The Economic Times

While prices may stay stable for now, better-quality wheat is likely to command a premium, widening price gaps, according to industry executives and experts. Onion prices could also increase after July as rain-hit crops with poor shelf life reduce supply.

India is set to import 2.5 million metric tons of urea. This move aims to strengthen domestic fertilizer supplies. The state-run agency Indian Potash Ltd has issued a tender for the purchase. Shipments are expected by June 14. This is crucial for upcoming rice, corn, and soybean planting. India regularly imports fertilizers to meet its agricultural needs.

A Nuvama report said the edible oils and agri-linked consumer staples sector outlook remains positive, driven by strong volume growth and improving demand across industrial segments. Overall volumes to grow ~13% YoY led by strong growth in Edible Oils and Industry Essentials segments, the report said, with edible oils such as soybean, mustard, rice bran and palm oil leading the upcycle.

Aquapulse, a pioneering aquaculture technology startup located in Bhubaneswar, has successfully raised an impressive Rs 25 crore in Series A funding, with NABVENTURES at the helm of this investment. This infusion of capital will enable Aquapulse to broaden its network of farmers and build an advanced processing facility, aiming to improve quality control and increase profits for farmers.

India's sugar output will fall short of demand for the second year. Lower cane yields are causing mills to close early. This will reduce domestic stockpiles and support local prices. Exports are also contributing to lower availability. The next season will begin with reduced opening stocks. This situation is expected to firm up sugar prices.

India relies heavily on fertiliser imports routed through the Strait of Hormuz, which is currently facing disruptions.

Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan urged states to achieve 100% farmer registration for schemes within six months, emphasizing the need to curb fertilizer hoarding and black-marketing. He also stressed mandatory Aadhaar-linked registration and biometric authentication for MSP procurement of pulses and oilseeds, with direct DBT payments to farmers.

Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan reviewed farmer registration, fertilizer distribution, and pulse procurement with state ministers. He urged 100 percent farmer registration within six months and strict checks on fertilizer hoarding.

Domestic production has surged, driven by indigenous hybrid development and a strong public-private partnership, significantly reducing import dependence and saving foreign exchange.