Topic
farming
Commodities India's soyabean acreage recovers as July rains boost Kharif sowing
India's soyabean acreage for Kharif 2026 reached 117.68 lakh ha by July 31, down 0.70% from a year earlier, according to Agriculture Ministry data. July rains boosted sowing in Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh, while SOPA pegged the crop area at 117.13 lakh ha. Crop condition is normal to good, with flowering underway.
Technology Maharashtra’s ₹500 crore AI agriculture policy targets data, traceability and farm advisory
Maharashtra is advancing AI in agriculture through the MahaAgri-AI Policy 2025–2029, backed by ₹500 crore, and the MahaAgX data exchange. The strategy includes personalized farmer advisories, traceability for export crops and policy intelligence, moving from pilots to field-scale deployment.
Commodities India seeks to cut reliance on imported strawberry varieties with indigenous breeding
India's strawberry industry, concentrated in Mahabaleshwar, depends entirely on imported varieties from the US and Europe. Farmers face high costs and climate risks. Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth (MPKV) and Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) are using gamma irradiation to fast-track development of India's first indigenous strawberry cultivar, aiming for climate resilience within 10-15 years.
Commodities UK Dairy Farmers Rely on Cow Showers and Fans as Heatwave Cuts Milk Output by 20%
Dairy farmers in Wiltshire and Somerset are investing in ventilation and sprinkler systems to combat heat stress in cattle. Extreme heat has cut milk production by up to 20%, with farmers reporting drought conditions not seen in 50 years. The trend of hotter summers is forcing earlier use of winter feed.
Commodities Women Account for 60% of Indian Agricultural Workforce in 2025, Government Data Shows
Women constitute 59.8% of the agricultural workforce in India as of 2025, according to the Periodic Labour Force Survey. The government reports that 21.8 million women farmers received PM-KISAN benefits under the 23rd instalment. Additionally, tobacco exports have increased 53% in quantity and 166.5% in value over the past decade, with Flue-Cured Virginia tobacco farmers seeing an 86.8% rise in average price.
Commodities India's Kharif Sowing Deficit Narrows to Under 5% as 71% of Normal Area Covered
Indian farmers have narrowed the Kharif sowing deficit to less than 5% by July 24, covering 787.38 lakh hectares (71% of normal). While paddy, pulses, and oilseeds still trail last year's pace, the deficit has reduced sharply from 21% in early July. Agriculture scientists remain cautiously optimistic, though rainfall patterns in the next two months will be critical.
Commodities Shriram Farm Solutions signs MoU with IIVR to access breeder seeds for five vegetable crops
Shriram Farm Solutions, a division of DCM Shriram Ltd, has signed an MoU with ICAR-IIVR for transfer of breeder seeds for five vegetable crops: radish, spinach, pea, cowpea, and okra. The partnership aims to strengthen the company's vegetable seed development programme and introduce improved varieties focused on quality, productivity, and resilience.
Commodities Treated water, soil health, smart inputs: The real gains for Indian farmers
The article argues that water quality is the foundational issue for Indian agriculture, and that treated water, combined with nano-nutrients and biological soil treatments, can significantly improve yields and input efficiency. The author, Sunil Nanda, emphasizes that farmers adopt what works and that solutions must be affordable and proven at field scale.
Commodities India's Potato Seed Ecosystem: The Foundation for Future Farming Prosperity
India, the world's second-largest potato producer, suffers from a productivity gap with average yields of 28-30 tonnes per hectare, half of global leaders. A fragmented seed ecosystem and low Seed Replacement Rate (25-30%) are primary causes. Transitioning to an organized seed marketing system with digital intelligence can boost yields, reduce crop failure risks, and align with growing demand from frozen food and QSR sectors.
Commodities Beyond traditional crops: Why high-value nut farming could be the next growth opportunity for hill States
Indian hill states like Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu and Kashmir are poised to expand high-value nut farming, leveraging climate advantages and policy support. With domestic demand for nuts rising and a significant share met by imports, locally grown almonds and walnuts could capture market share. Recent budget announcements and sapling imports signal a shift toward scalable production, though infrastructure gaps remain.
Commodities Urad Acreage in North India Rises 8% on Recent Rains, Sowing Accelerates
Urad (black matpe) acreage in India has increased 8% year-on-year to 18.67 lakh hectares as of July 24, 2026, driven by recent rains in northern states. While Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan saw gains, Maharashtra and Karnataka recorded sharp declines due to delayed monsoon. Trade sources expect higher northern output to offset southern shortfalls.
Commodities Maize gains ground in Madhya Pradesh, may offset decline in Karnataka and Maharashtra
Madhya Pradesh has reported a 23% jump in maize acreage this kharif season, partly offsetting declines in key producing states like Karnataka and Maharashtra where delayed monsoon and rainfall deficit have hurt sowing. Overall maize acreage is down about 5% at 67.89 lakh hectares as of July 17, compared with 71.5 lakh hectares a year ago, according to Agriculture Ministry data.
Commodities Ladakh's Organic Push Faces First Big Test After Chemical Fertiliser Ban
The Ladakh administration has banned chemical fertilisers as part of its goal to become India's first fully organic Union Territory. However, farmers warn that the success hinges on the availability of organic manure, which has declined due to reduced livestock and modern sanitation. The ₹500-crore MODI initiative aims to support the transition, but immediate supply concerns persist.
Commodities Bayer Launches Trance Insecticide to Help Indian Cotton Farmers Combat Sucking Pests
Bayer has launched Trance, an innovative insecticide for cotton farmers to manage sucking pests like aphids, jassids, and whitefly nymphs. The product combines two modes of action and will be available in major cotton-growing states from July 2026.
Commodities Expert panel suggests rejuvenating old Totapuri mango orchards in Andhra Pradesh after price crash
A high-level expert panel has recommended rejuvenation of old Totapuri mango orchards in Andhra Pradesh, following a price decline to ₹4–6 per kg from ₹18–20 per kg. The government approved ₹1,747 per quintal assistance under a market intervention scheme. Separately, Alphonso exports face heatwave damage and logistical disruptions due to West Asia tensions.
Commodities Kharif Sowing Gap Narrows Despite Widening Rainfall Deficit, Dolat Capital Report Shows
India's kharif sowing gap with last year narrowed sharply even as the cumulative rainfall deficit widened from 15% on July 8 to 23.8% on July 19, according to a Dolat Capital report. Total kharif acreage reached 658.19 lakh ha as of July 17, with rice nearly catching up to last year's pace, while pulses, coarse cereals, oilseeds, and cotton also reduced their shortfalls. Sugarcane remained ahead of last year.
Commodities Kharif Sowing Acreage Down 6% as Sowing Completes in 60% of Normal Area, Says Agriculture Ministry
India's kharif sowing acreage reached 531.25 lakh hectares as of July 17, down 6% from 632.69 lh a year ago, according to the Agriculture Ministry. The deficit narrowed from 21% in early July due to surplus monsoon rains. Paddy coverage is nearly on par, while pulses and oilseeds still lag. The government targets a foodgrain production of 176.16 mt for the season.
Commodities Lovely Professional University Students Launch Mushroom Startup, Harvest 118 Kg
A group of Lovely Professional University students has launched a mushroom startup, harvesting 62 kg of button mushrooms and 56 kg of oyster mushrooms. The venture includes value-added products like mushroom-based face oil and soap, and repurposed spent substrate for eco-friendly items. The students earned ₹42,000 from sales and plan to expand into premium varieties like enoki, lion's mane, and Ganoderma.
Commodities El Niño Warning: Why India Must Regenerate Its Agriculture Now
El Niño, caused by warming of the equatorial Pacific Ocean, weakens the Indian monsoon, leading to below-normal rainfall and dry spells. Indian agriculture has lost resilience due to synthetic inputs, monocropping, and soil degradation. Regenerative agriculture—restoring soil health, biodiversity, water management, and community institutions—is key to climate-proofing farms.
Commodities Why water efficiency is central to climate-smart agriculture in rural India's farming future
The article examines the critical role of water efficiency in climate-smart agriculture (CSA) in rural India, highlighting challenges such as groundwater depletion and erratic monsoons. It covers solutions including micro-irrigation, traditional water harvesting, drought-resistant crops, and technology adoption, with a focus on community-led and policy-backed initiatives.
Commodities Wheat Production Likely Affected by Climate This Year, Experts Warn at Conclave
At the Wheat Products Promotion Society CEO Conclave in Varanasi, experts warned that El Nino could impact wheat production this year, with delayed kharif harvest and potential drought. Despite geopolitical tensions, global wheat markets remain well supplied, anchored by Black Sea region stocks, limiting price rises.
Commodities Crystal Crop Protection Launches Six Innovations for Kharif 2026 Season
Crystal Crop Protection Ltd has launched six innovations for the kharif 2026 season, including herbicides for soybean and maize, fungicides for paddy, an insecticide for cotton, and an organic nutrition solution. The products are designed to improve productivity, reduce costs, and enhance profitability for Indian farmers.
Commodities India's kharif sowing reaches 48% of normal area; paddy deficit narrows to 9%
As of July 10, India's kharif sowing covered 531.25 lakh hectares, 48% of the normal area and 16% lower year-on-year. Paddy transplanting deficit narrowed to 9% from 13% a week earlier, but pulses, oilseeds, and coarse cereals saw double-digit declines. Monsoon rainfall deficit stood at 19% for June 1-July 13, raising concerns for future sowing.
Commodities Ernakulam KVK Commissions 500 Kg Batch Lemongrass Distillation Unit to Boost Fringe Farming
The Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Ernakulam under ICAR-CMFRI has commissioned a 500 kg batch capacity lemongrass distillation unit at Vavely, Kottappady, in collaboration with CSIR-CIMAP under the Aroma Mission. The facility enables local processing of lemongrass into high-quality essential oil (80% citral content) and value-added products, aiming to provide sustainable livelihoods for farmers in forest-fringe areas affected by elephant raids.
Commodities Reservoirs, sowing trend, next ‘low’ may disprove worst monsoon fears in India
Despite uneven June rainfall, India's reservoir storage in 166 major reservoirs stands close to normal at 47.72 billion cubic metres (bcm) as of July 2, against the normal of 48.40 bcm. A fresh low-pressure area is likely to form over the north Bay of Bengal within 5-6 days, potentially reviving widespread rainfall. Former IMD chief KJ Ramesh stresses that assessing monsoon health via reservoir storage and sowing acreages offers a truer picture than rainfall departures alone.
Commodities India Raises Onion Procurement Price by 13% as Buffer Stock Buildup Lags
The Indian government increased onion procurement price by 13% to Rs 2,125 per quintal effective July 4, 2026, aiming to improve farmer realisations and accelerate buffer stock accumulation. Despite five consecutive price hikes, only about 2,000 tonnes have been procured since June 1, as arrivals remain steady and exports face competition from Pakistan and China. Delayed monsoon and speculative buying in key production centres like Nashik have influenced market dynamics, while overall production is nearly unchanged at 307.37 lakh tonnes.
Commodities Delayed Monsoon Cuts Marathwada Sowing Area by Nearly 18 Lakh Hectares
The sowing area across eight districts of Maharashtra's Marathwada region has shrunk by 17.87 lakh hectares compared to the same period last year, due to a delayed monsoon. Overall sowing is at just 58% of normal, with rainfall 13% below the expected average of 176 mm. The agriculture department advised farmers against sowing until adequate rainfall is received.
Commodities Indian Government Urged to Tackle Fertilizer Subsidy Issues by SOMS Sector
The soluble fertilizers, organic and bio-fertilizers, micronutrients and biostimulants (SOMS) sector has urged the Indian government to address problems caused by fertilizer subsidies. Stakeholders highlighted the practice of 'tagging' where dealers force farmers to buy additional nutrients when purchasing subsidized fertilizers. The sector, valued at nearly $1 billion, proposed solutions including direct payments and amendments to the Essential Commodities Act.
Commodities Himachal Apple Output Plunges 40% Amid Climate Stress, Threatening Rs 5,000 Crore Economy
Himachal Pradesh's apple production is forecast to fall by nearly 40% year-on-year to 4.36 lakh metric tonnes in 2026, driven by unseasonal rains, hailstorms, and insufficient winter chill. The drop threatens the state's Rs 5,000 crore apple economy and affects 2.5 lakh farming families. Growers are calling for better irrigation and awareness of crop insurance.
Technology How AI is Empowering Indian Farmers with Smarter Supply Chains and Market Access
Indian agriculture is leveraging AI to address rising costs, pest spread, and market volatility. From the Government's Kisan e-Mitra chatbot to AI-driven crop diagnosis and precision farming, these tools help farmers make better decisions and improve supply chain efficiency. Enterprise applications include demand prediction, logistics optimization, and credit risk assessment.
Commodities India’s Fresh Produce Industry Reinvents with Tech, but Fragmentation Remains a Hurdle
India's fresh produce industry is undergoing a technology-driven reinvention, with companies investing in post-harvest infrastructure, computer vision grading, and traceability. However, the sector remains highly fragmented, with over 85% of fruits and vegetables passing through traditional wholesale markets, limiting technology adoption at the farm level.
Commodities Plum Harvest Begins in Kashmir Amid Hailstorm Damage and Weather Setbacks
Plum harvesting has begun in the Kashmir Valley, but repeated hailstorms have bruised the crop, forcing farmers to sell at low prices. The India Meteorological Department recorded 10-12 hailstorm spells over the past two months, damaging fruit quality. Growers warn that extreme weather threatens the livelihoods of thousands of horticulture-dependent families.
Commodities Jayant Agro Develops Short-Duration Castorseed with ICAR and University Partners
Jayant Agro-Organics Ltd (JAOL) is collaborating with ICAR's Indian Institute of Oilseed Research and Sardar Dantiwada University to develop short-duration castor varieties. Managing Director Abhay Udeshi says the initiative aims to encourage farmers to increase castorseed area by reducing crop duration. Current yields have risen from 600-700 kg/ha to 2-2.5 tonnes, and the company targets 3 tonnes nationally within 5-10 years, despite erratic monsoon and heat waves affecting this year's crop.
Commodities Gujarat’s Kharif Sowing Slows Sharply as 82% Rain Deficit Keeps Farmers Off Fields
Gujarat has experienced an 82% rainfall deficit, bringing kharif sowing to a crawl. By end-June, only 12.71 lakh hectares were sown, 62% lower than last year and just 15% of normal acreage. Major crops like groundnut, cotton, and soybean have seen sharp declines, though cereal sowing increased slightly.
Commodities Startups INERA and CropNXT Partner to Distribute Biological Agri-Inputs Across Five Indian States
Agri-startups INERA Crop Science and CropNXT Solutions have entered a multi-year strategic partnership to distribute biological crop inputs to smallholder farmers across five eastern Indian states. The deal targets 65 lakh farmers and 20 lakh acres through a network of over 5,000 retailers, with a projected business potential of ₹500 crore.
The Next Decade of Agriculture Will Be Defined by Resource Efficiency, Not Land Ownership
The article argues that the next decade of agriculture will shift focus from land ownership to resource efficiency, citing precision irrigation, aeroponic technology, and managed farm models. Examples include an Indian aeroponic farm achieving 360 tonnes per acre annually, using 95% less water than traditional methods, and conserving over 50 acres of farmland per facility.
Technology The invisible layer powering agriculture: Why software will matter more than soil
Indian agribusinesses invest heavily in physical infrastructure like cold chains but neglect the software layer that captures farm data. According to Vinay Nair, co-founder of KhetiBuddy, treating farm data as a strategic asset can improve yield predictability, traceability, and supply chain decisions. India's fragmented agricultural landscape has forced the development of software that can handle complexity, giving it a competitive advantage over Western platforms.
Commodities SEA-led mustard model farm programme boosts yields, profitability in 3 States
The Solvent Extractors' Association of India (SEA) led 'Regenerative Mustard Model Farm' programme achieved yield increases of 20-30% and significant improvements in benefit-cost ratios across Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Haryana during the 2025-26 rabi season, demonstrating the potential of sustainable farming practices to boost domestic oilseed production and reduce import dependence.
Commodities States Adopt Low-Cost Protected Cultivation Model for Smallholder Farmers in India
Kheyti, a Hyderabad-based agri-tech social enterprise, has announced that state governments in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, along with NABARD, are adapting its low-cost protected cultivation model. The model, which re-engineers conventional greenhouses to be affordable for smallholders, has been technically validated by ICAR-IIHR and is being promoted through the MIDH scheme.
Commodities El Nino and Weak Monsoon Pose Greater Threat to India Than US-Iran Conflict
India's weak monsoon, driven by El Nino, presents a more significant economic threat than the recent US-Iran conflict. Cumulative rainfall is 42% below normal, reservoir levels have dropped to 27.7% of capacity, and risks to inflation and rural incomes are mounting. Historical parallels with 2019 and 2023 offer some hope but uncertainty remains.
Commodities Central India faces critical two-week sowing window as monsoon revival offers brief relief
Satellite imagery shows monsoon revival along India's west coast, offering a two-week window (June 22-July 6) for sowing in rain-deficient Central India. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) and European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) project rainfall weakening significantly after July 6, with deficits exceeding 60% in parts of the region. Farmers face uncertainty as the best sowing opportunity narrows.
Commodities India’s Kharif Sowing Tops 120 Lakh Hectares, Monsoon Deficiency Not Yet Impacting Acreage
India’s kharif sowing area reached 119.90 lakh hectares as of June 19, up 1.7% from a year ago, despite a 43% monsoon rainfall deficit. Cotton, soybean and urad acreage are lower, while paddy, pulses and coarse cereals show higher coverage. The India Meteorological Department forecasts monsoon advance into new regions by June 24.
Commodities Kashmir apple farming under strain as erratic weather drives up crop risk
Erratic weather in Kashmir Valley has led to multiple hailstorms in June 2026, causing significant damage to apple orchards in key districts like Kulgam and Shopian. Growers report an unprecedented frequency of hailstorms, with estimated crop damage of 70-80%, while farmers seek government support for protective measures such as anti-hail nets.
Commodities Lavender Cultivation Expands as High-Value Agricultural Enterprise in Jammu and Kashmir
Lavender cultivation in Jammu and Kashmir has expanded to around 1,200 hectares, emerging as a profitable alternative to conventional crops. The crop is promoted under the Union government's Aroma Mission and the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme, with 14 lavender clusters operationalised. Farmers earn high returns from essential oil and dried flowers, with prices ranging between ₹1,000 and ₹1,500 per kilogram.
Technology Niqo Robotics shows India-built physical AI farming platform at France innovation conclave
Niqo Robotics, a physical AI company, showcased its India-built farming platform at the 'Bharat Innovates 2026' conclave in Nice, France. The platform, featuring the Niqo Sense AI camera, offers precision weeding, thinning, and spraying with over 99% accuracy, targeting European markets driven by rising labour costs and herbicide restrictions.
Commodities High-density exotic cherry varieties transform Kashmir orchards, fetch premium prices
Kashmir's cherry growers in Srinagar, Ganderbal, and Shopian are shifting to high-density exotic varieties such as Regina and Kordia, fetching ₹400-500 per kg—a premium over traditional varieties. Government initiatives like the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme and the Cherry Cluster Development Project support this transition, aiming to add 4,000 metric tonnes to annual production and benefit 4,000 growers.
Commodities Cotton acreage in North India shrinks 22% in kharif as farmers shift to paddy
Cotton acreage in North India declined about 22% this kharif season to 9 lakh hectares, driven by farmers shifting to paddy due to assured procurement and better returns. Total Indian cotton area as of June 12 was 9.53 lakh hectares, down 28% from last year. Industry experts cite pink bollworm infestation, weather uncertainties, and below-MSP prices as key factors.
Commodities Kharif Pulses Sowing Off to a Weak Start: Acreage Down 43% as of June 12
Kharif pulses sowing in India has started weakly with acreage down 43% as of June 12 due to a delayed and deficient monsoon. Tur acreage fell 57%, urad 22%, and moong 55% compared to last year. Farmers in key regions await rains, while the government holds buffer stocks of 4.3-4.5 million tonnes to keep prices in check.
Commodities India Soyabean Acreage Seen Rising Up to 10% on High Prices, Weak Monsoon Outlook
India's soyabean acreage is expected to rise by up to 10% in 2026, from 12 million hectares in 2025, driven by four-year-high prices and a forecast of below-normal monsoon rainfall due to El Nino. Farmers are shifting from water-intensive crops like sugarcane and corn. Higher output could help curb edible oil imports and ease domestic soyabean and soyameal prices.
Business Fertiliser Ministry Seeks 100% Increase in FY27 Subsidy Amid West Asia Crisis
The Indian fertiliser ministry has approached the finance ministry seeking a 100% increase in the fertiliser subsidy budget for FY27, from Rs 1.71 lakh crore, as global prices rise due to the West Asia conflict. Domestic production is increasing, but imports remain significant, with urea imports exceeding 100 lakh tonnes last fiscal. The government assures adequate stocks for the kharif season, with over 51% of requirement already available.
Commodities Corteva Launches Mavilon Granular Insecticide for Pest Management in Indian Rice
Corteva has introduced Mavilon, a granular insecticide for pest management in rice in India. The product offers up to 60 days of control against Brown Planthopper and 15 days against stem borer, applied once at 30–35 days after transplanting. It aims to reduce reliance on foliar sprays and improve crop protection timing.
Commodities India's foodgrain output hits record 357.7 mt in 2024-25, transforming global trade landscape
India's agricultural sector achieved record foodgrain production of 357.7 million tonnes in 2024-25, according to a government report. Rice output hit an all-time high, making India the world's largest rice producer. The growth in oilseeds and horticulture reduces import dependence but significant edible oil imports continue. Policy shifts including higher public investment and expanded procurement are driving the transformation, with implications for global commodity trade.
Green farms, green future: Why electric mobility is becoming essential for susta
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Technology Grave Seasons Blends Farming with Murder Mystery
Grave Seasons introduces a unique blend of farming simulation and murder mystery, challenging players to manage a farm while solving a series of gruesome murders. The game features multiple storylines with different potential murderers, adding replayability.
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 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 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 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 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.