Agriculture

Apple growers in Kashmir have staged protests following the closure of a key highway, raising concerns over delays in transporting their produce to domestic and international markets. The disruption threatens perishable shipments, potentially leading to economic losses for farmers already grappling with fluctuating prices and rising input costs. Growers are urging authorities to reopen the highway promptly and implement contingency measures to protect their livelihoods.

KRBL Ltd., India’s leading basmati rice exporter, witnessed a sharp decline in its share price after an independent director tendered resignation, citing concerns related to governance and management practices. The development has unsettled investors, raising questions about corporate oversight at the company. Market participants reacted swiftly, with the stock facing selling pressure on heightened uncertainty.

In the aftermath of severe floods across Haryana, farmers have submitted a staggering 1.69 lakh claims for crop and property losses. The state government is accelerating assessment and compensation processes to provide timely relief to affected cultivators. Officials emphasize the importance of swift disbursal to sustain rural livelihoods, stabilize agricultural output, and support the local economy.

India has canceled the registration of nearly 8,000 biostimulant products after manufacturers failed to meet updated regulatory requirements. The sweeping action, taken under revised rules that mandate stricter standards for quality, safety, and labeling, marks one of the largest compliance crackdowns in the agri-input industry. The decision underscores the government’s intent to protect farmers from spurious or unverified formulations while streamlining the market.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)-led Delhi government has formally requested a ₹20,000 crore relief package from the central government to support flood-affected regions in Punjab. The plea comes ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the state, underscoring the urgent need for rehabilitation, infrastructure restoration, and financial aid for displaced communities. The proposed package aims to address immediate relief requirements, repair critical infrastructure, and support agricultural recovery.

Amid recent floods in Punjab, agricultural scientists and farmers are turning to flood-resistant maize varieties to safeguard crop yields and ensure food security. The region, known as India’s agricultural heartland, has witnessed extensive damage to standing crops due to unprecedented waterlogging and monsoon surges. Research institutions are conducting trials of maize strains engineered to withstand prolonged submergence, aiming to provide farmers with resilient alternatives.

In the aftermath of devastating floods, Punjab’s Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government has announced its decision to permit mining in flood-affected agricultural fields to aid recovery efforts. At the same time, senior party leader Manish Sisodia has urged the central government to immediately release Rs. 60,000 crore in relief funds to address the widespread damage to lives, property, and farmland. A visit from the Prime Minister is also anticipated, signaling the national significance of the crisis.

Eldorado Agritech, a prominent player in the agricultural technology sector, has announced plans to launch an initial public offering (IPO) aiming to raise Rs 1,000 crore. The move underscores the company’s ambition to expand its operations, strengthen supply chains, and invest in technology-driven solutions for farmers. Industry analysts anticipate that the IPO will attract significant investor interest, given the increasing focus on agri-tech innovations and the government’s push to modernize agriculture.

The government has announced Goods and Services Tax (GST) reductions on dairy products, farm equipment, and fertilizers, signaling a strategic move to support India’s agricultural sector. The tax cuts are expected to lower input costs for farmers, improve affordability of essential farm machinery, and enhance productivity in the dairy and agriculture value chains. Experts note that the initiative can strengthen rural incomes, stimulate consumption of agricultural products, and drive efficiency in farm operations.

The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has unveiled the BHARATI initiative, aimed at strengthening India’s agri-food export ecosystem. The program focuses on enhancing market access, promoting quality standards, and leveraging technology to streamline exports. Analysts highlight that BHARATI could significantly expand India’s presence in global food markets, increase foreign exchange earnings, and support farmers and food processors through capacity building and digital tools.