Centre to send teams to assess drought in Karnataka, Maharashtra: Shivraj Singh Chouhan
We will send a central team to Karnataka on October 3 to assess the drought situation. I have spoken with the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, who is concerned as well, and we will send a central team there too. I, along with my team, will personally visit the States facing this crisis, Mr. Chouhan said
Maharashtra, Karnataka drought: Centre to assess situation; Shivraj Singh Chouhan plans visit
Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan expressed concern over the drought situation in Maharashtra and Karnataka, saying the Centre will send teams to assess the situation on the ground.
El Nino threatens rabi crops in rainfed areas, may affect foodgrain output: Agri Secy
The rabi season in India is expected to encounter difficulties due to the El Nino weather pattern. Agriculture Secretary Atish Chandra highlighted the challenges faced during the kharif season in rainfed regions. Crop diversification is needed for self-sufficiency despite research and income hurdles. Infrastructure modernization is crucial to prevent farm losses and ensure market access. A robust digital agriculture system is essential for accurate data utilization in crop production planning.
Kharif cultivation this season has fallen from last year, but exceeded the five-year average despite lower rainfall. The number coming above five-year average is noteworthy, because monsoon rainfall between June 1 and September 26 was 12% below normal.
El Nino may turn 'very strong' by late 2026: IRI; experts see elevated risk for India
All 22 forecast models it surveyed, 13 dynamical and nine statistical, forecast very strong El Nino conditions through the 2026-27 winter
Hotter seas, vanishing kelp, booming octopus: How Europe's marine life is changing
ASMS, Ampivo to expand digital agriculture across rural India
ASMS and Ampivo plan to expand Agri Kisan Setu across rural India, offering farmers digital market access, farm tools, schemes and advisory services.
KRIBHCO posts INR 825 Crore pre-tax profit in FY26
KRIBHCO reports INR 824.68 crore pre-tax profit for FY26, declares 20% dividend and records 21.34 lakh MT urea production.
Aquaculture overtakes oceans as aquatic food growth slows
Aquaculture now supplies more aquatic animals than capture fisheries, but WAF warns growth is slowing amid water, disease and investment constraints.
Amara Raja opens 2026 Rural Entrepreneur Award nominations
Amara Raja opens nominations for its 2026 Better Way Awards, offering rural and women entrepreneurs Rs 3 lakh and a year of mentoring.
As land availability becomes increasingly constrained, the future of sugarcane growth depends less on expansion of area and more on gains in productivity, said
Tea output slips, exports drop in January-July 2026
Tea Board of Indias newly launched Tea Mark certification programme has gained initial traction, with 25 producers and mini factories receiving certification so far.
Karnataka announces Rs 2,500 input subsidy for drought-hit farmers: Dy CM Parameshwara
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister G Parameshwara announced immediate relief for drought-hit farmers, offering Rs 2,500 each. This initial aid aims to support 45-50 lakh farmers and will cost the state Rs 1,250 crore. Further assistance will depend on the Union government's response and assessments of the drought situation. While total drought losses in Karnataka are expected to exceed Rs 40,000 crore, additional relief measures will follow.
Indian agriculture enters new phase as diets, incomes and climate reshape farming: Report
The first phase, from roughly 1967 to 1995, was dominated by the need to achieve food security, says the paper.
Sugar imports likely for second year
The world's second-largest sugar producer had remained structurally surplus for nearly a decade but was forced to import sugar in the 2025-26 season after lower output pushed domestic prices to record highs. Prolonged rainfall shortages in Maharashtra and Karnataka, coupled with the state prioritising reservoir water for drinking over irrigation, are expected to reduce sugar content in cane due for crushing from October, executives said.
Balrampur Chini gets government grant for biopolymer R&D facility
Balrampur Chini Mills Ltd (BCML) has received 75 crore in grant assistance from the government to set up a pilot-scale research and development facility for polylactic acid (PLA) co-polymers. The facility will focus on developing specialised PLA grades and co-polymers for higher-value applications and generating the process know-how needed to move products from laboratory research to commercial-scale manufacturing. The site will be India's first integrated commercial PLA manufacturing facility, with a planned capacity of 80,000 tonnes per annum.
Rising sulphur prices put fertiliser sector under pressure, threaten higher subsidy burden
Landed sulphur prices in India have doubled since January to around $1,050-1,100 a tonne, according to industry estimates.
Indian plantation sector urged to become global suppliers
In a developed India, plantation sector should have higher value per hectare, better technology adoption, increased exports, higher income for growers, and higher productivity; its focus should move from commodities to value-added products, says Amit Kumar, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry
Rubber Board to launch digital platform for rubber planters
CPI(M) urges government to declare Anantapur as drought hit
Protests will be held across the district on September 25 and 26 to highlight farmers distress, followed by a dharna in front of the Collectors office on September 28, says partys district committee
NABARD brings banks, government together to ease Kisan Credit Card access in Delhi
Nabin Kumar Roy, Chief General Manager, NABARD, emphasised that enhancing farmers access to Kisan Credit Cards remains a priority and called for coordinated efforts among government departments, banks, cooperatives and development institutions.
The industry bodies said the correction reflected market dynamics as well as continued government efforts.
Maharashtra drought deepens, crop output crisis mounts
State agriculture minister Dattatray Bharane has confirmed a large contraction in the production of cotton and soybean, while the agriculture department has initiated an early crop assessment to calculate compensation as farmers are removing wilted crops from fields.
Govt's subsidised supply fails to stop India's onion tears
Rates staying high despite the release of buffer stocks shows the challenge of bringing prices down across markets, particularly when retail rates differ substantially between locations and sellers, trade anaylists say.
Maharashtra drought: State records 18.8% rain deficit, 40-50% rain deficit across six districts
With the government set to conduct crop-damage surveys after October 5, farmers are demanding immediate drought declarations and relief funds, highlighting the urgent need for assistance as water scarcity exacerbates the crisis across Marathwada and Vidarbha regions
Groundwater crisis in Punjab is widening social and economic divide, finds study
At 76.47%, Punjab has highest percentage of over-exploited groundwater blocks among all States; the States heavy reliance on groundwater for cultivating water-intensive crops, including wheat and rice, leads to rising costs for deeper wells, as well as land subsidence and deteriorating water quality
Groundwater crisis in Punjab is widening social and economic divide, finds study
At 76.47%, Punjab has highest percentage of over-exploited groundwater blocks among all States; the States heavy reliance on groundwater for cultivating water-intensive crops, including wheat and rice, leads to rising costs for deeper wells, as well as land subsidence and deteriorating water quality
Corteva Agriscience creates awareness on pest control among farmers in Nellore
The farmers saw stronger crop stands, healthier tillers, improved grain filling and fields that remained protected during some of the crops most critical growth stages.
Absolute launches AI-driven biological agriculture platform INERA in Kenya
Indian biosolutions company Absolute has launched INERA in Kenya with six biological products, marking its entry into Africa and plans for wider global expansion.
Tata Chemicals wins India Gold MIKE Award 2026 for innovation, knowledge management
Tata Chemicals wins the India Gold MIKE Award 2026 for excellence in innovation and knowledge management, recognising its culture of learning, collaboration and value creation.
National IPMS can help eliminate counterfeit pesticides, says agriculture ministry official
CIB
National Spice Conference 2026 focuses on farmer prosperity
National Spice Conference 2026 in Jaipur brings farmers, industry and policymakers together to strengthen farmer incomes, food safety, sustainability and India
Assam's revised ATISIS gives major boost to GTAC-linked CTC exports
Assam's updated tea incentive scheme introduces exciting export benefits designed to enhance the quality of CTC tea. The initiative promises a Rs 3 per kg bonus for single-origin Assam tea exports and significantly boosts subsidies for Orthodox and Specialty tea production. Additionally, improved working capital assistance is provided, with Matcha tea now part of the program, aiming to fortify Assam's tea exports and the Guwahati auction platform.
Not in favour of FIRs against farmers over stubble burning: Punjab CM Mann
Stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana is often blamed for increased air pollution in the Delhi-NCR region. Due to the short window for the Rabi crop (wheat) after the paddy harvest in October and November, many farmers burn their fields to quickly clear the crop residue
Southern India drying fastest, most persistent drought hotspots along eastern coast: Study
Chouhan said states would have to deliver on commitments made during the conference, including deadlines for Farmer ID generation and other components of AgriStack.
Congress leaders seek drought-hit status for Mahararashtras Latur, urgent relief measures
Speaking at a review meeting of the District Development Coordination and Monitoring Committee, they said the prevailing drought-like situation warranted immediate government intervention and financial assistance to farmers.
Maharashtra to use digital twin technology to transform agriculture
Maharashtra will pilot AI, satellite, drone and Digital Twin technology with 10,000 farmers to improve crop yields, save water and reduce farm input costs.
Lessons from Indias smallholder farmers
India is an important voice in the Global Souths rural development conversation
El Nio effect: Kharif crops, winter sowing face stress as drought hits 53% of India
El Nio effect: El Nio has left more than 50% of India grappling with drought conditions, severely affecting kharif crops currently in the fields. Maharashtra has been particularly hard hit, with extreme drought affecting a large part of its agricultural areas. Other key agricultural states are also experiencing varying levels of drought, raising concerns about crop yields and soil moisture levels as winter sowing approaches.
US seeks details of India's rice stocks used for Ethanol output
The United States has sought details from India on the use of rice for ethanol production. Washington has alleged that Indias rice stocks exceed food security requirements, affecting global trade. Indias price support policies have also been cited as contributing to higher domestic rice supplies. The World Trade Organization is expected to discuss these concerns later this month. Indias allocation of rice for ethanol production has reportedly increased significantly.
Trump moves to scrap Biden-era carbon limits on US coal & gas power plants
Average sugar retail price rules below Rs 60/kg for 4th day; festive demand keeps rates elevated
Average sugar prices stayed below Rs 60 per kg for four days. Government measures and imports helped ease prices after recent increases. Festive demand caused some regional price hikes, particularly in southern states. Major sugar-producing states like Maharashtra saw prices decline. The government maintains adequate stocks despite a lowered production estimate.
Farmers Start Dharna Outside Punjab Ministers Office in Hoshiarpur
He said the state government would be responsible for any inconvenience caused to the public if such action was taken.
Rice gets pricier in India as US-Iran war sends countries scrambling to secure food supplies
Rice is getting costlier in India as the US-Iran war drives countries to secure food supplies and boosts overseas demand. Basmati prices have risen 15-20% and non-basmati varieties 20-25%, with traders expecting little relief until the new crop arrives in October-November.
India, ASEAN strengthen cooperation on climate-resilient, digital agriculture
India and ASEAN have agreed to strengthen cooperation in climate-resilient agriculture, AI, digital farming, food security, soil health and agricultural value chains.
News in Frames: A village with no people
Gattumeedapalle was once a bustling hub of groundnut cultivation in Andhra Pradesh; however, repeated crop failure due to lack of water has forced families to move away to find alternative sources of livelihood
Uttar Pradesh pushes sugarcane transformation with digital reforms, modern governance
The number of sugarcane farmers associated with the sector has also shown a steady increase over the years, reaching 48,03,084 bonded farmers in 2024-25
Women take the controls as farms embrace new tech in Telangana
Drones are opening a new frontier for women in self-help groups, giving them a chance to enter technology-led agriculture and build independent businesses. From crop-spraying to farm services, the new skills are taking them beyond the traditional activities of SHGs
Sweet trouble: Sugar prices surge to 17-month high as govt warns mills against festival hoarding
Raw sugar futures have reached their highest level since March 2025. Strong Indian import demand and Brazilian supply disruptions are driving these gains. India has opened a tax-free import quota to meet domestic needs. The government warns mills against unjustified price increases during festivals. El Nio and oil prices also influence the global sugar market.
Productivity enhancement may lead to further reduction in agriculture sector NPA: Nabard Chairman
Agriculture sector NPAs have significantly decreased to single digits, according to Nabard Chairman Shaji Krishnan V. Boosting crop productivity and enhancing credit facilities will drive further improvements, he said.
Govt asks sugar mills to ensure adequate supplies during festivals, keep prices 'reasonable'
Indian sugar mills are asked to ensure adequate supplies for the upcoming festival season. Domestic mills are seeking to import nearly 800,000 tons of duty-free raw sugar. The government directed mills to sell sugar at reasonable prices. Officials will continue monitoring prices and take corrective measures. This aims to keep sugar rates stable for consumers.
Next phase of PM-KUSUM may be OKed soon: Pralhad Joshi
The upcoming PM KUSUM phase will feature a dedicated agrivoltaics component for farmers. This initiative will allow farmers to earn income from generated electricity. The focus will be on small farmers, cooperatives, and panchayats. Agrivoltaics combines farming and solar power generation on the same land. More research is needed to optimize crop and solar configurations.
Deficient monsoon, weak September rainfall pose risks to rabi crops: Crisil
Renewed weakening of rainfall in August and expectations of a deficient September could pose risks to Indias upcoming rabi season, Crisil said. It flagged cotton, bajra, maize, tur, groundnut and soybean as particularly vulnerable. Rainfall deficiency has widened to 14%, while September rainfall is forecast below normal.
Rural job demand rises 23.8% in August under new VB-G RAM G scheme
Demand for jobs under the new rural employment scheme increased in August. Work sought by households rose significantly from the previous month. Millions of people sought employment opportunities across various Indian states. The new law provides more guaranteed employment days annually. It also sets a minimum daily wage for all workers.
Your sweet tooth craving may get a little more expensive
Rising sugar prices are pushing packaged food companies towards another round of price hikes or smaller pack sizes. Bikaji Foods is rolling out a 2% price increase across its sweets portfolio, while analysts at Anand Rathi expect 2-5% hikes or shrinkflation in packaged foods as sugar, tea and coffee prices rise.
From dialogue to delivery: Turning 3 decades of ASEAN-India agri-cooperation into farmers prosperity
As officials and ministers from India and the 11 ASEAN member states gather in New Delhi for a two-day meeting, the substance of this partnership lies less in the communiqu than in the research, training and field-level programmes it has steadily built since 1992
Govt mulls FDI liberalisation in plantation sector
India is considering liberalizing foreign direct investment norms for plantations. More commercial crops like bananas could be included under this policy. The government aims to boost exports of bananas significantly in coming years. This move seeks to enhance India's global market share in banana production. Stakeholder consultations are currently underway for this proposed policy change.
Punjab cabinet approves 3 foodgrain policies for Kharif 2026-27
The Punjab Cabinet approved key policies for paddy procurement and movement in 2026-27. Amendments to Punjab Public Service Commission regulations were also sanctioned by the council. Thirty-three hospital posts were revived, and 138 new healthcare positions were created. Eighty vacant Medical Officer (Dental) posts will be filled by the department. These decisions aim to enhance public services and farmer support across the state.
Nilgiris tea production hit by severe drought, El Nino conditions; green leaf supply drops sharply
Severe drought conditions in Nilgiris have drastically reduced green tea leaf supply. Tea factories are experiencing significant revenue losses and production declines. Small farmers face immense hardship due to crop failure and inadequate prices. Rainfall deficits have caused a substantial drop in tea productivity across the region. Government assistance is urgently needed for affected tea growers and workers.
Leaving farmers 'Bhagwan Bharose': The cost of MSP to ethanol gaps
Leaving farmers 'Bhagwan Bharose': The cost of MSP to ethanol gaps
India's soyoil imports hit record high in August and palm six-month peak, dealers say
Indian refiners sharply increased edible oil imports in August to build stocks ahead of the festive season. Palm oil imports rose 7% to 780,000 tonnes, while soyoil imports jumped 21% to a record 601,000 tonnes.
Tamil Nadu government to withdraw cases filed against farmers, teachers during DMK regime: CM Vijay
Making a suo motu statement in the Assembly, he said the TVK government would respect the democratic rights of farmers and teachers who had protested peacefully
Sugar stock limit halved from Sept 15
The government has reduced the sugar dealer stock limit to two thousand quintals. This measure aims to ensure adequate availability and stable prices during the festive season. Hoarding and speculative trading will be further curbed by this new regulation. An exemption has been granted to Kolkata and its extended metropolitan areas. This reduction will facilitate orderly movement of sugar through the supply chain.
India seeks applications for remaining raw sugar import quota
India has opened up applications for its remaining raw sugar import quota, allowing eligible millers and refiners to apply for this lucrative duty-free allocation. This follows the initial notice for a million tons, of which over seven hundred thousand have been accounted for. Interested parties have until October thirty-first to seize this opportunity.
Onion prices rebound after last week's dip
Onion prices at Maharashtra's Lasalgaon market have rebounded after a recent fall. The average wholesale price reached 40 per kg, with retail prices remaining high. Farmers hope to recover losses after two years of subdued prices. Concerns about the kharif crop and stored onion quality are driving prices up. The government claims prices are cooling in other markets due to buffer stock sales.
War, weather push crop prices to biggest monthly gain Since 2012
Crop prices saw their largest monthly jump in over a decade. Wheat prices reached a three-year high as Black Sea shipments were impacted. Sugar and cocoa also increased substantially due to El Nio weather worries. These rising costs threaten everyday pantry staples like bread and dairy.
Milk procurement price in Tamil Nadu increased further to 44 per litre
Last week, CM Vijay had announced that the government had increased the procurement price by 3 per litre, raising the price from 38 to 41
Direct Karnataka to release backlog of 17.604 tmcft Cauvery water: T.N. to Supreme Court
Cauvery Delta farmers are severely affected as they are not getting their due share, T.N. tells court; says CWRC and CWMA failed to consider accumulated backlog; top court to hear Cauvery case on August 31
Govt tightens fertiliser tracking, links farmer purchases to land records
India's government is enhancing a digital platform for fertilizer tracking. This system will link farmer purchases to land records and monitor subsidies. New dashboards will provide officials with consolidated views of fertilizer movement. The platform aims to identify supply shortfalls and unusual trends earlier. Electronic processing of subsidy bills will begin by January 2026.
Himachal Pradesh apple growers face a difficult season with reduced production. Erratic weather severely impacted fruit setting, leading to lower yields this year. Premium apples fetch firm prices, but costs remain high for growers. Traders report weak demand and small fruit sizes affecting their margins. Pending government payments add to the financial strain on many farmers.
Maharashtra sugarcane farmers seek higher prices after sugar rally
Sugarcane farmers in Maharashtra are demanding higher prices for the 2025-26 season. This agitation follows a significant increase in sugar prices over recent months. Farmer organizations believe sugar mills should share increased profits with growers. Several farmer associations have submitted their demands to the state sugar commissionerate. Growers across the state seek better payment for sugarcane sold to mills.
Sugar supply likely to improve on switch to fortnightly quota
Under the fortnightly quota, sugar mills will be required to sell at least 40% of the allocation in the first week and the remaining quantity in the succeeding week. It was observed that in certain cases, sugar sold by mills at the beginning of the month was being dispatched or lifted by buyers only towards the end of the month, leading to artificial scarcity, the government said in a statement.
Govts onion buffer stock quality good, storage with CWC aids shelf life: Consumer affairs secretary
Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare refuted reports claiming that 30 of the 1.21 lakh tonne onion buffer maintained by the government had rotten; Nothing of that kind has happened. Quality is good, she said
Govts onion buffer stock quality good, storage with CWC aids shelf life: Consumer affairs secretary
Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare refuted reports claiming that 30 of the 1.21 lakh tonne onion buffer maintained by the government had rotten; Nothing of that kind has happened. Quality is good, she said
Andhra Pradesh farmers caught between climate uncertainty and financial risk
From parched drylands in Bapatla to diesel-powered pumps in the Krishna Delta and rotting paddy fields in West Godavari, Andhra Pradeshs farmers are confronting different faces of the same climate crisis, writes GVR Subba Rao
Govt flags off NCCF, NAFED vans to sell onions at Rs 35 per kg
The government is also using rail and road networks to move buffer onions from producing regions to major consumption centres.
Centre starts onion sale in capital at Rs 35/kg, 44% below market price
The government has started selling onions from its buffer stock at Rs 35 per kg. This move aims to provide relief to consumers and control prices before the festive season. Adequate onion supplies are available to meet domestic demand during the upcoming months. The government is also transporting bulk consignments through dedicated railway rakes. Proactive market interventions will ensure sufficient availability and moderate price pressures.
India's summer onion buffer stock has suffered considerable setbacks due to unexpected rainfall, leading to roughly thirty percent of onions rotting or sprouting. This spoilage threatens to disrupt market supply and hike prices. To alleviate the situation, special trains are now delivering onions to key cities at subsidized costs. Additionally, delays in the kharif crop are likely to further heighten onion shortages in the upcoming months.
Despite 51% rainfall deficit, AP sustains kharif cultivation through advance planning: Atchannaidu
The Minister said Andhra Pradesh received only 192.8 mm of rainfall between the first week of June and August 25, against the normal 393.7 mm, recording a deficit of 51%. Despite the adverse conditions, kharif crops had been raised in 20.35 lakh hectares, he said.
Sugar shortage bites: Retailers cap purchases, prices surge 29% ahead of Raksha Bandhan
Major retailers are limiting sugar purchases to three kilograms per customer. Quick commerce platforms also restrict sugar sales to a few packs. This comes as sugar supplies tighten before the Raksha Bandhan festival. Government-approved raw sugar imports aim to ease the tight stock situation. Prices have risen significantly and are expected to continue increasing.
Bulk sugar users in a soup as Govt refuses to ease stock limit order
The government has rejected requests for more time to sell excess sugar stocks. Bulk sugar users must now liquidate any surplus by August 31. This action aims to suppress sugar prices and curb hoarding allegations. Some companies fear this move could increase market price volatility. Industry analysts expect additional sugar to enter the market after this deadline.
Sugar prices rise over Rs 1 per kg for second consecutive day to Rs 65 amid festive demand
Retail sugar prices increased for a second day due to higher festive demand. Ex-mill rates have fallen significantly after the government allowed raw sugar imports. Wholesale sugar prices also saw a marginal increase on Wednesday. The government has imposed stock limits and banned exports to control prices. Sugar supply remains adequate with sufficient domestic production and opening stocks.
Tea industry seeks Rs 113 crore annual package to revive Darjeeling sector
The Indian Tea Association seeks government aid for tea industry revival. Financial and regulatory reforms are proposed for Darjeeling and Dooars regions. The association requests support for production and modernization efforts. Measures aim to protect employment and rural livelihoods across North Bengal. Time-bound implementation of policies is crucial for sector sustainability.
Sugar prices rise by nearly Re 1 per kg to about Rs 64
Sugar prices rose by nearly Re 1 per kg to Rs 63.97 in the retail market on August 25, despite recent government steps to curb the surge. The average retail price has risen 31% in a month from Rs 48.81 per kg and is 38% higher than a year ago. Wholesale prices have also climbed to Rs 59.23 per kg from Rs 45.35 a month earlier.
Government lifts ban on wheat exports, cites farmers interests amid depressed local prices
India, the world's second-largest wheat producer, had banned wheat exports in May 2022 as part of measures to control rising domestic prices
Onion prices up 59%, govt ramps up 'Kanda Express' supplies to cool market
The Centre has started moving bulk onion stocks through dedicated railway rakes the 'Kanda Express' from Nashik in Maharashtra to major consuming centres, as part of efforts to augment supplies and check the seasonal rise in prices, a Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare said on Monday. Stocks currently being loaded onto these rakes are expected to reach the identified centres by Wednesday, she said. PRICES UP SHARPLY ------------------------- Data maintained by the ministry shows the all-India average retail price of onion rose 59 per cent year-on-year to Rs 43.53/kg on August 24, from Rs 27.37/kg a year ago. The average wholesale price was up 68 per cent at Rs 35.58/kg, against Rs 21.23/kg in the year-ago period. Among major cities, retail onion prices on Monday stood at Rs 60/kg in Chennai (Rs 33 a year ago), Rs 55/kg in Delhi (Rs 35) and Rs 53/kg in Kolkata. Initially, the onion will be supplied to five major consumption centres, namely Chennai, Madurai, Delhi, Ernakulam
Sugar production hit by Red Rot disease, El Nino; govt taking measures: Pralhad Joshi
Union Minister Pralhad Joshi said the Centre is taking measures to manage sugar availability and rising prices ahead of the festival season, including temporary imports of raw sugar. He attributed the fall in production to red rot disease and El Nino conditions.
