India faces its weakest monsoon in 11 years. Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has instructed states to prepare contingency plans for districts likely to experience low or uneven rainfall this kharif season. The government is focusing on water conservation and alternative cropping patterns. Efforts are also underway to boost cotton production through scientific farming.
Finmin to engage with states over looming El Nino fallout
The Finance Ministry will soon meet with states and central ministries to assess the economic and fiscal impact of El Nino. This review will focus on potential stress on agriculture, food inflation, and increased subsidy outgo. The government is preparing relief packages for vulnerable districts. This proactive approach aims to ensure adequate supplies and mitigate inflation spikes.
India's rice stocks climb to record high; wheat inventories at five-year peak
India's government warehouses hold record rice stocks, up 15% from last year. Wheat inventories are at a five-year peak. These abundant reserves will support increased rice exports. Higher wheat stocks will help manage prices by allowing open market sales. Record production in the last crop year fueled these impressive inventories. India is well-positioned for both exports and domestic price stability.
Maharashtra advises farmers to delay sowing as monsoon rains fall short
Maharashtra is experiencing a significant rainfall deficit in early June. The state has received only 26 percent of its normal rainfall. This has led the government to advise farmers against rushing with sowing operations. Preparatory agricultural activities are ongoing. Improved rainfall is anticipated from June 18 onwards in some regions. A heatwave is also expected in Vidarbha.
Tamil Nadu government revises cooperative crop loan waiver up to 75,000; expands to all farmers
Under the revised announcement, a total of 8,33,773 marginal farmers, 5,16,183 small farmers and 93,548 large farmers will receive waivers amounting to 3,599.67 crore, 1,995.42 crore and 337.15 crore, respectively.
Hormuz may reopen, but fertiliser relief is still months away for India
Fertiliser supplies and prices will take months to return to normal. Natural gas and petroleum derivative supplies need to resume. Ammonia prices may stabilize soon. Sulphur prices could remain high longer. Disruptions to shipping lanes have impacted imports. Restarting plants and clearing stranded cargo will take time. India has enough urea for the kharif season but faces DAP pressure.
India is securing vital fertilizer supplies for the ongoing Kharif season. The government is finalizing imports of 17 lakh tonnes of urea to bolster domestic stock. Overall fertilizer availability is comfortable, with current stocks significantly exceeding usual levels. Farmers have already purchased a substantial portion of their needs.
Indias fertiliser subsidy regime is facing scrutiny; rising global fertiliser and energy prices and rising fiscal pressures expose its inefficiencies, says Ashok Gulati.
Adequate fertiliser stocks available, Govt ready to tackle El Nino impact: Shivraj Singh Chouhan
Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan confirmed ample fertilizer stocks for farmers. He assured continued availability of urea and di-ammonium phosphate at subsidized rates. The government is prepared for the potential impact of El Nino. India is also promoting organic farming for sustainability. Discussions at the BRICS agriculture meeting covered balanced fertilizer use.
Rohit Pawar's indefinite fast to seek removal of conditions from farm loan waiver continues on Day 2
Under the waiver component, farmers whose total outstanding short-term crop loans, including principal and interest, are up to 2 lakh will be eligible for a complete debt relief
India has achieved self-sufficiency in food production: CTCRI director
India is now a global leader in agriculture, achieving food self-sufficiency. Foodgrain production has significantly increased, and agri exports are soaring. India is the world's largest rice exporter. The agricultural sector shows resilience and growth. Government focus and technological advancements are key drivers for meeting future food demands.
Farm credit demand likely to stay strong in FY27 on higher input costs, agri investments: NABARD
Agricultural and rural credit demand is projected to remain strong through 2026-27, driven by rising input costs, expanded Kisan Credit Card coverage, and increased investments in allied activities and infrastructure. NABARD Deputy Managing Director Ajay Kumar Sood noted a significant shift towards long-term investment credit, though higher borrowing costs pose a challenge for farmers and rural MSMEs.
The human cost of a deadly weed killer: banning of paraqua in Telangana
In March, Telangana banned paraquat, one of the worlds most widely used and highly toxic weedicides, becoming only the third State in India to do so. The herbicide is responsible for hundreds of deaths each year, most of them by taking their own lives, and some accidental.Serish Nanisettireports on the campaign that led to the ban and why much more remains to be done
Weak monsoon may drag agri GDP into contraction
Indian agriculture is at a crossroads, facing significant hurdles in the coming years. Analysts project little to no growth for agricultural GDP in 2026-27, compounded by El Nino fears pushing farmers to adopt less water-reliant crops. While this could alleviate water scarcity, it risks diminishing farm income and curtailing rural consumer activity.
Govt hikes onion procurement rate to Rs 16.5 per kg from Saturday to help farmers
The government has increased the onion procurement price to Rs 16.50 per kg. This move aims to boost farmers' income through the buffer stock programme. Farmers in Maharashtra are seeking a higher rate of Rs 30 per kg. The government has set a procurement target of 2 lakh tonnes for the year.
Global rice production was 713 million tonnes per year during 2006-2015, saw growth: Study
Global rice production saw significant growth from the 1960s to the 2010s. This increase was primarily due to management decisions such as expanded irrigation and increased nutrient inputs. These strategies helped offset losses from climate change. China, India, and Thailand are the top producers. Future food security will depend on adapting rice production systems to changing conditions.
India's agriculture and water tech startups gain momentum, sustainability in focus: Nasscom
India's agri and water tech deeptech ecosystem is gaining momentum around commercialization as per a statement by Nasscom. These sectors stand at a crucial stage with many startups continuously facing challenges for moving towards scaled deployment. To strengthen these industries, Agri and Water Tech in New Delhi on Friday.
What's ailing India's fertiliser subsidy and ethanol policy? Ashok Gulati explains
BRICS agriculture ministers begin deliberations in Indore on food security, small farmers' welfare
BRICS agriculture ministers are meeting in Indore. India is chairing the two-day event. Key discussions focus on food security. The welfare of smallholder farmers is a priority. Greater participation of women and youth in agriculture is also on the agenda. The meeting aims to strengthen agricultural cooperation among member nations. An Indore Declaration is expected.
T.N. CM Vijay announces Kuruvai Special Package for paddy cultivation at a cost of 134.83 crore
Due to the delay in Southwest monsoon, the Mettur dam was not opened on the customary date of June 12; a release stated the CM has announced the Kuruvai Special Package to protect farmers livelihoods and encourage paddy cultivation
Gearing up for El Nino: NCCF puts tenders to sell Tur Dal on hold
The central government has paused tenders for selling tur pulses. This decision follows a request from the All India Dal Millers Association. They want the government to wait for two months. This waiting period will allow for clarity on rainfall and sowing. The industry fears low production due to El Nino.
South Asia can generate millions of jobs through agriculture sector: World Bank Group
With agriculture sector employing around 43 per cent of the South Asian workforce, the region has strong potential to emerge as a global leader in food systems, said World Bank Group, as per a statement by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries.
El Nio clouds loom over kharif crops, farm pay
A developing El Nio event thousands of miles away poses a significant threat to India's agriculture. This weather phenomenon is linked to weaker monsoon rains and higher temperatures. Experts predict a potential decline in kharif crop production, impacting oilseeds and pulses. This could lead to rising inflation and reduced earnings for farmers across the country.
Science at scale: Indias journey from food security to global leadership
Driven by farmer hard work, scientific innovation, and visionary leadership, the nation has seen unprecedented investment and landmark reforms, strengthening farmers' welfare and competitiveness, says Shivraj Singh Chouhan.
Union Agriculture Minister says BRICS meeting in Indore to focus on food security, farmer welfare
The discussions under Indias presidency will include a three-day agriculture working group meeting from June 9 and a two-day BRICS ministerial meeting from June 12
FTA talks with EAEU likely to take up agri, marine goods
India will discuss easing export compliance for marine goods, agricultural items, and processed foods with the Eurasian Economic Union. Talks will focus on sanitary and phytosanitary rules and technical barriers to trade. These measures act as non-tariff barriers. Indian trade negotiators will visit Moscow for the second round of talks. The terms of reference were signed last year.
Cooperatives key to Indias agricultural growth: NAAS
Agricultural cooperatives offer vital solutions for small farmers facing market access and cost challenges, says a research paper.
West Asia crisis: Why India needs a fertiliser security strategy
Indias fertiliser security is deeply tied to global supply chains. The country imports 60% of its DAP requirement, remains fully dependent on imported potash, and even domestic urea production relies heavily on imported liquefied natural gas.
RBI monetary policy meeting: India's monsoon season is critical for farms and prices. A weak monsoon could impact crop yields and raise food costs. The Reserve Bank of India is watching weather closely. Inflation has already risen slightly. Experts warn of price pressures from rain, energy, and currency. Monsoon outcomes will shape India's economic path.
BRICS and the new geography of agri-trade
Indias BRICS chairship in 2026 comes as agricultural trade faces new challenges beyond tariffs, including climate shocks, food-price volatility, fertiliser supply disruptions, sustainability requirements and digital traceability standards. With BRICS now accounting for nearly half the worlds population, around 40% of global GDP and $1.17 trillion in intra-group trade, agriculture has become a strategic area for cooperation.
Guwahati Tea Auction Centre sets new benchmark for quality tea prices
Guwahati Tea Auction Centre achieved record prices for quality tea. Deckiajuli Tea Estate sold premium CTC leaf at Rs 1,103 per kg. Sotai Tea Estate tea also reached a new high of Rs 889 per kg. Over 65,000 kg of tea sold above Rs 400 per kg. The Assam Government offers subsidies for orthodox tea.
Assam, Meghalaya farmers resume farming in disputed border area after weeks of conflict
The Tapat-Lapangap area is one of six inter-State border sectors where a 54-year-old territorial dispute remains to be resolved
Chana prices climb over 9% in a month
Chana prices are rising despite a strong harvest and large buffer stocks. Government procurement is a key driver, absorbing a significant portion of the chana from the market. Lower imports of chana and yellow peas also contribute to the price increase. Traders anticipate prices will remain firm.
Chana prices climb over 9% in a month
Chana prices are rising despite a strong harvest and large buffer stocks. Government procurement is a key driver, absorbing a significant portion of the chana from the market. Lower imports of chana and yellow peas also contribute to the price increase. Traders anticipate prices will remain firm.
States asked to focus on sowing pulses, oilseeds
India's government is urging states to focus on pulses and oilseeds for the upcoming kharif sowing season. This directive comes amid predictions of below-normal monsoon rains and potential disruptions in fertilizer supplies. The aim is to boost domestic production and reduce reliance on imports. Efforts are underway to improve seed availability and farming techniques for these crucial crops.
States asked to focus on sowing pulses, oilseeds
India's government is urging states to focus on pulses and oilseeds for the upcoming kharif sowing season. This directive comes amid predictions of below-normal monsoon rains and potential disruptions in fertilizer supplies. The aim is to boost domestic production and reduce reliance on imports. Efforts are underway to improve seed availability and farming techniques for these crucial crops.
Onion farmers stage protest for third time, demand MSP of 3000
Farmers wore onion garlands and blocked the highway in the Ambegaon taluka of the Pune district. They demanded a guaranteed price of 3,000 per quintal and compensation for farmers who sold their produce at a lower rate.
Indian refiners shift to soyoil in May as palm oil loses price advantage
India's edible oil imports increased in May, driven by a surge in soyoil purchases. Palm oil imports saw a slight rise but remained below average. Refiners favored soyoil as its price advantage over palm oil narrowed. Cooking gas shortages also impacted palm oil demand from bulk consumers. Overall edible oil imports reached 1.3 million tons.
Open MSP procurement, storage to private sector: StarAgri CEO
StarAgri CEO Amith Agarwal advocates a bigger private-sector role in MSP procurement and storage to boost efficiency, warehousing capacity, and agri supply chains.
Cotton prices down 3% on import duty suspension, may slide more
India has suspended its 11% import duty on cotton until October. This move has immediately reversed the recent rally in cotton prices, with both bales and yarn seeing a drop. Industry insiders expect further price decreases in the coming days. This decision aims to ease prices, prevent hoarding, and boost the competitiveness of Indian textile exports.
India trims fertiliser demand for kharif season as weak monsoon outlook triggers reassessment
In anticipation of the upcoming sowing season, India is making strategic changes by reducing its fertilizer requirements due to forecasts of insufficient monsoon rainfall. This adjustment means lower demand for urea and DAP, while farmers are encouraged to minimize their reliance on chemical fertilizers, promoting better soil health.
Government raises onion buffer stock purchase price 24% to Rs 15.80/kg
The government has set a higher onion procurement price at Rs 15.80 per kg, a step designed to uplift farmers and regulate market rates effectively. Concurrently, the buffer stock of pulses has hit an impressive 43 lakh tonnes, stemming from robust local production that minimizes the need for foreign imports.
CM Revanth Reddy for crop diversification, as below normal rainfall is forecast
Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy has directed officials to educate farmers on the impacts of El Nio and the usage of less water-intensive crops, as below normal rainfall is forecast for monsoon
Weather swings, monsoon risks, and the growing threat to mango, apple crops
The agriculture industry has evolved historically through adaptation and resilience, and now it is time to speed up this transformation, empowering Indian fruit growers to be more enterprising to produce quality horticultural crops against mounting climatic aberrations.
Beyond rice, wheat: Why India must revive native orphan crops for protein security
India can boost nutrition security, cut import dependence, and build a global smart protein industry by scaling climate-resilient indigenous crops, say experts.
Onion farmers seek 10,000 crore revival package, stable export policy from Centre
Bharat Dighole, founder-president of the Maharashtra State Onion Growers Farmers Association, said that farmers have suffered huge losses over the years due to what he termed flawed export policies, spurious seeds, storage losses and other factors
Telangana procured 60 LMT paddy so far, 60% of Indias total procurement: Uttam
Telangana Civil Supplies Minister says while rice production in Telangana is growing, the quantity of rice being accepted by the Centre through FCI is being reduced
India becomes world's largest rice producer
Rice production is estimated at a record 154.02 mt in the 2025-26 crop year, up from 150.18 mt a year earlier, according to the third advance estimates released by the agriculture ministry.
Agriculture Secretary Atish Chandra also said crop diversification, agricultural self-reliance, and sustainability have become the govt's core priorities, urging States to align their plans accordingly
Too hot to handle: Heatwave in North India slows textile, rice supply chains
Northern India's blistering heatwaves are wreaking havoc on vital industries, significantly hampering the trade of Basmati rice and textile production in the Delhi-NCR region. Workers face unbearable temperatures, resulting in increased absenteeism and interruptions in manufacturing processes. Additionally, erratic power supply complicates timely export shipments.
Foodgrain output seen rising 5% to 376.5 MT
Union agriculture minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan termed it the highest-ever foodgrain output in the country's history.
Can ethanol save sugar sector? ET Conversation with DG ISMA
Wheat output likely to rise by 2.29% to 120.65 mn tons for 2025-26
India's wheat output is set for a significant increase. Production is projected to reach 120.65 million tonnes in the 2025-26 crop year. This rise is expected despite some localized damage from unseasonal weather. Overall foodgrain production is also forecast to grow. The agriculture ministry confirms stable and resilient wheat production.
Bayer CropScience Q4 net profit rises 13% on higher revenues
Bayer CropScience's profit surged 13% in the March quarter and 21% for the full fiscal year.
AIADMK, BJP criticise Tamil Nadu government over crop loan waiver announcement
Mr. Palaniswami said the TVK, in its election manifesto, assured to completely waive off loans of farmers who held up to 5 acre of land. But now, instead of using land as the criterion, the government has considered money as the yardstick.
India's prized Alphonso mango crop ruined by weather
A sharp difference in day and nighttime temperatures in December and January hurt flowering and fruit setting, while hotter than usual weather in April and May, probably due to the El Nino weather phenomenon, then spoiled the fruits themselves, an official said.
