Topic
Agricultural
Commodities India’s Pulse Self-Sufficiency Push Undercut by Stock Controls and Subsidised Sa
India's Mission for Aatma Nirbharta in Pulses, announced in Budget 2025-26, aims for self-sufficiency by 2027 through government procurement. However, recurring stock-holding limits on tur, urad, and chana, along with subsidised buffer stock releases through Bharat Dal, erode the private market infrastructure and NCDEX futures market that are essential for price signals and farmer acreage decisions, according to a report by The Hindu BusinessLine.
Commodities J&K Plans Clean Plant Centre to Boost Horticulture Quality, Says Minister
Jammu and Kashmir Agriculture Production Minister Javid Ahmad Dar outlined plans to establish a Clean Plant Centre to improve horticulture planting material quality, while also addressing challenges like lack of crop insurance for apples and saffron, pest infestations from imported material, and shrinking farmland. The interview covered high-density apple cultivation success and climate adaptation efforts.
Commodities India’s horticulture output hits record 378 mt in 2025-26
India's horticulture production for the 2025-26 crop year is estimated at a record 377.78 million tonnes, up from 370.74 mt a year ago, according to the Agriculture Ministry. The increase is driven by a marginal rise in acreage and improved yields in fruits, vegetables, spices, and flowers. Key crops like banana, mango, potato, and tomato posted gains.
Commodities Bitter Season for Kashmir Honey: Output Plunges on Erratic Weather
Erratic weather in Kashmir has caused a sharp decline in honey production this season, reversing a 75% increase over the past three years. Beekeepers report yields down by 70% or more, with premium acacia honey particularly affected. The decline highlights the sector's vulnerability to climate variability despite recent policy support.
Commodities India Palm Oil Imports Rise in May but Stay Below Average Levels
India's palm oil imports edged up 7% month-on-month in May to 549,356 metric tons, rebounding from a four-month low but remaining below the 632,000-ton monthly average of the previous marketing year. The Solvent Extractors' Association of India (SEA) reported that soyoil imports surged 37% as its price advantage over palm oil narrowed, while sunflower oil imports fell nearly 32%. Total vegetable oil imports rose 4.2% to 1.37 million tons, the highest in three months.
Commodities Feed Makers Worry as Soyameal Prices Surge Over 40%
Soybean meal prices in India have surged over 40% in recent weeks to around ₹65-66 per kg, according to CLFMA. The price spike is putting pressure on feed manufacturers and farmers, especially in aquaculture where feed costs account for 50-60% of production. CLFMA urges government action to ensure supply and stabilize prices.
Commodities India's Wild Agave Sparks a New Spirit Industry
India's wild agave americana, traditionally used as fencing, has become the foundation of a new domestic agave spirit industry. The market is growing at 31% annually, according to distiller Maya Pistola Agavepura. Farmers like Masapalli Venkatesh coordinate wild harvests across states, but the informal supply chain faces challenges from genetic inconsistency to tight harvest windows.
Commodities India's Agriculture Budget Soars to Rs 1.4 Lakh Crore
The Modi government has increased India's agriculture budget five-fold to Rs 1.4 lakh crore over 12 years. Key initiatives include climate-resistant crops, soil health cards, and increased fertiliser subsidies.
Commodities UK Pint Prices Surge 36% Amid Rising Costs
The price of a pint in UK pubs has increased by 36% since the last World Cup, driven by rising costs and taxes. Energy price hikes and increased national insurance contributions have significantly impacted pub operations.
Commodities Monsoon Stalls: Rain Deficit Deepens in West India
The monsoon has stalled along India's coast, leading to a significant rain deficit in West India. Key regions like Saurashtra and Kutch are experiencing over 60% below-normal rainfall.
Commodities Complex Fertilizer Sales Surge 27% in May Amid Urea Decline
Complex fertilizer sales in India increased by 27% in May, offsetting declines in urea and DAP sales. The rise in complex fertilizers helped maintain overall fertilizer consumption levels, despite government efforts to curb chemical fertilizer use.
Commodities Homestead Farming: A Climate Change Solution
Homestead farming in Keralam offers a sustainable approach to combat climate change by reducing transportation emissions and enhancing carbon sequestration. The practice, highlighted by Rammohan Paliyath, emphasizes local food production and diversified agriculture.
Commodities MP Urges Action on Areca Plantation Diseases in Karnataka
Captain Brijesh Chowta, MP from Dakshina Kannada, has urged the Indian government to address leaf spot and yellow leaf diseases affecting areca plantations. These diseases threaten the livelihoods of farmers in Karnataka, with financial constraints hindering effective management.
Commodities El Niño Threatens Global Crop Yields and Energy Grids
El Niño has formed in the Pacific, posing risks to global agriculture and energy. The phenomenon, identified by the Japan Meteorological Agency, could lead to reduced yields for key crops and strain power grids worldwide.
Trade India Ships GI-Tagged Tezpur Litchi to Dubai
India has exported one tonne of GI-tagged Tezpur Litchi from Assam to Dubai, enhancing its international market presence. The Commerce Ministry highlights this as a step forward for premium agricultural exports.
Commodities Gujarat Kharif Sowing Boosted by Early Narmada Water Release
Gujarat's Kharif sowing season begins as the state government releases Narmada irrigation water early to aid farmers. With over 1.73 lakh hectares already sown, the move supports critical early crop growth.
Commodities Indian Farmers Eye Expansion Amid Rising Oilseed Prices
Rising prices of key oilseeds like soybean and groundnut are prompting Indian farmers to consider expanding cultivation areas. This trend is driven by higher market prices compared to last year, encouraging increased planting in major growing regions.
Commodities Maharashtra's Expert Panel to Address Onion Price Decline
Maharashtra has established an expert panel to address the decline in onion prices, focusing on long-term solutions for the state's onion sector. The panel will assess factors affecting prices and recommend measures to improve the value chain.
Commodities India's Monsoon Boosted by IoD Amid El Nino Concerns
India's monsoon season could see improved rainfall due to a potential positive Indian Ocean Dipole (IoD) event, despite the looming threat of El Nino. The Bureau of Meteorology reports sea surface temperatures have crossed the El Nino threshold, but a positive IoD could enhance monsoon rains.
Commodities Natural Rubber Prices Hit Record High Amid Global Supply Challenges
Natural rubber prices have surged to a record ₹267 per kg, driven by global supply shortages and rising international rates. Weather disruptions and geopolitical tensions have exacerbated the supply-demand imbalance.
Commodities Monsoon Slowdown Expected in North-West India Due to Western Disturbance
The monsoon in north-west India is expected to slow down due to a western disturbance, affecting agricultural activities. Heavy rainfall remains concentrated along the west coast, but a slowdown is anticipated in the coming days.
Commodities Pernod Ricard India's Initiative Boosts Agri Yields and Water Resources
Pernod Ricard India's WAL programme has improved agricultural yields and water resources across 13 states and union territories. The initiative supports farmers with regenerative practices and efficient irrigation.
Commodities Regenerative Agriculture: Shared Responsibility in Transition
Stakeholders in India's agriculture sector emphasize the need for shared responsibility in transitioning to regenerative agriculture. The Nature Conservancy and CII FACE highlight integrated solutions for sustainable farming.
Commodities Post-Harvest Management: Key to Food Safety and Market Stability
Post-harvest management is crucial for maintaining food safety and market stability. Effective storage and transportation practices can significantly reduce food losses and enhance economic returns.
Commodities India's Dairy Demand Surges in Smaller Cities
India's dairy market is expanding beyond metropolitan areas, with smaller cities like Thrissur and Manipal driving demand for value-added dairy products. This shift is fueled by rising incomes and improved cold-chain infrastructure.
Commodities Maharashtra Onion Farmers Demand Higher Procurement Prices
Maharashtra onion farmers are demanding a minimum procurement price of Rs 3,000 per quintal, citing current rates as insufficient to cover costs. Despite relaxed procurement norms, farmers face financial distress due to low prices.
Commodities Fertilizer Panic Buying Surges in Indian States Amid Global Tensions
Urea and DAP fertilizer sales have surged in Indian states like Maharashtra and Punjab due to panic buying triggered by geopolitical tensions. This has exposed vulnerabilities in India's subsidy scheme.
Commodities Caribbean Hot Sauce Prices Surge Amid Scotch Bonnet Shortage
Caribbean hot sauce producers face shortages and rising costs due to a Scotch Bonnet pepper shortage. Extreme weather and pest issues in Jamaica have impacted supply.
Commodities Monsoon Advances Amid Strengthening El Niño Signals
The Indian monsoon has advanced further, covering key agricultural regions, while El Niño signals strengthen, potentially impacting crop yields. Traders are closely monitoring these developments.
Commodities Cod Prices Surge Amid Supply Challenges and Consumer Loyalty
Cod prices have surged to unprecedented levels due to fishing quotas and geopolitical tensions, forcing UK fish and chip shops to diversify their offerings. Despite the price hike, consumer loyalty to cod remains strong.
Commodities Maize Farmers Shift to Cotton Amid El Niño Concerns
Indian maize farmers are shifting to cotton, soybean, paddy, and ragi due to anticipated below-normal rainfall from El Niño and market profitability. The shift varies by region, with Madhya Pradesh seeing increased cotton acreage.
Commodities Assam's Tea Output Surge Boosts India's April Production by 5%
India's tea production increased by 5% in April 2026, reaching 104.28 million kg, primarily due to a significant output rebound in Assam. Favorable weather conditions contributed to a 36% increase in Assam's production, while other regions like West Bengal and South India saw declines.
Commodities KUFOS Workshop on Scientific Shrimp Farming
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Commodities Delayed Monsoon Affects Indian Agriculture Markets
The delayed monsoon in India, influenced by El Niño, is impacting agricultural commodity markets. Key regions like Gujarat and Rajasthan face below-normal rainfall, affecting crop forecasts.
Commodities Soymeal Prices Surge, Prompting Calls for Imports
The livestock industry in India is urging the government to allow the import of 1.5 million tonnes of soymeal due to a significant price surge. This demand arises from high domestic prices of soybean and maize, exacerbated by lower local production and global market conditions.
Commodities Assam's Second Flush Tea Prices Surge on Quality Boost
Assam's second flush tea prices have surged due to favorable weather conditions leading to high-quality production. The average price at the Guwahati auction center rose significantly, reflecting strong demand.
Commodities Poultry Production Slashed by 25% Amid Rising Soybean Meal Costs
The poultry industry in India is cutting production by 25% due to a 40% rise in soybean meal prices. This move aims to mitigate increased feed costs impacting poultry producers.
Commodities El Niño Threatens Indian Agriculture: Urgent Call for Climate Resilience
The Federation of All India Farmer Associations (FAIFA) emphasizes the urgent need for climate resilience in Indian agriculture due to El Niño's impact. The report highlights the importance of ecological and technological transitions to safeguard food security and farmer livelihoods.
Commodities Muted Demand Pressures Tea Prices at Kochi Auctions
Tea prices at Kochi auctions have declined due to muted demand and geopolitical tensions in West Asia. The auction saw a decrease in prices for popular grades, with a notable drop in CTC dust market prices.
Commodities Hailstorms Impact Kashmir Apple Prices, Insurance Demand Rises
Kashmir's apple prices have surged due to repeated hailstorms causing significant crop damage. The lack of crop insurance exacerbates the financial strain on growers, prompting calls for urgent policy implementation.
Commodities India's South-West Monsoon Begins Over Kerala
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Commodities APCNF's Natural Farming Wins 2026 Food Planet Prize
The Andhra Pradesh Community Managed Natural Farming (APCNF) initiative has won the 2026 Food Planet Prize from Sweden's Curt Bergfors Foundation. This recognition highlights the sustainable agricultural practices promoted by APCNF, impacting 18 lakh farming families in Andhra Pradesh.
Commodities Tamil Nadu Mango Farmers Boost Yields with High-Density Planting
Tamil Nadu mango farmers have significantly increased their yields by adopting ultra high-density planting (UHDP) techniques. This shift, supported by Coca-Cola's Project Unnati, has transformed traditional farming practices, allowing for multiple harvests annually and improved income stability.
Commodities Monsoon Relief Expected in Tamil Nadu
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Commodities India Lowers Foodgrain Output Target Amid Monsoon Concerns
India has reduced its foodgrain output target for the 2026-27 crop year to 373.93 million tonnes, citing concerns over a below-normal monsoon forecast. The decision reflects potential impacts from El Nino, affecting rice and maize production.
Blueberry Market Opportunities Explored at USHBC Event
The US Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC) is set to host 'Blueberries Go Big India 2026' in Mumbai on June 10. The event aims to explore the growing opportunities for USA blueberries in India, featuring discussions on market potential and culinary innovation.
Commodities Wheat Procurement Surpasses Target with 17% Surge
Wheat procurement in India surged 17% to over 35 million tonnes for the 2026-27 season, exceeding the target of 34.5 MT. This increase was driven by robust domestic production and favorable mandi rates.
Commodities India's Milk Production Faces Heat Challenges
India's milk production, a global leader, faces challenges from extreme heat, impacting yields and farmer costs. Rising temperatures threaten the dairy sector's growth, highlighting vulnerabilities in production models.
Commodities Telangana Dominates India's Paddy Procurement with 60% Share
Telangana has emerged as a leader in India's paddy procurement, accounting for 60% of the total during the Rabi season. The state's efforts, led by CM Revanth Reddy, include significant government incentives and infrastructure projects to support farmers.
Commodities El Nino Threatens Global Agriculture with Rising Temperatures
El Nino's potential emergence in 2026 poses significant risks to global agriculture due to rising temperatures and altered precipitation patterns. Commodity markets are bracing for potential disruptions in supply and demand dynamics.
Commodities India's Wheat Procurement Surpasses Revised Target Amid Record Production
India's wheat procurement for buffer stocks has surpassed the revised target of 34.5 million tonnes, reaching 34.99 million tonnes as of May 31. This increase is attributed to record production estimates and relaxed quality norms due to weather impacts.
Commodities Monsoon Delays Impact Kerala's Agricultural Markets
The delayed monsoon onset in Kerala is affecting agricultural commodity markets, with potential impacts on crop yields and prices. Traders are closely monitoring weather forecasts and market reactions.
Commodities Dairy Prices Steady Amid Gender Policy Shifts in India
Dairy prices in India have remained stable as the country focuses on gender-inclusive policies in the dairy sector. The emphasis on empowering women in dairy farming is expected to enhance productivity and economic resilience.
Manufacturing Corteva Launches Mavilon for Rice Pest Control
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Commodities Below-Normal Monsoon Forecast Threatens Indian Agriculture
The India Meteorological Department forecasts below-normal monsoon rainfall and above-normal heatwaves in June, impacting key agricultural regions. This development could significantly affect commodity markets, particularly for crops like rice and wheat.
Commodities Natural Farming Transition Amid Fertilizer Shortage
India faces a fertilizer shortage, prompting a shift towards natural farming. This transition aims to achieve self-reliance in the fertilizer sector, impacting millions of agricultural households.
Commodities El Niño Threatens Indian Monsoon, Impact on Crop Prices Looms
The potential emergence of El Niño by June, as forecasted by the Australian Bureau of Meteorology, poses a significant threat to the Indian monsoon, potentially affecting crop yields and prices. The Indian Meteorological Department predicts below-normal rainfall, which could lead to lower production of key crops like paddy and pulses.
Commodities India's Ethanol Expansion Reshapes Agriculture and Energy Markets
India's ethanol blending initiative has significantly increased farmland dedicated to fuel production, reshaping agricultural practices and impacting energy markets. The shift from sugarcane to grain-based ethanol, particularly maize and rice, has altered crop choices and raised concerns over food availability.
Commodities India's Agriculture Sector Faces Climate Challenges
India's agriculture sector is under pressure to adapt to climate impacts, with extreme weather and groundwater stress threatening food supply chains. A coalition led by the Climate Group aims to enhance resilience and sustainability.
Commodities India's Regenerative Agri Conference: A Step Towards Resilience
India will host a conference on regenerative agriculture to address food security and climate resilience. The event, organized by TNC and CII FACE, will focus on sustainable practices and innovations in agriculture.