Changes in Indian Rice Export Policies
Context: The Indian government has recently made significant changes to its rice export policies. It lifted the ban on exporting Non-Basmati White Rice and established a minimum export price (MEP) of $490 per tonne. Additionally, the government previously removed a 20% export duty on Non-Basmati White Rice and lowered the export duties on three other […]
New Rice Variety Pusa-2090 to Help Reduce Stubble Burning
Context: To address the persistent issue of farm fires in Punjab and Haryana, the government is promoting the adoption of new rice varieties. Pusa-2090 has been identified as a viable alternative to the popular Pusa-44 due to its similar yield potential. Crucially, Pusa-2090 can be harvested in early to mid-October, which is earlier than traditional […]
Recovery in India’s Sugar Sector
Context: India’s sugar industry is showing signs of significant recovery following an extended period of uncertainty. This rebound is crucial for the agriculture sector, impacting numerous stakeholders from farmers to exporters. Relevance: GS III: Agriculture Dimensions of the Article: State of the Sugar Industry in India: Significance of the Sugar Industry in India: Challenges Associated […]
Climate Change Impacts Tea Prices in India
Context: The tea industry in India, particularly in Assam and West Bengal, has experienced a significant price surge of approximately 13% in 2024. This increase is directly attributed to a notable reduction in tea production this year. Analysts and industry experts point to extreme weather events and broader climate change as the primary causes behind […]
Investing in Precision Agriculture
Context: The Indian Government is set to allocate Rs 6,000 crore to advance precision farming, launching the Smart Precision Horticulture Programme under the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH). This strategic move aims to enhance the efficiency and productivity of the horticulture sector by integrating modern farming techniques that optimize resource usage and improve […]
Overview of Jute Cultivation
Context: Recently, jute cultivation and the challenges faced by the sector was highlighted by the Indian Jute Mills Association. Relevance: GS III: Agriculture Dimensions of the Article: Overview of Jute Cultivation Details Harvesting Insights Retting Process Utilization and Economic Impact Regional and Economic Significance Advantages of Jute Fibers Challenges in Jute Production -Source: Indian Express
India’s Transition from Maize Exporter to Importer
Context: India’s recent drive to boost ethanol production using corn has seen the country transition from being one of Asia’s leading maize exporters to becoming a net importer. This pivot is profoundly affecting local industries dependent on corn and is reshaping the global maize supply chain dynamics. Relevance: GS III: Agriculture Dimensions of the Article: […]
De-hyphenating the production of Rice and Wheat
Context: Recently, the policymakers called for de-hyphenating the production of rice and wheat due to changes in their production and consumption. While rice production has experienced a surplus, wheat production has not kept pace with rising demand, leading to a significant shortfall. This shift in agricultural focus aims to address the imbalance and optimize resource […]
India’s Natural Rubber Shortage
Context: India is currently facing a substantial deficit in natural rubber production, which falls short of meeting the demand by about 550,000 tonnes. Relevance: GS III: Agriculture Dimensions of the Article: Fundamental Insights About Rubber Natural and Synthetic Rubber Rubber Production and Consumption in India International Trade Dynamics Growth Conditions for Natural Rubber Shortages and […]
Transformation of India’s Broiler Chicken Industry
Context: India’s broiler chicken industry has undergone a significant transformation, evolving from traditional, small-scale farming to a highly organized and vertically integrated agri-business. This shift has been pivotal in enabling smallholders to participate effectively in commercial poultry farming. As a result, there has been a notable increase in both productivity and profitability within the sector, […]