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, […]
Populism will not let Food Subsidy Reforms Take Off
Context: In the Budget presented by Union Finance Minister on July 23, 2024, the government set the budget estimate (BE) for food subsidy in FY 2024-25 at Rs 205,250 crore, which aligns with the figure provided in the interim Budget. Over the last five years, the Central government’s expenditure on food subsidy has consistently exceeded Rs 200,000 crore […]
Resumption of Tur Dal Imports from Mozambique Following Disruption
Context: India has resumed importing Tur dal (Pigeon pea) from Mozambique following a temporary halt caused by disruptions from an “anti-India” group. Relevance: GS III: Agriculture Dimensions of the Article: Overview of Tur Dal (Pigeon Pea) in India Characteristics of Tur Dal Climatic Requirements for Tur Dal Challenges in Cultivation Production Statistics Current State of […]
About The Saffron Crop
Context: The erratic weather patterns have led many farmers to convert their saffron fields into apple orchards or to grow mustard crops in Kashmir. Relevance: GS III: Agriculture Saffron Crop -Source: The Hindu
Budget Proposals for 2024-25
Context: In her Budget proposals for 2024-25, the Union Finance Minister announced that in the next two years, one crore farmers across the country will be initiated into natural farming, supported by certification and branding. Relevance: GS III: Agriculture Dimensions of the Article: Union Budget 2024-25 Announcements on Natural Farming Key Announcements: What is Natural, […]
Supreme Court Split Verdict on GM Mustard
Context: Recently, the Supreme Court pronounced a split verdict on the validity of the Centre’s 2022 decision granting conditional approval for the environmental release of genetically modified (GM) mustard crops. This decision reflects the ongoing debate and legal challenges surrounding the introduction and regulation of GM crops in India. Relevance: Dimensions of the Article: Supreme […]
Central Government Plans Rs 50,000 Crore Scheme for Agricultural Reforms
Context: The Central Government is contemplating a new scheme with an allocation of Rs 50,000 crore aimed at incentivizing states to implement agricultural reforms. Relevance: GS III: Agriculture Dimensions of the Article: Problems Faced by the Agriculture Sector in India NITI Aayog’s Proposal on Agricultural Reforms Overview Historical Context Reforms Under Consideration Key Areas for […]