Does The Centre has Control over Subsidies?
Context: The government’s anticipated total expenditure on the three major subsidies – fertilizer, food, and cooking gas – in the current financial year is likely to be around Rs 400,000 crore, compared to the Rs 549,000 crore spent in the previous fiscal year (FY 2022-23). While it might seem that the government has made significant […]
Sponge Farming: A Sustainable Business Venture
Context: Warming oceans forced women in Zanzibar to switch from seaweed to climate-resilient sponge farming to stay afloat. Relevance: GS III: Agriculture Sponge Farming: A Sustainable Business Venture Introduction Physiological Features Global Presence Unique Characteristics Reproduction and Regeneration Commercial Applications -Source: Down to Earth
Study on Liquid Nano Urea Efficacy
Context: A two-year field experiment conducted by Punjab Agricultural University reveals a significant decrease in rice and wheat yields with Liquid Nano Urea compared to conventional nitrogen fertilizers. The findings underscore the importance of extended, long-term field evaluations spanning 5-7 years to determine nano urea’s equivalence to conventional urea and its sustainability in maintaining crop […]
A Nationwide Horticulture Boost in India
Context: The cultivation of litchi, traditionally confined to Muzaffarpur, Bihar, has experienced substantial growth, extending to 19 Indian states. This notable expansion is attributed to the initiatives of the National Research Centre on Litchi (NRCL) based in Muzaffarpur, Bihar, showcasing a positive trend in horticulture across the country. Relevance: GS III: Agriculture Dimensions of the […]
Pesticide Poisoning Crisis in Maharashtra
Context: In Maharashtra, particularly Yavatmal district, the prevalence of pesticide poisoning has led to the death of 20 farmers since 2017. The crisis has resulted in various health issues, including respiratory problems, skin rashes, neurological disorders, and reproductive issues, posing a severe threat to the well-being of farmers and farmworkers. Relevance: GS III: Agriculture Dimensions […]
About The Late Blight Disease
Context: Recently, experts from Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) had cautioned farmers against the late blight disease attack on potato crop. Relevance: GS III: Agriculture Late Blight Disease: Understanding the Fungal Menace Prevalence: Symptoms: Spread Mechanisms: Control Measures: -Source: Indian Express
Staggering Hidden Costs of Global Agrifood Systems Exceed $10 Trillion
Context A recent report by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) reveals the astonishing hidden costs of global agrifood systems, surpassing $10 trillion. In countries like India, these costs account for nearly 11% of GDP, leading to increased poverty, environmental damage, and health-related issues, including undernourishment and unhealthy diets. The report attributes these […]
India’s Approach to Compressed Biogas (CBG) Production
Context: India is exploring the potential of Pressmud, a residual byproduct of sugar production, as a valuable resource for generating green energy. The focus is on creating Compressed Biogas (CBG) from Pressmud, aligning with sustainable energy practices and contributing to India’s efforts in renewable energy production. Relevance: GS III: Agriculture Dimensions of the Article: Understanding […]
About The International Sugar Organisation
Context: The recent announcement at the 63rd council meeting of the International Sugar Organisation (ISO), headquartered in London, heralded a significant moment for India. India is set to chair the organization in 2024, marking a pivotal milestone in its global stature within the sugar industry. Relevance: GS III: Agriculture Dimensions of the Article: International Sugar Organization (ISO): Status of […]
Gujarat gets a State Fish
Context: The black-spotted croaker, or the Ghol fish — considered a fisherman’s lottery — was declared the state fish of Gujarat. Relevance: GS III: Agriculture Dimensions of the Article: Ghol Fish: Nutrient-Rich Profile: Characteristics: Distribution: Unique Feature – ‘Sea Gold’: Benefits: Diverse Applications: Ghol’s Designation in Gujarat: Economic Value and Conservation Significance Reasons for Selection: Commercial Importance: […]