Diseases Management in Tomato Crop using UAL Organic Based Products

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January 15, 2024

Managing Flower Drop in Beans for Optimal Yield and Quality

Bean plants, both bush and pole varieties, are highly valued for their versatile and nutritious legumes. To maximize the harvest, it is essential to tackle potential issues throughout their growth cycle. The common challenge faced by bean growers is the premature dropping of bean flowers, hindering pod production. Identifying the reasons for flower drop and employing efficient management strategies can empower bean cultivators to optimize yields and improve the overall quality of their crops.

This article explores the potential causes behind falling bean flowers and provides effective preventive measures to ensure a successful bean harvest.

Causes for Flower Dropping in Beans

1. Environmental Factors

Unfavorable Weather Conditions: Beans thrive in moderate temperatures between 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C). High temperature, excessive heat, cold spells or abrupt temperature fluctuations can disrupt pollination and lead to flower drop.
Drought or Inadequate Watering: Insufficient soil moisture can induce dehydration, causing stress in plants and subsequent flower loss.
Excessive or Inadequate Sunlight: Extreme sunlight exposure can adversely affect flower development and contribute to flower abortion.

2. Pollination

Insufficient or ineffective pollination is another major cause of flower drop. While beans are typically self-pollinating, they can also benefit from cross-pollination by insects like bees. Excessive wind can result in physical damage to flowers, causing them to fall off and can also cause pollen to be swept away, potentially leading to inadequate pollination and fertilization.

3. Nutrient Factors

Nutrient Deficiencies: Insufficient essential nutrients like phosphorous, potassium, or nitrogen can impact flower formation, resulting in premature dropping.
Improper Fertilization: Excessive use of nitrogen or imbalanced nutrient ratios can negatively influence flower and pod development.

4. Pest and Disease

Pests like aphids, thrips and bean weevils can significantly impact bean plants, causing flower drop. Beans are also susceptible to fungal infections like powdery mildew and rust, contributing to flower drop.

Control Measures to prevent Bean Flower Drop

Implementing appropriate flower drop management techniques will help maximize bean plant yield and quality. Here are some tips to consider:

Ensure adequate sunlight exposure and consistent watering to maintain proper humidity levels.
Encourage pollinators like bees, butterflies and hoverflies, by planting vibrant flowers nearby. These pollinators facilitate the transfer of pollen between male and female flowers, enhancing the likelihood of successful pollination.
In the absence of pollinators, manually transfer pollen between flowers using a small brush or cotton swab. Gently dab the pollen from the stamen of one flower onto the stigma of another.
Shield plants from strong winds using fences, trellises or windbreaks to prevent physical stress induced flower drop.
Maintain healthy plants by ensuring good air circulation, avoiding overhead watering and promptly remove infected leaves or flowers.
Sustain soil fertility by regularly feeding bean plants with balanced organic fertilizers. Ensure an ample supply of phosphorus and potassium, as deficiencies in these nutrients can contribute to the flower drop.
Regularly inspect plants for pests & diseases and apply organic or chemical controls as needed.

Management	Products
Micronutrients & Growth Promoters	Spray Allbor (20% Boron) at the rate of 1 gm/lit during flowering stage.
	Use of Geolife Flower Booster Kit: Apply Nano Vigore at the rate of 0.005 to 0.006 gm/lit during flower initiation stage. Apply Balance Nano at 0.25 to 0.3 gm/lit during the flowering stage.
	Spray Amruth Flower Tone Growth Promoter at the rate of 2 to 3 ml/lit to enhance fruit setting.
	Spray Prega Fast Growth Promoter at the rate of 1.5 to 2 ml/lit of water.
	Spray Anand Agro Brilliant at 1.5 to 2 ml/lit of water to improve flowering and fruit setting ratio.
	Spray Prime 7525 at the rate of 2ml/lit of water.
Pests	Spray Neem Oil at 1 to 2 ml/lit of water. Spray Anant Insecticide (Thiamethoxam 25%WG) at 0.3 to 0.5 gm/lit or Imidastar Insecticide (Imidacloprid 17.8% SL) at 0.5 ml/lit of water.
Diseases	Spray Fungo Raze (Bio Fungicide) at 1 to 2 ml/lit of water. Spray Katyayani Azoxy Fungicide (Azoxystrobin 23% SC) at 1 to 1.5 ml/lit of water.

Pests Management in Tomato Crop using UAL Organic Based Products

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January 12, 2024

Pests management in tomato crop using UAL organic based products

Tomatoes are tasty and healthy But they have many enemies like borers, whiteflies, thrips and aphids Who munch on their leaves, stems, flowers and seeds. To protect them from these bugs Some farmers spray a lot of pesticides but this can harm the land, the environment and the people. A better alternative is to use organic inputs that can reduce the pest population without causing damage to the tomatoes or the ecosystem.

List of Pests

Fruit borer
Whitefly
Thrips
Aphids

1. Fruit Borer

Scientific name: Helicoverpa armigera

Most Affected Plant Part: Fruit

Symptoms of Fruit Borer Damage:

Young larvae initially attack on leaves, later they switch over to fruits. Inside tissues are entirely and brutally eaten by the ferocious larvae.
The caterpillar thrust its head inside while it was munching, leaving the rest of its body outside. At the entry site, we can observe round holes on fruits.
Larvae also feed buds, shoots, and leaves.
Helicoverpa is a polyphagous pest which initially feeds and survives on green gram, summer vegetables and maize, later in the month of August – September, the infestation starts with the primary crop i.e. tomato.

Control Measures (Biological)

Prophylactic

Prophylactic	Dosage/ Lit. of water	Number of sprays	Spray intervals	Method of application
Xymo Ultra Spectrum + Zymo Max Spread	1-2 ml +0.10 ml	1-2	3 -5 weeks	Foliar spray

Curative

Curative	Dosage/ Lit. of water	Number of sprays	Spray intervals	Method of application
Xymo Bugtrol + Xymo Ultra Spectrum + Zymo Max Spread	1.5 ml +1-2 ml +0.10 ml	2 -3	5 -7 days	Foliar spray

2.Thrips

Scientific Name: Thrips tabaci, Frankiniella rankliniella

Most Affected Plant Part: Leaves, Flowers and buds

Symptoms of Thrips Damage:

Thrips are the sap suckers/feeder.
They suck sap from leaves. Due to this we can see silvery streaks on the leaf surface.
Major targets of the thrips are flowers. Infected flowers drop prematurely and buds are necroted.
This is a vector of tomato spotted wilt virus.

Control Measures (Biological)

Prophylactic

Prophylactic	Dosage/ Lit. of water	Number of sprays	Spray intervals	Method of application
Xymo Bugtrol + Zymo Max Spread	1.5 ml + 0.10 ml	1-2	3 -5 weeks	Foliar spray

Curative

Curative	Dosage/ Lit. of water	Number of sprays	Spray intervals	Method of application
Xymo Bugtrol + Xymo Ultra Spectrum+ Zymo Max Spread	1.5 ml + 1-2 ml + 0.10 ml	2 -3	5 -7 days	Foliar spray

3)Whiteflies

Scientific Name: Bemisia tabaci

Most Affected Plant Part: Leaves

Symptoms of whiteflies damage:

The affected leaves turn to yellow and we can observe chlorotic spots on it.
We can notice a tiny nymph present on lower surface of leaves
Whiteflies are also a sap suckers, due to this the leaves start curling downward and dries.
Bemisia tabaci is a vector for tomato leaf curl disease.

Control Measures (Biological)

Prophylactic

Prophylactic	Dosage/ Lit. of water	Number of sprays	Spray intervals	Method of application
Xymo Bugtrol + Zymo Max Spread	1.5 ml + 0.10 ml	1-2	3 -5 weeks	Foliar spray

Curative

Curative	Dosage/ Lit. of water	Number of sprays	Spray intervals	Method of application
Xymo Bugtrol + Xymo Ultra Spectrum + Zymo Max Spread	1.5 ml + 1-2 ml + 0.10 ml	2 -3	5 -7 days	Foliar spray

4) Aphids

Scientific Name: Myzus persicae

Most Affected Plant Part: Leaves

Symptoms of Aphid damage:

Both adult and juvenile aphids feed on the sap and succulent sections of younger plants.
Twisted or curled leaves and swelling branches are indicative of the damaged plants.
If neglected, they could potentially result in an unchecked infestation that stunts the plant’s growth.
Brown or yellow hues may appear on the affected leaves.
They release a sticky fluid known as “honeydew,” which draws ants and encourages the formation of sooty mold that indirectly hampers the photosynthesis of plants.

Control Measures (Biological)

Prophylactic

Prophylactic	Dosage/ Lit. of water	Number of sprays	Spray intervals	Method of application
Xymo Bugtrol + Zymo Max Spread	1.5 ml + 0.10 ml	1-2	3 -5 weeks	Foliar spray

Curative

Curative	Dosage/ Lit. of water	Number of sprays	Spray intervals	Method of application
Xymo Bugtrol + Xymo Ultra Spectrum + Zymo Max Spread	1.5 ml + 1-2 ml + 0.10 ml	2 -3	5 -7 days	Foliar spray

Products:

Biopesticides are less toxic than conventional pesticides because they are pesticides that are derived from natural sources, such as microorganisms, plants, oils, and minerals. They are safer, more specific, and more biodegradable than synthetic pesticides. They generally affect only the target pest and closely related organisms, in contrast to broad spectrum, conventional pesticides that may affect organisms as well as birds, insects and mammals. Along with it a spreader and a micronutrient helps to proper spreading of spray solution on the sprayed body and improves plant growth and metabolism respectively.

Xymo Ultra Spectrum
Xymo Bugtrol
Xymo Max Spread

1. Xymo Ultra Spectrum: This is available in liquid formation, which is a combination of Botanical extracts / Plant oils, Stabilizers & Excipients.

Plant extracts present in it increase plant SAR (Systemic Acquired Resistance). This bio pesticide is recommended for all crops against worms.
It mainly targets the larval stage of insects. Paralyze the nervous system of insects and hampers movement/flying and feeding.
Xymo Ultra Spectrum and Zymo Max Spread have to spray as a prophylactic control measure for the management of fruit borer.
After the incidence of pest take sprays of Xymo Ultra Spectrum + Xymo Bugtrol + Zymo Max Spread, repeat the same at an interval of 5-7 days when the infestation is severe as a curative measurement for the control of all sucking pest of tomato.

Xymo Bugtrol: This is available in liquid formation. Product is a unique combination of Botanical extracts / Plant oils, Stabilizers & Excipients.

Major benefits of Xymo Bugtrol is that it is very effective on all types of insects and it works as a broad-spectrum pesticide.
This bio pesticide is recommended for all crops and mainly targets beetles and sucking insects.
Mode of Action is Paralyse the nervous system and hampers movement/flying and feeding.
Xymo Bugtrol with a spreader Xymo max spread can control Thrips, Whiteflies and Aphids on tomato before the incidence of pests.
For the control of fruit borer take two sprays of Xymo Bugtrol + Xymo Ultra Spectrum + Xymo Max Spread when insect infestation starts, repeat the same at an interval of 5-7 days when the infestation is severe as curative measerment.

Xymo Max Spread : This is available in liquid form, which is helpful for uniform spreading of biopesticide on sprayed areas. This can be used for all crops. It breaks down the surface tension of water and increases the wetting and spreading of a spray solution.

Xymo Max Spread can also be used in combination with other products from UAL, it is a super spreader used in agriculture to increase the efficiency of all spray solutions and for soil applications.
It is non-ionic in nature and organic. It is an Indian NPOP approved input and therefore can be used in organic agriculture too.
The dosage of Xymo Max Spread depends on the mode of application. For tank mix solution, it is recommended to use 0.10 ml / L of water (i.e. 10 ml / 100 L). For drip irrigation, it is suggested to use 25 ml / 200 L of water / acre.

Certification : UAL manufactures and markets organic bio-solutions under the brand names ZYMO® and XYMO® series, which are certified by various international and national standards for organic agriculture, such as OMRI, EU, JAS, NOP, and NPOP. These certifications ensure that UAL products are safe, natural, and eco-friendly, and meet the stringent requirements of organic farming.

Stability in Farming: Ensuring Affordability and Availability of Essential Food Commodities

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January 10, 2024

Stability in Farming: Ensuring Affordability and Availability of Essential Food Commodities

As the festive season approaches, the Indian government stands resolute in its commitment to farmers and consumers alike. Shri Sanjeev Chopra, the Secretary of the Department of Food and Public Distribution, recently highlighted the measures taken by the government to maintain stable prices of essential food commodities. These actions reflect a dedicated effort to safeguard the interests of both the 140 crore domestic consumers and the agricultural community that plays a vital role in ensuring food security.

Overview

In a concerted effort to ensure stability in essential food commodity prices, the Indian government has taken proactive measures in the sugar and rice sectors. These measures include the continued restriction of sugar exports to maintain domestic availability and promote greener fuel production. India’s retail sugar prices remain among the world’s most affordable, despite global price spikes. The government is also closely monitoring sugar dispatches and mandating stock disclosures for stakeholders. In the rice sector, export restrictions have been imposed, with an extended export duty on parboiled rice to curb price increases. Specific allocations have been made for rice exports to select countries, striking a balance between domestic food security and international commitments. These initiatives reflect the government’s unwavering commitment to both farmers and consumers, ensuring affordability and accessibility of essential food commodities.

Key points

Restriction on Sugar Exports: To ensure a consistent supply of sugar at reasonable prices throughout the year, the Indian government has decided to continue restricting sugar exports until further notice. This strategic move serves a dual purpose: it guarantees adequate sugar stocks within the country and aligns with India’s commitment to greener fuel production through the Ethanol Blended with Petrol (EBP) Programme.
Extension of Export Restrictions: In line with this approach, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) issued a notification on October 18, 2023, extending the date for restrictions on the export of Sugar (including Raw Sugar, White Sugar, Refined Sugar, and Organic Sugar) under HS Codes 1701 14 90 and 17019990. This extension goes beyond October 31, 2023, and will remain in effect until further orders.
Consumer-Centric Approach: The Indian government’s steadfast commitment to its 140 crore domestic consumers is evident. Despite the global surge in sugar prices to a 12-year high, India continues to offer some of the most affordable sugar prices worldwide. The retail sugar prices have seen only a nominal increase, in line with the Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) for sugarcane farmers. Over the last decade, the average annual inflation in retail sugar prices has been approximately 2%.
Enhanced Monitoring: The government has also implemented rigorous monitoring of monthly sugar dispatches from mills to ensure sufficient availability in the domestic market. Additionally, it has mandated that all stakeholders, including traders, wholesalers, retailers, and sugar processors, disclose their sugar stock positions on a centralized portal. These measures aim to improve oversight of the sugar sector and facilitate a steady supply of sugar in the market.
Preventing Hoarding and Speculation: To maintain a balanced and equitable sugar market, the Government of India is resolute in its commitment to thwart hoarding and speculation. These efforts are geared towards ensuring that sugar remains affordable to consumers across the country, reinforcing the government’s dedication to creating a stable and fair market environment.
Promoting Ethanol Production: The sugar export policy also aligns with India’s ambitions to produce ethanol from sugar-based feedstocks. In the Economic Survey Year (ESY) 2022-23, India diverted approximately 43 Lakh Metric Tonnes (LMT) of sugar for ethanol production. This strategic move is expected to generate revenue of about ₹ 24,000 crores for sugar-based distilleries, thereby facilitating timely payment of cane dues to farmers and bolstering the self-sufficiency of the sugar sector.
Cane Dues Clearance: Through appropriate government policies related to sugarcane and sugar, sugar mills have paid approximately ₹ 1.09 lakh crores, clearing over 95% of cane dues for Sugar Season 2022-23. The government is making concerted efforts to clear the remaining dues promptly, resulting in cane dues reaching historically low levels.
Domestic Price Control: In pursuit of maintaining domestic food security and stabilizing domestic prices, the Indian government has implemented several proactive measures concerning the export of rice.
Prohibition on Broken Rice Export: The export of broken rice was prohibited, and an export duty of 20% was levied on non-basmati white rice on September 9, 2022.
Extension of Export Duty: On August 25, 2023, the government extended the export duty of 20% on parboiled rice until March 31, 2024. This duty aims to restrain price increases of this essential staple and ensure ample availability in the domestic market. Consequently, there has been a notable decrease of 65.50% in quantity and 56.29% in value concerning parboiled rice exports.
Strict Customs Checks: To prevent the export of other varieties of rice under the guise of parboiled rice, customs authorities have been instructed to perform stricter essential checks.
Relaxation for Specific Countries: While non-basmati white rice exports are prohibited, the Indian government has taken a nuanced approach by allowing exports to specific countries. These countries, including Nepal, Cameroon, Malaysia, the Philippines, Seychelles, Côte d’Ivoire, the Republic of Guinea, UAE, Bhutan, Singapore, and Mauritius, have been allocated specific quantities for rice exports. This approach ensures a measured balance between domestic food security and international commitments.

Conclusion

The Indian government’s dedication to both farmers and consumers is unmistakable in its efforts to stabilize essential food commodity prices. Through strategic measures in the sugar and rice sectors, the government ensures not only affordability but also accessibility to these vital commodities. This commitment to striking a balance between domestic interests and global commitments is essential for fostering a sustainable and prosperous agricultural sector, ensuring food security, and enhancing the welfare of the Indian populace. As the festive season unfolds, these measures serve as a testament to the government’s unwavering support for the nation’s agricultural community and its dedication to the welfare of all consumers.

AI Chatbot Revolutionizes Farmer Support: PM-KISAN Scheme Gets a Digital Boost

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January 5, 2024

AI Chatbot Revolutionizes Farmer Support: PM-KISAN Scheme Gets a Digital Boost

In a groundbreaking move, the Union Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India, has introduced an AI Chatbot for the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) Scheme. This innovative initiative, launched by Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Kailash Choudhary, represents a significant leap towards enhancing the efficiency and reach of this flagship scheme.

The AI Chatbot promises to provide farmers with prompt, clear, and accurate responses to their queries, ultimately easing the burden on agriculture officials and empowering farmers across the nation.

Overview

The Union Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India, has introduced an AI Chatbot for the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) Scheme, marking a significant stride in enhancing the scheme’s efficiency and reach. Launched by Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Kailash Choudhary, this Chatbot provides farmers with prompt, accurate responses to scheme-related queries. It represents the government’s commitment to using technology for the welfare of farmers and offers a user-friendly platform available in multiple languages. In addition to supporting PM-KISAN, the Chatbot will be extended to other key ministry schemes. The PM-KISAN Scheme itself has disbursed over Rs. 2.61 Lakhs Crores to more than 11 Crore farmers and played a pivotal role in providing income support during the Covid Pandemic. This innovative solution promises to revolutionize the support system for India’s agricultural community.

Key Points

The AI Chatbot for PM-KISAN is a revolutionary addition to the landscape of agricultural support in India.

Here’s a list of its key features and benefits:

Prime Minister’s Vision: The introduction of the AI Chatbot aligns perfectly with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision to leverage technology for the betterment of farmers and governance.
Comprehensive Guidance: The AI Chatbot acts as a comprehensive guide for beneficiaries, offering timely and accurate responses to queries related to the PM-KISAN Scheme.
User-Friendly Platform: Designed to be user-friendly and accessible, this Chatbot enhances transparency and empowers farmers to make informed decisions.
Multilingual Support: With integration with Bhashini, the Chatbot caters to the linguistic and regional diversity of PM-KISAN beneficiaries, currently available in English, Hindi, Bengali, Odia, and Tamil, soon to be expanded to all 22 languages of India.
Integration with PM KISAN Mobile App: The Chatbot seamlessly integrates with the PM KISAN mobile app, ensuring easy access for farmers.
Wide Range of Queries: In its initial phase, the AI Chatbot assists farmers with information related to application status, payment details, ineligibility status, and scheme-related updates.
Support from EKstep Foundation and Bhashini: The development and improvement of the Chatbot have been made possible with the support of EKstep Foundation and Bhashini.
Extension to Other Schemes

The success of the AI Chatbot for PM-KISAN sets the stage for its implementation in other major schemes of the Ministry in the coming months.

Government’s Commitment: The launch of this AI Chatbot reaffirms the government’s unwavering commitment to leveraging technological advancements for the welfare of farmers.
PM-KISAN Scheme offers an annual financial benefit of Rs 6,000/- in three equal installments to eligible farmers’ families through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mode.
Over Rs. 2.61 Lakhs Crores disbursed to more than 11 Crore farmers, making it one of the largest DBT schemes globally.
PM-KISAN ensures timely financial assistance to millions of farmers, including women beneficiaries, contributing to their socio-economic well-being.
During the Covid Pandemic, more than Rs. 1.75 lakh Crore was transferred to the beneficiaries, providing essential relief.
The government has developed a mobile app with face authentication-based e-KYC, making it easy for farmers to complete :e-KYC from home.
This mobile app is the first to use face authentication-based e-KYC in any government benefit scheme.
Farmers can also assist neighboring farmers with their e-KYC through this app.
State Government officials can also complete e-KYC for 500 farmers, extending the reach of this technology.

Conclusion

The launch of the AI Chatbot for the PM-KISAN Scheme represents a watershed moment in India’s agricultural landscape. It underlines the government’s commitment to farmers’ welfare by harnessing technology to provide prompt, accurate, and accessible support. With its multilingual capabilities and user-friendly interface, the Chatbot is poised to empower millions of farmers across the nation, enhancing transparency and facilitating informed decisions. Moreover, its success paves the way for similar technological innovations in other crucial ministry schemes. As we look ahead, this integration of AI technology into agriculture holds great promise for further streamlining processes, expanding reach, and ultimately improving the lives of India’s farming community.

Ensuring Sweet Satisfaction: Government’s Bold Move to Stabilize Sugar Prices

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January 3, 2024

Ensuring Sweet Satisfaction: Government's Bold Move to Stabilize Sugar Prices

In a significant move aimed at promoting transparency and averting sugar hoarding, the Government of India has made it mandatory for traders, wholesalers, retailers, big chain retailers, and sugar processors to disclose their weekly sugar stocks. This measure is part of the government’s strategy to maintain a balanced and fair sugar market, ensuring that sugar remains affordable for all consumers, including farmers. Despite record increases in international sugar prices, the government has successfully kept the retail price of sugar stable, with ample stock available to meet the country’s requirements.

Overview

The Government of India has implemented a series of proactive measures to ensure a balanced and fair sugar market, benefiting both farmers and consumers. One of the key initiatives is the mandatory weekly disclosure of sugar stocks by traders, wholesalers, retailers, big chain retailers, and sugar processors. This move aims to prevent hoarding and speculation, thereby maintaining a stable retail price for sugar. The digital transparency provided by this initiative allows for real-time monitoring of stock levels and informed policy decisions. Additionally, strict enforcement of laws and domestic quota norms is expected from sugar mills and traders. With ample sugar stocks, the government is committed to providing affordable sugar throughout the year. These measures collectively support a sustainable and fair sugar market, promoting the interests of all stakeholders.

Key Points

Weekly Sugar Stock Disclosure: The government has issued orders requiring traders, wholesalers, retailers, big chain retailers, and sugar processors to disclose their weekly sugar stock positions on the Department of Food and Public Distribution’s portal (https://esugar.nic.in) every Monday. This initiative empowers regulatory authorities to closely monitor stock levels and promptly address any potential market manipulation.
Preventing Hoarding and Speculation: By requiring stock disclosure, the government is taking proactive measures to prevent hoarding and speculation, which can lead to price spikes. This step empowers regulatory authorities to take prompt action against potential market manipulation.
Digital Initiative: The mandatory stock disclosure will be done through a digital portal (https://esugar.nic.in) of the Department of Food and Public Distribution. This digital platform ensures transparency and deters commodity hoarders from engaging in speculative transactions.
Real-time Data: The initiative provides real-time data on sugar stocks, enabling the government to make informed policy decisions. This data can be used to mitigate the impact of rumors on rising sugar prices on consumers and the industry.
Cooperation from Industry: The government expects cooperation from sugar mills and traders in adhering to relevant laws and monthly domestic quota norms. Strict action will be taken against those violating these norms, ensuring a fair and transparent market.
Sufficient Sugar Stocks: As of August 2023, India had 83 Lakh Metric Tonnes (LMT) of sugar in stock, and crushing is expected to begin in October 2023. This surplus ensures there is no shortage for festivals and other domestic consumption needs.
Domestic Sales Quota: To further stabilize the market, the government has released the first tranche of a domestic sales quota of 13 LMT. Sugar mills can immediately start selling this stock, with more quota expected to be released in response to market conditions.
Year-Round Commitment: The government is committed to ensuring sugar is available to domestic consumers at reasonable prices throughout the year. This commitment supports affordability and stability in the sugar market.
Stable Sugar Prices: Despite a record increase in international sugar prices, the retail price of sugar in India remains stable. This stability is a testament to the government’s commitment to maintaining affordable sugar for all consumers.

Conclusion

The Government of India’s resolute commitment to maintaining an affordable and stable sugar market is commendable. By mandating weekly stock disclosures, the government ensures that hoarding and speculative practices are thwarted, ultimately benefiting both farmers and consumers. This innovative digital initiative empowers regulatory authorities to make informed decisions and take prompt action when needed. With sufficient sugar stocks and a proactive approach, India’s sugar market is set to remain sweet throughout the year. Your cup of tea or coffee will continue to be sweet, your desserts will stay delightful, and your budget will remain intact, thanks to this remarkable initiative. The Government of India, with its eyes on both farmers and consumers, is unwavering in its commitment to your sugar satisfaction.

Effective Strategies for Managing Anthracnose in Chilli Crops

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December 21, 2023

Effective Strategies for Managing Anthracnose in Chilli Crops

Chilli anthracnose, caused by fungus Colletotrichum capsici, is a significant threat to chilli crops worldwide. This devastating disease affects both plant foliage and fruit, leading to yield losses and reduced crop quality. Understanding the causes, symptoms and effective management strategies is crucial for the farmers seeking to protect their chilli harvests from the damaging impacts of anthracnose. In this article, we will explore the main features of this fungal infection and how to manage it.

Mode of Spread and Survival

Temperature of about 28°C, Relative Humidity 92- 95% and rainfall during the ripening stage of the fruit favors disease development.
The fungus is seed borne externally and secondary spread occurs through airborne conidia.
Survival takes place on dead twigs under dry conditions and in the field within plant debris.

Symptoms

The disease manifests in two phases: dieback and ripe fruit rot.

Dieback Phase

Primary symptoms involve the necrosis of the tender twigs, starting from the tip and progressing downward.
As the disease progresses, the twigs may become straw-colored.
Numerous black dots (fungus acervuli) can be seen scattered across the necrotic spots.
Severe attacks can lead to the withering of the entire plant.
The fungus can also affect the fruit stalk and stem.

Ripe Fruit Rot Phase

Small, black, circular spots appear on the fruit skin.
These sunken spots with black margins develop a pinkish mass of fungal spores.
As the disease progresses, concentric markings with dark fructifications (fungus acervuli) form, causing premature fruit drop and significant yield loss.
When diseased fruits are cut open, the lower skin surfaces are covered with tiny elevated black stromatic masses of the fungus.
In advanced stages, the seeds are covered by a mat of fungal hyphae, resulting in a rusty color.

Preventive Measures

Regularly inspect seeds or orchards for signs of the disease.
Ensure proper drainage in the fields.
Implement an extended crop rotation plan with non-host crops (3-4 years or more).
Use disease free chilli seeds for planting.
Remove infected fruits and infected plant debris from the field as they serve as the sources of inoculum.
Harvest crops early to minimize the severity of symptoms.

Management of Chilli Anthracnose

A combination of biological and chemical control measures is often required to effectively manage anthracnose infections in chilli crops. Fungicides that can be used to control are mentioned in the table below:

Product Name	Technical Content	Dosage
Biological Management
Fungo Raze	Botanical Extracts	1-2 ml/lit of water
Geolife Recover Nutri	Natural Extracts & Antioxidants	0.5-1 gm/lit of water
Terra Fungikill	Herbal Formulation	3-4 ml/lit of water
Anshul Pseudomax Bio Fungicide	Pseudomonas fluorescence	3 gm/lit of water
Chemical Management
Kocide Fungicide	Copper Hydroxide 53.8% DF	2 gm/lit of water
Tata M45 Fungicide	Mancozeb 75% WP	2-2.5 gm/lit of water
Luna Experience Fungicide	Fluopyram 17.7% + Tebuconazole 17.7% SC	1 ml/lit of water
Merivon Fungicide	Fluxapyroxad 250 G/L + Pyraclostrobin 250 G/L SC	0.4-0.5 ml/lit of water
Indofil M45 Fungicide	Mancozeb 75% WP	3 gm/lit of water
Roko Fungicide	Thiophanate Methyl 70% WP	0.5 g/lit of water
Sarthak Fungicide	Kresoxim-methyl 15% + Chlorothalonil 56% WG	2 gm/lit of water
Ergon Fungicide	Kresoxim-methyl 44.3% SC	0.6 ml/lit of water
Amistar Top Fungicide	Azoxystrobin 18.2% + Difenoconazole 11.4% SC	1 ml/lit of water
Katyayani Azoxy Fungicide	Azoxystrobin 23%SC	1-1.5 ml/lit of water
Tata Ishaan Fungicide	Chlorothalonil 75% WP	2.5 gm/lit of water
Score Fungicide	Difenoconazole 25% EC	0.5 ml/lit of water
Blitox Fungicide	Copper Oxychloride 50% WP	2 gm/lit of water
Avancer Glow Fungicide	Azoxystrobin 8.3% + Mancozeb 66.7% WG	3 gm/lit of water
Cabrio Top Fungicide	Metiram 55% + Pyraclostrobin 5% WG	3-3.5 gm/lit of water

Ensuring Affordable Onions for All: Government’s Measures for Farmers and Consumers

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December 19, 2023

Ensuring Affordable Onions for All: Government's Measures for Farmers and Consumers

In a bid to maintain a steady supply of onions at affordable prices for domestic consumers, the government has taken decisive steps to address the declining stocks of rabi 2023 onions. With the introduction of a Minimum Export Price (MEP) set at USD 800 per Metric Ton, the authorities aim to balance the needs of both farmers and consumers. As the stored rabi 2023 onion stock dwindles, the government has intervened to stabilize the market and prevent a surge in onion prices. The MEP, equivalent to around Rs. 67/kg, underscores the government’s commitment to balancing the needs of farmers and consumers.

Overview

On the 29th of October, 2023, the government imposed a Minimum Export Price (MEP) of USD 800 per Metric Ton, FOB basis, on onion exports. This move is effective until the 31st of December, 2023, and it serves a dual purpose – ensuring an adequate supply of onions within the country and curbing excessive exports. The MEP, equivalent to approximately Rs. 67 per kilogram, signifies the government’s commitment to keep this kitchen staple affordable for every Indian household.

Additionally, to further stabilize the onion market, the government has declared the procurement of an additional 2 lakh tons of onions for the buffer, supplementing the 5 lakh tons already acquired. The buffer stock has been consistently released since the second week of August in major consumption centers nationwide, and it’s being offered to retail consumers at the economical rate of Rs. 25 per kilogram. As of now, approximately 1.70 lakh Metric Tons of onions have been dispensed from the buffer. This continual procurement and distribution are aimed at moderating prices for consumers while ensuring fair returns for onion farmers.

Key Points

MEP for Onion Exports: The imposition of a Minimum Export Price (MEP) at USD 800 per Metric Ton until the end of December 2023. This is a crucial step to restrict excessive exports and maintain an adequate supply of onions in the domestic market.
Stabilizing Domestic Prices: By curbing onion exports, the government aims to prevent fluctuations in onion prices, ensuring that consumers can access onions at affordable rates, approximately Rs. 67/kg.
Buffer Stock Expansion: The government is proactively bolstering its buffer stock by procuring an additional 2 lakh tons of onions. This is in addition to the existing 5 lakh tons already in storage, guaranteeing a steady supply of onions to consumers.
Buffer Stock Disposal: The buffer stock, which contains a significant quantity of onions, is systematically released to major consumption centers across the nation. This stock is then made available to retail consumers at an economical price of Rs. 25/kg.
Procurement and Disposal: The continuous procurement and disposal of onions from the buffer serve a dual purpose. It helps maintain reasonable prices for consumers while ensuring that onion farmers receive fair and remunerative prices for their produce.
Government Commitment: These measures highlight the government’s steadfast commitment to ensuring that onions remain affordable to domestic consumers. The government recognizes the importance of onions in the Indian diet and the significance of a balanced approach to both producers and consumers.
Timely Intervention: The announcement comes at a crucial juncture as the quantity of stored rabi 2023 onions is declining. The government’s intervention is vital to avoid a situation where rising onion prices burden consumers and undermine the livelihoods of farmers.
Extended Period: The MEP and buffer stock strategy will be in effect until the end of December 2023, ensuring that the onion market remains stable and accessible to all during this critical period.
Fair Deal for Farmers: These measures not only protect consumers but also safeguard the interests of onion farmers. By ensuring fair prices and reducing market volatility, the government empowers farmers to continue their vital role in providing a staple food item for the nation.

Conclusion

The recent government actions regarding onions underscore a commitment to balancing the interests of farmers and consumers. By setting an MEP, expanding the buffer stock, and facilitating the consistent procurement and distribution of onions, the government is providing a safety net for all stakeholders in the onion market. The focus is on ensuring affordable onions for consumers, fair remuneration for farmers, and market stability during a critical period. These measures are not just about onions; they represent a comprehensive approach to securing the food security and economic well-being of the nation.

Farming 2.0: India’s Visionary Agricultural Initiatives

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December 13, 2023

Farming 2.0: India's Visionary Agricultural Initiatives

In a momentous occasion, Union Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman and Union Agriculture Minister Sh. Narendra Singh Tomar has unveiled a series of groundbreaking initiatives designed to empower and uplift farmers across India. These initiatives are centered around agricultural credit (Kisan Credit Card & Modified Interest Subvention Scheme) and crop insurance (Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana/RWBCIS). The Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare has introduced three transformative initiatives: the Kisan Rin Portal (KRP), the Ghar Ghar KCC Abhiyaan, a visionary campaign aiming to provide every farmer with the benefits of the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) Scheme, and the Weather Information Network Data Systems (WINDS) manual. These initiatives represent a significant leap forward in the agricultural sector, fostering financial inclusion, data optimization, and the overall well-being of farmers nationwide.

Overview

The agricultural sector has always been the backbone of India’s economy, and the government is leaving no stone unturned to ensure its growth and sustainability. The launch of these initiatives underscores the government’s commitment to farmers’ welfare, prosperity, technological advancement, and efficient service delivery. These initiatives will play a pivotal role in transforming agriculture and driving sustainable economic growth for the farming community across the country.

In a historic announcement, Union Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman and Union Agriculture Minister Sh. Narendra Singh Tomar has unveiled groundbreaking initiatives to revolutionize India’s agricultural landscape. These initiatives, including the Kisan Rin Portal (KRP), Ghar-Ghar KCC Abhiyaan, and the Weather Information Network Data Systems (WINDS) manual, are set to enhance financial inclusion, optimize data utilization, and improve farmers’ lives nationwide.

The KRP simplifies access to agricultural credit through the Kisan Credit Card, while Ghar-Ghar KCC Abhiyaan ensures every eligible farmer has access to these benefits. The WINDS initiative leverages technology for hyper-local weather data, supporting crop management. This comprehensive approach underscores the government’s dedication to agricultural transformation and sustainable economic growth, reaffirming its commitment to the farming community.

Key Points

Kisan Rin Portal (KRP)

- - Developed collaboratively by multiple government departments and institutions, KRP is set to revolutionize access to credit services through the Kisan Credit Card (KCC).
  - It facilitates easy access to subsidized agricultural credit under the Modified Interest Subvention Scheme (MISS).
  - KRP serves as an integrated hub, offering comprehensive farmer data, loan disbursement details, interest subvention claims, and progress in scheme utilization.
  - Seamless integration with banks enables proactive policy interventions, strategic guidance, and adaptive enhancements for efficient agricultural credit and interest subvention utilization.

House-to-House KCC Campaign: Bringing Credit Home

- - MoA&FW’s commitment to universal financial inclusion is exemplified by this campaign, ensuring that every farmer has unrestricted access to credit facilities.
  - Running from October 1, 2023, to December 31, 2023, this campaign leverages data from the PM KISAN database to identify eligible PM KISAN beneficiaries without KCC accounts.
  - The goal is to reach out to these beneficiaries and ensure the saturation of KCC accounts among them, providing essential financial support for their agricultural endeavors.

Launch of WINDS Manual (Weather Information Network Data Systems)

- - The WINDS initiative is a pioneering effort to establish a network of Automatic Weather Stations & Rain Gauges at the taluk/block and gram panchayat levels.
  - This network creates a robust database of hyper-local weather data, crucial for supporting various agricultural services.
  - The comprehensive WINDS manual launched today offers stakeholders a deep understanding of the portal’s functionalities, data interpretation, and effective utilization.
  - It provides direction to States and Union Territories for the establishment and seamless integration with the WINDS platform, fostering a culture of transparent and unbiased data collection and transmission.
  - The manual also provides practical insights into leveraging weather data for improved crop management, resource allocation, and risk mitigation.

Government Commitment

The government’s unwavering commitment to agriculture and rural development is evident in its substantial budget allocation for the Ministry of Agriculture, which has increased from Rs. 23,000 crore in 2013-14 to Rs. 1,25,000 crore in 2023-24. This investment underscores the government’s dedication to the growth and well-being of the farming community.

5. Financial Inclusion and Crop Insurance

Union Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman commended the Ministry of Agriculture for the successful implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY). Over Rs. 1,40,000 crores in insurance claims have been disbursed to farmers, providing them with crucial financial protection. She emphasized the importance of real-time crop estimation, which will contribute to better economic planning and fair prices for farmers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the launch of transformative agricultural initiatives by Union Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman and Union Agriculture Minister Sh. Narendra Singh Tomar signifies a pivotal moment for India’s farming sector. The Kisan Rin Portal (KRP), Ghar-Ghar KCC Abhiyaan, and WINDS manual embody the government’s unwavering dedication to farmers’ welfare, financial inclusion, and technological progress. These initiatives are set to reshape agriculture, with KRP simplifying credit access, Ghar-Ghar KCC Abhiyaan ensuring universal inclusion, and WINDS providing vital weather data. This forward-looking approach is expected to drive sustainable economic growth in agriculture, elevating the farming community to greater prosperity and resilience.

Grains of Change: India’s Wheat Stock Limit Overhaul

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December 8, 2023