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NHB Simplifies Approval Process for Farmers: Faster Approvals, Digital and Minimal Documents

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The National Horticulture Board (NHB) recently held a meeting in New Delhi to simplify the approval process for horticulture projects for farmers. The process will now be completed in one go, completely digital, with minimal documents required. The new design will take effect from January 1, 2023 and aims to make the system more transparent and efficient, promoting ease of doing business for the farming community.

Overview

The National Horticulture Board (NHB) recently held a meeting in New Delhi to discuss ways to make the process of approving horticulture projects easier for farmers. Among the decisions made was the simplification of the approval process, which will now be completed in one step and will be fully digital, with minimal documentation required. This is expected to make the process more transparent and efficient, and promote ease of doing business for farmers. Additionally, a new initiative called the Swachh Plant Programme was discussed, which aims to address the issue of availability of planting material for farmers by spending 2100 crore rupees with the assistance of the Asian Development Bank. The NHB also created a new vertical to promote organic and natural farming. The new design will take effect from January 1, 2023.

This news is likely to benefit farmers, as the process of approving horticulture projects has been simplified and will now be completed in one stage, be completely digital, and require minimal documentation. This will make the process more transparent and efficient, promote Ease Of Doing Business for the benefit of the farming community and generate more hi-tech commercial projects for NHB funding. Additionally, the initiative of NHB- Swachh Plant Programme, which aims to solve the problem of availability of planting material to farmers, is also likely to benefit farmers by providing them with quality planting material for horticulture crops in the country. The creation of a new vertical towards the promotion of organic and natural farming is also likely to benefit those farmers who are involved in organic farming. 

Important information

  • The 32nd meeting of the National Horticulture Board (NHB) was held in New Delhi.
  • NHB simplifies the approval process for horticulture projects, making it fully digital and requiring minimal documentation.
  • The goal of the change is to make the system more efficient and transparent and to promote ease of doing business for farmers.
  • The “Swachh Plant Programme” was discussed, which aims to improve availability of planting material to farmers, with the help of Asian Development Bank (ADB) by investing Rs 2100 crore.
  • A new vertical was established to promote organic and natural farming.
  • The progress of the cluster development program run by the NHB was discussed and the approval process of applications will be expedited.
  • The decisions made in the previous meeting of the Board of Directors were approved in today’s meeting.

Conclusion

The recent meeting of the National Horticulture Board (NHB) discussed ways to improve the process of approving horticulture projects for farmers. The new design, which will take effect from January 1, 2023 will simplify the approval process, making it more transparent and efficient. Additionally, the Swachh Plant Programme and the promotion of organic and natural farming will provide many benefits to farmers and the horticulture industry in the country.

Note: The information contained herein is for informational purposes only. Nothing herein shall be construed to be financial or legal advice. Pesticides are a considerable risk of loss in crops and viewers are advised to do their own research before making any decisions.

India International Horti Expo 2023 – An exhibition to help farmers to understand and leverage the potential of horticulture

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India International Horti Expo 2023
India International Horti Expo 2023

The India International Horti Expo is a global exhibition for horticulture along with processing technology and floricultural production. It will also address the ornament aspect of landscaping and horticulture to help farmers produce more herbs, fruits, flowers, vegetables and ornamental plants. The conference will also focus on how to improve and commercialize it.

Event Overview:

  • Name of the event: India International Horti Expo 2023  
  • Start Date: 8th February 2023 
  • Duration of the event: 8th to 11th February 
  • Address of the event: Metro Station Green Park, 60/9, Yusuf Sarai Market, New Delhi, Delhi 110016, India 
  • Host of the event: (who conducts the event) – Media Today Group 
  • Website: (For application, If Any) – https://krishijagran.com/ 

What will the event focus on?

The India International Horti Expo is a four-day exhibition that aims to help farmers horticultural practices, such as plant selection, mulching, pruning, weed management and so on. Since, horticulture is at a revolutionary phase, the small farmers have started to undertake big risks and are experimenting with varied cash crops. To help farmers get better at it and benefit from it, the exhibition will focus on: 

  • Greenhouse Technology 
  • Planting 
  • Plastic Film 
  • Irrigation & Damage 
  • Cultivating and harvesting device 
  • Vertical Farming 
  • Soil, substrates and fertilizers 
  • Crop protection and disease management  
  • Breeding and Seed improvement 
  • Fruits and Vegetables processing technology 
  • Landscape industry 
  • Postharvest technology 
  • Nursery business 

How will farmers get benefitted by it?

Farming is a part of horticulture and helps farmer earn a livelihood from this. Considering the uncertainty caused by the recent pandemic outbreak, farmers today want sustainable agriculture. It includes rural employment, food security, and environmentally sustainable technologies for instance, biodiversity protection, sustainable natural resource management and soil conversion. The exhibitions will focus on all these aspects through one-on-one meetings, product launches, networking to benefit the farmers learn and execute better farming tactics, leading to holistic rural development. Since, the exhibition will also discuss ways to reduce agricultural waste, farmers will have the know-how to optimally use the resources they have.  

How to apply for the exhibition?

People can register by using the following steps: 

  • Every request should be in writing  
  • The form needs to get submitted with signature and Company seal 
  • The stall booking is subject to getting 100% payment beforehand 
  • Upon failing to make the balance payment by 5th December 2022, the organizer can cancel the booking and there will be zero refund of the advance payment.  
  • The exhibits that get confirmed will be displayed.  

The organizer will not be accountable for any damage that happens if the application form gets signed by any third-party. And all the exhibitors should insure their exhibits, before bringing it at the exhibition venue.  

Currently, contract farming, corporate farming and food retail boom are the buzzwords in Indian agriculture. And the overall horticulture landscape is geared up to experience the big change. The motto of the India International Horti Expo 2023 is to throw light on these developments and equip the Indian farmers to be a part of this change and draw in the benefits.

Note: The information contained herein is for informational purposes only. Nothing herein shall be construed to be financial or legal advice. Pesticides are a considerable risk of loss in crops and viewers are advised to do their own research before making any decisions.

Agri Vision – 2023 – A conference to resolve agricultural challenges and increase farmers’ income

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The Agri-Vision 2023 conference
The Agri-Vision 2023 conference

The Agri-Vision 2023 conference will focus on the vital agricultural sectors and talk about various challenges and problems that the modern-day agricultural system has. It will also throw light on ways to resolve the problems through omics technologies, other advanced tools to have a better agricultural scene in India.  

Event Overview:

  • Name of the event: Agri-Vision 2023 
  • Start Date: January 27th, 2023 
  • Duration of the event: January 27th to 29th, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm 
  • Address of the event: Centurion University of Technology & Management Ramchandrapur, Jatni, Bhubaneswar, Khurda- 752050, Odisha, India. 
  • Host of the event: (who conducts the event) – Society for Agricultural Research and Management (SARM) in collaboration with Centurion University. 
  • Website: (For application, If Any) – https://agrivision.in/ 

What is the objective of Agri-Vision 2023?

The Agri-Vision 2023 Conference welcomes proposals from every academic and agricultural industry stakeholder. The conference is the ideal platform that discuss new strategies and innovations that will improve the lives of the farmers. It aims to foster agri-entrepreneurship. That aside, this International Conference on Agriculture and Rural Development will also provide the much-needed platform to interact and network with prominent global experts working on agricultural sectors. The purpose here is to encourage collaborative research and explore various business opportunities.  

The conference will cover the vital agricultural aspects comprising Agriculture and horticulture, Plant Science, Fisheries, Animal Science and dairy, Aquaculture that includes Rural Banking, Agri-Business, Agri waste upscaling, and Bio-energy from the agri-policies and agri-waste. It is a conference that needs to be attended by agri-science educators, agricultural associations, agri-business specialists, and many more.  

Who are the confirmed speakers?

  • Prof. Rajeev K Varshney, Director, Centre for Crop & Food Innovation, Murdoch University, Australia 
  • Prof. Robert Henry, Director QAAFI, Professor of Innovation in Agriculture, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia 
  • Dr. Channa S. Prakash, Dean, College of Arts & Sciences, Tuskegee University, Alabama, USA 
  • Dr. Leena Tripathi, Director Eastern Africa Hub, International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
  • Prof. Roberto Papa, Full Professor in Plant Genetics, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy 
  • Rob Wager, Independent Scientist & Consultant, British Columbia, Canada 
  • Dr. Abhimanyu Sarkar, Group Leader – Legume Genetics, NIAB, Cambridge, UK 
  • Dr. Madhugiri Nageswara-Rao, Geneticist & Ornamental Project Lead, USDA- Agricultural Research Service, Subtropical Horticulture Research Station, Miami, USA 
  • Prof. Yong Pyo Lim, Professor, Department of Horticulture, Hungnam National University, South Korea 

How can the conference help the farmers?

Since, the theme for the conference is “Strengthening rural economy through smart and sustainable agriculture”, Agri Vision – 2023, will focus on useful strategies that will help the farmers to double their income. Listed are a few reasons why interested people can attend the conference: 

  • To learn and update the know-how on new tools, innovations, and technologies in the agricultural sectors and put it to practical use 
  • To come out of their comfort zone and execute new ideas learned in the conference 
  • To meet experts and network with their fellow colleagues 
  • To network and enhance the collaborative research 
  • To come across and learn a new skill 
  • To interact with service providers and learn about new products 
  • To assess the research as well as share your valuable ideas with various global experts 
  • To attain good exposure to the agricultural industry 

How to apply for the conference?

Interested candidates can take the following steps to apply for the conference: 

  • Visit the website https://agrivision.in/ 
  • Click on the Register or Register Now option 
  • Upon clicking there will be separate options for Domestic and International payments 
  • The candidate can choose and apply  
  • Any person who decides to take part virtually will get hard copies of the proceedings, certificates, memento, and Conference kit within 15 days of the event completion via post/courier at the registered address.  

The Agri-Vision 2023 offers a scope to have poster and oral presentations, hold plenary talks, and arrange seminars, expo,s and workshop to explore new scopes in agriculture and other associated sectors. It will not only reduce agricultural issues, but will also help farmers double their income.

Note: The information contained herein is for informational purposes only. Nothing herein shall be construed to be financial or legal advice. Pesticides are a considerable risk of loss in crops and viewers are advised to do their own research before making any decisions.

7th Farm Tech Asia – A conference to unlock solutions for growth in agriculture

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7th Farm Tech Asia 2023
7th Farm Tech Asia 2023

The 7th Farm Tech Asia 2023, is a conference organized by the Brahmani Events & Exhibitions Pvt. Ltd. It is a global conference and exhibition on livestock, dairy and the agriculture industry. It will highlight the new technologies such as the advanced horticulture devices, pipes and pumps that will make farming optimized and smarter.  

Event Overview:

  • Name of the event: 7th Farm Tech Asia 2023
  • Start Date: 3rd February, 2023.
  • Duration of the event: 3rd to 6th February, 10 am to 6:30 pm.
  • Address of the event: Address: 1321,22 Maple Trade Centre, SAL hospital road,
  • Near Surdhara Circle, Thaltej, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380054
  • Host of the event: (who conducts the event) – Brahmani Events & Exhibitions Pvt. Ltd
  • Website: (For application, If Any) – https://farmtechasia.com/ 

What is the purpose of farm tech Asia 2023?

The 7th Farm Tech Asia 2023 is all set to create a platform that will be a meeting point of the livestock and agriculture farmers, agro scientists, manufacturers, dealers, distributors, government bodies and other relevant companies to delve on the factors that will lead to agricultural growth in India. 3G Aqua Chemicals Pvt. Ltd, Coromandel International Ltd and Finolex Industries Limited are few of the participants to name a few.  

Some of the core objectives of the conference include: 

  • To create an awareness of the best farming practices that can benefit farmers and help them have better farm produce.  
  • To help to create business leads.  
  • To facilitate face-to-face interaction of farmers and agriculture experts.  
  • To get the consumer feedback.  
  • To take part in corporate tie-ups.  
  • To have a clear understanding of the competitor mindset, stay prepared for competition and strive through it with persistence.  

How will it help the farmers?

Currently, technology is all set to transform the modern farming practices and usher in new smart farming processes for the farmers. It ensures that farming no more remains a tedious job. Use of the new farming techniques discussed in the conference can help in increasing the good production, that reaches the consumer’s table, fresher, faster and more cost-efficiently than ever.  

The conference will discuss about the latest farm tech that will make agriculture become more lucrative, effective and eco-friendly. It will have a positive impact on the safety, quality, availability and the price of produce. It will also have a favorable environment. Once farmers get equipped with these technologies they can have better produces, better sales and an overall improved life quality.  

How to apply for the farmtech Asia?

You can use the following steps to apply for this conference: 

  • Visit the website https://farmtechasia.com/ 
  • Scroll down to extreme right side of the website 
  • You will find “Click here to register as a visitor” and “Click here to register as an exhibitor”.  
  • Once you decide on the option, click and key-in all the details in the form to complete the registration process.  

The 7th Farm Tech Asia 2023 aims to make the modern-day farmer tech savvy and use apps and tools for optimizing farming, enhance sustainability and increase profits. Right from filed mapping apps, weather monitoring to the AI software, advanced farm tech is reshaping agriculture each day for the better.

Note: The information contained herein is for informational purposes only. Nothing herein shall be construed to be financial or legal advice. Pesticides are a considerable risk of loss in crops and viewers are advised to do their own research before making any decisions.

MSP Up, Income Up: Government Lifts Rabi Crops Prices to Support Farmers Prosperity

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The Indian government has recently announced an increase in the Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for 6 Rabi crops for the 2023-24 Rabi Marketing Season. The increase in MSP is aimed at augmenting the income of farmers.

Overview

For the forthcoming Rabi Marketing Season (RMS) 2023-24, the Indian government has just enhanced the Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for six required Rabi crops. This decision was made by the Commission for Agricultural Costs & Prices (CACP), in consultation with state governments and other relevant departments. The MSP for crops such as wheat, barley, gram, and mustard have been increased, with the goal of increasing farmers incomes. Additionally, the country has seen a significant growth in the export of agriculture and allied commodities, with exports increasing by 53.1% from 32.81 billion USD in 2015-16 to 50.24 billion USD in 2021-22. The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has also released a book containing success stories of 75,000 farmers who have more than doubled their income.

The news is primarily benefiting farmers, as the increase in Minimum Support Prices (MSP) is aimed at augmenting their income. The MSP is a price at which the government guarantees to purchase agricultural products from farmers, so by increasing the MSP, farmers will be able to sell their crops at a higher price and potentially earn more income. Additionally, the increase in exports of agri and allied commodities is also beneficial to farmers as it increases the demand for their products and could lead to higher prices. The success stories shared by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) also aims to inspire farmers and possibly benefits them by providing examples of others who have been successful in increasing their income.

Important Information

  •         MSP for 6 Rabi crops raised for RMS 2023-24.
  •         Decision based on CACP’s recommendations.
  •         Aimed at raising farmers’ income.
  •         Agri and allied exports saw an increase of 53.1% from 2015-2016 to 2021-2022.
  •         ICAR shared success stories of 75,000 farmers as part of “Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav”.

 Conclusion

The Indian Government has decided to raise the Minimum Support Prices for six Rabi crops for the 2023-24 Rabi Marketing Season. This decision will benefit farmers by raising the price for their produce. The country’s export of agricultural and associated goods has also increased significantly. The ICAR has published success stories of 75,000 farmers who have been able to double their income through successful implementation of schemes, which will inspire other farmers to do the same. This decision aims to augment farmers income and boost the agriculture sector.

Note: The information contained herein is for informational purposes only. Nothing herein shall be construed to be financial or legal advice. Pesticides are a considerable risk of loss in crops and viewers are advised to do their own research before making any decisions.

Boosting Rural Finance: WDRA and SBI Introduce Produce Marketing Loan

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The Warehousing Development Regulatory Authority (WDRA) and the State Bank of India (SBI) have signed an MoU to promote a loan product called Produce Marketing Loan, which is exclusively designed for funding against e-NWRs (electronic Negotiable Warehouse Receipts) with features such as Nil processing fee, No Additional collateral and attractive interest rates. This loan product is expected to have a positive impact on small and marginal farmers by improving rural liquidity and increasing farmer’s income.

Overview

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Warehousing Development Regulatory Authority (WDRA) and the State Bank of India (SBI) to establish a new loan product to support small and marginal farmers. The loan, called Produce Marketing Loan, will entirely fund against e-NWRs (electronic Negotiable Warehouse Receipts). This loan has several benefits for farmers such as no processing fee and no additional collateral required and will have attractive interest rates. The MoU aims to promote awareness about the loan product and its benefits and to improve agricultural pledge finance in India. This loan will have a far-reaching impact on small and marginal farmers by preventing distress sale and releasing better prices for their produce. The MoU signing event also includes a brief discussion on the importance of post-harvest pledge financing using warehouse receipts and the challenges faced by lending institutions in this sector. WDRA assured their full regulatory support in improving trust among stakeholders.

The news is mainly aimed to benefit small and marginal farmers in India by providing them with a new loan product that is exclusively designed for funding against e-NWRs with various attractive features. These features are meant to make it more accessible for small and marginal farmers to obtain a loan and improve their agricultural pledge finance, thus preventing distress sale and releasing better prices for the produce. It is also aimed to provide information about the benefits of this loan product to depositors and improve agricultural pledge finance in India by doing further outreach activities.

Important Information

  • The Warehousing Development Regulatory Authority (WDRA) and the State Bank of India (SBI) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
  • The MoU is to promote a new loan product called Produce Marketing Loan.
  • This loan is exclusively designed for funding against e-NWRs (electronic Negotiable Warehouse Receipts).

The loan product has features such as:

  1. Nil processing fee
  2. No Additional collateral
  3. Attractive interest rates
  • The goal of the MoU is to increase awareness of the benefits of this loan product and to improve agricultural pledge finance in India.
  • The implementation of this loan product is expected to have a significant impact on farmer’s growth by increasing farmer’s income and improving rural liquidity.
  • The event also discussed the importance of post-harvest pledge financing using warehouse receipts and the challenges faced by lending institutions in this sector.
  • WDRA has committed to providing full regulatory support to improve the trust among stakeholders.

Conclusion

The MoU signed between the WDRA and SBI is a significant step for small and marginal farmers in India. The Produce Marketing Loan is designed to improve agricultural pledge finance and prevent distress sales, with features such as no processing fee and attractive interest rates. The MoU aims to increase awareness and improve agricultural pledge finance in India. The event also highlighted the significance of post-harvest pledge financing through warehouse receipts as well as the obstacles that lending institutions confront in this area. WDRA’s support in improving trust among stakeholders is a positive step towards the success of this loan product.

Note: The information contained herein is for informational purposes only. Nothing herein shall be construed to be financial or legal advice. Pesticides are a considerable risk of loss in crops and viewers are advised to do their own research before making any decisions.

Cultivating Success: National Awards presented to top Agripreneurs trained under AC & ABC scheme

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The mega flagship Scheme of  Govt. of India, Agri-Clinics and Agri-Business (AC & ABC), was implemented in 2002 in collaboration with NABARD. Under the scheme, unemployed youth are mentored for 45 days, bank loans and subsidies are available for those who qualify. The objective is to provide services to farmers and create jobs for rural youth. 

Overview

National Youth Day in India was celebrated with the distribution of National Awards to Agripreneurs who were trained under the Central Sector Scheme of Agri-Clinics and attendAgri-Business (AC&ABC) for their contributions to farmers through agri-clinic and agribusiness services. Agripreneurs from all across the country, senior officials from Govt. of India, scientists of ICAR, and bankers and private sector companies attended the ceremony. Agripreneurs also learned about other schemes such as RKVY-RAFTAAR and Agriculture Infrastructure Fund and other opportunities under these schemes.

This article appears to primarily benefit agripreneurs who have been trained under the AC & ABC scheme, as well as the trainers and institutions involved in the program. The event awarded these agripreneurs to farmers through their AC & ABC services, and also provided an opportunity for them to network and update themselves on the recent scopes and advancements in the field. Additionally, the article is also targeted towards the government officials and organizations involved in the implementation and management of the AC & ABC scheme, such as the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, NABARD and Lead Banks, as well as private agri companies. The event was also beneficial for the audience and participants who were able to learn about the latest developments and opportunities available for Agripreneurs under other schemes.

Description

While observing the National Youth Day in India, Awards were presented to the individuals who received training through the Central Sector scheme of AC & ABC program run by the Indian government. The scheme aims to transform unemployed youth into self-employed agripreneurs through 45 days of free residential training, with a provision for loan and subsidy from banks. The program is expected to benefit farmers and rural youth.

The ceremony was held in New Delhi and was attended by more than 850 Agripreneurs from all parts of the country, senior officials from the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Govt. of India, MANAGE, NABARD, Lead Banks, ICAR Scientists and private Agri-Business Companies.

The ceremony also included presentations and discussions on policy reform, latest developments, subsidies and loans under the scheme and opportunities for agripreneurs under other schemes like Agriculture Infrastructure Fund and RKVY-RAFTAAR. The chief guest, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India, appeal the youth to avail of funding from the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund, NABARD and the Banking sector.

Important points

  • The Agri-Clinics and Agri-Business (AC&ABC) Scheme is a government of India program implemented in collaboration with the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) since 2002.
  • A residential training program for one and half month is conducted in this scheme which aims at transforming unemployed youth into self-employed agripreneurs, assisted by a bank loan and subsidy.
  •  It aims to provide farmers with services and create jobs for rural youth.
  • On National Youth Day, awards were given to the 82 best agripreneurs and 8 best Nodal Training Institutes for their contributions to farmers through agri-clinic and agribusiness services.
  • Discussions on policy reform, new developments, incentives and loans under the scheme, and prospects for agripreneurs under other schemes were also part of the event.
  • The chief guest, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India, appeal the youth to avail of funding from the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund, NABARD and the Banking sector.

 Conclusion

National Youth Day celebrated in India, awards given to Agripreneurs trained under government schemes for contributions to farmers via agri-clinic and agribusiness services. ICAR scientists, lead banks and private agri-business firms gathered to witness the ceremony, which also included senior Government officials from the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. The award ceremony is an acknowledgement of the hard work and achievements of these agripreneurs and the success of the AC&ABC scheme in providing opportunities for self-employment and job creation in the rural areas. The ceremony also provided an opportunity for attendees to learn about the latest developments and opportunities available for Agripreneurs under other schemes.

Note: The information contained herein is for informational purposes only. Nothing herein shall be construed to be financial or legal advice. Pesticides are a considerable risk of loss in crops and viewers are advised to do their own research before making any decisions.

Millets on the Rise: India’s push to make 2023 the International Year of Millets sets stage for global impact

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The International Year of Millets 2023 was officially declared by the United Nations General Assembly and is being sponsored by the Government of India. The core objective of this initiative is to raise awareness and understanding of millets as a sustainable food source, with a focus on increasing demand and livelihoods for farmers. The initiative was officially started on December 6th, 2022 at Rome, Italy and it will run throughout the year 2023.

Overview

The International Year of Millets 2023 is a global initiative led by the Government of India and the United Nations to raise awareness and understanding of the importance of millets as a sustainable food source. Millets are a group of small-seeded, drought-tolerant, and heat-resistant cereal crops that have been grown for thousands of years and have been a traditional food source for millions of people in Africa, Asia, and parts of South America and Europe. They are also considered to be more sustainable crops than other staples, as they require less water and agricultural inputs to grow.

The Government of India is actively promoting the International Year of Millets in 2023, with the goal of positioning India as a global hub for millets and making the initiative a “people’s movement.” The government has taken a multi-stakeholder approach to increase awareness and demand for millets, engaging with different government departments, states, farmers, exporters, and other organizations to promote the benefits of millets for consumers, cultivators, and the climate.

The global millets market is projected to register a compound annual growth rate of 4.5% between 2021 and 2026. The International Year of Millets 2023 is expected to boost this trend, with various activities and events being planned throughout the year to increase awareness, demand, and livelihoods. The opening ceremony of the year was held on December 6th, 2022 in Rome, Italy. The Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare will host various events to promote the IYM 2023.

The International Year of Millets 2023, and the Government of India’s efforts to promote it, may have benefits for several different groups of people and organizations.

Farmers

The promotion of millets could lead to an increase in demand for the crop, which could benefit farmers who grow millets. The increasing demand for millet would lead to an increase in their income and livelihood.

Consumers

Millets are considered to be nutritious and healthy, by promoting millets, would increase their availability and may lead to greater awareness and understanding of their health benefits. This could lead to more people incorporating millet into their diets, which could have positive health effects.

Exporters

If the demand for millets increases globally due to the promotion, it may create opportunities for Indian exporters of millets and related products.

Climate

Millets are drought-tolerant and heat-resistant cereal crops that are well-suited to growing in challenging environments. They are considered to be more sustainable crops than other staples that

require more water and agricultural inputs. Promoting millet may help to reduce the environmental impact of agriculture and contribute to climate change mitigation.

Overall, it is beneficial for people who are health-conscious and for those who care about climate change, it is also beneficial for farmers, exporters, and for people who are looking for new food options.

Important bullet points

· The United Nations has declared 2023 as the International Year of Millets.

· The goal of the designation is to increase awareness and understanding of the importance of millet as a sustainable food source.

· Millets are drought-tolerant and heat-resistant cereal crops, well-suited for challenging environments, and are an important food source for millions of people in Africa, Asia, and parts of South America and Europe.

· Government of India has proposed and sponsored the International Year of Millets, it is actively promoting it in 2023.

· Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi has envisioned this year to be a “People’s Movement” and to position India as a “Global Hub for Millets.”

· The Government of India has taken a multi-stakeholder approach, engaging different government departments, states, farmers, exporters, and other organizations to promote millets and their benefits for the consumer, cultivator, and the climate.

· The global millets market is projected to register a CAGR of 4.5% during the forecast period between 2021-2026.

· Opening ceremony of the International Year of Millets – 2023 was held on December 6th, 2022 in Rome, Italy.

· A special ‘Millet Luncheon’ was hosted by the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare for the Members of the Parliament at the Parliament house.

· Different government departments, states, and Indian embassies have been allocated focused months in 2023 to carry out various activities for the promotion of IYM and increase awareness about the benefits of millets.

· Ministries of Sports, Food Processing Industry, FSSAI, and states of Chhattisgarh, Mizoram, Rajasthan, and others are carrying out several activities for the promotion of IYM.

Conclusion

The International Year of Millets 2023 aims to increase awareness and understanding of millets as a sustainable food source, with India taking the lead in promoting it as a “People’s Movement” and positioning the country as a “Global Hub for Millets.” It also focuses on generating demand, and livelihoods and aligning with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by promoting its benefits for the Consumer, Cultivator, and Climate.

Note: The information contained herein is for informational purposes only. Nothing herein shall be construed to be financial or legal advice. Pesticides are a considerable risk of loss in crops and viewers are advised to do their own research before making any decisions.

Government Schemes for Young Agriculturalists 

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Government Schemes for Young Agriculturalists 
Government Schemes for Young Agriculturalists 

Our country is an Agricultural country. 70% of the population here is interested in agriculture only. Agricultural work improves the economic condition of the farmers. Keeping these things in mind, the central government is running many government schemes to encourage the farmers towards farming, which is helpful and beneficial for the farmers. In such a situation, today in this article, we have come up with a list of government schemes for the rural young farmers of the country, with the help of which you will be able to strengthen your agricultural work as well as boost your livelihood.

Agri-Clinics and Agri-Business Centres Scheme

The Government of India introduced the Agri-Clinics and Agri-Business centres Scheme in April 2002 which focuses on training and subsidy. National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management, provides training to Agricultural Graduates to help them establish business units under agricultural allied activities. Trained candidates establishing agri-ventures availing credit facilities are extended with subsidy depending on certain factors.

Skill Training of Rural Youth (STRY)

Skill Training of Rural Youth (STRY) programme is provided to rural youth with skill-based training in agricultural and related fields in order to increase employment in rural regions and develop a skilled labour force for both farm and non-farm tasks. The training to rural youths shall be imparted through any identified training institutions at State / District level.

Sub Mission on Agricultural Mechanization (SMAM)

Under this scheme, Government of India releases funds for farm mechanization like establishment of custom hiring centres, farm machinery bank and high-tech hubs to different states. This helps to boost income of farmers and growth of the agricultural economy.

Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana – Remunerative Approaches for Agriculture and Allied Sectors Rejuvenation (RKVY-RAFTAAR)

This scheme is aimed at strengthening infrastructure in Agriculture and Allied sectors by building Agripreneurship & Agri-Business ecosystem in the country, facilitating financial aid to potential Agristartups and nurturing a system of business incubation.

Certified Farm Advisor/Certified Livestock Advisor programme

This program launched is to develop Agricultural Extension Personnel into Specialists in a particular Crop / Livestock. It includes basic aspects of latest technologies in Crop /Livestock and online training for about 3 months which will be conducted by MANAGE.

Skill Development Programmes for Farmers and Women

The Scheme for providing employable skills to the youth through short term and long-term program on pan India basis both in rural and urban areas. It includes fresh skilling for school drop-outs and unemployed youth, and also special projects to address skilling requirements of groups which are underrepresented.

Project ARYA (Attracting and Retaining Youth in Agriculture)

Project ARYA goal is to engage and empower rural youth in various agricultural and related economic activities. The project’s goals are to create jobs, guarantee a stable income, and advance agriculture and related industries in rural areas.

Note: The information contained herein is for informational purposes only. Nothing herein shall be construed to be financial or legal advice. Pesticides are a considerable risk of loss in crops and viewers are advised to do their own research before making any decisions.

Field Preparation for Tea

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Field Preparation for Tea
Field Preparation for Tea

India is the world’s second-largest tea producer. India’s climate and conditions are some of the finest to grow tea. In the year 2020-21 India produced 27 million tons of tea. India is also the world’s third-largest tea consumer. There is a variety of tea that has a distinguished taste, and these tea’s have been given the name of the places from where they are grown. Some of the most distinguished tea are Assam, Darjeeling, and Dooars. India’s major export destinations are Iran, UAE, USA, UK, ​​Poland, Canada, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, China, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Kenya, Japan, Pakistan and Australia.  

Difficulty Level: Hard

Selection of Seeds:

Various varieties from various countries flood the market every year. However, some of the more popular types are the ones that have been cultivated for decades past. Some of the popular varieties are Pandian, Sundaram, Golconda, Jayaram, Evergreen, Athey, Brookeland, BSS 1, BSS 2, BSS 3, BSS 4, and BSS 5.

Tea Seed Treatment

Tea is usually propagated through grafts and clippings. Cuttings are usually done during the early summer months (April – May). This way the mother plant has suitable conditions to recover from shock and the graft will have favorable conditions to stabilize. The tea clippings are sometimes bound with moss to speed the healing process. 

Nursery Bed Preparation for Tea

The nursery is built in a shaded area or with shade nets. The grafted ones are provided with a polythene tent to provide humidity and regulate. Polythene bags are used for propagation. The bags are filled with MOP, Magnesium sulphate and Zinc sulphate. Sand, loam and compost should be filled in the polythene bags at the ratio of 1:1:3 . 

Land Preparations for Tea

Hills are cleared out and the slopes are cleared off of debris. The land should be ploughed twice and 100 kg/ha of rock phosphate and N: K at the ratio of 2:3 should be applied. As most of the tea plantations are grown in hilly areas, manure is not applied. The grafted stock starts to root after 90 – 100 days. The plants are planted with the root structure attached to the mud core.  There are different ways of planting, there are single, and double hedge systems.  

Soil Type Requirements for  Tea

Tea requires acidic soil with a pH of 4.5 to 5.5 with high organic matter. At 1000 – 2500 m elevation the performance of tea is excellent. The optimal temperature for tea cultivation is 20 – 27oC.

Conclusion

Tea is a perennial crop that doesn’t need replanting unless due to damage. Tea is a long-term crop and can start cultivation after two years. Tea leaves are cultivated and processed. Tea is a hard crop that takes a long time to cultivate and process. Tea, however, is harvested for its leaves which are easily grown. 

FAQs 

  1. How is tea planted?

Tea is planted in contour by the following two system; 

  • Single hedge system: 1.2 x 0.75 m spacing – 4370 plants/acre  
  • Double hedge systems:1.35 x 0.75 x 0.75 m spacing – 5341 plants/acre 
  1. What is the fertilizer recommendation for tea cultivation?

Fertilizer application for tea should be done 2 months after planting. Phosphorus should be applied at 32 – 40 kg/acre as Rock Phosphate once in a year by placement at 15 – 25 cm depth upto the 1st pruning and thereafter once in 2 years. N:K ratio 1:3 should be adopted for the first three years and the ratio 1:1 thereafter. 

The general dose of N: K recommendation for 1st year is 73:109 kg/acre, 2nd year is 97:146 kg/acre, 3rd year is 121:182 kg/acre and 4th year onwards is 121:121 kg/acre. 

Nutrient  Fertilizer  Dosage (kg per acre) 
1st year  2nd year  3rd year  4th and above 
N  Urea (or)  158  210  262  262 
Ammonium Sulphate  509  146  874  581 
K  Muriate of Potash (MOP) (or)  182  244  304  202 
Sulphate of Potash (SOP)  218  222  364  242 

(Note: The fertilizers should be applied before the onset of monsoon. It should be broadcasted around the drip circle avoiding contact with the collar.) 

  1. How is the preparation of tea cuttings done?

Cuttings are taken on April – May and August – September. Semi hard-wood cuttings are prepared with one leaf and an internode with a slanting cut at the bottom. 

  1. What is ideal season for planting tea?

There are two seasons for planting tea adopted by Southwest monsoon areas during June – July and Northeast monsoon areas during September – October. 

  1. What is the composition of tea nursery fertilizer mixture?

The composition of tea nursery mixtures are as follows: 

Ammonium Phosphate (20:20)  : 60 parts 
Potassium Sulphate (or)   : 24 parts 
Muriate of Potash  : 20 parts 
Magnesium sulphate  : 16 parts 

Stock solution is prepared by dissolving 30 g of the above mixture in 10 litres of water. This can be sprayed over 2 m2 (450 plants) at weekly interval for plant growth. 

  1. Which style of planting is best for cultivating tea – Single or double hedge system?

Double hedge planting is best for cultivation because it will accommodate a greater number of plants per unit area. Early high yield, better soil conservation, less weed growth, efficient cultural practices and better vision are other advantages of double hedge planting style. 

  1. Suggest some tea varieties?

Pandian, Sundaram, Golconda, Jayaram, Evergreen, Athrey, Brookeland, BSS 1, BSS 2, BSS 3, BSS 4, BSS 5, Biclonal seed stocks and grafts are some tea varieties. 

Note: The information contained herein is for informational purposes only. Nothing herein shall be construed to be financial or legal advice. Pesticides are a considerable risk of loss in crops and viewers are advised to do their own research before making any decisions.