by Team Agrisnip | May 28, 2025 | Agri News, Food, Import / Export
Bengaluru, June 9, 2025
Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan today unveiled an ambitious vision for India’s agricultural future, announcing the Centre’s resolute goal to transform the nation into the “food basket of the world.” Addressing a gathering of farmers at the ICAR-IIHR campus in Hessarghatta, on the outskirts of Bengaluru, as part of the ongoing Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan, Minister Chouhan emphasized that India’s agricultural aspirations now extend far beyond merely feeding its own 145 crore citizens.
To achieve this monumental objective, the Union Government plans to forge strong collaborations with State Governments, agricultural universities, Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), farmers, and scientists. This collective effort will culminate in a comprehensive roadmap designed to bolster agricultural productivity, innovation, and global competitiveness. The Minister highlighted that the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan initiative is intrinsically aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s overarching vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (developed India) by the year 2047, underscoring the campaign’s core motto of ensuring holistic development of the agriculture sector nationwide.
A cornerstone of this strategy is the recently launched ‘Lab to Land’ initiative, a massive outreach program involving over 16,000 scientists. These experts are actively engaging with farmers across the country, providing crucial scientific knowledge, best practices, and direct support. Minister Chouhan shared impressive statistics, revealing that in just the last ten days, 1,896 teams have interacted with approximately 9 lakh farmers across 8,188 villages. In Karnataka alone, more than 70 interdisciplinary teams, comprising scientists and officials from agriculture and allied departments, are visiting farms daily. These teams are diligently recording direct feedback from farmers, which will be instrumental in shaping need-based, problem-oriented agricultural research programs. So far, 639 such teams have visited 2,495 villages in Karnataka, reaching out to 2,77,264 farmers.
Minister Chouhan articulated that the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan envisions a unified approach encapsulated by the motto ‘One Nation, One Agriculture, One Team’. To ensure farmers receive fair prices for their hard-earned produce, the Centre has pledged to bear the transportation costs of agricultural produce under the Market Intervention Scheme (MIS). The event also served as a platform to honor excellence in agriculture, with Minister Chouhan felicitating seven outstanding farmers from Karnataka: Ratnamma, Gopal Gowda, Padmini Gowda, H.K. Raghu, Mangalamma, Mahesh H.N., and Sreenivas, acknowledging their significant contributions to the state’s agricultural landscape.
by Team Agrisnip | May 28, 2025 | Agri News, Global Agri
New Delhi, June 9, 2025
Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan today affirmed India’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the interests of its farmers amidst ongoing trade negotiations with the United States. Speaking on the sensitive issue of agricultural market access, Minister Chouhan stated unequivocally that any potential bilateral trade agreement would be finalized only after a meticulous assessment of its gains and losses, with farmer protection as the paramount consideration.
The Minister’s remarks come as negotiators from both nations work towards establishing the framework for the first phase of a bilateral deal, anticipated to be signed by September-October 2025. The United States has been actively pushing for greater market access for its agricultural and horticultural products, including key commodities like corn, soybeans, and animal feed. However, these efforts face significant hurdles due to India’s comparatively high agricultural tariffs, which can range from 39% to 50% on average.
Minister Chouhan underscored that while discussions with the US are ongoing, the fundamental principle guiding India’s stance remains clear: “One thing is clear, we will protect the interest of our farmers. When we talk about two nations, we need to see the overall trade.” This pragmatic approach acknowledges the broader economic relationship while prioritizing the livelihoods of India’s vast rural populace.
According to a report from NITI Aayog, “Promoting India-US Agricultural Trade under the new US Trade Regime,” the agricultural trade balance currently favors India. In the triennium ending 2024, US agricultural and allied product exports to India stood at approximately $2.22 billion, while India’s agricultural exports to the US were significantly higher, at $5.75 billion. India’s main agricultural exports to the US include valuable commodities such as frozen shrimp, basmati rice, spices, and processed cereals.
India’s cautious approach to fully opening its agriculture and dairy markets stems from legitimate concerns about potential backlash from rural communities and the imperative to shield domestic producers from the volatility of global prices. The government aims to strike a balance that fosters international trade while ensuring the stability and prosperity of its agricultural sector, which remains the backbone of its economy and a crucial source of employment.
by Team Agrisnip | May 28, 2025 | Agri News, Farming
Bengaluru, June 9, 2025
Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, today lauded the agricultural practices employed by farmers in Karnataka, unequivocally declaring them the “best in the country.” Speaking at the launch of the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan (VKSA) at the ICAR-IIHR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Minister Chouhan expressed his admiration, stating, “Farms in Karnataka are the best in the country. The techniques used by farmers here are so well-thought-out and modern, they leave me awestruck.”
The event, which marked a significant step in the VKSA’s rollout, attracted over 500 farmers from various parts of Karnataka, eager to learn about advancements in agricultural science and technology. The program commenced with insightful site visits around the ICAR-IIHR campus farms, where participants had the opportunity to observe various biologically modified flora developed by the institute’s dedicated scientists. This hands-on experience was followed by a comprehensive briefing on the fundamental principles and objectives of the VKSA development program.
The Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan, a joint initiative by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, is strategically designed to address pressing challenges faced by farmers. Its core aims include combating issues such as poor cultivation due to plant diseases, rectifying adverse soil conditions, and mitigating the burden of rising input costs. Crucially, the program seeks to build a robust bridge between scientists and farmers, fostering a collaborative environment where they work hand-in-hand to produce disease-resistant crop varieties capable of thriving even in harsh local conditions.
The nationwide campaign has already made significant strides, with 1,896 teams having interacted with a remarkable 8,95,944 farmers across 8,188 villages. In Karnataka specifically, more than 70 interdisciplinary teams, comprising scientists and officials from agricultural and allied departments, are diligently visiting and engaging with farmers daily. Their primary objective is to record direct feedback from the ground, which will be instrumental in shaping future agricultural research and development initiatives. Yelamma, a small marigold farm owner from Chikkaballapur district, shared her positive experience, stating, “I have always been a bit wary of the hybrid crops because I thought them to be unsafe but after seeing the crops here it has changed my views of them.” This direct feedback underscores the program’s success in building trust and promoting the adoption of scientific advancements among the farming community.
by Team Agrisnip | May 28, 2025 | Agri News, Global Agri, Import / Export
New Delhi, June 9, 2025
India is poised for a significant expansion in its global agricultural trade footprint, as highlighted by Abhishek Dev, Chairman of the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA). Speaking at the inauguration of Indusfood 2025 in Greater Noida, Dev pointed out that despite being the world’s seventh-largest agri exporter, India currently accounts for a mere 2.4% of the colossal $2 trillion global agriculture trade. He emphatically stated that this modest share represents a “huge opportunity” for Indian exporters to dramatically scale up their operations and presence on the international stage.
India’s agri exports were valued at approximately $50 billion in the 2023-24 fiscal year, and concerted efforts are underway to further elevate this figure in the current fiscal year. Dev emphasized the nation’s strategic pivot towards exporting more value-added products, moving beyond simply trading raw agricultural commodities. This shift aims to capture a larger share of the global market by offering processed and diversified food products. A particular focus is on the organic sector, where India currently holds around 2.5% of the $147 billion global organic market. APEDA has set an ambitious target to quadruple this share over the next five years, building on the steady growth witnessed in organic exports—from $213 million in 2012-13 to nearly $495 million in 2023-24.
Indusfood 2025, a flagship event organized by the Trade Promotion Council of India (TPCI) with vital support from the Department of Commerce, was inaugurated by Union Food Processing Industries Minister Chirag Paswan. The prestigious event has drawn an impressive congregation of over 2,300 exhibitors from 30 countries, alongside 7,500 international buyers and 15,000 domestic buyers and trade visitors, creating a vibrant platform for global food and beverage commerce.
Mohit Singla, Chairman of TPCI, elaborated on the multifaceted goals of Indusfood, stating that it extends beyond merely boosting trade. The event also aims to forge crucial connections between farmers and technology providers, thereby enhancing income opportunities through value addition and direct access to global markets. Singla noted the remarkable growth in international participation, with the exhibitor pavilion nearly doubling in size since last year, boasting strong representation from approximately 30 countries, underscoring the increasing global interest in India’s agricultural and processed food sector.
by Team Agrisnip | May 28, 2025 | Agri News, Farming
Lucknow, June 9, 2025
In a fascinating blend of horticultural innovation and national homage, celebrated mango cultivator Kalimullah Khan from Malihabad, Uttar Pradesh, has introduced a new mango variety named ‘Rajnath Aam,’ in honor of India’s esteemed Defence Minister. Khan, widely recognized for his pioneering work in mango grafting, has a unique tradition of naming new varieties after prominent national figures, adding a distinctive cultural layer to his agricultural achievements.
The veteran cultivator, who is also a recipient of one of India’s highest civilian honors for his profound contributions to agriculture, articulated his motivation behind this practice. “I believe names should live on through nature’s gifts. That’s why I dedicate some of these varieties to those who have served the country with distinction,” he explained. His aim, he stated, is to preserve the legacy of individuals who have significantly contributed to the nation, ensuring their remembrance through these unique horticultural creations.
Malihabad, a region historically revered for its rich mango heritage, once boasted an astonishing diversity of over 1,300 distinct mango varieties in the early 20th century. However, a significant number of these unique varieties have unfortunately disappeared over time. Through decades of relentless dedication, meticulous experimentation, and unparalleled expertise, Kalimullah Khan has played a pivotal role in reviving this lost heritage. His tireless efforts have resulted in the development and meticulous maintenance of over 300 distinct varieties within his own orchard, effectively restoring a crucial part of the region’s horticultural treasures.
The introduction of ‘Rajnath Aam’ not only signifies a new achievement in mango cultivation but also reinforces the deep connection between agricultural innovation and national pride. It highlights the profound impact of individuals like Kalimullah Khan, whose passion not only enriches biodiversity but also contributes to the cultural fabric of the nation, one unique mango variety at a time. Sources
by Team Agrisnip | May 28, 2025 | Agri News, Editors Pick
New Delhi, June 9, 2025
The National Academy of Agricultural Sciences (NAAS) celebrated its Foundation Day in New Delhi today, honoring prominent figures across agriculture, industry, and media for their exceptional contributions. Among those recognized for their impactful work were two distinguished journalists, Harvir Singh, Editor-in-Chief of a leading agriculture magazine, and Prabhudatt Mishra, Deputy Editor of a national English daily, both lauded for their significant contributions to agricultural journalism.
Harvir Singh, with his decades of experience and previous roles at major media houses, has been a pivotal voice in bringing crucial rural and agricultural issues into the national spotlight. His dedicated reporting has earned him considerable acclaim from prestigious organizations like the FAO and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). Similarly, Prabhudatt Mishra, a seasoned journalist with nearly 30 years in the field, is highly regarded for his insightful and in-depth reporting on complex agricultural trade and policy matters.
Dr. W.S. Lakra, Secretary of NAAS, commended both journalists for their unwavering commitment to covering the agriculture sector, acknowledging their sustained efforts in informing and shaping public discourse around critical farming issues. The event, marking 35 years since the establishment of NAAS, also featured a compelling keynote lecture by Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, who delivered an address on the pertinent theme of “One Health: Guiding Our Future,” emphasizing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.
This recognition by NAAS underscores the vital role of agricultural journalism in bridging the gap between research, policy, and the farming community, ensuring that the challenges and triumphs of India’s agricultural backbone receive the attention they deserve.
