Agriculture

The Uttar Pradesh government has announced that the state’s paddy procurement season will commence from October 1, providing timely financial relief and guaranteed market access to rice farmers. This initiative aims to stabilize prices, protect farmer incomes, and ensure sufficient grain stock for public distribution. Authorities have outlined detailed procedures, including designated procurement centers, fixed minimum support prices (MSP), and streamlined payment mechanisms.

India and Russia have initiated high-level discussions to expand bilateral agricultural trade, aiming to strengthen economic cooperation and diversify food supply chains. The dialogue focuses on increasing the export and import of key commodities, enhancing investment in agro-processing, and exploring technological collaboration in agriculture. Both nations emphasized the potential for mutually beneficial partnerships in sectors such as grains, pulses, dairy, and farm machinery.

A government decision to cut Goods and Services Tax (GST) on tractors and related equipment, effective September 22, is expected to provide significant relief to farmers by lowering purchase costs. The reduction aims to support rural incomes, stimulate mechanization, and enhance agricultural productivity at a time when input costs have been weighing heavily on farming communities. Industry players anticipate stronger demand for tractors and allied machinery, which could benefit both manufacturers and the broader rural economy.

Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has reaffirmed that no international trade agreement will be allowed to compromise the interests of India’s farmers. His statement comes at a time when negotiations on agricultural imports are gaining momentum in global forums. Chouhan underscored that while India remains committed to fair trade practices and international cooperation, the government’s top priority is safeguarding the livelihood of farmers who form the backbone of the rural economy.

In a move aimed at easing the financial burden on India’s agricultural community, the government’s recent decision to reduce the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on key farm inputs is set to benefit nearly 10 crore farmers nationwide. The measure is designed to lower production costs, enhance affordability of essential equipment, and promote greater adoption of modern agricultural practices. Analysts say the reform underscores the state’s commitment to rural welfare, addressing rising input costs while supporting long-term goals of food security and sustainable growth.

The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (Nabard) is preparing to raise its maiden external commercial borrowing (ECB) in the financial year 2025–26. This move is aimed at diversifying its funding base and tapping into international capital markets to support rural credit expansion. As the apex development finance institution for agriculture and rural infrastructure, Nabard has historically relied on domestic sources such as bonds and deposits.

Coriander futures registered a downward trend as sluggish demand in spot markets coupled with sufficient supply pressured prices. Traders and market participants noted that weak buying interest from stockists and retailers, alongside steady arrivals from major producing regions, dampened sentiment. With no immediate signs of a surge in consumption, futures contracts slipped, reflecting a cautious stance among investors.

Paradeep Phosphates Ltd. (PPL), one of India’s prominent fertiliser producers, is ramping up its focus on innovative agri-solutions with a clear roadmap for nano-fertiliser production. The company aims to strengthen its position in the rapidly evolving fertiliser market by targeting large-scale manufacturing of nano-based nutrients. This strategic shift aligns with the government’s push for sustainable agriculture, cost-effective input use, and reduced import dependency.

The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has broadened its regional footprint by opening new offices in Patna, Raipur, and Dehradun, a move aimed at strengthening India’s agri-export ecosystem. This expansion is designed to enhance outreach to farmers, exporters, and agri-entrepreneurs in Bihar, Chhattisgarh, and Uttarakhand, providing them with better access to global markets. By decentralizing its operations, APEDA seeks to improve export facilitation, ensure greater market linkages, and promote value-added agricultural products.

Harshil Agrotech has posted a remarkable seven-fold increase in quarterly profit, reflecting strong operational performance and robust demand across its agricultural product portfolio. The company attributes growth to higher sales volumes, optimized supply chain management, and favorable market conditions for key commodities. Analysts note that Harshil Agrotech’s strategic focus on efficiency, product diversification, and expansion into high-margin segments has strengthened profitability and investor confidence.