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: […]
Genetic Factors in Silk Production
Context: Researchers have unveiled the genetic factors influencing cocoon colors and adaptations in silk-producing insects, shedding light on the intricate mechanisms that have revolutionized the silk industry. Renowned as the “queen of fibers,” silk’s beauty and luxury have been cherished for centuries, and understanding the underlying genetics offers insights into the remarkable diversity and characteristics […]
Agricultural Trade Trends April-September 2023
Context: Recent data from the Department of Commerce reveals a decline in India’s agricultural exports, registering USD 23.6 billion in April-September 2023, down from USD 26.7 billion in the same period in 2022. Concurrently, agricultural imports also decreased from USD 19.3 billion to USD 16.2 billion, leading to a slight reduction in the agricultural trade […]
Krishi 24/7 – The AI-Powered Agricultural News Monitoring Solution
Context: Recently, the Union Agriculture Ministry, in collaboration with the Wadhwani Institute for Artificial Intelligence (Wadhwani AI), developed Krishi 24/7. Relevance: GS III: Agriculture Krishi 24/7 – The AI-Powered Agricultural News Monitoring Solution:
OECD Agricultural Policy Monitoring and Evaluation 2023
Context: The latest report titled Agricultural Policy Monitoring and Evaluation 2023 by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has shed light on the implicit taxation of Indian farmers in 2022. Relevance: GS III: Agriculture Dimensions of the Article: Key Highlights of the Report: Market Price Support (MPS): Negative MPS in India: Impact of Export Policies in India: […]
About Nutrient-Based Subsidy Regime
Context: Recently, the union cabinet has approved Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) rates for the various nutrients of Rabi and Kharif Season for 2022-23. Relevance: GS-III: Agriculture Dimensions of the Article: About Nutrient-Based Subsidy Regime Issues Related to NBS
Pulses to Buck Rise in Kharif Output
Context: Initial independent crop estimates suggest that the production of pulses, certain coarse cereals, and groundnuts is likely to reach a three-year low. However, there is optimism for the overall output to increase by 1.5% to 4% in this season, primarily driven by higher yields of rice and cereals. Despite this, retail inflation in pulses […]