Small farmers are the greatest asset to India's food security: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi centre) along with other dignitaries at the inauguration of the 32nd International Conference of Agricultural Economists ICAE) at National Agricultural Science Centre NASC) Complex, in New Delhi on August 3, 2024.

Agri Budgeting Blues

Budgeting blues is a wonderful term to identify what you have and what is necessary to investigate the need. When one deciphers the current Budget specifically for the farm sector blues, there is little Khushi (Happiness) and more Gum (sadness).

Unlocking the Potential of Municipal Solid Waste

The more conventional methods of managing waste, such burning and landfilling, become unsustainable. Landfills, although still in widespread usage, are land-use intensive and provide long-term environmental hazards, such as methane emissions and groundwater contamination. Even while incineration is a good way to reduce trash volume, it is energy-intensive and emits dangerous emissions. Cities are looking for new and creative approaches to manage garbage sustainably as conventional approaches become less practical.

Why Energy Transition Financing is Crucial for India

The whole world is badly hit by the cost of energy, including fuel, due to the ongoing geo-political issues. India’s net oil and gas import bill reportedly stood at 122 billion for 2023-24. The Indian economy is the fastest growing economy and estimated to grow between 6.8 and 7.2 per cent in the coming years. No doubt the need for energy is ever increasing. India’s per capita electricity consumption is at 1200 units as compared to the USA which is 12000 units. Energy is a growth engine for any economy. In such a situation, focusing on Energy Transition is quite crucial, with significantly long term financing for 15-20 years in place.

Navigating Upstream Challenges in Bioenergy Sector

Bharat is at the cusp of a Green Energy Revolution’; and Bioenergy, including Biofuels, is a vital Energy Engine’ to contribute towards the Net Zero 2070 commitment made by India during COP26. Surely, we will get there with collective efforts and partnerships, as we move into COP29 at Azerbaijan this year and beyond and one is sanguine that Bharat will not only lead the 2nd Industrial Revolution but also initiate and lead the Green Energy Revolution’.

Why Ensuring Adequate Biomass Supply is Fraught with Challenges

In recent years, biomass has emerged as a promising source of bioenergy, offering carbon neutral and sustainable energy. Sourcing and procurement of feedstock in India, however, presents unique challenges due to varying agricultural land, infrastructure constraints and economic conditions. Let's take a closer look.

Leveraging Bioenergy to Revitalise Indian Economy

From the early use of fire and animal power that improved lives, to the present world with use of electricity and cleaner sustainable fuels for a multitude of purposes - energy has been the enabler of development.

Can Bioenergy Adoption End Stubble Burning Practise?

Rice is one of the primary agricultural produces in India and a major source of sustenance.

Compressed BioGas: The New Hope for Energy Independence

The global bioenergy landscape is evolving rapidly, with countries around the world recognising its potential to address climate change, enhance energy security, and promote sustainable development. India, with its abundant biomass resources and growing energy demand, is uniquely positioned to lead in the bioenergy sector, particularly in the production and utilisation of Compressed Biogas CBG). Let's delve deep as to how CBG can be a new hope for energy independence for India.

Public-Private Partnership in Bioenergy Sector

Public-Private Partnerships (PPPS) represent a collaborative approach between government entities and private sector companies to achieve goals that neither party could easily achieve alone.

Harnessing Biomass in Achieving.Energy Self-sufficiency

India’s fastest growing economy is fuelled by energy. India’s energy consumption has more than doubled since 2000 and is growing rapidly. Oil and gas account for over 35 per cent of the total energy consumed in the country. Over 87 per cent of oil and around 44 per cent of gas consumed in the country are imported. India is the third largest consumer of oil after the US and China. The successful implementation of National Policy on Biofuel will not only help steadily move towards energy self-reliance but will help boost the rural economy, employment generation, additional income to farmers and create a clean and green environment in the process fulfilling the objectives of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, Make in India and Net Zero initiatives.

IFGE: Way towards sustainable energy

Indian Federation of Green Energy IFGE) registered as a not-for-profit industry organisation under section 8 of companies act on October 9, 2014. IFGE functions through its sectoral forums which include Compressed Gas Producers Forum, Biomass Global Associates Forum, Grain Ethanol Distillers Association, Sugar to Bioenergy Forum, Electric Vehicles Forum, Biodiesel Producers Forum, Sustainable Aviation Fuel Forum, Carbon Capture Storage Forum, Solar Power Industry Forum etc. IFGE has more than 300 members and works for more than 10,000 business units in the Green Energy Sector. IFGE has contributed a lot in the Bioenergy Sector and has played a vital role in policy advocacy.

Carbon Capture Utilisation & Storage: Key to India's Decarbonisation

Carbon Capture Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) has an important and critical role to play in decarbonising the industrial and power sector.

Farmers' New Role: From Food Providers to Energy Providers

Bioenergy is a promise for the better future of India and indeed a win-win situation for our country. It has the potential to address several issues being faced by the country- from income to independence, savings to sustainability and employment to entrepreneurship. It has the potential to increase farmers' income, make the nation self sufficient in fuels with oil import substitutes, save the country's huge funds, provide a sustainable alternative in the energy sector, grow employment prospects and provide entrepreneurship opportunities, particularly in the MSME sector. Let's explore this further.

Role of Future AgriTech-Microbots

India is one of the world's top producers of food, and its agricultural sector generates more than 20 per cent of its total GDP, highlighting the significance of agriculture to the nation's economy, according to McKinsey. However, there is an increasing awareness that the changing farming situation demands a comprehensive approach. While India continues to play an essential role in global food production, adopting this comprehensive view is critical to ensuring the agricultural sector's longterm survival in the face of changing environmental and economic forces.

"Sustainability is not an option; it is the only way forward"

Agrovision Foundation Round Table Discussion

"Precision agriculture and data-driven technologies such as satellite imagery are key to reducing costs and wastage"

The International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), has developed the Agribusiness and Innovation Platform (AIP), for agricultural and agribusiness industries. AIP offers a nurturing and empowering atmosphere through its network of experienced mentors, investors, and stakeholders. In an exclusive interview with AgroSpectrum, Dr Dinesh Kumar Chauhan, the recentlyappointed CEO of ICRISAT's Agribusiness and Innovation Platform, discusses recent advancements in the AIP programme and how it can strengthen the agri-ecosystem. Edited excerpts:

Why Focus on Renewable Energy is Crucial for Indian Agri

The present government at the centre, is diligently plotting a course to reduce future imports of fossil fuels. To get there, the government is implementing many eco-friendly policies across many sectors, including transportation, energy, logistics, and cars. Similarly, this sustainable revolution is also having an impact on agriculture, which is one of India's most important sectors. Rural parts of India are set to benefit from solar pumps and grid-connected power plants thanks to initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM). The world has understood the importance of renewable energy resources and safeguarding the environment at the same time. Let's explore the scope and implementation of renewable energy in the Indian agriculture sector.

Efforts to Dethrone Reigning King of SPICES?

As per the Spices Board of India the domestic spice market alone is valued at an astounding $10 billion, positioning India as the world's largest consumer of spices. With over 200 spices and value-added products exported to approximately 180 countries, India has undeniably risen as a global spice powerhouse, with exports totaling $4 billion. What's at stake here is of monumental value, one is the sheer economic worth of spices exports and second, and undeniably the most important, is the reputation of the country's exports. Let's unravel this latest controversy propped up against one of India's key exports.

Offsetting Extreme Weather Impact with TECH-DRIVEN INSURANCE

India, like many other countries, faces challenges such as weather fluctuations, pest attacks, erratic rainfall, and humidity, affecting agricultural produce. These factors lead to lower yields and income for farmers each year.

Centre directs NCCF and NAFED to procure 5 lakh tonnes of onion

In the current year, the government has directed The National Cooperative Consumers' Federation of India Ltd (NCCF) and National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Ltd (NAFED) to initiate procurement of 5 lakh tonnes (LT) of onion for the buffer requirement directly from the farmers as Rabi-2024 harvest started arriving in the market.

APSEZ to acquire 56% stake in Gopalpur Port Ltd

Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ), India’s largest ports and logistics company, has entered into a definitive agreement to purchase 56 per cent stake of the SP Group and 39 per cent of Orissa Stevedores Limited (OSL) in Gopalpur Port Limited (GPL).

FMC India launches innovative precision agriculture platform Arc farm intelligence

FMC India, an agricultural sciences company, has launched its innovative precision agriculture platform Arc farm intelligence in India.

IFFCO inks MoU with ACME to buy 2 LMT of commercial grade ammonia

Cooperative fertiliser major IFFCO has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with renewable energy company ACME for supply of commercial-grade ammonia.

Argus launches first low and zero-carbon nitrogen fertiliser assessments

Global energy and commodity price reporting service Argus launched the world’s first assessments for low and zero-carbon calcium ammonium nitrate (CAN), an important nitrogen-based fertiliser used extensively in Europe.

CNH adds Multi-Vehicle Simulator to India Technology Center

CNH, a global leader in agricultural and construction solutions, announced the addition of a cutting-edge Multi-Vehicle Simulator (MVS) at the company’s India Technology Center (ITC).

IIM Lucknow study reveals Agtech platforms' role in digitising Indian agriculture'

Indian Institute of Management Lucknow’s research underscores the importance of digitising India’s farming and agricultural sectors and its potential to revolutionise the entire industry.

ICRISAT study unveils decentralised Biochar production system for farmlevel sustainability

A recent study by the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) scientists explores the design of an affordable, farm-level operable kiln for biochar production aimed at supporting smallholder farmers.

Australia to develop a National Statement on First Nations in Agriculture

All Australian agriculture ministers have agreed to develop a National Statement on First Nations in Agriculture.

ICAR-DCFR patents a diagnostic solution that rapidly detects deadly fish pathogen L. garvieae

In a significant stride towards combating the devastating impact of Lactococcus garvieae, ICAR- Directorate of Coldwater Fisheries Research (DCFR), Bhimtal clinched its patent for a pioneering diagnostic solution.