Organic Grains and Pulses Transforming Indian Traditional Agriculture

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Organic Grains and Pulses Transforming Indian Traditional Agriculture

In a significant shift from the Green Revolution's focus on high-yield hybrids and synthetic fertilizers, Indian households are increasingly embracing organic grains and pulses, marking a new agricultural revolution rooted in health and sustainability. This movement seeks to revive heritage crops like Khapli wheat and various millets, which offer superior nutritional benefits compared to conventional produce. As consumers demand transparency in food production, organic farmers are emerging as vital contributors to public health, linking soil health to human well-being. The transition to organic farming not only addresses environmental challenges by restoring soil microbiomes and promoting drought-resistant crops but also empowers farmers economically by reducing reliance on costly chemicals. Additionally, traditional processing methods are being revived, enhancing the nutritional value of food. This holistic transformation reflects a broader cultural shift in India, prioritizing nourishment over mere sustenance and fostering a sustainable agricultural system that benefits both people and the planet.

Published:
Feb 21 2026, 9 am

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NHAI to end cash payments at toll plazas from April 1

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) plans to eliminate cash transactions at National Highway fee plazas by April 1, 2026, transitioning to a fully digital tolling system. This initiative aims to enhance the efficiency of electronic toll collection, primarily through FASTag and Unified Payments Interface (UPI), which have already seen significant adoption, with FASTag penetration exceeding 98%. The shift is expected to improve traffic flow, reduce congestion, and ensure greater transparency in toll transactions. Currently, vehicles without a valid FASTag face double charges for cash payments, while UPI users incur a 1.25 times fee. NHAI's move is designed to address issues related to cash payments, such as longer wait times and disputes, and aligns with its goal of creating a technology-driven National Highway network that offers seamless services to users across more than 1,150 fee plazas nationwide.

Published:
Feb 21 2026, 10 am

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RBI may extend policy rate pause, says ICICI Bank report

In a recent update from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), the monetary policy committee unanimously decided to maintain the policy repo rate at 5.25%, reflecting a neutral stance amid a more optimistic growth outlook. According to ICICI Bank Global Markets, the likelihood of rate hikes remains low due to stable core inflation and recent trade agreements with the US and EU, which have led to a 20 basis point upward revision in growth forecasts for the first half of 2026-27. While inflation projections have been adjusted upwards due to rising precious metal prices, the overall inflation outlook remains benign. The RBI's focus will shift towards ensuring effective monetary transmission, especially as bond yields and deposit rates have recently increased, influenced by higher oil prices. The committee's approach suggests a prolonged pause on rate cuts, with an emphasis on maintaining liquidity in the market.

Published:
Feb 21 2026, 9 am

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"Integrating Food Value: From Farm to Global Markets"

Despite the growing global interest in Indian cuisine, its international expansion has been hampered not by a lack of appeal, but by unpredictability in taste and quality. For many in the Indian diaspora, food evokes cherished memories, yet traditional manufacturing methods have struggled to meet the consistency required for global markets. Variability in raw materials and production processes has led to inconsistent flavors, undermining the cuisine's potential. To address this, a focus on integrating farmers into the supply chain and establishing standardized agricultural practices is essential. Additionally, modernizing manufacturing disciplines through technology and rigorous quality checks can help preserve authenticity while ensuring uniformity. Investments in infrastructure, such as temperature-controlled logistics and compliance-driven quality frameworks, are crucial for maintaining product integrity across borders. As Indian cuisine seeks to solidify its global presence, the emphasis must shift from nostalgia to building robust systems that ensure reliability and sustainability.

Published:
Feb 21 2026, 9 am

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Trump: Trade deal with India remains unchanged after SC ruling

In a press briefing at the White House, U.S. President Donald Trump addressed the Supreme Court's recent ruling that he had overstepped his authority with sweeping tariffs. Despite the setback, Trump reaffirmed that the trade deal with India remains intact, stating, "The India deal is on." He praised his relationship with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and claimed that his tariffs played a crucial role in de-escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, asserting that he "stopped the war" and saved "35 million lives." Trump highlighted a new framework for an Interim Agreement on trade with India, which includes a reduction of tariffs from 25% to 18% on Indian imports. He emphasized that while India will continue to pay tariffs, the U.S. will not, marking a significant shift in trade dynamics. Trump criticized the Supreme Court's decision but maintained that his administration's approach to tariffs has been effective in promoting national security and peace.

Published:
Feb 21 2026, 7 am

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Amarak Chemicals opens 60,000-ton sulphur plant in Dubai

Amarak Chemicals FZC, part of the Aries Group of Companies, has launched a fully automated sulphur manufacturing facility in Dubai's Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza), with a production capacity of 60,000 tonnes per annum. The facility, inaugurated by BG Krishnan, Consul (Economic, Trade and Commerce) at the Indian Consulate in Dubai, will produce sulphur bentonite and other sulphur-related products for international markets. Registered under the India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), the facility enables duty-free exports to India while serving various global markets. Rahul Mirchandani, Group Chairman, emphasized the investment's role in enhancing manufacturing capabilities in agricultural inputs and fostering India-UAE industrial collaboration. The facility is expected to reduce logistics costs and improve market access, contributing to the agribusiness sector and supporting regional farmers by ensuring a steady supply of essential agricultural inputs, according to Abdulla Al Hashmi, COO at DP World GCC.