New India-UK Project To Use Quantum Power to Boost Soil Health and Food Security

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s upcoming visit to Mumbai is spotlighting a major India-UK research partnership in quantum computing and biotechnology. At the heart of this collaboration is a joint project between Imperial College London and IIT Bombay, aiming to use quantum simulations to improve crop resilience and soil health in climate-vulnerable regions.

Researchers are modeling how plants and soil bacteria communicate, using quantum computing to simulate gene regulation and microbial signaling. Strigolactones, a plant chemicals that act as messengers between roots and microbes. The joint India-UK team is studying how synthetic versions of Strigolactones and biochar can enhance these interactions.

IIT Bombay contributes microbial ecology and genomics, while Imperial brings bioinformatics and quantum simulation capabilities. The aim is to boost natural processes that help crops thrive in arid and extreme weather conditions.

Quantum Roots: How India and the UK Are Using Quantum Computing to Reinvent Agriculture

In a world grappling with climate extremes, a groundbreaking India-UK collaboration is turning to quantum computing—not for finance or cryptography, but for farming. At the heart of this effort is a joint research project between Imperial College London and IIT Bombay, aiming to decode the invisible language between plant roots and soil microbes to build climate-resilient agriculture.

From Silicon to Soil: The Quantum Leap

Led by Dr. Po-Heng (Henry) Lee at Imperial and Dr. Indrajit Chakraborty at IIT Bombay, the project uses quantum simulations to model how plants communicate with microbes in the soil. The focus is on strigolactones—plant hormones that act as chemical messengers, triggering microbial responses that affect nutrient uptake, drought resistance, and overall soil health.

We’re not just simulating molecules—we’re simulating relationships, says Dr. Lee. Quantum computing lets us explore how microbial communities respond to plant signals under stress, and how we might enhance those responses.

The Science Behind the Soil

• Synthetic strigolactones and biochar are being tested to amplify beneficial microbial activity.
• IIT Bombay contributes microbial genomics and soil ecology expertise.
• Imperial College builds quantum circuit models to simulate microbial gene expression and signal transduction.

Strategic Roots: India-UK Tech Diplomacy

• The project is a flagship under the India-UK Technology Security Initiative (TSI), signed in 2024.
• Funded by the India Connect Fund, supporting up to 25 joint research efforts annually.
• Will be spotlighted during Keir Starmer’s visit to Mumbai for the Global Fintech Fest 2025.

Why It Matters

• Food Security: Quantum-enhanced soil treatments could boost yields in climate-stressed regions.
• Climate Adaptation: Understanding microbial resilience helps design farming systems that thrive under stress.
• Tech Transfer: Sets a precedent for applying frontier technologies to grassroots challenges.

The Bigger Picture

This isn’t just about quantum computing—it’s about reimagining agriculture as a system of intelligent, adaptive relationships. By simulating the unseen conversations beneath our feet, researchers hope to unlock new pathways to sustainability.

As Dr. Chakraborty puts it, We’re using the most advanced tools in physics to solve the oldest problem in civilization: how to grow food in a changing world.

Leads Agri Genetics Launches India’s 1st Privately-Owned Integrated CoE for Cattle & Plant Genomics

• Leads Agri Genetics initiative is a giant leap in advancing India’s agricultural biotechnology and livestock genomics capabilities.
• The Centre of Excellence (CoE) and laboratory will have a full-stack genomics service platform designed exclusively for the agri-genomics and agricultural biotechnology sector.

Leads Agri Genetics, a wholly owned subsidiary of Leads Connect launched India’s first privately-owned Integrated Centre of Excellence (CoE) for Cattle and Plant Genomics Laboratory in Greater Noida. This landmark initiative is a giant leap by Leads Connect in advancing India’s agricultural biotechnology and livestock genomics capabilities. Leads Agri Genetics is also the first Indian private company to have imported the Gir embryos - genetic material from Brazil to India under Breed Improvement Program.

The new centre was inaugurated by Mr. Ghanshyam Khandelwal, Chairman, BL Agro, India’s leading FMCG brand and the holding company of Leads Connect. The Centre of Excellence (CoE) aims to catapult India at the forefront of global agri-genomics research and innovation. The newly launched Leads Agri Genetics Lab will have a full-stack genomics service platform that is designed exclusively for the agri-genomics and agricultural biotechnology sector.

Shri Ghanshyam Khandelwal, Chairman of BL Agro Group, addressed the media during the launch event, expressing his strong support for government initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of farmers. He emphasized the importance of genomics studies in enhancing agricultural productivity and yield. He said, such advancements will not only benefit the farming community but also contribute to the overall well-being of society.

Speaking on the inauguration, Navneet Ravikar, Group Chairman & Managing Director, Leads Connect Services said, “Indian agriculture is at an inflection point. Sustainability, climate challenges and pressure on higher yields are stressing the resources thin for our farmers. Our newly inaugurated Centre of Excellence for Cattle and Plant Genomics Laboratory is a landmark step towards self-reliance in agricultural biotechnology. With world-class genomic capabilities, we aim to empower India’s researchers, breeders, and farmers to innovate faster, build resilience, and create a sustainable future for agriculture.”

Leads Agri Genetics Centre of Excellence in Greater Noida

Leads Agri Genetics Centre of Excellence in Greater Noida 

Industry veteran with over two decades of experience Dr. Ashish Dubey is the Chief Business Officer of Integrated Centre of Excellence for Cattle and Plant Genomics Laboratory. Dr. Dubey, who also co-founded Redcliffe Labs, India’s fourth-largest diagnostics laboratory, is an expert in genomics projects spanning agriculture, human health, and diagnostics will strengthen the lab’s mission to advance genetic diversity research and genomic selection in cattle and crops.

“Genomics has transformed global science in the last decade, and agriculture stands to benefit immensely. At Leads Agri Genetics, our focus is on delivering end-to-end genomics solutions—from trait discovery to breeding acceleration—that directly impact productivity, sustainability, and food security,” said Dr. Ashish Dubey, CBO, Leads Agri Genetics.

Genomics has evolved over the decade exponentially due to its affordability and immense usage across the species including humans, plants and animals. After the Human Genome Project in 2003, there has been a paradigm shift in the field of research. The outcome from Genomics using Genomics selection in cattle and trait improvement in plants has been the biggest success stories with new GM Crops to BT cotton, and ultimately helping humankind for the sustainable and safer future.

By integrating world-class sequencing, genotyping, and bioinformatics, the lab empowers crop, livestock, and microbial researchers to accelerate trait discovery, breeding, and innovation with unmatched precision. The laboratory houses a cutting-edge suite of instruments including Illumina IScan for high-throughput SNP genotyping, NovaSeq for deep resequencing, PacBio and Oxford Nanopore for long-read assembly and structural variation analysis, and 10X Chromium for linked-read and single-cell assays. Together, this unique technology stack enables discovery across the full spectrum of genetic variation—from single nucleotide changes to complex structural rearrangements and haplotype phasing.

With access to multiple complementary sequencing and genotyping platforms, the Leads Agri Genetics Lab offers unmatched versatility, completeness, and customization. From comprehensive variant discovery and trait mapping to high-quality reference genome assembly and advanced transcriptomics, the lab is equipped to address challenges across crops, livestock, pests, and microbiomes—including non-model and polyploid species.

About Leads Agri-Genetics Pvt Ltd

Leads Agri-Genetics Pvt Ltd, a part of the renowned BL Agro Group, is advancing agriculture through Genetic Innovation. It is a pioneering force in agri-genomics, leveraging cutting-edge genetic research to revolutionize both animal and plant agriculture. By integrating advanced DNA sequencing, precision breeding, and data-driven genomic selection, the company aims to transform the way food is produced- ensuring higher yields, improved quality, and greater adaptability to climate change.

By bridging science and practical application, we empower farmers, agribusinesses, and research institutions to unlock the full potential of genetics in agriculture. Through continuous research, innovation, and collaboration, our company is driving a more resilient, productive, a n d sustainable agricultural future.

About Leads Connect Services

Leads Connect Services Pvt. Ltd. is a leading agri-tech, data-driven risk management, and financial services company committed to empowering rural, semi-urban, and urban economies within the agri-management ecosystem. By integrating cutting-edge technology with deep domain expertise, the company offers customized solutions spanning crop monitoring, risk analytics, and financial inclusion.

Its portfolio includes advanced agri-risk management services, such as automated identification of sowing and harvesting windows, crop phenology dynamics, acreage assessment, crop health and damage assessment, and yield modeling. The company has also developed an innovative framework to generate agri-credit scores, strengthening access to formal finance for farmers and agri-stakeholders.

BL Agro To Set Up World-Class Agro-Processing Plant in Bareilly; Plans to Invest ₹1,660 crores

• A large-scale Green Field integrated agro-processing project- fully automated rice milling unit, edible oil extraction and refining plant will be set-up in Bareilly, UP.
• The project will create 3,500 direct and indirect employment opportunities.
• The company signs MoU with Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI).

BL Agro, India’s leading FMCG player inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), Government of India, which is a strategic and investment B2G partnership to build an export-oriented integrated agro-processing hub, advancing India’s food security and global trade leadership.

The MOU was signed between Mr Ashish Khandelwal, Managing Director, BL Agro Group and Hon'ble Shri Preet Pal Singh, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Food Processing Industries, Government of India, in the presence of Shri A.P. Das Joshi, Secretary and Shri Shyam Singh Negi, Senior Economic Advisor, Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MOFPI), GoI.

As a part of this MOU, BL Agro will be investing Rs. 1,660 crore (USD 200 Mn) over the next 5 years in establishing a large-scale green field integrated agro-processing project in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh. This would include setting up of a fully automated rice milling unit for premium basmati rice varieties, a 500 TPD edible oil extraction and refining plant under the renowned Bail Kolhu and Nourish brands, advanced packaging lines, sugar storage and sourcing solutions, and 40,000 MT grain storage capacity to support food security and exports.

Construction will begin in 6 months with Phase I completion targeted for 2027. The unit would be generating over 3,500 direct and indirect employment opportunities, significantly boosting rural livelihoods and driving inclusive economic growth.

Speaking on the occasion, Ashish Khandelwal, Managing Director, BL Agro Industries Ltd, said, "This collaboration with MoFPI reflects BL Agro’s commitment to building world-class agro-processing infrastructure in India. The partnership between BL Agro and MoFPI is designed to enhance food security, increase exports and also create sustainable value chains for farmers and rural communities. We would be integrating circular economy practices into our operations—such as utilizing by-products in cattle feed and renewable energy systems. This would set new benchmarks in sustainable food processing."

Commenting on the MOU, Shri Preet Pal Singh, Joint Secretary, A.P. Das Joshi, Secretary, Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), said, “We are extremely delighted to say that this initiative underscores the Government of India’s focus on attracting large-scale private investment into food processing and agri-value chains. By promoting modern infrastructure and sustainable practices, the collaboration will enable greater farmer linkages, expand export opportunities, and reinforce India’s position in global agri-trade.”

The Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) will extend facilitation support for statutory clearances and approvals to expedite project execution, with construction expected to commence within six months and Phase I completion targeted for 2027. This partnership is an excellent step towards boosting agro-processing infrastructure, creating robust linkages between farmers and rural enterprises, and driving export growth.

About BL Agro Group

The BL Agro Group is a diverse conglomerate driving quality and sustainability across food products, agri-tech, earth sciences, and agri-genetics innovation. BL Agro Group includes BL Agro Industries, Leads Connect, Leads NexTech, and Leads Agri Genetics.

BL Agro Industries Ltd, its flagship company, was originally a mustard trading business. Now, it is a major FMCG with one of India’s biggest networks for edible oils and food products, known by their brand names Bail Kolhu and Nourish.

Leads Connect is an agri-technology firm specializing in data analysis, risk management, and creating a sustainable agri-business ecosystem. Leads NexTech, a leader in EarthTech Analytics, offering human-centric, sustainable solutions through next-gen technologies. Leads Agri Genetics is committed to strengthening the agricultural ecosystem through advanced science and technology, driving innovation in both crop improvement and cattle genetics.

Together, BL Agro Group is committed to revolutionizing the agri-food ecosystem and making the entire food journey profitable.

Visit for more details: https://blagro.org/

Transforming Agri-Markets: Odisha Unveils ₹300-Cr Plan with 38 Smart Mandis

Odisha is embarking on a transformative ₹300-crore initiative to modernize its agricultural marketing infrastructure by developing 38 'Model Mandis' across all 30 districts in the first phase. Here's a detailed breakdown of the plan:

Key Objectives

• Create an efficient, transparent, and farmer-friendly agri-marketing ecosystem.
• Provide integrated infrastructure for farmers, traders, and stakeholders.
• Enable direct market linkages to help farmers secure better prices.

Implementation Details

Phase	Mandis Developed	Funding Sources	Timeline
First Phase	38 Model Mandis (14 large, 17 medium, 7 small)	₹150 Cr from RMCs + ₹150 Cr from State Plan	2025–2027
Second Phase	62 additional mandis (site identification underway)	To be announced	Post-2027

• ₹50 crore allocated by the Cooperation Department for FY 2025–26.
• Executing agency: Odisha Bridge and Construction Corporation (OBCC).
• Monitoring: Odisha State Agricultural Marketing Board (OSAM Board).

Infrastructure Highlights

• Modern storage and drying platforms
• Covered sheds and cooling chambers
• Quality testing kiosks
• Farmers’ rest areas and women-friendly amenities
• Toilets, canteens, vending zones
• Bank branches, ATMs, and parking
• Electronic weighbridges
• Retail outlets for agri-inputs
• Waste disposal systems
• Eateries and vending zones operated by women SHGs
• Raised concrete drying platforms

Localized Design 

• Mandis will be tailored to the scale and type of marketing operations in each locality.
• Focus on paddy and other agricultural produce, with infrastructure designed to meet specific regional needs.

Expected Impact

• Streamlined paddy procurement and reduced farmer grievances.
• Enhanced transparency and efficiency in agricultural trade.
• Boosted income opportunities for farmers through better market access.

IN-SPACe, ISRO, and Amity Launch Skill Course on Space Tech Applications in Agriculture

Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center (IN-SPACe), in collaboration with ISRO, NCVET and Amity University Noida, Uttar Pradesh, commenced a short-term skill development course titled "Essentials of Space Technology in Agriculture Sector", on 27th July 2025 aimed at introducing non-governmental entities and academia to the applications of space technology in agriculture.

The course was inaugurated at Amity University, with former Member of Parliament Shri Rajendra Agarwal gracing the occasion as Chief Guest. Dr. Vinod Kumar, Director, Promotion Directorate at IN-SPACe, was present for the opening and spoke about the relevance of such academic-industry collaborations in creating awareness around satellite-based tools for modern agriculture. He noted that the program is designed to provide participants with a foundational understanding of how space-based applications can support farming.

In his keynote address, Dr. Vinod Kumar, Director, Promotion Directorate, IN-SPACe, stated, “Space applications have a growing role to play in strengthening India’s agricultural capabilities and resilience. With the help of these applications and geospatial data, farmers can monitor crop health, optimize the use of fertilizers and irrigation, detect pest infestations early, manage fields with precision using GPS-guided machinery, better respond to weather risks and natural disasters, and improve overall farm productivity and decision-making. Through these academic collaborations, we aim to build awareness, share technical know-how, and create a pool of professionals who can apply space-based tools to real-world challenges. These courses are designed to bridge knowledge gaps and encourage deeper engagement from academia and young professionals in space applications across critical sectors.”

The course is part of IN-SPACe’s broader mission to support capacity-building and sector-wide participation, expanding the role of space applications in everyday economic activity. The week-long course, running from July 27 to August 1, 2025, will cover topics ranging from remote sensing and satellite data analysis to their direct application in crop monitoring and resource management.

AI Meets Agriculture : World Bank Fuels Uttar Pradesh’s Farmers & Tech Talent

Uttar Pradesh is making bold initiatives in agriculture and AI, harnessing cutting-edge innovation to empower farmers and equip youth with future-ready tech skills. With the backing of the World Bank, the state has launched two transformative initiatives—UP AGREES (Uttar Pradesh Accelerated Growth in Rural Economy and Enterprise Strengthening) and AI Pragya —both designed to fuel economic growth, modernization, and digital transformation.

Bridging the Old and the New: Agriculture Meets AI

Traditionally known for its vast agricultural landscapes and diverse farming communities, Uttar Pradesh is now embracing AI-driven solutions to revolutionize its rural economy. The UP AGREES program, backed by a ₹2,737 crore (US $320 million approx.) loan from the World Bank, alongside a ₹1,166 crore ($136.5 million) contribution from the Uttar Pradesh government, aims to modernize farming across 28 districts, particularly in Purvanchal and Bundelkhand.

This initiative is poised to benefit over 10 lakh farmers, with 30% women participation, ensuring inclusivity in agricultural advancements. It also includes sending 500 farmers abroad to learn global best practices, helping them incorporate modern techniques such as precision farming, AI-enabled crop monitoring, and sustainable agricultural methods. The goal? To enhance productivity, optimize resources, and drive rural economic strength.

AI Pragya: Training the Tech Talent of Tomorrow

In parallel, AI Pragya sets its sights on 10 lakh youth, equipping them with AI, machine learning, data analytics, and cybersecurity skills. As India gears up for a tech-driven future, this initiative aligns with Uttar Pradesh’s vision of becoming a $1 trillion economy and solidifying its role as a startup hub.

The program is being developed in collaboration with leading tech giants like Microsoft, Intel, Amazon, Google, and HCL, ensuring that trainees receive industry-aligned skills tailored to emerging market demands. By integrating AI education across health, agriculture, IT, and other sectors, Uttar Pradesh is positioning itself at the forefront of digital workforce development, empowering young professionals to drive innovation across industries.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s Vision: A Growth Engine in Action

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has emphasized that Uttar Pradesh must evolve into India’s growth engine rather than an economic barrier. These initiatives—blending AI-driven precision farming with high-tech workforce development—reflect a forward-thinking governance approach, leveraging technology to transform both rural livelihoods and urban employment landscapes.

With World Bank support, Uttar Pradesh is cementing its position as a global leader in agricultural modernization and AI-powered education. By bridging the gap between traditional farming and digital innovation, the state is pioneering a model for sustainable growth, unlocking opportunities forThe Future: A Smarter, More Resilient Uttar Pradesh.

As AI reshapes industries worldwide, Uttar Pradesh’s strategic investments in agriculture and tech education create a dynamic blueprint for the future. Whether in farmlands or tech labs, innovation is now deeply embedded in the state’s growth narrative.

The message is clear— Uttar Pradesh isn’t just embracing change; it’s leading it.

Synopsis

UP AGREES (Uttar Pradesh Accelerated Growth in Rural Economy and Enterprise Strengthening)

• Focuses on modernizing agriculture in 28 districts across Purvanchal and Bundelkhand.
• Supported by a ₹2,737 crore loan from the World Bank, with the Uttar Pradesh government contributing ₹1,166 crore.
• Aims to benefit 10 lakh farmers, with 30% participation from women.
• Includes sending 500 farmers abroad to learn best agricultural practices.

AI Pragya

• Seeks to train 10 lakh youth in AI, machine learning, data analytics, and cybersecurity. 
• Designed to boost employment and support Uttar Pradesh’s startup ecosystem.
• Implemented with support from multiple departments, including education, health, agriculture, and IT.
• Collaborates with tech giants like Microsoft, Intel, Amazon, Google, and HCL.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasized that these initiatives will position Uttar Pradesh as a growth engine rather than a barrier, aligning with the state’s vision of becoming a $1 trillion economy.

This seems like a fascinating intersection of agriculture and AI —right up your alley! What aspect interests you the most? The precision farming angle or the AI-driven workforce development? Let us know in the comments....

Breakthrough: Newly Discovered Algae Might Cut Fertilizer Use Forever

Imagine plants are like hungry children who need a special ingredient—nitrogen—to grow strong. Normally, they get it from fertilizers, which farmers add to the soil. But scientists just found a tiny algae in the ocean that can make its own nitrogen, without needing fertilizer!

This algae has a tiny helper inside it called a nitroplast—kind of like a built-in kitchen where it cooks up nitrogen from the air. This is a big deal because, until now, scientists thought only bacteria could do this trick.

Why does this matter? Well, if we can use this discovery to engineer crops that do the same, farmers may no longer need to use as many fertilizers. That means cheaper farming, less pollution, and healthier soils—all thanks to this little ocean algae working its magic.

To an uninitiated, the Nitrogen fixation is the process of converting atmospheric nitrogen (N₂) into a biologically usable form, such as ammonia (NH₃). Even though nitrogen makes up about 78% of Earth's atmosphere, plants can't absorb it directly. Instead, they rely on nitrogen-fixing organisms—like bacteria in soil or, as recent research suggests, certain algae—to transform nitrogen into compounds they can use for growth.

This process is crucial because nitrogen is a key nutrient for plants, directly influencing their ability to produce proteins, enzymes, and chlorophyll. Without nitrogen fixation, ecosystems would struggle to sustain life, and farmers would be far more dependent on synthetic fertilizers, which can contribute to environmental issues like soil degradation and water pollution.

In a latest this month, researchers have discovered a marine alga, Braarudosphaera bigelowii, that can fix nitrogen thanks to a newly identified organelle called a nitroplast. This is groundbreaking because, until now, nitrogen fixation was thought to be exclusive to bacteria and archaea.

 

Braarudosphaera

The nitroplast evolved from a symbiotic bacterium that started living inside the alga about 100 million years ago. Over time, it became an integral part of the algal cell, allowing it to convert atmospheric nitrogen into ammonia-a process crucial for plant growth.

Over time, this bacterium became an integral part of the algal cell, functioning as an organelle rather than a separate organism. The nitroplast converts atmospheric nitrogen (N₂) into ammonia (NH₃), a crucial nutrient for plant growth.

How It Was Identified

Researchers used soft X-ray tomography to observe the nitroplast’s behavior during cell division, confirming that it divides in sync with other organelles.

Genetic analysis revealed that the nitroplast relies on proteins from the host alga, further supporting its classification as an organelle rather than a free-living symbiont.

This discovery could pave the way for genetically engineered crops that require little to no fertilizer, reducing environmental impact and agricultural costs.

The discovery of nitrogen-fixing algae opens up exciting possibilities—potentially reducing the need for artificial fertilizers while promoting sustainable agriculture.

Coromandel International To Acquire Crop Protection Firm NACL Industries

Coromandel International Limited (BSE: 506395, NSE: COROMANDEL), one of India’s leading agri-solutions provider, today announced the signing of definitive agreements to acquire majority stake in NACL Industries Limited (NACL).

NACL is an India based Crop Protection player having strong branded formulation business in domestic markets, exports Technicals in key global geographies and has presence in contract manufacturing operations with global multinational agrochemical companies. Coromandel is set to acquire 53% shareholding in NACL industries, for consideration of Rs 820 Crores at Rs 76.7/- price per share from the current promoter KLR Products Limited. Coromandel also proposes to make an open offer to the public to acquire upto 26% of the equity share capital of the company as per the SEBI Takeover Regulations. The proposed transaction is subject to regulatory approvals and is likely to be consummated over next few months.

The proposed acquisition will position Coromandel as one of the leading players in the Indian Crop Protection industry with a wide range of technicals and pan India presence in domestic formulation business. This will also help in expanding Coromandel’s scale, accelerating its entry into contract manufacturing business, fast-tracking new product commercialization and expanding its product portfolio.

NACL Industries operates Technical and Formulation plants in Andhra Pradesh, besides having centralized R&D facility near Hyderabad. NACL’s subsidiary has also recently invested in Technical grade facility at Dahej, capable of manufacturing Active Ingredients. It has established formidable partnerships with key global players, offering contract manufacturing services for over two decades. The company has strong brand presence in domestic formulations segment with pan India footprint.

Reflecting on the transaction, Coromandel’s Executive Chairman Mr. Arun Alagappan stated, "This is a defining moment for Coromandel International’s Crop Protection business. Coromandel’s long-term strategy has always been centered on driving sustainable growth and market leadership. The decision to acquire NACL Industries is a natural extension of company’s growth vision. By combining our extensive distribution network and deep industry expertise with NACL’s manufacturing capabilities, diversified product portfolio and large formulations presence, we are setting the stage for a significant increase in operational scale. The acquisition not only expands our scale but also enables us to tap into critical customer segments and secure strategic CDMO relationships.”

Coromandel’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr Sankarasubramanian added, "This acquisition will strengthen Coromandel’s presence in Crop protection business both in domestic and export markets. Coromandel will leverage its management expertise, credit access, sourcing capabilities, and diversified presence in international markets to strengthen NACL’s operations in a short period and create value for the shareholders. With the combined synergies in R&D and manufacturing, we can accelerate our Go to market strategy for new products and intermediates, thereby increasing our product offerings in domestic and global markets.”

JM Financial Limited acted as exclusive financial advisor to Coromandel for this transaction and is also Manager to Open Offer. AZB & Partners acted as Company’s Legal Counsel, E&Y acted as financial diligence and tax diligence advisor and SSPA & Co. Chartered Accountants acted as independent valuers.

About Coromandel

Coromandel International Limited is amongst India's pioneers and leading Agri solutions provider, offering diverse products and services across the farming value chain. It operates in two major segments: Nutrient and other allied businesses and Crop Protection. These include Fertiliser, Crop Protection, Bio Products, Specialty Nutrients and Organic businesses. The Company is 2nd largest manufacturer and marketer of Phosphatic fertiliser in India. The Company's Crop Protection products are marketed in India as well as in international geographies, offering wide range of technical and formulation products. The Specialty Nutrients business of the Company focuses on water soluble fertiliser, secondary & micronutrients and nano fertiliser products. The Company is leading marketer of Organic fertiliser in India. The Bio Products business of the company focusses on plant extractions for various applications. It also operates a network of around 750+ rural retail outlets across Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Through these Retail outlets, the Company offers agri inputs and farming services including crop advisory, soil testing and farm mechanization to around 3 million farmers. The Company has 7 R&D centers and a strong Regulatory setup, supporting the businesses in process development and new product introduction. The Company has 18 manufacturing facilities, spread widely across India, producing wide range of Nutrient and Crop Protection products, which are marketed through an extensive network of dealers and its own retail centers.

The Company clocked a turnover of Rs. 22,290 Crores during FY23-24. Its efforts towards environment have been well recognized by international organizations like UNDP and has also been voted as one of the ten greenest companies in India by TERI. Coromandel is a part of the INR 778 billion (INR 77,881 Crores) of the Murugappa Group.

For more details, visit www.coromandel.biz

About Murugappa Group

A 124-year-old conglomerate with presence across India and the world, the INR 778 billion (77,881 crore) Murugappa Group has diverse businesses in agriculture, engineering, financial services and more.

The Group has 9 listed companies: Carborundum Universal Limited, CG Power & Industrial Solutions Limited, Cholamandalam Financial Holdings Limited, Cholamandalam Investment & Finance Company Limited, Coromandel International Limited, E.I.D. Parry (India) Limited, Shanthi Gears Limited, Tube Investments of India Limited and Wendt India Limited. Other major companies include Cholamandalam MS General Insurance Company Limited and Parry Agro Industries Limited. Brands such as Ajax, Hercules, BSA, Montra, Montra Electric, Mach City, Chola, Chola MS, CG Power, Shanthi Gears, CUMI, Gromor, Paramfos, Parry’s are part of the Group’s illustrious stable.

Abrasives, technical ceramics, electrominerals, electric vehicles, auto components, fans, transformers, signalling equipment for railways, bicycles, fertilisers, sugar, tea and several other products make up the Group’s business interests.

Guided by the five lights — integrity, passion, quality, respect and responsibility — and a culture of professionalism, the Group has a workforce of over 83,500 employees.

For more details, visit www.murugappa.com

Meghalaya Marks Historic Milestone with First-Ever Sea Shipment of 15 MT Ginger to Dubai’s Lulu Group

The Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of Meghalaya, has marked a historic milestone with the first-ever sea shipment of 15 MT of Meghalaya Ginger to Dubai’s Lulu Group in collaboration with Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA).

This achievement, facilitated by the Eastern Ri-Bhoi Organic Farmer Producer Company (FPC), reinforces Meghalaya’s commitment to enhancing its agricultural exports and integrating its farmers into global value chains. The consignment was flagged off in a ceremonial event attended by esteemed dignitaries from APEDA, Ministry of Economic Affairs and International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) marking a new chapter in the state's efforts to promote organic and high-value agricultural produce internationally.

Meghalaya’s agricultural sector has long faced unique challenges, including fragmented landholding, limited credit access, and working capital constraints for FPOs. However, through strategic government interventions, cooperatives have successfully aggregated and marketed ginger collectively, demonstrating that farmer-led initiatives can drive scalable and sustainable growth.

The Eastern Ri-Bhoi Organic FPC, established in 2017 under the Mission Organic Value Chain Development for the North Eastern Region (MOVCD-NER), has played a pioneering role in facilitating this export. The FPC, which began with limited infrastructure, has now expanded its operations significantly, processing ginger with modernized washing, slicing, drying, and packaging facilities.

Today, the FPC supports over 500 member farmers from 9 villages, ensuring better price realization and market access. Over the years, this collective has increased its revenue from ₹17 lakh in 2018-19 to ₹374 lakh in 2023-24, illustrating the immense potential of farmer-led enterprises when given the right support.

The flag-off ceremony, held in Shillong, was attended by key dignitaries, Shri Abhishek Dev, IAS, Chairman, APEDA, Shri Abdelkarim Sma, Country Director, International Fund for Agricultural Development, Mr. Revistar Kharumnuid, Chief Executive Director, Eastern Ri-Bhoi Organic Farmer Producer Company and Smt. B. Mylliem Umlong, Director of Horticulture, Government of Meghalaya.

Shri Abhishek Dev, IAS, Chairman, APEDA underscored the significance of sea shipment in making Indian agri-exports competitive. "Sea shipment is crucial as it ensures cost competitiveness. We have developed a dedicated sea protocol, and I am hopeful that with close coordination among stakeholders, our shipments will be well received in the UAE market."

Reflecting on Gulf Food 2024, he added, "There is immense excitement for Indian products, and we have been invited as the partner country for the next edition. I urge stakeholders to plan early participation in Gulf Food 2026 (January 26-30) and prominently showcase Indian ginger."

Highlighting the potential of organic exports, he noted, "The organic tag ensures a 30-40% higher price realization. APEDA is fully committed to supporting stakeholders in organic certification, and with Meghalaya’s own certification body, this process will now be easier." On ginger exports, he affirmed, "This is not a one-off event. We will see more such flag-offs in the future as we continue expanding India's agri-export footprint."

Google to Buy Carbon Credits from An Indian Startup that Turns Large Amounts of Agricultural Waste Into Biochar

Google has signed a significant deal to purchase carbon credits from an Indian startup called Varaha. This startup's initiative converts large amounts of agricultural waste into biochar, a form of charcoal that captures carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and stores it in the soil.

The Google-Varah deal is one of the biggest ever involving biochar, and is Google's first foray into India's carbon dioxide removal (CDR) sector.

Varaha is an innovative Indian startup focused on carbon dioxide removal (CDR) through the production of biochar. Varaha converts agricultural waste into biochar using pyrolysis Reactors.

Biochar is a form of charcoal that captures carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and stores it in the soil. Biochar not only helps mitigate CO2 emissions but also improves soil health, offering an alternative to traditional fertilizer.

Key Points:

Carbon Credits: Google has committed to purchase 100,000 tonnes of carbon removal credits from Varaha by 2030 as the catalytic first buyer of biochar credits produced by a Varaha facility in Gujarat, India.

Biochar Production: Varaha sources agricultural waste from hundreds of smallholder farms in India and converts it into biochar using Reactors.

Environmental Impact: Biochar not only helps mitigate CO2 emissions but also improves soil health, offering an alternative to traditional fertilizer.

Scalability: Varaha estimates that India's agricultural waste could generate enough biochar to store more than 100 million tons of CO2 annually.

This partnership is part of Google's broader strategy to achieve its net-zero emissions goal and support scalable solutions to address climate change.

Varaha has raised a total of $12.7 million from prominent funds such as RTP Global, Omnivore, Orios Venture Partners, and Japan’s Norinchukin Bank.

Besides Google, other tech giants are also exploring carbon credit purchases from Indian companies to offset their emissions. While specific deals haven't been widely publicized, companies like Microsoft and Amazon have shown interest in similar initiatives. These companies are looking to support carbon dioxide removal (CDR) projects, such as biochar production, to help achieve their sustainability goals.

UP Govt Launches ONDC-like Open Network for Agriculture, Powered by Google's Gemini and Beckn Protocol

The Government of Uttar Pradesh, in collaboration with Google Cloud India, has launched the Uttar Pradesh Open Network for Agriculture (UPONA). This initiative is powered by Google's Gemini framework and the Beckn Protocol, aiming to provide millions of farmers with a comprehensive digital platform.

The UPONA specifically targets farmers, providing services like agricultural advisory, credit access, and market linkages

The UPONA is quite similar to the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) as both initiatives aim to create open, decentralized platforms that facilitate access to essential services and promote digital inclusion. Both initiatives aim to create open, decentralized platforms that facilitate access to essential services and promote digital inclusion.

The Beckn Protocol, which is the backbone of the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), is also powering UPONA. While the UPONA focuses on farmers, ONDC aims to support small businesses and retailers by providing a unified platform for e-commerce.

Key Features:

Services Offered: The network offers advisory services, credit access, mechanization, and market linkages.

Accessibility: Farmers can access the network using voice commands in multiple languages, including Hindi, Bangla, Telugu, Kannada, Gujarati, and Punjabi.

Open and Decentralized: Unlike traditional marketplace apps, this network is designed to be open and decentralized, allowing various service providers to join and connect with farmers.

Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI): The network leverages Google Cloud’s DPI-in-a-box offering and the Beckn Protocol to enable interoperability and decentralized discovery of products and services.

This initiative is a significant step towards enhancing the agricultural ecosystem in Uttar Pradesh and empowering farmers with the tools and resources they need to thrive.

Key Similarities Between UPONA & ONDC

Open and Decentralized: Both networks are designed to be open and decentralized, allowing various service providers to join and connect with users.

Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI): Both initiatives leverage DPI to enhance service delivery and accessibility.

Interoperability: Both networks use open standards to enable interoperability and decentralized discovery of products and services.

Focus on Farmers and Small Businesses: While the UP Open Network for Agriculture focuses on farmers, ONDC aims to support small businesses and retailers by providing a unified platform for e-commerce.

Key Differences Between UPONA & ONDC

Target Audience: The UP Open Network for Agriculture specifically targets farmers, providing services like agricultural advisory, credit access, and market linkages. ONDC, on the other hand, targets a broader audience, including small businesses and consumers, to facilitate digital commerce.

Services Offered: The UP Open Network for Agriculture offers specialized services for the agricultural sector, while ONDC focuses on creating a unified e-commerce platform for various industries.

Both initiatives are significant steps towards enhancing digital infrastructure and promoting economic growth in India.

IG Drones’ ‘AgriDrone’ Solution Leveraging 5G Connectivity Wins Prestigious Hackathon by Govt of India

IG Drones Wins Prestigious 5G & Beyond Hackathon by Govt of India

• IG Drones, India’s First 5G drone maker is revolutionizing agriculture with its cutting-edge 5G technology. The company’s innovative product- AgriDrone delivers unparalleled capabilities, including rapid and reliable data transfer using 5G technology, real-time monitoring, analysis, and operational control from virtually anywhere.

IG Drones, India’s leading drone technology company, which has been using 5G technology through its innovative drone solutions, has achieved yet another milestone by winning the 5G & Beyond Hackathon 2024, organized by Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India. The hackathon, which is an esteemed initiative by the Government, is aimed at identifying and promoting innovative applications of 5G technology tailored for India. It witnessed participation from the country’s brightest minds and most forward-thinking companies. IG Drones’ ‘AgriDrone’ solution, leveraging 5G connectivity to address critical challenges in the agricultural sector, has set a new benchmark of using the 5G technology in this sector.

As India’s first 5G drone manufacturer, IG Drones showcased its AgriDrone solution at the hackathon, the results of which were announced in December 2024. The advanced drone delivers unparalleled capabilities using 5G technology, including rapid and reliable data transfer, real-time monitoring, analysis, and operational control from virtually anywhere.

At the heart of IG Drones’ achievement lies its commitment to leveraging 5G technology for groundbreaking advancements. 5G’s unparalleled speed, ultra-low latency, and high connectivity enable seamless data transmission, real-time decision-making, and remote operational control, redefining the way drones interact with cloud-based platforms. These capabilities have immense potential for industries such as agriculture, infrastructure, and disaster management, enabling precise monitoring, rapid data analysis, and actionable insights from virtually anywhere.

Ashish Jena, Co-Founder & Chief of Products at IG Drones, expressed his pride in the team’s achievement: “Winning the 5G & Beyond Hackathon is a testament to IG Drones’ relentless pursuit of innovation. By integrating 5G technology into our AgriDrone solution, we are not only advancing agriculture but also setting new benchmarks for the drone industry. This accomplishment underscores our vision of leveraging cutting-edge technology to create scalable, impactful solutions that address real-world challenges.”

Bodhisattwa Sanghapriya, Founder & CEO of IG Drones, emphasized the broader implications of this success, adding, “As India’s first 5G drone maker, we are proud to pioneer technological advancements that drive progress in critical sectors like agriculture. This achievement highlights the potential of 5G to transform industries, and we are committed to leading this transformation. We extend our gratitude to the DoT for this platform and to our partners and team for their unwavering support and dedication.”

The AgriDrone’s enhanced communication capabilities ensure seamless data transmission, utilizing 5G’s high-speed connectivity to facilitate rapid and reliable data transfer between the drone and cloud-based platforms, enabling faster decision-making.

The integration of 5G technology allows for real-time monitoring of agricultural fields, offering precise insights and facilitating timely interventions. Additionally, farmers and operators can now control the drone’s functions remotely, ensuring operations are efficient and accessible from anywhere. This innovative approach addresses key issues such as crop health monitoring, pest control, and yield optimization, transforming the agricultural landscape in India.

The 5G & Beyond Hackathon aligns with the Government of India’s vision of fostering innovation and self-reliance in technology under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. IG Drones’ accomplishment not only underscores the transformative power of 5G but also positions the company as a leader in driving India’s technological advancements.

The India Drone Market is projected to grow from USD 654 Million in 2024 to USD 1,437 Million by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 17.0% during the forecast period. When it comes to agriculture, drones are transforming the sector in India through innovations in crop monitoring, precision farming, and resource management. They enable early issue detection, efficient pesticide and fertilizer application, precise water usage, and livestock monitoring, while reducing farmers' exposure to harmful chemicals. Additionally, drones help minimize environmental impacts and lower input costs. Government initiatives, including subsidies, rental schemes, and training programs, further promote the adoption of agriculture, and empower farmers with advanced technology to boost productivity and sustainability. Notably, IG Drones has also established Centers of Excellence (COEs) across educational institutes like IIMs to provide drone related training and upskilling across sectors.

About IG Drones

Founded with a vision to revolutionize industries through drone technology, IG Drones is India’s leading drone manufacturing and solutions company. Known for its innovative approach and commitment to excellence, IG Drones specializes in developing drones that address critical challenges across sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure, and disaster management.

Soon Farmers Can Sell Carbon Credits, to Industries, Earned from Adopting Sustainable Agricultural Practices

The initiative to provide carbon credits to farmers in eight states is a groundbreaking effort to promote sustainable agriculture

Soon, Farmers in eight states will be financially rewarded for adopting sustainable agricultural practices, such as low tillage, direct-seeded rice (DSR), nitrogen management, and crop residue management.

The initiative to provide carbon credits to farmers is actually limited to eight specific states in India: Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana.

This program aims to incentivize environmentally friendly farming and help farmers earn additional income through carbon credits.

The private company involved in this particular carbon credit program for farmers is Grow Indigo. It's a joint venture between Mahyco, an Indian seed company, and Indigo Ag, a US-based agriculture technology company. Grow Indigo is responsible for enrolling farmers, managing carbon credit projects, and ensuring that the credits are generated and sold according to the Verra certification standards.

How It Works

Farmers will be rewarded for adopting sustainable practices such as low tillage, direct-seeded rice (DSR), nitrogen management, and crop residue management. These practices help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve soil health.

Financial Rewards: The carbon credits earned by farmers can be sold to industries, such as aviation, mining, and fertilizer manufacturing, which need to offset their carbon footprints. Approximately 75% of the revenue from the sale of carbon credits will flow back to the farmers.

Third-Party Audit: The carbon credits are certified by Verra, a global voluntary greenhouse gas reduction program, ensuring that the credits are legitimate and verifiable.

Based on the certification by Verra, the carbon credits will be awarded to farmers in the next couple of months. This certification ensures that the carbon credits are legitimate and verifiable, providing farmers with a reliable way to earn additional income through sustainable agricultural practices

Impact: The program aims to benefit small and marginal farmers by providing them with an additional source of income while promoting environmentally friendly farming practices.

Grow Indigo has enrolled 80,000 farmers in Haryana, Punjab, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana covering diverse crops in over 40,000 hectare in various carbon programme.

This initiative is a significant step towards making agriculture more sustainable and helping farmers earn extra income through carbon credits.

To recall, earlier this month IndianWeb2 reported that India is gearing up for its first carbon credit sale, with the Food Corporation of India (FCI) playing a crucial role.

In July this year, the Agriculture Ministry has developed the framework for promoting the Voluntary Carbon Market (VCM) in the agricultural sector to encourage small and marginal farmers to get carbon credit benefits.Introducing carbon markets to farmers can accelerate the acceptance of eco-friendly agriculture practices while enhancing their income.

Bureau of Energy Efficiency (under the Ministry of Power) is also involved in developing the Carbon Credit Trading Scheme.

Modi Govt Approves 7 Major Agricultural Projects With ~ $1.67 Bn Allocation in Total

Narendra Modi led central government of India has approved seven major agricultural projects with a total allocation of nearly ₹14,000 crore (about US $1.67 Billion) . These initiatives aim to modernize farming operations and enhance food security.

One of the key projects is the Digital Agriculture Mission (DAM), which has an outlay of ₹2,817 crore. This mission focuses on leveraging technology to improve farmers' lives through initiatives like the Agri Stack and Krishi Decision Support System.

The Agri Stack is a key component of the Digital Agriculture Mission (DAM) in India. It aims to create a comprehensive digital database to support and enhance agricultural activities.

The Agri Stack will create a comprehensive database of farmers, land usage, and crop patterns, while the Krishi Decision Support System will use geospatial data and weather information to help farmers make informed decisions.

The 7 Agricultural Projects approved are:

1. Digital Agriculture Mission (DAM): ₹2,817 crore

Focuses on integrating modern technologies like AI and big data into farming to improve decision-making and efficiency.

2. Crop Science for Food and Nutritional Security: ₹3,979 crore

Aims to enhance research and education in agriculture, manage plant genetic resources, and improve genetic traits for food and fodder crops.

3. Strengthening Agricultural Education and Management: ₹2,291 crore

Modernizes agricultural education in line with the New Education Policy 2020, incorporating digital public infrastructure, AI, big data, and remote sensing.

4. Sustainable Livestock Health and Production: ₹1,702 crore

Focuses on improving livestock health and production to enhance the quality and quantity of animal-based food products.

5. Sustainable Development of Horticulture: ₹860 crore

Promotes the growth of horticulture to diversify agricultural production and increase farmers' income.

6. Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) and Natural Resource Management: ₹1,202 crore

Strengthens the network of KVKs and focuses on sustainable management of natural resources.

7. Natural Resource Management: ₹1,115 crore

Aims to ensure the sustainable use and management of natural resources in agriculture.

Overall, these projects are designed to modernize and enhance various aspects of agriculture, ensuring a sustainable and resilient future for the sector.

These projects are part of the government's broader strategy to enhance agricultural productivity and resilience, ensuring a sustainable future for the sector.

The seven agricultural projects approved by the Indian government are designed to modernize and enhance various aspects of agriculture, ensuring a sustainable and resilient future for the sector.

Mahindra to Skill 500 Women to Become Drone Pilots; Inks MoU With Ministry

Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., a leading farm equipment company, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) to launch the Drone Didi Yojana. This initiative aims to train 15,000 women to operate drones for agricultural purposes, such as fertilizer sowing, crop monitoring, and seed sowing.

The program will conduct two pilot projects at the National Skill Training Institutes (NSTI) in Hyderabad and Noida. These pilots are designed to skill 500 women in exclusive batches of 20, with a 15-day curriculum approved by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The training will be delivered by Remote Pilot Training Organisation (RPTO) instructors.

Within this partnership, the NSTIs will provide infrastructure for running the training programme, hostel for participants and tap into local Women Self Help Groups and NGOs to mobilise participation. Mahindra Group will provide initial set-up support through simulation machinery/drones, simulator controller, simulator software, Desktop computer with i5 Processor and trainers, and meet the operating costs for the duration of the Pilot project, including the cost of DGCA License Holder Instructors at the centres.

As a further support to the intent of the Drone Didi Yojana, Mahindra will soon roll out Drone training for women at the company’s skilling centres at Zaheerabad, Telangana and Nagpur, Maharashtra.

Speaking about the initiative, Dr. Anish Shah, Group CEO & MD, Mahindra Group said, “Aligned with our Rise philosophy, the Mahindra Group is committed to empowering the women with the skills necessary to join the workforce and achieve financial independence. The pilot under the Drone Didi Yojana represents a first-of-its-kind convergence of women, farming, and technology. We are absolutely delighted to provide technology training to grassroots women and ensure that agriculture is equipped for the future."

Shri Atul Kumar Tiwari, Secretary, MSDE, said, "We are excited to announce our partnership with Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., leveraging their agricultural expertise for comprehensive training. Two NSTIs in Hyderabad and Noida have been chosen for the pilot program, with the goal of empowering rural women in agriculture. This collaboration advances our mission of upskilling women for nation-building, particularly through the successful implementation of the Drone Didi program in empowering women in emerging trades. I firmly believe that this collaboration with Mahindra will advance our vision, equipping women with the skills needed to contribute to nation-building. Building on our past successful collaborations with leading technology industry partners, this initiative represents the beginning of many collaborative projects with Mahindra. Through rigorous training methodologies and hands-on learning experiences, we will equip our students with the practical skills and competencies required to excel in their chosen fields and make meaningful contributions to the nation's socio-economic growth."

This partnership represents a unique convergence of women, farming, and technology, and is aligned with Mahindra's Rise philosophy, which is committed to empowering women to join the workforce and achieve financial independence. The initiative also supports MSDE's mission of upskilling women for nation-building, particularly through the successful implementation of the Drone Didi program in empowering women in emerging trades.

LTIMindtree and Farmers Edge Launch Farmers Edge Innovation Lab (FEIL) in Mumbai

Farmers Edge and LTIMindtree Unveil FEIL – Mumbai: A Pioneering Agricultural Innovation Hub Redefining Farming in India

Farmers Edge, a pure-play digital agriculture company, and LTIMindtree [NSE: LTIM, BSE: 540005], a global technology consulting and digital solutions company, today announced the launch of the Farmers Edge Innovation Lab (FEIL) in Mumbai.

The newly launched innovation hub, powered by Fairfax Digital Services, is set to redefine agriculture in India. By integrating cutting-edge AgTech with global digital solutions expertise FEIL will secure early victories and tangible results, laying the foundation for scaling generative AI projects.

Farmers Edge brings advanced capabilities in remote sensing and agronomic modeling, empowering farmers, and enterprise clients with unparalleled insights. Partnering with LTIMindtree, FEIL is poised to create a nexus of expertise and knowledge exchange between North America and India. LTIMindtree’s advanced technologies that includes GenAI, IoT, Automation, and Drones, will work towards elevating farming in the country to provide high crop yields at low input costs. The launch of this innovation lab marks a significant milestone in the evolution of agriculture in India, setting the stage for a future where technology and tradition would harmonise to drive prosperity in the fields.

FEIL’s mission is to educate and empower India’s farmers, providing tailored solutions that enhance yields, reduce costs, and ensure a prosperous and sustainable future for Indian agriculture. The lab will focus on key aspects crucial to the Indian market such as:Weather: Analysing weather patterns and their impact on crop production.
Soil: Ensuring a comprehensive understanding for maximising yields while improving soil health.
Crop Cycles: Assisting farmers in optimising field processes to add significant value to the agricultural value chain.

Speaking on the occasion, Vibhore Arora, CEO of Farmers Edge, expressed, “We are thrilled to lead such an incredible initiative for India’s agriculture with LTIMindtree. This is more than just an innovation hub, FEIL-Mumbai will provide the necessary support to the agricultural revolution, creating sustainable and efficient, data-driven solutions tailored to the specific needs of Indian farmers.”

Nachiket Deshpande, Whole-Time Director & COO, LTIMindtree said, “At LTIMindtree, our efforts to build solutions are always focused on fostering an ecosystem where ideas and innovations flourish. With the launch of this innovation lab, our best talent and technology will revolutionise sustainable farming in India.”

“Creative Innovation Lab is a great step forward to bring global technology in India to support sustainable farming practices and enhancing farmers’ yield. Aligned with UN SDG Goal #2, Farmers Edge (a Fairfax Company) and LTIMindtree are poised to uplift the food supply chain, keeping sustainability at heart. As a Co-Chair of G20 Startup 20 Sustainability Task Force, I am very pleased to witness how digital technology is truly creating an impact on the ground, quite literally,” said Sanjay Tugnait, President, and CEO of Fairfax Digital Services.

As a testament to the international collaboration, Farmers Edge and LTIMindtree are facilitating the cross-pollination of best practices from North America to India. The specific goals include sustainability, yield enhancement, and cost reduction for Indian farmers. FEIL – Mumbai aims to create a tailored setup, focusing on weather, soil, and crop cycles unique to the Indian agricultural landscape.

IIT Ropar Launches Deeptech Startup Accelerator Program for Innovation in Agriculture and Water Technology

SAMRIDHI Conclave, a deeptech startup acceleration drive inaugurated at IIT Ropar

IIT Ropar has announced the launch of SAMRIDHI, a Deeptech Startup Accelerator Program. SAMRIDHI, is a Holistic Initiative for ICPS Startups, focusing on the transformative domains of agriculture and water.

The Governor of Punjab and Administrator of Chandigarh, Mr. Banwarilal Purohit, inaugurated a Deeptech Startup Accelerator Program dedicated to catalyzing innovation in agriculture and water technology called SAMRIDHI (Strategic Acceleration for Market, Research, Innovation & Development: a Holistic Initiative for ICPS Startups) hosted by iHub AwaDH, a Technology and Innovation Hubs set up UNDER National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS).

The SAMRIDHI conclave in which five strategic collaborations were formalized, featured five deep-tech innovations. A total of 13 startups shortlisted through rigorous evaluation, presented their ideas while 25 startups showcased their solutions at the exhibition. More than 30 experts spoke on strategic acceleration for market research, innovation, and development.

Dr Akhilesh Gupta, Secretary of the Science and Engineering Research Board; Senior Adviser, DST, GoI, reinforced the efforts taken by the NMICPS to orchestrate the Technology Self-reliant Atmanirbhar Bharat. Mission Director of NM on ICPS Dr Ekta Kapoor, projected the key highlights of the mission leading to CPS technology interventions across sectors such as agriculture infrastructure health, defence, and environment.

Prof. Rajeev Ahuja, Director of IIT Ropar, Prof. Renu Vig, Vice Chancellor of Panjab University, Chandigarh, Dr Pushpendra Pal Singh, Project Director, AwaDH and Mr. Amitabh Nag, CEO of Bhashini Digital India were also present on the ocassion. The event emphasized DST's pivotal role in shaping the future of technology in the region through NMICPS. The Mission has led to the generation of 311 technologies, 549 technology products and created 1613 CPS research bases and contributed to more than 60000 cps skilling.

The conclave organised by IIT Ropar’s Technology and Innovation Hub AwaDH was supported by 46 investment partners, and over 50 jury members evaluated and mentored the startups. Over 110 partners nationwide actively contributed to driving innovation and fostering technological self-reliance. The program is executed with the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India, under the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM – ICPS), reinforcing DST's commitment to advancing technology and innovation.

Mahindra’s Farm Equipment Sector Sells 31,069 units in India during November 2023

Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd.’s Farm Equipment Sector (FES), part of the Mahindra Group, today announced its tractor sales numbers for November 2023.

Domestic sales in November 2023 were at 31,069 units, as against 29,180 units during November 2022.

Total tractor sales (Domestic + Exports) during November 2023 were at 32,074 units, as against 30,528 units for the same period last year. Exports for the month stood at 1,005 units.

Commenting on the performance, Hemant Sikka, President – Farm Equipment Sector, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. said “We have sold 31,069 tractors in the domestic market during November 2023, a growth of 6% over last year. The festive season saw high demand pull in the domestic market, supported by Kharif harvest realisations, with retails being strong during Dhanteras and Diwali. Terms of trade continue to be favourable for farmers; while rural spending by Government and progress in Rabi sowing are the factors to watch out for. In the exports market, we have sold 1,005 tractors." 

Farm Equipment Sector Summary
	November			Cumulative Nov
	F24	F23	% Change	F24	F23	% Change
Domestic	31069	29180	6%	279129	282024	-1%
Exports	1005	1348	-25%	8475	12547	-32%
Total	32074	30528	5%	287604	294571	-2%

*Exports include CKD

Rallis India Powers Its Hybrid Seed Production Process with Mobile App ‘SeedSure’

Rallis India Limited, a Tata enterprise and a leading player in the Indian agri inputs industry announced the roll out of a mobile application, ‘SeedSure’, for monitoring and managing its Hybrid Seed Production (HSP) program. The ‘SeedSure’ app helps deal with critical operations such as data collection and crop assessment during different stages of the crop life cycle.. Seedsure is developed with the help of TCS.

Management of Hyrbrid Seed Production is a complex task for many organisations and inefficient seed production monitoring leads to problems like measurable reduction in crop yield or unanticipated yield drops.

Commenting on the introduction of ‘SeedSure’, Sanjiv Lal, MD & CEO of Rallis India Limited, said, “This hybrid seed production monitoring app marks a significant milestone in our journey towards efficient operations. At Rallis India, we recognise the critical role that technology plays in addressing the challenges of the complex seed production process. 'SeedSure' is a testament to our unwavering commitment to leveraging innovation and technology to solve these complex challenges”

Commenting on the diverse merits of ‘SeedSure’, S Nagarajan , Chief Operating Officer of Rallis India Limited, said, “In today’s times, interventions such as ‘SeedSure’ are important for agri input players as they help seamless data collection, monitoring and management of the Hybrid seed Production program. The robust data collected will help in improving production quality, apart from providing early signals of any production challenges. In future, we aim to integrate it with remotely sensed weather and crop data to support AI/ML based predictions on crop yields at a plot level. It is a robust, data-driven and an at-scale approach towards seed management, which paves the way for improved & predictable yields and quality.”

For additional information about other products in Rallis India’s portfolio, please visit https://www.rallis.com/.

About Rallis India:

Rallis India Limited is a subsidiary of Tata Chemicals Limited and a part of the US$ 150 billion Tata Group. It is one of India’s leading agro sciences companies, with more than 75 years of experience of servicing rural markets with the most comprehensive portfolio of products/solutions for Indian farmers.

Rallis is known for its deep understanding of Indian agriculture, sustained contact with farmers, quality agrochemicals, branding and marketing expertise along with its strong product portfolio in seeds and crop care which is available through vast distribution network of 7,000 dealers and over 1,00,000 retailers across India. Rallis has marketing alliances with several multinational agrochemical companies. Rallis is also known for its manufacturing capabilities and ability to develop new processes and formulations, hence is considered as a preferred partner for contract manufacturing by leading global corporations.

Arya.ag Launches Agri Loans on Blockchain

Revolutionary Initiative Ensures Accuracy, Trust, and Rapid Loan Disbursement in the Agri-Value Chain.

Arya.ag, India’s largest and only profitable grain commerce platform, has launched agri loans on the blockchain. Warehouse receipt loans disbursed on its fintech arm and NBFC, Aryadhan, shall be processed on its blockchain to offer users absolute trust and transparency.

Arya.ag has tokenised commodities stored in its warehouses, and this development now enables it to board its disbursements on the blockchain.

“Trust and transparency are key values for us at Arya.ag. Porting all disbursements on the blockchain while making payments in under five minutes will mark a significant leap in the efficiency of agri-lending services. The blockchain will ensure unprecedented visibility and assurance to control all physical risks in commodity storage and finance,” said Prasanna Rao, CEO of Arya.ag.

Partnering with 35 financial institutions, including banks and NBFCs, Arya.ag has emerged as a key player, managing 7.6 million tonnes of commodities with an AUM of 3 billion USD in the last financial year. “We look at collaborating with other lenders to move commodity-based warehouse-receipt financing onto the blockchain and improve the overall transparency, speed, and reliability of these transactions," said Rao.

Navigating the agricultural lending landscape presents a fundamental challenge of establishing trust between the lender and borrower. Arya.ag solves for this through its blockchain. Arya.ag stands as the trusted custodian for every token generated, safeguarding against duplicate pledges and ownership conflicts. Upon a pledge, a smart contract initiates, allowing banks to assign a distinct identifier for the token lien. This procedure guarantees the exclusivity of each pledge while offering banks a consolidated view on all pledged commodities.

Moving the lending process to a blockchain would not only expedite transactions but also significantly enhance security and trust among participants. The decentralised nature of blockchain ensures immutable record-keeping, making the data transparent yet secure and virtually tamper-proof, thereby reducing fraud and errors. Additionally, such a move would standardise procedures and documentation, facilitating smoother interactions among various stakeholders in the commodity trading and financing sectors.

Arya.ag collaborated with Newrl, a decentralised trust network blockchain to develop this infrastructure. For now, Arya.ag’s ledger has 3.2 million metric tons of commodities stored across 894 warehouses on the blockchain network. Through this initiative, Arya.ag is creating a world of faster, safer transactions not just for big business but, importantly, for smallholder farmers, too. This technology levels the playing field, giving them quicker, more secure access to the funds they need to thrive.

ABOUT ARYA.AG

Arya.ag, India's largest and fastest-growing integrated grain commerce platform, eliminates the trust deficit in the grain commerce value chain. Its disruptive integrated PAN India platform delivers value to all stakeholders by enabling access to high-quality produce, products, and services. Powered by an exponentially growing layer of visibility and control currently stretching across 425 districts in 21 states, 11000 warehouses, and USD 3 billion of grain, Arya.ag offers the assurance of quality supply to buyers and on-time fair payment for their produce and allied services to sellers. It seamlessly embeds finance to maximise value for both sellers and buyers, and the platform facilitates over USD 1.3 Bn of finance annually. More at www.arya.ag