32 C Agriculture / The Economic Times
The GST rate cuts on dairy products, farm inputs, and food processing items are set to positively impact over 10 crore dairy farmers and bolster the cooperative sector, according to the Ministry of Cooperation. This restructuring addresses inverted duties in fertilizer manufacturing, aiming to stabilize prices for farmers and ensure timely input availability.
Across South India, coconut prices have surged from Rs 15-25 to Rs 80-100 due to pandemic-induced supply chain disruptions, climate change impacts, and pest infestations. Neglect of plantations and reduced yields have exacerbated the shortage, impacting copra, oil, and fresh nut availability. Despite being the largest producer, India faces a global crisis affecting prices and supply.
Niti Aayog suggests ways for India to become self-reliant in pulses. The goal is to double pulse production by 2047. Production may reach 34.45 million tonnes by 2030. By 2047, it may further rise to 51.57 million tonnes. The plan includes better farming methods and technology. Focus is on high-quality seeds and climate-smart practices.
The Centre has set a rice procurement target of 463.50 lakh tonnes for the Kharif season. In a meeting chaired by Union Food Secretary Sanjeev Chopra, the Department of Food and Public Distribution discussed procurement arrangements with States/UTs and FCI for the upcoming Kharif Marketing Season 2025-26, also setting a target of 19.19 lakh tonnes for coarse grains/millets.
PM Modi on Friday declared from Red Fort that he will stand like a wall to protect farmers and fishermen from any unfriendly policies, ensuring their rights and interests remain secure.
Narendra Modi will inaugurate the National Natural Farming Mission in New Delhi. Shivraj Singh Chouhan shared the news after a meeting with state agriculture ministers. The mission aims to improve soil health and reduce costs for farmers. The government approved the scheme with a significant financial outlay. India has seen record production in wheat and paddy.