors for cooperation, especially when it comes to knowledge sharing, cutting-edge agricultural technologies, and capacity-building programs. Both countries may improve their agricultural capacities and promote sustainable growth in the industry by utilizing these synergies.

The gathering also covered India’s agricultural modernization initiatives. Key government programs like crop insurance, agriculture loans, and the growth of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) in the industry were discussed by Ajeet Kumar Sahu, Joint Secretary (International Cooperation). Both small and large farmers stand to gain from these efforts, which seek to build a more technologically sophisticated and robust agricultural environment.

The Brazilian delegation comprised high-ranking officials from the State of Goias, along with industry representatives, while the Indian side included senior officials from the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare.

Trade, knowledge sharing, and digital agriculture were

Agribusiness, Agro chems – Chemicals, Agro Universities, Collaborations, Company News, India, Machinery - Pre-harvesting, Machinery – Post-harvesting, R&D, Seeds

Key areas identified for joint projects included agro-chemicals, seeds, microbiome research, agro-machinery, farmer training and food processing.

The teams from ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, and UPL engaged in discussions to explore potential collaborations for technology development and its transfer to farmers’ fields. Key areas identified for joint projects included agro-chemicals, seeds, microbiome research, agro-machinery, farmer training, food processing, and more. It was also proposed that, to advance these collaborative efforts, the R&D team from UPL could visit ICAR-IARI for one-on-one discussions with the relevant research groups in the respective fields.

Dr C H Srinivasa Rao, Director, ICAR-IARI, highlighted the research, education, and extension agenda of IARI and opportunities for collaborations in emerging research priorities. He also emphasised the placement opportunities for IARI students in agro-industries. Heads of divisions presented various research themes during the visit.

Key areas identified for joint projects included

Agribusiness, Agro chems – Fertilizers, Agrotech, Company News, Horticulture, India, Seeds

Special varieties of potatoes from the Netherlands like Santana and Quintera will be grown in Shahjahanpur in large areas.

 India’s leading fertilizer company, Krishak Bharati Cooperative Ltd (KRIBHCO) has partnered with Netherland’s Farm Frites to set up a processing plant at Shahjahanpur in Uttar Pradesh.

Company has signed a joint venture agreement to set up a hi-tech potato processing unit at Shahjahanpur. The agreement was signed by KRIBHCO MD M R Sharma and Farm Frites Chairman Pieter de Bruijne, said KRIBHCO in a statement.

Special varieties of potatoes from the Netherlands like Santana and Quintera will be grown in Shahjahanpur in large areas. A dedicated team of KRIBHCO and Farm Frites will provide the seed of special varieties and guide them in its cultivation. This project will help increase the income of farmers of Shahjahanpur and nearby areas. This plant will also help in generation of hundreds of employments.

As per Uttar Pradesh’s industrial policy, this project is going to be a super mega project. A high-level team of KRIBHCO and Farm Frites, led by Bruijne, visited Shahjahanpur on February 10 to finalise the project site.

Farm Frites is a 50-year-old company involved in the business of production of a variety of potato fries and potato specialties. Farm Frites delivers its products to foodservice providers in over 100 countries. Farm Frites is a key supplier to global food chains such as McDonalds, KFC, Dominos, etc. The Farm Frites grows 15 lakh tonnes of potatoes worldwide and supplies more than 80 types of fries, specialities, and appetizers.

Special varieties of potatoes from the Netherlands

Agribusiness, Agrotech, Collaborations, Company News

San-Vardhan addressed the challenges faced by cotton farmers by leveraging pheromone-based ATGC Biotech’s CREMIT technology. It enabled farmers to adopt eco-friendly population control solution for PBW thus reducing insecticide usage and also guided them on Integrated Pest and Nutrient Management aspects for sustainable cotton production

To celebrate the successful conclusion of this CSR initiative, a Stakeholders Meet was convened to explore the revival of cotton in northern India. The workshop commenced with a welcome address by Dr. Baljinder Saini, Executive Director of RGR Cell, who emphasized the necessity of initiatives like San-Vardhan, citing a 31 per cent decline in cotton cultivation area and a 38 per cent drop in production over the past few years.

660 farmers across 2000 acres in 3 districts of Punjab and Haryana benefited from the project and found cotton as a better alternative to paddy. Average yields increased by 21 per cent, leading to a 30 per cent rise in farmers’ incomes. Chemical usage reduced by 2.1 sprays, improving soil health, environmental sustainability and creating positive impact on the environment. He shared the project, funded by Sportking India, demonstrates its potential to make a significant difference in the lives of cotton farmers and the environment in northern India, and marks a promising beginning to help cotton farmers across India.

Dr. Markandya, CMD of ATGC Biotech, elaborated on the CREMIT technology’s effectiveness in managing Pink Bollworm (PBW). Having undergone rigorous testing by government agencies, CREMIT has demonstrated its potential. Dr. Markandya emphasized ATGC’s commitment to developing eco-friendly pest control solutions for various crops, including tomato, rice, wheat, brinjal, and others, aiming to positively impact the lives of Indian farmers. Rakesh Rathi, Director at Indian Cotton Association, highlighted the huge demand-supply gap in cotton in the northern region, with a requirement of 9 million bales annually, but availability of less than 3 million bales and hence sourcing from other states and outside India. Cotton cultivation in Punjab has declined drastically from 7.5 million hectares to just 90,000 hectares last year, impacting Punjab’s economy and cotton industry.

Rathi suggested the government withdraw the mandi tax on cotton and moreover support farmers in accessing good hybrid seeds in the northern belt to increase cultivation. Representing Sportking India, Naresh Behl participated in the event, conveying Managing Director Munish Avasthi’s pride and enthusiasm for being part of this innovative initiative. He emphasized the initiative’s demonstration of collaborative power in driving positive change and encouraged fellow industry stakeholders to continue supporting such impactful endeavours. Bal Mukand Sharma, Chairman, Punjab State Food Commission “extended warm congratulations to the San-Vardhan team on the successful culmination of their CSR initiative, praising their efforts and commitment to driving meaningful change”.

A panel discussion was also organized on this occasion, featuring esteemed experts from various fields. The panel comprised Dr. Joginder Singh (seed industry), Dr. Rishi Kumar
(CICR Sirsa), Dr. Dharminder Pathak (PAU cotton breeding), and Dr. Satnam Singh (PAU integrated pest management). The discussion was moderated by Gurbinder Singh Gill,
Director of Team Athena. The experts expressed concerns about the impact of changing weather conditions and high temperatures on cotton productivity in the region. They emphasized the need for developing temperature-resistant hybrid seed varieties. Furthermore, the panel highlighted the importance of promoting high-density planting system (HDPS) varieties, which can thrive in specific geometric patterns, enabling mechanized harvesting and enhancing efficiency.

Ram Pratap Sihag, Joint Director, Agriculture, Haryana, emphasized the importance of cotton as a key crop for diversification. He announced “That the Haryana government will
provide ₹1,000 per acre as compensation to discourage paddy burning. Additionally, the government is working on waiving market fees on cotton and offering per-quintal compensation to farmers, aiming to promote sustainable farming practices and support the livelihoods of farmers in Haryana”.

Dr. Satbir Singh Gosal, Vice-Chancellor, PAU, Ludhiana, highlighted the challenges faced by cotton farmers in Punjab. He said “The decline in cotton cultivation to increased costs in
cotton farming and paddy encroachment in cotton-growing areas. Hel appreciated the efforts of the San-Vardhan team in helping cotton farmers and emphasized the need for mass
adoption of technologies to reverse the paddy trend in north India”. Specifically, he mentioned that PAU has recommended the CREMIT technology to the state government for
Pink Bollworm management.

Farmers from Bathinda and Sirsa shared their positive experiences with the CREMIT technology, expressing enthusiasm to continue using it in the upcoming cotton season.
Gurbinder Singh Gill concluded the session by thanking all participants. He emphasized that Team Athena is proud to have conceptualized and implemented San Vardhan, a testament
to the impact of collaborative efforts in driving positive change for cotton farmers in North India.

As we celebrate the success of San-Vardhan in North India, we recognize the potential for replication in other regions. We invite leading textile organizations and other stakeholders
across cotton value chain to scale similar initiatives across cotton growing regions, empowering cotton farmers thus ultimately revolutionizing cotton farming and reviving glory of cotton across India.

San-Vardhan addressed the challenges faced by cotton

Company News

Meeting held by Syngenta Group on February 14, 2025, the Company announced that Alf Barrios, a Spanish and U.S. citizen, has been unanimously elected as a new independent director of the Company, effective February 14, 2025. He has also been appointed as a member of the Board’s Compensation Committee and Audit Committee

Alf Barrios has more than 35 years of experience working globally in the natural resources and energy sectors. He retired from Rio Tinto, a leading global mining and materials company, at the end of 2024. At Rio Tinto, he held the positions of Chief Commercial Officer, China Chair and Japan Chairman (Singapore) from 2021. He joined Rio Tinto in 2014 as the CEO of its global Aluminum business (Montreal, Canada). Prior to Rio Tinto, he worked for 21 years at BP, a leading oil and gas company, where his last role was Executive Director and EVP Downstream for TNK-BP (Moscow, Russia). Alf Barrios is a recognized international leader in managing global value chains, having managed production, trading, supply & logistics, and sales & marketing, across Europe, the Americas, Asia, Middle East, Russia, Africa, and Australasia.

Syngenta Group Chairman Li Fanrong said: “We are delighted that Alf Barrios is joining our Board. His deep knowledge in managing global value chains will be invaluable to us and help Syngenta Group pursue our goal of providing agronomic solutions and digital services that farmers need to grow healthy food while conserving natural resources and protecting the environment.”

Alf Barrios said: “I am delighted to join the Syngenta Group Board of Directors. Syngenta is one of the world’s biggest agricultural innovation companies, operating in more than 100 countries. I am especially looking forward to supporting the Group with my background in managing complex global businesses.”

Meeting held by Syngenta Group on February

AgroPolicy

UP State Agriculture Council meeting announced the creation of an Executive Committee (EC) to work on the agenda of agriculture investments, exports, agribusiness, and agri-entrepreneurship through four different working groups to be created from the members of the Council

UP State Agriculture Council meeting announced the creation of an Executive Committee (EC) to work on the agenda of agriculture investments, exports, agribusiness, and agri-entrepreneurship through four different working groups to be created from the members of the Council. In addition, the policy working group will work closely with the state government in supporting the decision-making process through extensive research and data-driven policy advocacy.

UP is the largest producer of wheat, sugarcane, milk, potatoes, and numerous agriculture, horticulture, and fruit crops. However, its exports at ₹20,000 crores are way below its potential. It was the first state to introduce a comprehensive export policy and also the first state to sign up as a “partner state” with a budget of ₹400 crores to implement the policy. However, the budget lapsed during the COVID period, and ICFA has decided to pursue restoring it with the state as a top priority.

Similarly, ICFA will enable more investments in agriculture by working closely with Invest UP. The ICFA State Council created a committee to work closely with state agencies to mobilize investments in the food and agricultural sector of the state. Given the massive start-up wave sweeping the country, with approximately 12,000 agri-tech and food-tech start-ups, UP currently has fewer than 1,000 such start-ups. ICFA has decided to work on boosting agri-entrepreneurship in the state, leveraging its national network and its own All India Agri Start-up Platform.

The meeting was chaired by Mukesh Singh, Chairman of the UP State Agricultural Council, ICFA and was moderated by the Founding Convenor and Director of ICFA, Mr. Tushar Sharma. The meeting was attended by Dr. Mukesh Gautam, Advisor, World Bank; Mr. M.P. Bhatt, CEO, MCB Agritech Pvt Ltd; Dr. Sanjay Singh, DG, UPCAR; Dr. R.K. Tripathi, Advisor, National Seeds Corporation; Mr. Atul Kumar, GM (R), UP Cooperative Bank; Mr. Asif Riaz, Executive Director, Kisaancart; and Mr. D.P. Singh, President, UP Assocham.

Shreyasi Agarwal, Chief Executive Officer, Indian Chamber of Food and Agriculture (ICFA), graced the occasion.

UP State Agriculture Council meeting announced

Drones, E-commerce, IT

There will soon be a drone data repository and a drone school. The Drone Promotion and Use Policy starts to be implemented effectively

Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav said that a comprehensive action plan has been developed to establish Madhya Pradesh as a major drone manufacturing and technology hub. The Madhya Pradesh Drone Promotion and Use Policy-2025, which aims to draw investment into the drone industry, has been approved by the state government to support this project. Through the responsible and effective use of drones, the strategy seeks to foster economic growth, innovation, and job creation. To improve drone technology utilization throughout the state, a drone data repository will shortly be established as part of the policy. In keeping with the Prime Minister’s Gati Shakti plan, this repository will act as a centralized platform for handling the government’s drone data and imagery.

The drone data repository will make it easier for departments to collaborate and share data. It will facilitate the creation of sophisticated monitoring systems with the use of planning and analytical tools based on GIS. The repository will facilitate precise resource allocation and infrastructure development by offering real-time, current monitoring. It will also expedite project review procedures, optimize time and cost management, improve coordination, and improve decision-making.

The Department of Science and Technology will maintain appropriate agreements with cooperating partners and guarantee the safe administration of the drone data repository. As stated in the National Geospatial Policy-2022 or any later revisions or policies, the state government will ensure that all drone data gathered by state agencies is stored in accordance with data protection laws and regulations. To protect sensitive data, cutting-edge secure data transfer and storage technologies will be used.

Although drones are pilotless, their use is predicted to grow significantly in the future, transforming a number of industries. Drones provide creative solutions that guarantee timely data collection while drastically lowering the demand for human labor. They are especially good in accurately and efficiently reaching hard-to-reach places. Drones are becoming indispensable instruments in many different industries thanks to the use of modern technologies.

There will soon be a drone data

Animal Husbandry, Award

After selling for Rs 40 crore at an auction in Brazil, Viatina-19, a 53-month-old Nelore breed cow of Indian descent, made history by becoming the most expensive cattle in the world

Viatina-19, a Nelore breed cow of Indian descent, sold for an incredible Rs 40 crore ($4.82 million) at an auction in Minas Gerais, Brazil, setting a new Guinness World Record as the most expensive cattle ever sold. The 53-month-old cow is an exceptional example, weighing over 1,101 kg, which is almost double the usual weight of its breed.

Viatina-19 is distinguished by her recognizable hump on her shoulders, loose skin, and eye-catching white coat. She won the coveted title of Miss South America at the “Champion of the World” cattle competition in Fort Worth, Texas, which is frequently compared to Miss Universe but for cattle, thanks to her exceptional muscular structure and uncommon genetic heritage.

Originating in India, the Nelore breed is prized for its disease resistance and ability to withstand tropical temperatures. Because of this, Viatina-19 embryos are in great demand for breeding projects all over the world. She is “the closest to perfection attained so far, possessing all the desirable traits sought by cattle breeders,” according to veterinarian Lorrany Martins.

With Zebu cattle, a subspecies that originated in India, making up around 80 per cent of its cattle stock, Brazil is today the greatest breeder of Nelore cattle in the world. In the 1800s, the Nelore breed—also called the Ongole breed—was brought to Brazil from the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh’s Prakasam area. According to historical documents, the breed’s origins can be traced back to the time of the Aryan migration, more than 2,000 years ago.

The Ongole breed, which is mostly raised for meat production, has grown to be a valued asset in Brazil’s cattle business despite its lack of recognition in India. Brazil is a world leader in cattle breeding and production, with an estimated 230 million cows, according to the US Department of Agriculture.

Even India’s Brahman breed and Japan’s renowned Wagyu cattle were eclipsed by Viatina-19’s Rs 40 crore auction, shattering previous records. Notably, her worth increased significantly in just one year when she was auctioned off for $4.3 million in Arandu, Brazil, in 2023.

The Ongole breed is flourishing abroad, with nations like Brazil using its genetic potential to generate huge profits, yet it is still disregarded in its home state of Andhra Pradesh, India. India might profit from the demand for Ongole cattle worldwide and turn this ancient breed into a significant commercial asset with the right scientific breeding and conservation initiatives.

After selling for Rs 40 crore at

Agribusiness, Company News, Finance, India, Sugar industry

Company’s consolidated income for 9MFY25 has increased by 4 per cent over the previous year. The company posted a sturdy 9MFY25 performance driven by increased volumes in the refinery and milling divisions.

Shree Renuka Sugars Limited – one of India’s largest sugar and Green Energy (ethanol and renewable power) producer and a subsidiary of Wilmar Sugar and Energy Pte Ltd (formerly known as Wilmar Sugar Holdings Pte Ltd), Singapore – has reported its financial performance for the quarter and nine months ended December 31, 2024.

Highlights of the results for the nine months are summarized below –

HIGHLIGHTS CONSOLIDATED AND STANDALONE – 9MFY25
Consolidated9MFY259MFY24YoYStandalone9MFY259MFY24YoY
Total Income82,88379,8144%Total Income78,39576,7632%
EBITDA4,2684,743-10%EBITDA4,3064,785-10%

At Standalone level for 9MFY25,

  • Revenue up 2 per cent at Rs 78,395 M vs Rs 76,763 M LY
  • EBITDA dragged down by 10 per cent at Rs 4,306M due to weak domestic and international sugar prices impacting inventory valuation.
  • Total domestic sugar volumes were up by 30 per cent at 322K MT.
  • Refinery sold 1,080K MT vs LY at 1,026K MT up 5 per cent, sales realisation was lower by 9 per cent.
  • Ethanol despatches suffered due to policy changes last season which impacted the production and sales in off-season in this fiscal year and lack of ethanol price revision. YTD despatches were at 9.4 crore litres vs 11.8 crore litres.

Commenting on the financial results, Atul Chaturvedi, Executive Chairman, “The third quarter’s results reflect our stable growth in our operations despite the delay in the commencement of the crushing season due to weather condition, political elections and regulatory headwinds caused by lack of ethanol price revision, no change in minimum selling price (MSP) of sugar for the last six years. The Government recently permitted export of 10 lakh metric tonnes of domestic sugar which improved the domestic sugar prices, and its effect may be felt in following quarters.  In spite, of all these challenges, Renuka is successfully progressing steadily.

Our consolidated income for 9MFY25 has increased by 4 per cent over the previous year. The company posted a sturdy 9MFY25 performance driven by increased volumes in the refinery and milling divisions.”

Sunil Ranka, Chief Financial Officer of Shree Renuka Sugars Limited said, “Renuka Consol had a sluggish margin in the third quarter resulting in negative EBITDA growth of 10 per cent on 9M basis. Refinery exports were at full capacity. However, the domestic and international sugar prices were sharply down in the end of December which impacted the inventory valuation, realisations and consequently dragged the EBITDA performance.

Company's consolidated income for 9MFY25 has increased

Collaborations, Industry Reports / Analysis, Opinions

MEWA India 2025 boasts over 300 exhibitors and representatives from more than 25 countries, including major players like the USA, Iran, and Australia. The exhibition covers 10,000+ square meters, offering a diverse range of products from Indian and international suppliers

MEWA India 2025, India’s premier B2B exhibition for the nuts and dry fruits industry, was inaugurated today in Mumbai at the Jio Convention Centre. Organized by the Nuts & Dry Fruits Council of India NDFC(I), this three-day event aims to showcase the potential of India’s rapidly growing nut and dry fruit market.

The inauguration featured a vibrant showcase of the industry, including an insightful panel discussion and a captivating culinary show that offered attendees a glimpse into the diverse “flavours of India’s nuts and dry fruit offerings.

Col. Nitin Sehgal, CEO of NDFC(I) highlighted “The council’s key initiatives from MEWA 24 to MEWA 25, including a walnut and cashew plantation drive to support Indian farmers and boost domestic production. He also emphasized efforts to empower women in the industry by increasing leadership opportunities. Through these initiatives, NDFC(I) continues to drive growth and inclusivity.”

Smt. Smriti Irani, Former Union Cabinet Minister, Government of India, delivered the keynote address at the exhibition, highlighting the gap in the import and export of the nuts & dry fruits industry, and praising MEWA 2025’s efforts. “I am so proud to be a part of the celebration of the capacities of the Nut and Dry Fruit Council of India and also meet with the partners at the INC. This robust industry contributes to 56,000 crores plus to the Indian economy. Today I am happy to note that there are 800 members in this council, but I am hoping that the number doubles in the year to come.”

The event hosted knowledge sessions focusing on key market players such as pistachios, almonds, raisins, and walnuts. Esteemed panellists led dynamic discussions, exploring global market dynamics, consumer trends, and sustainable practices shaping the industry’s landscape.

Mr. Gunjan Jain, President of NDFCI emphasised on the vision of NDFC(I), commenting “Today marks a significant milestone for our industry as we unite under the Nuts & Dry Food Council, an entity that represents a $8 billion industry with a vision to double in the next few years. Our goal is to not only promote the health benefits of nuts and dry fruits but also to drive growth and collaboration both locally and internationally.”

NDFC(I) spearheads MEWA 2025, aiming to unify India’s fragmented nut & dry fruit market. The trade show features over 300 exhibitors, serving as a central point for industry players to collaborate and capitalize on India’s expanding market opportunities. The exhibition also hosts representatives from more than 25 countries, including the USA, Chile, Iran, Turkey, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Australia. With an expansive exhibition space of over 10,000 square meters, attendees can explore a diverse range of products from both Indian and international suppliers.

Mr. Deepak Agarwal, Secretary, NDFC(I), spoke at the event highlighting the importance of organizing MEWA to streamline the sector, stating, “Building strong business relationships and forging new partnerships over the next few days is crucial for our success. While we have the best infrastructure and resources, it’s the deals we make and the connections we build that will truly drive us forward.

The first day of the trade show concluded with Bollywood Night, amplified by a stellar performance by Bollywood singer Jonita Gandhi.

The MEWA 2024 was officially inaugurated last year by Shri Om Birlaji. It witnessed 6000+ visitors and 130+ Exhibitors from 20 countries. This year, the event is expected to attract over 10,000 visitors. The event features key participants from leading companies such as Crain Walnut & Wonderful Pistachios from the USA, Kimia Dates from Iran, Blue Diamond – World’s largest almond exporter, and Al Mehtab from Dubai.

With a high conversion rate from the last year, the event this year is expected to further solidify its reputation as a key player in the industry. MEWA 2025 aims to set the stage for days of immersive experiences, knowledge sharing, and industry collaboration, envisioning to achieving new milestones in India’s nut & dry fruits sector.

MEWA India 2025 boasts over 300 exhibitors

Company News, Environment, Nature, Sustainability

BGR Tech Ltd., a prenora holding, energy engineering company, has launched its 100 kW Hydrogen Purification System, designed to enhance electrolysis-based hydrogen purification. The launch was led by Mr. Bhupender Bhalla, Former Secretary – Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), Government of India, underscoring the nation’s commitment to clean energy technologies

BGR Tech’s advanced purification system delivers 99.999% pure, fuel cell grade hydrogen. This highly efficient system can handle high-pressure operations up to 30 bar and offers a
modular design with a wide range of scalability options, providing custom solutions for diverse applications. The purified hydrogen can be used for various purposes, including fuel for fuel cells and combustion engines, as well as in industrial processes like steel annealing. This innovative system represents the future of energy, offering a highly efficient and versatile
solution for hydrogen utilization. It also features a plug-and-play design, allowing for seamless manufacturing and commissioning on site without extensive fabrication.

Mr. Bhupender Bhalla, speaking at the launch, emphasized the system’s potential impact on India’s hydrogen economy: “Over the next five years, India’s green hydrogen
manufacturing sector has the potential for significant growth and increased competitiveness. To capitalize on this, I encourage the industry to focus on developing core competencies. I also advise BGR Tech, under the leadership of Managing Director Ms. Priya, to broaden its portfolio beyond hydrogen to include other promising gas- based fields like biogas, methanol, and green ammonia, these steps will ensure BGR Tech’s future growth and its contribution to India’s technological advancement.”

BGR Tech Ltd. is a key player in engineering and manufacturing specialized process equipment, leveraging in-house capabilities and strategic partnerships. By collaborating with global leaders in electrolyzer and process technology, the company is dedicated to improving hydrogen production and supporting decarbonization efforts.

Commenting on the launch, Parthiban S., Head of Business Development, BGR Tech, said: “At BGR Tech, we’re focused on reducing the energy our systems use to compete globally. We’re also developing a green hydrogen market using mostly Indian-made parts. BGR Tech is committed to helping India reach its 2030 goals of achieving zero- carbon.”

BGR Tech Ltd., a prenora holding, energy

R&D

A Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) was signed between the ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai, and M.M. Fish Seed Cultivation Pvt. Ltd., Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh, today at ICAR-CIFE, Mumbai, for the commercialization of ICAR-CIFE-Pangas-Shakti, a specially developed grow-out feed for freshwater catfish, Pangasianodon hypophthalmus

A Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) was signed between the ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai, and M.M. Fish Seed Cultivation Pvt. Ltd., Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh, today at ICAR-CIFE, Mumbai, for the commercialization of ICAR-CIFE-Pangas-Shakti, a specially developed grow-out feed for freshwater catfish, Pangasianodon hypophthalmus.

The MoA was signed by Dr Ravishankar, C.N., Director and Vice-Chancellor, ICAR-CIFE, Mumbai, and Shri Shukdeb Manadal, Director, M.M. Fish Seed Cultivation Pvt. Ltd., Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh, for a period of five years on a non-exclusive basis.

The lead inventors of this feed include Shri Prakash Paterkar, Dr K.N. Mohanta, Dr Narottam Prasad Sahu, Dr Renuka, V., Dr Sunil Kumar Nayak, and Dr Tincy Verghese.

A Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) was signed

Agribusiness, Fruits, R&D

ICAR-National Research Centre for Grapes, Pune, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Indo Fruits Development Council (IFDC), Pune, today for collaborative capacity building of stakeholders in the grape value chain

Dr Kaushik Banerjee, Director, ICAR-NRCG, briefed about the ongoing research activities of the Institute.

Shri Sopan Kanchan, Director (IFDC) and President (Grape Growers Federation of India), elaborated on the anticipated future progress of the IFDC-NRCG collaboration.

The IFDC is the first commodity stewardship council under the ‘Balasaheb Thackeray Agribusiness & Rural Transformation (SMART) Project,’ which is supported by the Government of Maharashtra and the World Bank. The IFDC aims to promote and support the growth and development of specific commodities by bringing together stakeholders across the value chain. This collaboration seeks to enhance competitive advantage, market access, technical functions, and policy advocacy for the targeted commodity.

Additionally, IFDC officials organised an interaction meeting with all the scientists of ICAR-NRCG.

ICAR-National Research Centre for Grapes, Pune, signed

Digital Technologies

Under India’s Digital Agriculture Mission, more than 2.05 crore farmer IDs have been created, spanning several states such as Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Maharashtra. The project intends to create a comprehensive digital agriculture ecosystem that offers farmers nationwide dependable crop data and creative solutions

Parliament was notified on Tuesday that the Digital Agriculture Mission had created over 2.05 crore farmer IDs. In his written response to the Lok Sabha, State Minister of Agriculture Ramnath Thakur stated that all landholder farmers, including female farmers, are covered by the State Farmer Registry run by the Digital Agriculture Mission.

Tenant and lessee farmers can also be onboarded through the Farmers Registry application. Depending on state regulation, a state may choose to add these farmers to the Farmers Registry. Uttar Pradesh has 1.02 crore farmer IDs, Madhya Pradesh has 41.87 lakh, Gujarat has 36.36 lakh, Maharashtra has 22.54 lakh, Assam has 1.42 lakh, and Rajasthan has 75,593 IDs. In Chhattisgarh, 9,843 in Odisha, 3,054 in Tamil Nadu, 424 in Andhra Pradesh, and 19 in Bihar, about 14,343 farmer IDs have been established.

With a budget of Rs 2,817 crore, the Digital Agriculture Mission aims to establish a strong digital agriculture ecosystem in the nation to support creative farmer-centric digital solutions and provide all farmers with timely and trustworthy crop-related information. In order to promote creative farmer-centric digital solutions and provide timely and trustworthy crop-related information, the Mission aims to establish a strong digital agricultural ecosystem throughout the nation.

With a budget of Rs 2,817 crore, the Digital Agriculture Mission aims to establish a strong digital agriculture ecosystem in the nation to support creative farmer-centric digital solutions and provide all farmers with timely and trustworthy crop-related information. In order to promote creative farmer-centric digital solutions and provide timely and trustworthy crop-related information, the Mission aims to establish a strong digital agricultural ecosystem throughout the nation.

With a budget of Rs 2,817 crore, the Digital Agriculture Mission aims to establish a strong digital agriculture ecosystem in the nation to support creative farmer-centric digital solutions and provide all farmers with timely and trustworthy crop-related information. In order to promote creative farmer-centric digital solutions and provide timely and trustworthy crop-related information, the Mission aims to establish a strong digital agricultural ecosystem throughout the nation.

Under India's Digital Agriculture Mission, more than