The Economic Times

The RBI has flagged El Nio and an uneven southwest monsoon as key risks to agriculture, rural demand and the broader economy, despite cutting its FY27 inflation forecast to 5%. Governor Sanjay Malhotra said government measures, including climate-resilient crops, water conservation and adequate foodgrain stocks, should cushion the impact, though volatile crude prices and geopolitical tensions continue to pose inflation risks.

India's sugar prices have risen significantly in recent weeks. The government imposed stock limits to help temper these rising rates. Lower output and El Nino concerns are also impacting sugar prices. Demand for sugar remains strong despite the recent price increases. The government has maintained August's sales quota at last year's level.

Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan met farmers regarding the ethanol blending petrol policy. The government aims for farmers to receive the largest share of ethanol program benefits. Discussions focused on ensuring fair prices and demand for various crop feedstocks. Farmers expressed support for the ethanol program and clarified misconceptions about its impact. Both sides agreed to collaborate on strengthening the policy-making process for farmers' interests.

Dr. M.L. Jat, Secretary, DARE and Director General, ICAR said that this breakthrough marks the dawn of a new era in veterinary science.

The newly developed T2T genome sequence contains 752.65 million base pairs of DNA assembled into 92 contigs, providing a complete representation of all 11 chromosomes of pigeonpea.

The Bharat International Rice Conference will feature a global crop survey. Future rice prices will be projected based on expected global demand and supply. This event aims to strengthen business partnerships and identify new opportunities. Over 30,000 delegates from more than 120 countries are expected to attend. The conference is scheduled to take place from October 23-25 in New Delhi.

The Union Cabinet approved a five-year extension for the PM-KISAN scheme. This extension will continue direct cash transfers to eligible farmer families through FY31. The government committed 3.15 lakh crore for this significant initiative. This financial support aims to boost agricultural productivity and rural economic growth. The scheme has already disbursed over 4.47 lakh crore since its launch.

The Fertiliser Association of India seeks higher subsidy rates for the upcoming Kharif season. Raw material prices have significantly increased, impacting domestic fertiliser production viability. Industry leaders met to review the Middle East crisis's effect on key input costs. Existing subsidy rates have not kept pace with the changed cost environment. Maintaining uninterrupted domestic production is critical for ensuring adequate stock buildup.

The government plans to resume selling subsidized Bharat Atta and Bharat Rice soon. This initiative aims to provide staples at lower prices before the festival season. The Ministry of Consumer Affairs has allocated significant quantities of wheat and rice for this purpose. Bharat Rice will be priced at 35 per kg initially, with a slight increase later.

In a special report, Wall Street brokerage Goldman Sachs said the labour market impacts of gen-AI are expected to be uneven and it looks gen-AI as a medium-term positive for India's growth outlook.

The government has imposed nationwide stock limits on private sugar traders. These restrictions will be in force from August 1 to November 30. Dealers cannot hold more than 4,000 quintals of sugar at any single location. A quota of 2.25 million tonnes of sugar has been announced for August. Physical verification of stocks with sugar mills will occur during August 1-14.

The study identified climatic conditions that support beneficial microbial activity and enzyme functions. Findings established soil microbial communities as sensitive indicators of environmental change and sustainable tea production. This work will support climate-resilient tea production by improving soil health monitoring.

The Centre has imposed stock holding limits on sugar dealers nationwide from August 1 to November 30. This measure aims to curb hoarding and speculative trading, ensuring adequate domestic availability. The government will closely monitor market activities and take further steps if needed. Sugar prices have climbed to record highs recently, prompting government intervention. Genuine trade and distribution activities will continue without disruption during this period.

India's rice exports grew five percent in early 2026, driven by non-basmati shipments. Higher demand from African nations boosted non-basmati rice exports significantly. Basmati rice exports saw a decline due to trade disruptions with Gulf markets. Corn exports surged four hundred percent, and wheat exports also increased substantially. These export trends ensure affordable supplies for many global buyers.

According to an official statement, the minister chaired a virtual review meeting to assess the utilisation of funds released under the RKVY and to consider the issuance of the Second Installment (Second Mother Sanction) to the Government of Maharashtra.

According to a statement by the Agriculture Ministry on Sunday, Trust for Advancement of Agricultural Sciences (TAAS), in collaboration with ICAR, and the Federation of Seed Industry of India (FSII), organised a high-level roundtable on Reforms in Regulations and Approval of Genetically Modified (GM) and Genome-Edited (GE) Crop Plants.

Scorching temperatures across Europe also raise concerns over potential crop losses. This situation could lift costs for staples like bread and cooking oil.

A study finds conservation agriculture with drip irrigation can boost wheat protein content by up to 12% while improving yield and resource efficiency.

India's import bill for key pulses significantly decreased in FY26 due to robust domestic production. Lower global prices and import curbs also contributed to this substantial reduction. Exports of certain pulses, like Kabuli chana, saw a notable increase during the same period. This shift reflects India's growing self-sufficiency and improved market position for these commodities. Domestic policies and strong harvests have bolstered India's pulse sector performance.

WTO members questioned India's trade policies at a recent review. Concerns included quality orders and abrupt tariff changes. India defended its policies as vital for public objectives. Schemes like PLI and agricultural support also faced scrutiny. Members sought greater transparency and predictability in trade practices.

India plans to become a top 10 sporting nation by 2036. The nation also aims for a top five ranking by 2047. The Khelo India programme has established over 1,000 sports training centres. The Union Budget increased sports allocation to approximately Rs 4,480 crore. A special fund promotes sports equipment manufacturing and research within India.

India hosted the 16th BRICS Health Ministers' Meeting in Chandigarh. The meeting established a network for mental wellness research and collaboration. BRICS nations adopted a declaration to deepen health cooperation and strengthen systems. Initiatives were launched to combat diseases driven by social determinants. Digital health and healthy lifestyle promotion were also key discussion points.

India issued a security warning for ships in the Black Sea region. This advisory follows a recent Russian attack that killed four Indian nationals. The maritime authority urged extreme caution and risk assessments for voyages. Several other attacks involving Indian seafarers have occurred since April. India is a major contributor to global merchant shipping personnel.

India must transition agriculture towards income generation, emphasizing crop diversification and market reforms, said S Mahendra Dev, Chairman of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM).

India has delivered essential medical supplies to Kenya for disease preparedness. This assistance strengthens Kenya's capacity to respond to infectious disease outbreaks. The consignment included personal protective equipment and infection prevention materials. India previously supplied significant medical aid to the Africa Centres for Disease Control. Both nations are expanding health sector cooperation through grant assistance.

In 1907, an Indian scientist challenged Newton: How a young clerk in the Indian government's finance department, working nights at a small Calcutta laboratory, went on to become India's first Nobel laureate in science.

Lahiri stressed the need for greater adoption of science and technology, noting that productivity per acre for several Indian crops remains significantly below global benchmarks.

India's weightlifting representation at the Commonwealth Games has diminished from sixteen to eleven quotas, resulting in Dilbagh Singh's withdrawal due to injury and the impact of doping violations. The quota cut was necessitated by several Anti-Doping Rule Violations infractions during the qualifying stages, which have led to bans for N Ajith, Sairaj Pardeshi, and Harcharan Singh, in addition to sanctions against Vanshita Verma.

India will host the 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad. The nation aims to leave a lasting institutional legacy for Commonwealth sport. Discussions included governance reforms and strengthening the anti-doping framework. India supports establishing an annual forum for translating decisions into action. The country is ready to host a historic and sustainable Games.

India begins its Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games campaign with hopes pinned on stars such as Neeraj Chopra, Mirabai Chanu, Lovlina Borgohain, Jyothi Yarraji and Sift Kaur Samra. Here's a look at the country's top medal contenders.

2026 Commonwealth Games India Medal Tally: India's Commonwealth Games 2026 lawn bowls events commence on July twenty-third. The women's pairs team plays Malta's Connie and Rebecca Rixon. Putul Sonowal faces Canada's Ryan Bester in the men's singles. Mirabai Chanu and Lovlina Borgohain will lead the Indian contingent. Sony Sports Network and SonyLIV will broadcast the games live.

Zimbabwe vs India 1st T20I: India and Zimbabwe begin their three-match T20I series in Harare on July 23. Check predicted playing XIs, squad details, Harare Sports Club pitch report, weather forecast, match timing, TV telecast and live streaming details.

Indian boxer Lovlina Borgohain has secured Indias first medal at the Commonwealth Games after receiving a direct entry into the semifinals of the womens 75kg event, assuring herself at least a bronze medal.

Meet the five Indian Commonwealth Games 2026: India's 125-member squad begins the Commonwealth Games 2026 campaign in Glasgow. Neeraj Chopra leads medal hopes in javelin throw after injury recovery. Mirabai Chanu aims for gold in weightlifting, a consistent contender. Lovlina Borgohain carries boxing expectations while Tejinderpal Singh Toor seeks a shot put medal. Murali Sreeshankar enters long jump in strong form after overcoming injury.

India's Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games campaign starts Thursday with a 124-member contingent. The event features a significantly reduced sports program, impacting medal chances. Many sports where India excelled are now absent from the competition. This scaling back is due to the host city change and financial viability concerns. Organizers aim for a sustainable event with fewer disciplines this year.

India vs Zimbabwe Online Live Telecast: Team India aims to regain winning form in the upcoming T20I series against Zimbabwe. Captain Shreyas Iyer faces pressure to improve his leadership record in this crucial series. Young batting prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi will likely open the innings for India. The first T20I match is scheduled for Thursday, July 23, 2026. Live telecast and streaming options are available for fans to watch the match.

India rejected Pakistan's remarks at the United Nations regarding the Indus Waters Treaty. Cooperation cannot occur when cross-border terrorism is an instrument of state policy. Jammu and Kashmir has always been and will remain an integral part of India. Pakistan was accused of misusing discussions to push a false narrative. India stated Pakistan should focus on its own internal affairs.

Indian boxing great Mohammed Ali Qamar expressed confidence in the women's squad for the Glasgow Commonwealth Games. He believes each of the seven female boxers is capable of winning a medal. Qamar highlighted the experience of boxers like Jaismine and Lovlina Borgohain. He noted that women's boxing has improved significantly while men's performance has declined. The draws will play a crucial role in the boxers' medal prospects.

Indian weddings are often grand celebrations, but costs can quickly become a financial burden. A chartered accountant highlighted how a twenty lakh rupee budget can vanish in just two days. Food, venue, and decorations consume the largest portions of this significant wedding expenditure. Photography and entertainment also add substantially to the overall wedding costs. The focus should be on building a marriage rather than overspending on a single event.

Mayank Yadav emerged as a promising young Indian fast bowler. He gained attention for his consistent speeds exceeding 150 km/h. Yadav made a sensational IPL debut for Lucknow Super Giants. He achieved Player of the Match awards in his first two games. India now considers him for an upcoming T20I series.

The 2026 Commonwealth Games begin in Glasgow on July 23. India's campaign will be led by Olympic medallists Neeraj Chopra and Mirabai Chanu. The 11-day sporting event features nine fewer sports than the previous edition. India has sent a 125-member contingent to compete in various disciplines. Australia and England are expected to lead the medal standings once again.

Where to Watch Commonwealth Games 2026 LIVE: The Commonwealth Games 2026 commence today in Glasgow, Scotland. Indian viewers can watch the events on Sony Sports Network and SonyLIV. India competes in eight able-bodied and five para-sports, aiming for medals. Neeraj Chopra and Mirabai Chanu are among the top medal contenders. The Games conclude on Sunday, August 2, 2026.

Mauritius cabinet ratified a tax protocol granting Indian officials more questioning powers. This allows direct challenges to offshore entities suspected of tax evasion. The principal purpose test will deny treaty benefits if tax avoidance is a primary aim. This change follows the Tiger Global verdict and strengthens genuine substance requirements. The protocol aims to ensure treaty benefits are for legitimate commercial purposes.

India voiced strong concern for seafarer safety in the Black Sea region. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with his Russian counterpart to discuss bilateral ties. New Delhi summoned the Russian Charge d'Affaires over the MV Golden Leo incident. Experts advise Indian seafarers to avoid ships in the Black Sea. This meeting preceded President Vladimir Putin's upcoming visit to India.

Samsung has launched its new Galaxy Z Fold 8 smartphone in India. This device features a lighter design and an upgraded display. It also includes advanced AI capabilities and improved camera performance. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 is available in multiple storage and color options. Sales for this new foldable phone begin on August 7.

Bharat Forge Limited and Flying Whales will jointly develop advanced airships. This partnership aims to build indigenous capabilities for India's defence needs. The LCA60T airship will transport sixty tonnes of cargo with vertical take-off. These airships offer new possibilities for military logistics and disaster response. The collaboration will create high-technology employment and export opportunities.

Chirag Paswan said India must now shift from food self-reliance to value addition through processing, infrastructure, innovation and better farmer market access.

India is unlikely to face any immediate sugar shortage, as domestic stocks are expected to be sufficient to meet demand until the next crushing season begins, says Atul Chaturvedi of Shree Renuka Sugars.