Organic farming has emerged as an obvious solution to the conundrum, and though India is a new entrant, the growth trajectory is inspiring. Sustainable Agriculture Practices (SAP), a term which encompasses several new agricultural interventions aimed at reducing the agricultural C-footprint, gets its direction not just from government encouragement, but also from conscientious consumers. Indian consumers, today, are keen to know how their food is produced, and also willing to pay more to ensure sustainable, chemical-free and fair practices.
Drivers of change
Sikkim’s agri products are famous for their organic tag; it is the first Indian state to become completely organic. It is, however, a small state with limited produce. Madhya Pradesh has emerged as the state with the largest land under organic cultivation — 0.76 million hectares, accounting for over a quarter of India’s organic fields. Such healthy competition between states is spurring the new agri revolution.
‘Green Growth’ was a priority in the Union Government Budget for 2023-2024 with an outlay of around Rs 449 crore for the National Mission on Natural Farming. It will also provide farmers easy access to bioresources like Jeevaamrit, Ghana Jeevamrit, Neemastra, etc. by setting up Bhartiya Prakritik Kheti Bio-inputs Resources Centres (BRCs) to prepare and supply bio-inputs. The goal is to facilitate the easy adoption of natural farming for the farmers, without the hassle of preparing bio-inputs, which is one of the most time- and labor-intensive aspects of natural farming.
Esta historia es de la edición AgroSpectrum India May 2024 de AgroSpectrum.
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Esta historia es de la edición AgroSpectrum India May 2024 de AgroSpectrum.
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Role of Future AgriTech-Microbots
India is one of the world's top producers of food, and its agricultural sector generates more than 20 per cent of its total GDP, highlighting the significance of agriculture to the nation's economy, according to McKinsey. However, there is an increasing awareness that the changing farming situation demands a comprehensive approach. While India continues to play an essential role in global food production, adopting this comprehensive view is critical to ensuring the agricultural sector's longterm survival in the face of changing environmental and economic forces.
"Sustainability is not an option; it is the only way forward"
Agrovision Foundation Round Table Discussion
"Precision agriculture and data-driven technologies such as satellite imagery are key to reducing costs and wastage"
The International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), has developed the Agribusiness and Innovation Platform (AIP), for agricultural and agribusiness industries. AIP offers a nurturing and empowering atmosphere through its network of experienced mentors, investors, and stakeholders. In an exclusive interview with AgroSpectrum, Dr Dinesh Kumar Chauhan, the recentlyappointed CEO of ICRISAT's Agribusiness and Innovation Platform, discusses recent advancements in the AIP programme and how it can strengthen the agri-ecosystem. Edited excerpts:
Why Focus on Renewable Energy is Crucial for Indian Agri
The present government at the centre, is diligently plotting a course to reduce future imports of fossil fuels. To get there, the government is implementing many eco-friendly policies across many sectors, including transportation, energy, logistics, and cars. Similarly, this sustainable revolution is also having an impact on agriculture, which is one of India's most important sectors. Rural parts of India are set to benefit from solar pumps and grid-connected power plants thanks to initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM). The world has understood the importance of renewable energy resources and safeguarding the environment at the same time. Let's explore the scope and implementation of renewable energy in the Indian agriculture sector.
Efforts to Dethrone Reigning King of SPICES?
As per the Spices Board of India the domestic spice market alone is valued at an astounding $10 billion, positioning India as the world's largest consumer of spices. With over 200 spices and value-added products exported to approximately 180 countries, India has undeniably risen as a global spice powerhouse, with exports totaling $4 billion. What's at stake here is of monumental value, one is the sheer economic worth of spices exports and second, and undeniably the most important, is the reputation of the country's exports. Let's unravel this latest controversy propped up against one of India's key exports.
Offsetting Extreme Weather Impact with TECH-DRIVEN INSURANCE
India, like many other countries, faces challenges such as weather fluctuations, pest attacks, erratic rainfall, and humidity, affecting agricultural produce. These factors lead to lower yields and income for farmers each year.
Centre directs NCCF and NAFED to procure 5 lakh tonnes of onion
In the current year, the government has directed The National Cooperative Consumers' Federation of India Ltd (NCCF) and National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Ltd (NAFED) to initiate procurement of 5 lakh tonnes (LT) of onion for the buffer requirement directly from the farmers as Rabi-2024 harvest started arriving in the market.
APSEZ to acquire 56% stake in Gopalpur Port Ltd
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FMC India launches innovative precision agriculture platform Arc farm intelligence
FMC India, an agricultural sciences company, has launched its innovative precision agriculture platform Arc farm intelligence in India.
IFFCO inks MoU with ACME to buy 2 LMT of commercial grade ammonia
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