From export bans to price crashes: Why onion farmers need more than buffer stock purchases
Recent hikes in procurement price have provided little relief, according to stakeholders, as onion farmers argue that prices are still below their cost of production.
Trump administration touts deal with Iran as payday for U.S. farmers; Tehran denies it
A spokesperson for the Iranian Foreign Ministry, Esmail Baghaei, said any agricultural purchases would be based on prices and quality, not terms dictated by Washington
El Nino effect: Centre says 111 districts with poor irrigation facilities are a concern
The Centre has assessed that 315 districts are vulnerable and 111 districts in 12 States are of primary concern due to poor irrigation facilities
Govt draws up contingency plans for 315 districts amid 42% rain deficit
India faces a significant 42% rainfall deficit this monsoon, exacerbated by El Nino. The government is implementing contingency plans across 315 vulnerable districts, focusing on water conservation and crop diversification. While sowing is slightly ahead of last year, soybean planting lags. District-specific strategies are being deployed to mitigate potential impacts on farm output and ensure food security.
India prepares contingency plans for 315 districts as monsoon falters
India is implementing contingency plans for over 300 vulnerable districts facing a potentially weak monsoon. With rains currently 43% below average and a forecast for continued weakness, the government is urging farmers to adopt short-duration, water-efficient crops. Preparations include repairing water-harvesting structures to mitigate the impact on crucial summer-sown crops and rural incomes.
India prepares contingency plans for 315 districts as monsoon falters
India is implementing contingency plans for over 300 vulnerable districts facing a potentially weak monsoon. With rains currently 43% below average and a forecast for continued weakness, the government is urging farmers to adopt short-duration, water-efficient crops. Preparations include repairing water-harvesting structures to mitigate the impact on crucial summer-sown crops and rural incomes.
Amit Shah directs NAFED, NCCF to bypass middlemen, buy pulses and oilseeds directly from farmers
Amit Shah set a two-year deadline, saying farmers would be able to sell directly to the two cooperatives and receive payment without intermediaries
Bihar CM transfers over 200 crore to 3.96 lakh farmers hit by natural calamities in March
According to a statement issued by CMO, amount was transferred to the bank accounts of farmers affected by storms, unseasonal rainfall, and hailstorms that occurred during the third and fourth weeks of March in the 2025-26 rabi season
India likely won't export sugar for years as El Nino, ethanol squeeze supply
Once as a top sugar exporter, India is now anticipating a three-year stretch of significant export deficits, primarily driven by El Nino's adverse effects on cane cultivation. As ethanol demand rises, farmers are beginning to reassess their planting strategies, with some considering alternative crops. This shift might mark the first occasion in a decade where India turns to sugar imports, altering both domestic and international markets.
Basmati prices may fall 510% as Strait of Hormuz closure hits exports
After the interim (US-Iran) peace deal was announced, exporters started buying basmati rice in good quantities for shipment to the Middle East and prices surged 15-20%. But this sudden announcement will bring down prices, said Dev Garg, vice-president, Indian Rice Exporters Federation.
Nearly 12 ships carrying fertiliser cross Strait of Hormuz
At the onset of the Iran war, eight urea, four diammonium phosphate (DAP), one ammonia and three sulphur vessels bound for India were stranded in the strait.
Bengal free of shackles and on path to creating history, says PM Modi
The Prime Minister, who participated in an event to mark Paschim Banga Dibas in Hooghlys Tarakeswar, said that during partition attempts were made to include the whole of Bengal in Pakistan, and accused the Congress party of surrendering before those conspirators
El Nino Impact: Milk prices likely to go up, again
Poor rainfall typically leads farmers to reduce cattle numbers because of shortages of fodder and water, lowering milk output and pushing up prices.
RBI revises Kisan Credit Card norms, standardises crop season definition
The Reserve Bank has revamped the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) Scheme, standardizing crop season definitions for uniform loan sanctions and repayments. Effective January, new directions aim to streamline credit support for agriculture and allied activities. Banks must waive collateral for loans up to Rs 2 lakh, with exceptions for voluntary gold/silver pledges. For loans exceeding Rs 2 lakh, banks will set collateral based on their policy.
El Nino fear pushes farmers in Srikakulam and Vizianagaram towards water-saving paddy methods
Farmers in Andhra Pradesh's Srikakulam and Vizianagaram districts are shifting to water-saving rice farming techniques. Facing potential El Nino impacts, cultivators are embracing Direct Seeded Rice and Alternate Wetting and Drying. These methods significantly reduce water usage and labor costs. The Dr Reddy's Foundation is actively promoting these changes, alongside soil health improvements, to ensure sustainable agriculture in the region.
Restoring Indias land, securing Indias future through science and collective action
Scientific innovations and integrated farming systems are combating land degradation and enhancing climate resilience, benefiting millions of farmers and contributing to national development goals.
Govt readies farm safety net with banks, insurers as El Nino looms
The government is enhancing financial safety nets for rural families. This initiative aims to cushion the impact of El Nino on farming. Efforts include improving loan access, expanding crop insurance, and speeding up claim payouts. Technology like satellite data will be utilized. The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana is also under review for broader coverage.
Finmin to engage with states over looming El Nino fallout
The Finance Ministry will soon meet with states and central ministries to assess the economic and fiscal impact of El Nino. This review will focus on potential stress on agriculture, food inflation, and increased subsidy outgo. The government is preparing relief packages for vulnerable districts. This proactive approach aims to ensure adequate supplies and mitigate inflation spikes.
India has achieved self-sufficiency in food production: CTCRI director
India is now a global leader in agriculture, achieving food self-sufficiency. Foodgrain production has significantly increased, and agri exports are soaring. India is the world's largest rice exporter. The agricultural sector shows resilience and growth. Government focus and technological advancements are key drivers for meeting future food demands.
BRICS agriculture ministers begin deliberations in Indore on food security, small farmers' welfare
BRICS agriculture ministers are meeting in Indore. India is chairing the two-day event. Key discussions focus on food security. The welfare of smallholder farmers is a priority. Greater participation of women and youth in agriculture is also on the agenda. The meeting aims to strengthen agricultural cooperation among member nations. An Indore Declaration is expected.
T.N. CM Vijay announces Kuruvai Special Package for paddy cultivation at a cost of 134.83 crore
Due to the delay in Southwest monsoon, the Mettur dam was not opened on the customary date of June 12; a release stated the CM has announced the Kuruvai Special Package to protect farmers livelihoods and encourage paddy cultivation
South Asia can generate millions of jobs through agriculture sector: World Bank Group
With agriculture sector employing around 43 per cent of the South Asian workforce, the region has strong potential to emerge as a global leader in food systems, said World Bank Group, as per a statement by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries.
