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India's wheat procurement rises 92% to 84 lakh tonnes

India's wheat procurement has surged by 92.3% to 83.58 lakh tonnes (lt) as of April 16, compared to 43.46 lt last year, following an early start on April 1. The government aims to exceed procurement levels from the past four years, driven by concerns over self-sufficiency after a poor yield in 2021-22. Madhya Pradesh leads with 40.08 lt procured, bolstered by a state bonus of Rs 175 per quintal. Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh also reported significant increases, while Punjab's procurement rose to 5.29 lt from 74,144 tonnes last year. The Centre has set a target of 312.7 lt for this year, with expectations of surpassing it due to favorable yield reports. However, farmer leaders have raised concerns over distress sales and restrictions on wheat movement. The Agriculture Ministry anticipates wheat production will exceed 115 million tonnes in the 2024-25 crop year. sources

Published:
Apr 17 2025, 8 pm

Onion growers demand ₹1 lakh per acre for rain damage

An onion growers' association in Maharashtra has called for ₹1 lakh per acre in compensation for farmers affected by severe rainfall last month, which devastated crops across the state, the largest onion producer in India. In a letter to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, the Maharashtra Rajya Kanda Utpadak Sanghatna highlighted the unprecedented rainfall since May 6, which severely impacted districts including Jalgaon, Nashik, and Pune. Many farmers lost their entire Rabi season crop before harvest, while others faced losses from harvested onions that were not stored properly. The association also requested a subsidy of ₹2,000 per quintal for those forced to sell at low prices and urged the government to procure three lakh tonnes of onions at a minimum rate of ₹3,000 per quintal to support farmers. They emphasized the need for an urgent and accurate damage assessment to facilitate immediate compensation. sources

Published:
Jun 01 2025, 9 am

Milk: The Elixir of Prosperity

India's dairy sector has undergone significant transformation, emerging as a global leader and a vital source of livelihood for millions, particularly women, who make up 75% of the 10 crore people engaged in dairy farming. On World Milk Day, the Economic Survey 2024-25 highlights the industry’s revenue surpassing ₹11.16 lakh crore, with ambitions to contribute 30% of global milk production by 2030. Initiatives like Operation Flood, spearheaded by Dr. Verghese Kurien, have empowered farmers through cooperative strategies and technological advancements, enhancing productivity and quality. The National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) continues to champion sustainable practices, integrating renewable energy and waste management. As digital technologies reshape distribution and consumer engagement, the sector is poised for further growth, fostering inclusive development and innovation. This World Milk Day, India celebrates not just milk as a commodity, but as a lifeline connecting rural producers to urban consumers, embodying national pride and resilience. sources

Published:
Jun 01 2025, 9 am

Modernizing Dairy: Harnessing Technology to Meet Demand

As World Milk Day is celebrated on June 1, India reflects on its remarkable transformation from a milk-deficient nation post-independence to the world's largest milk producer, with a production of 239 million tonnes in 2023-24. However, the sector faces challenges due to its fragmented nature, with 60% of milk sourced from small-scale farmers using traditional methods. To meet rising demand, the industry must leverage technology to enhance productivity and efficiency. Innovations like precision feeding and automated milking systems can significantly improve animal health and yield, while digital engagement tools, such as QR-code traceability, foster consumer trust. Despite these advancements, barriers like high costs, lack of skilled labor, and cybersecurity risks persist. Collaboration among stakeholders, including government and cooperatives, is essential to ensure equitable technology adoption and infrastructure development, securing India's position in global dairy production for the future. sources

Published:
Jun 01 2025, 9 am

Goa introduces ride-hailing framework; aggregators support draft policy

The Goa Transport Department has unveiled the draft Transport Aggregator Guidelines 2025, aiming to regulate app-based ride-hailing services in the state, a move that has garnered support from major mobility companies. The proposed framework stipulates that only vehicles registered in Goa or holding valid state permits can operate, addressing local taxi operators' concerns regarding the impact of out-of-state vehicles on their livelihoods. To enhance safety and compliance, all drivers must possess a Public Vehicle Service Badge as per the Goa Motor Vehicles Rules, 1991. Industry stakeholders, including Uber and Rapido, have praised the initiative, highlighting its potential to create structured mobility solutions and generate significant job opportunities. They emphasize the importance of providing diverse transport options for both tourists and locals, while also committing to safety features such as SOS alerts and trip tracking to ensure rider security. sources

Published:
May 31 2025, 9 pm

IATA's AGM Returns to India After 42 Years

IndiGo will host the 81st Annual General Meeting (AGM) and World Air Transport Summit (WATS) of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) in New Delhi from June 1 to 3, marking the event's return to India after 42 years. With approximately 1,700 participants, including industry leaders and government officials, the AGM will highlight India's burgeoning aviation sector, which has seen significant growth and infrastructure development over the past decade. IATA's Director General, Willie Walsh, emphasized the importance of this gathering in showcasing India's role in global aviation, which directly employs nearly 370,000 people and contributes $5.6 billion to GDP. The WATS will address critical industry issues, including financial outlooks and sustainable aviation practices. IndiGo's CEO, Pieter Elbers, expressed pride in hosting the event, underscoring the airline's commitment to advancing India's aviation market and its socio-economic impact. sources

Published:
May 31 2025, 6 pm

Centre urges States to join Krishi Nivesh portal for agri investment

The Indian government has launched the Krishi Nivesh portal, a comprehensive platform aimed at enhancing agribusinesses, attracting investments, and improving farmers' incomes. Announced on May 29, 2024, the portal consolidates various agricultural investment schemes from seven central ministries, including Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, and aims to include additional ministries in the future. State governments are yet to join, but officials are urging them to identify and share relevant schemes for integration. The portal is designed to streamline the investment process, making it more transparent and efficient, allowing users to track applications and submit project proposals digitally. By centralising investment opportunities and information, the Krishi Nivesh portal is expected to modernise agriculture in India, boost private sector investments, and enhance productivity and sustainability in the sector. sources

Published:
May 31 2025, 6 pm

India to establish global aviation hubs, says Minister Naidu

India is set to enhance its civil aviation sector by establishing hub airports nationwide, aiming to create an "independent and self-sufficient" international flight network, according to Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu. In an exclusive interview with _businessline_, Naidu emphasized the necessity of this network to meet the aspirations of a nation that has become the world's fourth-largest economy. He highlighted the upcoming 81st IATA Annual General Meeting and World Air Transport Summit in New Delhi, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi will deliver the keynote address. The minister noted that two major airport projects in Noida and Navi Mumbai are nearing completion, with plans for additional airports and a revamped UDAN scheme to boost connectivity. Despite challenges in global aircraft supply, Naidu expressed optimism about developing local manufacturing for aircraft parts and reducing operational costs through reforms, aiming to make air travel more accessible for all Indians. sources

Published:
May 31 2025, 7 pm

Trump Doubles Steel, Aluminum Tariffs; Exporters Concerned

U.S. President Donald Trump announced plans to double tariffs on imported steel and aluminium to 50%, a move expected to significantly impact global steel markets and Indian exports valued at over $7.5 billion. Speaking at a rally in Pennsylvania, Trump stated that the increased tariffs, effective June 4, aim to bolster the U.S. steel industry. Indian exporters are particularly concerned about the implications for $1 billion worth of consignments already in transit, which will now face higher duties. Trade experts warn that this tariff hike complicates ongoing bilateral trade agreement negotiations between the U.S. and India, potentially affecting engineering exports by around $5 billion. The announcement follows a recent U.S. trade court ruling regarding tariffs, and India has previously filed a complaint with the World Trade Organization, indicating it may retaliate. Other nations, including Australia and Canada, have criticized the tariff increase as detrimental to free trade. sources

Published:
May 31 2025, 6 pm

Strong FY25 GDP growth fueled by consumption and government spending

India's economy demonstrated remarkable resilience in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2025, growing by 7.4%, surpassing expectations and marking the strongest quarterly performance of the year. This growth, attributed to robust domestic consumption, government investment, and a reduced reliance on exports, positions India as the world's fastest-growing major economy, with an overall annual growth rate of 6.5%. Experts, including Manoranjan Sharma from Infomeric Valuations, highlighted the positive impact of increased private capital expenditure, despite concerns over weak manufacturing growth amid global economic challenges. The Reserve Bank of India anticipates a continued growth trajectory of 6.5% for FY26, driven by improved private consumption and steady investment. However, analysts caution that potential global uncertainties and softer urban incomes could pose risks to future growth. Overall, the data reflects a strong domestic demand and recovery in rural markets, bolstering confidence in the Indian economy's adaptability. sources

Published:
May 31 2025, 4 pm

May sees record FPI inflows of ₹19,860 crore

Foreign investment in Indian markets surged to a record high in May 2025, with net foreign portfolio investment (FPI) inflows reaching ₹19,860 crore, marking the best month of the year, according to the National Securities Depository Ltd. (NSDL). During the week of May 26-30, foreign investors maintained their buying trend, resulting in a net inflow of ₹6,024.77 crore, despite a slight outflow on Friday. However, overall FPI for the year remains negative, with net outflows of ₹92,491 crore from January to May. The rebound in May is attributed to a weaker US dollar and a more favorable outlook for the Indian stock market, driven by strong economic fundamentals. Analysts suggest that while geopolitical tensions caused mid-month volatility, renewed optimism among foreign investors could signal a potential turnaround, contingent on stable global conditions. Market participants are now keenly watching upcoming economic data and global monetary policies for further trends. sources

Published:
May 31 2025, 12 pm

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