INDIA AGRICULTURE
World Bank flags oil, El Niño and global market risks to growth
The World Bank has revised its growth forecast for South Asia, projecting a robust 6.9% by 2026, driven by a surge in consumer demand. India, leading the region's economy, is expected to achieve a 7.1% growth. However, persistent high inflation and potential spikes in energy prices pose risks to this growth.
Indian businesses must focus on BIMSTEC beyond traditional markets
A conference on business opportunities in BIMSTEC countries took place in Delhi. Indian businesses learned about potential partnerships for trade, investment, and technology. Senior diplomats from BIMSTEC member states shared insights regarding economic cooperation. Ambassador Rudrendra Tandon emphasized the need for enhanced connectivity and collaboration among BIMSTEC members. Around 80 representatives from Indian industry attended to discuss areas of cooperation and engagement.
EAM Jaishankar undertakes five-day visit to Ghana, Cote d'Ivoire and Ethiopia
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has initiated a five-day official visit to three African nations. This visit aims to enhance bilateral partnerships between India and Ghana, Cote d'Ivoire, and Ethiopia. Meetings will focus on various sectors including trade, development cooperation, and capacity building. During his time in Ethiopia, he is scheduled to chair the Regional Heads of Mission Conference.
World Bank raises India FY27 growth forecast to 7.1%, flags oil, El Niño risks
The World Bank has upgraded India's economic growth forecast to 7.1% for fiscal 2026-27. This change reflects strong domestic consumption, despite ongoing inflationary pressures. Other major forecasters, including Moody's and S&P Global Ratings, have also revised their projections upward. However, elevated oil prices and potential climate-related challenges pose risks to this outlook. The World Bank emphasizes the need for accelerated AI adoption in the region for sustained economic growth.
Son sells ancestral land for Rs 8 crore, buys 2 more properties; gets income tax notice but wins at ITAT Chandigarh: Know why
A family from Panchkula owned some ancestral land in a village. A member of this family sold his share of the the said land for Rs 8 crore and purchased two more lands and claimed Section 54B and Section 54F tax exemption. However, he got a tax notice.
India-US trade talks hit a plateau, with little room left to give or take, says Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman
India and the US are currently negotiating a trade agreement aimed at expanding market access and addressing trade balance concerns. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman mentioned that both sides appear to have reached a plateau in negotiations. She indicated that further concessions may be challenging following rigorous discussions. Despite this, she believes there could be opportunities for additional negotiations. The US is particularly focused on reducing its trade deficit with India.
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India's Russia-Ukraine peace proposal 'most comprehensive' among four plans: Kyiv
Ukraine is evaluating four international proposals to resolve the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, highlighting India's comprehensive approach. Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha noted India's newfound willingness to engage in the peace process. Other proposals include initiatives from Turkiye and Egypt for grain truce and a U.S. energy truce. Both Zelenskyy and Putin have acknowledged India's principled stance and Modi's diplomatic efforts.
‘One of the best decisions I’ve made’: Chennai founder on how moving to Bengaluru changed his business and life
Bengaluru news: Harish Varadharajan moved his agritech business from Chennai to Bengaluru and found significant advantages in the city's ecosystem. After one year, he noted improved access to investors, talent and customers, which helped his business grow. Bengaluru's favorable climate also reduced operational costs for his company. Other entrepreneurs shared mixed reviews about relocating, with some favoring Nashik for its agricultural resources.
Arunachal Pradesh CM Pema Khandu calls for concerted effort to expand coffee cultivation in the state
Khandu said the State Government had introduced several interventions and schemes under agriculture and horticulture over the past five to six years, but coffee had not received a dedicated policy intervention so far.
Sebi examining position limits for non-agri contracts to boost liquidity
Sebi is actively investigating position limits for non-agricultural contracts to improve market liquidity and depth. Chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey has highlighted the importance of phased physical settlement for agricultural commodities. The organization is focused on addressing structural issues and increasing technology integration in commodity markets. Furthermore, Sebi plans to expand its educational outreach through Project Jagrook to better inform market participants.
India exports 1 tonne of Bihar's makhana to Greece
India has successfully exported 1 tonne of makhana from Purnea to Greece and 24 tonnes of frozen food products from Sonipat to Canada. These shipments are part of India's efforts to expand its overseas market for agricultural commodities. The commerce ministry highlights that Bihar produces about 80-85% of the country's makhana. The frozen food shipment from Haryana includes items like green peas and samosas.
Reliance plans Rs 1 lakh crore investment in Andhra Pradesh, says Anant Ambani
Reliance Industries announced a substantial investment of Rs 1 lakh crore in Andhra Pradesh for biogas plants. This initiative aims to create over three lakh jobs and generate revenue of nearly Rs 60,000 crore. The company will also support the establishment of the Rayalaseema Horticulture Hub and Indian School of Agriculture. Advanced technologies will be integrated with traditional farming knowledge to enhance agricultural practices.
Fieldmarshal targets 10-15% market share in below-20 HP tractor segment in 3 years
Fieldmarshal PM Diesels recently launched single-cylinder engines in the 15 hp and 18 hp categories. The company intends to capture a 10-15 percent market share in the below-20 HP tractor segment within three years. These new engines comply with the latest TREM V norms and have been approved by ARAI. Fieldmarshal also plans to introduce tractors up to 30 HP in the near future.
From barren desert to red gold: Saffron cultivation debuts in Ladakh
Ladakh has launched a pilot to grow high-value saffron on restored barren land in Leh, planting about 90,000 Iranian saffron corms across 4,000 square metres at Spituk Pharka. If successful, the project could diversify cold-desert agriculture and create a new income source for local farmers, youth and self-help groups.
The biggest jump in global crop prices since 2022 threatens to boost inflation
Global agricultural prices have jumped notably due to growing tensions in the Black Sea affecting supply routes, coupled with adverse weather impacting yields. The Bloomberg Agriculture Spot Index surged by 13%, its highest quarterly growth since March 2022. Meanwhile, China's substantial purchases of American soybeans are altering grain trade dynamics.
India's motor car exports witnessing healthy growth in EFTA market: Piyush Goyal
India's exports of motor cars and heavy waters have seen significant growth since the trade agreement implementation. The trade and economic partnership agreement with EFTA has created market access for the majority of India's exports. The EFTA countries have committed to invest USD 100 billion in India over 15 years.
From farm to classroom: Mahatma Gandhi’s vision for basic education and future of agricultural learning
The objective is not merely to prepare agriculture graduates as job seekers, but to equip them with the skills to solve problems, innovate and create employment and entrepreneurial opportunities.
Pest resistance is forcing India’s crop-protection firms to rethink product strategies: Insecticides India MD
Resistance to chemicals and formulations is an evolving challenge, particularly in crops where the same pest pressures persist over multiple seasons, said Rajesh Aggarwal, MD of Insecticides (India).
India, New Zealand trade pact to boost agri, processed food exports: TPCI
Starting on October 20, the free trade agreement between India and New Zealand is set to boost bilateral commerce. This agreement will significantly lower tariffs on various Indian agricultural exports, such as processed foods and spices.
Fourth-lowest since 2001: Rainfall 13% below normal
The southern peninsula and East and Northeast India were particularly affected, receiving just 76% and 74% of their respective normal rainfall. East and Northeast India recorded 1,017.1 mm of rainfall, its lowest since 1901, while the southern peninsula received 542 mm, its fourth-lowest rainfall in 125 years. Central India, however, received normal rainfall at 97% of its LPA, while northwest India recorded 94.1%.
Agriculture sector binds India-Argentina partnership
Argentine Ambassador Mariano Caucino highlighted the growing economic relationship between Argentina and India during a summit in Mumbai. Agriculture, particularly edible oils, serves as a core area of cooperation between the two countries. Argentina is experiencing record supplies of edible oils, significantly contributing to India's food security. In 2025, exports of soybean oil and sunflower products to India are expected to increase substantially.
India braces weak October rains as El Nino drags monsoon to fourth-lowest since 2001
India’s southwest monsoon ended with rainfall 12.6% below average, making it the fourth-lowest monsoon rainfall since 2001, according to the IMD. The weather office expects below-average rainfall in October, while most parts of the country are likely to receive below-normal rainfall during the broader October-December period.
Women farmers’ role crucial for India’s agriculture, sustainable farming: BKS conference
Introducing the conference, Manju Dixit, All India Women Convener of BKS, called for a change in the traditional perception of women farmers.
Tomato Rs 680, lemon Rs 850/kg, cucumber Rs 300 per piece: Indian in Norway compares vegetable prices with India
An Indian-origin resident of Norway has drawn attention online after comparing the cost of everyday vegetables in the two countries and questioning whether low prices in Indian cities translate into fair earnings for farmers. His post highlighted sharp differences for lemons, tomatoes and cucumbers, prompting users to debate purchasing power, supply and demand, agricultural regulation and the role of intermediaries.
Foodgrain output target cut over El Nino impact
Of the overall target, 177.72 mt is expected to come from the rabi season, agriculture minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, said at the National Agriculture Conference-Rabi Campaign 2026 Tuesday.
El Nino fears: Govt cuts foodgrain target by 2.63 MT
India has announced a reduced foodgrain production target of 373.93 million tonnes for the 2026-27 crop year. The decision comes amidst concerns over El Niño weather patterns impacting agricultural conditions across the country. Sowing operations for kharif crops have been completed, while rabi crop planting will start in October.
Bharatiya Kisan Sangh to hold women farmers' conference on September 30
Thousands of women farmer workers from all states across the country will participate.
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 data gives India a pleasant advance glimpse of the year's pickings; full picture a little while away
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.
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