Agriculture News at a Glance: July Highlights

1. Battling Mosaic Menace: Tomato Crops Ravaged by Dual Virus Assault in Maharashtra and Karnataka

In a concerning agricultural development, tomato farmers in Maharashtra and Karnataka have sounded the alarm as their precious crops fall victim to a two-fold attack from viral invaders. Maharashtra’s tomato crops have suffered under the siege of the Cucumber Mosaic virus (CMV), while their counterparts in Karnataka and other Southern states grapple with the Tomato Mosaic Virus (ToMV). The distressing trend has persisted for three consecutive years, with growers reporting significant losses ranging from partial to complete crop failures. This double-barreled viral assault threatens not only the livelihoods of farmers but also the availability and affordability of this essential produce.

2. Bhutan’s Spud Bounty: India Extends Potato Imports without Constraints

Bhutanese potatoes are set to continue their journey across Indian borders without the hurdle of import licensing, thanks to a recent decision by the Ministry of Commerce & Industry. The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has enacted a new directive, permitting potato imports from Bhutan until June 2024 without the need for an import license. This step aims to sustain a consistent supply of potatoes while nurturing the flourishing trade relations between the two neighboring nations.

3. Empowering Agriculture: National Mega Conclave Paves the Way for Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs)

The Union Minister of Cooperation has taken center stage at the National Mega Conclave on Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) held in the heart of New Delhi. Amidst this significant gathering, the minister unveiled an ambitious blueprint for the establishment of 1,100 fresh FPOs by leveraging the power of Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS). This strategic move promises to reshape the cooperative landscape, enhancing the collective strength of farmers and ushering in a new era of agricultural prosperity.

4. Nurturing Domestic Tables: Non-Basmati White Rice Export Policy Revised

In a bid to stabilize the domestic market and curb the surge in prices, the Indian Government has taken swift action by amending the export policy for Non-Basmati White Rice. The alteration, effective immediately, shifts the policy from ‘Free with 20% export duty’ to ‘Prohibited’, ensuring a steady supply of this essential staple to Indian households. Rising prices, a year-on-year increase of 11.5%, and diminished rice stocks have prompted this proactive measure to safeguard the interests of consumers.

5. Flourishing Auctions: FCI’s 5th E-Auction Showcases Wheat and Rice Success

The Food Corporation of India (FCI) has once again orchestrated a successful e-auction, with the 5th edition of the 2023-24 series witnessing the sale of 1.06 LMT (lakh metric tonnes) of wheat and a substantial 100 MT (metric tonnes) of rice. Encompassing grains from 361 depots for wheat and 178 depots for rice across the nation, the e-auction displayed a promising performance. Notably, the average selling prices achieved underscore the robust demand and the quality of the grains on offer.

6. Sweet Victory for Farmers: Central Government Clears Cane Dues

In a laudable move aimed at supporting sugarcane farmers, the Central Government has executed a series of policy interventions that have paved the way for the clearance of nearly 100% of cane dues up to the sugar seasons of 2020-21. This effective policy framework has continued into the current season, with over 91.6% of the dues cleared as of July 17, 2023. This achievement not only honors the hard work of farmers but also strengthens the backbone of the sugar industry.

7. Taming Tomato Prices: Centre’s Price Stabilization Fund Procures Relief

As the prices of tomatoes surge, the Indian Government has taken action by initiating the procurement of tomatoes under the Price Stabilization Fund. This initiative, in partnership with the National Cooperative Consumers Federation (NCCF) and National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation (NAFED), aims to ensure the availability of tomatoes at affordable rates. By procuring from key regions and subsidizing prices, the government intends to bring relief to consumers across various states.

8. Brewing Excellence: India Gears Up to Host Inaugural World Coffee Conference

The aroma of success is in the air as India prepares to host its first-ever World Coffee Conference in Bengaluru from September 25 to 28. This prestigious event promises to captivate over 80 countries, showcasing India’s rich variety of coffees. Under the theme “Sustainability through Circular Economy and Regenerative Agriculture,” the conference, jointly organized by the Coffee Board, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, and the International Coffee Organization, seeks to foster international dialogue and cooperation within the coffee industry.

9. Savoring ‘Bharat Dal’: Subsidized Chana Dal Initiative Takes Root

In a significant endeavor to provide affordable nutrition to Indian households, the Union Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, Textiles, and Commerce and Industry has launched the ‘Bharat Dal’ initiative. This pioneering move offers subsidized Chana Dal at Rs 60 per kg for a one-kilogram pack and Rs 55 per kg for a 30-kilogram pack. Through collaboration with National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation (NAFED), the initiative aims to alleviate food costs and promote balanced diets.

10. Nurturing Marine Innovation: India’s First Fisheries Atal Incubation Center Takes Shape

The Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS) has set a groundbreaking course by securing a substantial grant of ₹10 crore from NITI Aayog. This funding will pave the way for India’s maiden Atal Incubation Centre (AIC) in fisheries, poised to be established within the university’s campus. With an emphasis on fostering innovation and cutting-edge solutions, the AIC will serve as a pivotal hub for addressing the challenges faced by marine ecosystems and fishing communities.