Seed Act 2026: QR Codes, ₹30 Lakh Fines & 3-Year Jail for Fake Seeds | Indian AgriDose- 2

Leave a Comment / Indian AgriDose, AgriBusiness, India, Investment & Funding, Market & Trade, Policy & Schemes / GrowinAgri

India’s Agri-sector is moving faster than ever—new laws, record imports, rising exports, and climate-smart innovations are reshaping farming and agribusiness. Indian AgriDose – Edition 2, brings you the most important policy, market, and technology updates you need to stay ahead.

India’s New Seed Act 2026 Introduces Traceability, Strict Penalties, and Stronger Farmer Protection

Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has outlined the key features of the proposed Seed Act 2026, calling it a historic reform to protect farmers, ensure seed quality, and bring transparency to the seed system. The new law introduces a nationwide seed traceability system, with QR codes on every seed packet allowing farmers to access full details on seed origin, production, and supply chains.

It mandates registration of all seed companies, imposes strict penalties up to ₹30 lakh and imprisonment up to three years for selling fake or substandard seeds, and strengthens oversight of imported seeds through rigorous evaluation. Importantly, the Act places no restrictions on traditional seed saving and exchange, modernizes the outdated 1966 law using digital tools, and preserves states’ rights in agriculture, aiming to ensure that every farmer receives safe, reliable, and high-quality seeds.

VST Tillers Launches FENTM Tractor Series in Gujarat to Boost Modern Farming

VST Tillers Tractors Ltd introduces its FENTM Tractor Series in Gujarat’s Saurashtra region, offering compact, fuel-efficient, and versatile tractors designed for small to mid-sized farms. With 19–30 HP models featuring 2WD and 4WD options and advanced Load Sensing Mechanism (LSM) technology, the series enhances productivity, torque delivery, and adaptability across diverse crops and terrains.

India to Establish Center of Excellence for Broccoli to Boost Cultivation and Nutrition

The Government of India announces a Center of Excellence (CoE) for broccoli to strengthen cultivation practices, cold storage, processing infrastructure, and market linkages. Highlighted at the Broccoli Consumption Conference India 2026, the initiative aims to promote broccoli as a nutrient-dense superfood, improve farmer incomes through cluster-based development, and integrate cultivation with public health objectives. Collaboration with international partners and private stakeholders will support varietal improvements, technical training, and value-added products, creating a holistic broccoli ecosystem in India.

Maharashtra Farmers Get Relief as Centre Approves ₹2.66 Lakh Crore Crop Loan Restructuring

The Government of India approves restructuring of ₹2.66 lakh crore crop loans for 17.29 lakh farmers in Maharashtra affected by heavy and unseasonal rains. Under the scheme, farmers will benefit from temporary suspension of loan recovery, subsidized interest rates in the first year, and time to restart cultivation. The move follows Maharashtra’s declaration of a natural disaster and verification of eligible accounts by the State Level Bankers’ Committee (SLBC), offering both financial and mental relief to distressed farmers while supporting the state’s agricultural recovery.

India’s Fertilizer Imports Set to Touch Record $18 Billion in FY26

India is set to import a record $18 billion worth of fertilizers this fiscal year, a 76% rise from last year, driven by strong monsoon rains and higher crop sowing. In the first nine months, imports already touched $13.98 billion, with another $4 billion expected in the final quarter.

Above-normal rainfall and expanded winter crop acreage have boosted fertilizer use, pushing overall consumption up by 5%. Urea imports may rise 61% to 9 million tones, while DAP imports could jump 52% to 7 million tones, mainly sourced from Oman, Russia, China, Saudi Arabia, and Morocco.

Rabi Sowing Gains Momentum, Crop Coverage Up Over 20 Lakh Hectares

As of January 16, 2026, India’s Rabi crop coverage reached 652.33 lakh hectares, up 20.88 lakh hectares from last year. Wheat area increased by 6.13 lakh hectares, rice by 4.61 lakh hectares, and pulses—including gram—by 3.82 lakh hectares. Coarse cereals like maize and barley, and oilseeds such as rapeseed and mustard, also recorded significant gains. Supportive weather and agricultural programs have driven the expansion, reinforcing food security and farmer participation.

India’s Sugar Output Surges 22% to 15.9 Million Tones by Mid-January

India’s sugar production reached 15.9 million tones by January 15, 2026, up 22% from 13 million tones a year earlier, supported by higher cane supplies and better yields. Maharashtra led production with 6.45 million tones, followed by Uttar Pradesh at 4.6 million tones and Karnataka at 3.1 million tones. Around 518 mills were operational, up from 500 last year. While production growth is strong, rising cane prices and falling sugar rates are pressuring mill finances and delaying payments to farmers.

India Launches World’s First Three-Way Pearl Millet Hybrid RHB 273 to Boost Yields and Fodder Security in Drylands

India has unveiled RHB 273, the world’s first three-way pearl millet hybrid, developed by ICRISAT in collaboration with ICAR and state partners, to strengthen climate-resilient agriculture in extreme drylands. Officially recommended for A1 zones across Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Haryana, RHB 273 combines high grain yield, drought tolerance, disease resistance, and superior fodder quality, delivering a dual-purpose solution for farmers and livestock.

Multi-location trials demonstrated a 13–28% yield advantage over existing varieties, along with strong resistance to downy mildew, blast, and smut. The hybrid enhances food, nutrition, and fodder security, supports sustainable mixed crop–livestock systems, and exemplifies India’s science-led approach to agricultural innovation with global relevance for dryland regions.

Punjab Agricultural University Becomes First Indian State Agricultural University to Join BRICS Network University

Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana, has become the first state agricultural university from India to join the BRICS Network University, marking a historic milestone in its journey from national excellence to global leadership. This inclusion highlights PAU’s decades-long contributions to agricultural innovation, sustainability, and capacity building. Through the BRICS academic network, PAU will engage in collaborative research, faculty and student exchanges, and joint programs with leading universities across Brazil, Russia, China, and South Africa. The move strengthens PAU’s role in advancing climate-resilient agriculture, food security, and sustainable farming practices, reinforcing India’s presence in global agricultural research and education.

Karnataka Mango Output Expected to Rise 20% in 2026

Karnataka’s mango production is projected to increase by nearly 20% in 2026, thanks to favourable weather during the critical flowering period. After four years of erratic climate, orchards across districts such as Dharwad, Belagavi, Kolar, Ramanagara, and Chikkaballapur are reporting improved conditions. Key varieties include Alphonso, Badami, Mallika, Raspuri, Neelam, and Totapuri. Horticulture officials have advised growers to protect blossoms and avoid chemical sprays or irrigation during pollination to maximize fruit set. Forecasts indicate yields of around 65,000 tons in Dharwad and 50,000 tons in Belagavi, while other districts are also expected to see significant gains, boosting confidence among mango producers.

Centre Approves Purchase of 1.01 Lakh Tones of Chana at MSP, ₹595.37 Crore Procurement in Karnataka

The Indian government has approved the procurement of 1.013 lakh tones of chana (Bengal gram) at a minimum support price (MSP) of ₹5,875 for the Rabi 2026-27 season in Karnataka, with a total value of ₹595.37 crore. Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan urged the state to procure the full approved quantity to support farmers, criticizing past shortfalls in MSP procurement of tur and Totapuri mangoes. Meanwhile, Bengal gram sowing has increased 5% year-on-year to 95.87 lakh hectares, led by Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Karnataka, while Maharashtra saw a decline. The announcement aligns with broader efforts to stabilize farmer incomes and boost pulse production.

Brisil Technologies Raises ₹3 Cr Pre-Seed to Scale Sustainable Silica from Rice Husk Ash

Climate-tech startup Brisil Technologies has raised ₹3 crore in a pre-seed funding round led by Momentum Capital, with participation from Fondation Botnar. Founded in 2016 by Tanmay Pandya, Brisil uses a proprietary zero-waste chemical process to produce sustainable silica from rice husk ash (RHA)—an agricultural waste byproduct.

The funding will be used to expand production capacity, strengthen the team, and scale operations to meet a growing global demand pipeline of 6,000 metric tones per month. Currently operating at 400 tones per month, Brisil plans to scale to 3,000–5,000 tones per month, targeting customers across Tyres, footwear, paints, and allied industries in South East Asia and Europe.

Brisil’s process reduces carbon emissions, avoids mining river sand and quartz, and supports circular economy goals. Its green silica improves fuel efficiency in Tyres and enhances durability in footwear, positioning the company as a sustainable alternative to major players like Solvay, Evonik, Tata Chemicals, and Madhu Silica.

Zerocircle Raises ₹5 Cr Pre-Series A to Scale Seaweed-Based Packaging

Pune-based Zerocircle has raised ₹5 crore in a pre-Series A round co-led by 3one4 Capital and Rainmatter Capital. The funding will support R&D and scale-up of its seaweed-based, plastic-free packaging for food and consumer applications. Founded by Neha Jain, the company targets high-volume segments like QSR food packaging, coated paper, and beverage cups. Zerocircle has already replaced 1.6 million plastic containers across India and Europe and is expanding into new barrier coating technologies.

Bangladesh Food Ministry Approves Import of 2 Lakh Tones of Rice Amid Market Debate

The Bangladesh Food Ministry has issued fresh permits allowing private traders to import 2 lakh tones of parboiled rice, bringing total import approvals this fiscal year to 8 lakh tones. The move comes despite comfortable public food stocks, an above-average Aman harvest, and stable overall production. The government aims to stabilize rice prices, which have edged up in recent weeks, by ensuring supply ahead of potential seasonal fluctuations.

However, Agro-economists have criticized the decision as premature, arguing that large-scale imports could depress domestic prices and harm Aman rice farmers. Importers must adhere to conditions including selling rice by March 10 and reporting storage and distribution details, while the government continues to supplement public stocks. With Aman and Boro production forecast at above-average levels, experts suggest that market-driven price adjustments and domestic procurement could be more effective in supporting farmers and food security.

India’s Frozen Fries Exports Reach USD 7.1 Million to U.S., USD 436,000 to China in 2025

India is emerging as a key player in the global frozen fries market, with significant export growth to the U.S., China, and South Korea. Exports to the U.S. surged 353% to 4,315 tones in the 12 months ending August 2025, valued at USD 7.1 million, though average prices fell 12.4% to USD 1,650 per tone. In China, India exported 271 tones worth USD 436,000 at a premium price of USD 1,650 per tone, highlighting its strategy as a high-value supplier. South Korea imported 151 tones in October 2025 at USD 1,700 per tone, but annual volumes declined 58% to 1,051 tones, valued at USD 1.8 million. These trends position India as a competitive alternative to traditional European suppliers while establishing its premium presence in key global markets.

India Imposes 30% Retaliatory Tariff on U.S. Pulses, Signaling Farmer-First Trade Policy

India has imposed a 30% retaliatory tariff on U.S. pulse imports, reflecting a broader shift in its trade posture that prioritizes agriculture, food security, and farmer incomes. Pulses, a critical protein staple and key domestic policy focus, are highly sensitive to import-driven price fluctuations. The tariff disrupts U.S. exports, forcing Indian buyers to source from alternative countries, and elevates agriculture to a central issue in bilateral trade talks. The move underscores India’s “farmer-first” doctrine, linking domestic production incentives, minimum support prices, and market stability. Beyond pulses, the policy signals a new era where agricultural trade and food systems are intertwined with geopolitical and economic strategy, reshaping negotiations, commodity flows, and investment considerations.

India’s 2025 Coffee Exports Rise 22.50% in Value Despite 4.47% Drop in Volumes

India’s coffee exports in 2025 saw a 22.50% increase in value, even as volumes declined by 4.47%, highlighting strong international demand and higher prices for Indian coffee. The growth in export earnings reflects a shift toward premium and specialty coffee segments, while the slight drop in shipment volumes points to domestic production constraints and changing global supply dynamics. Key markets contributing to the export value include Europe, the U.S., and the Middle East.

Editor’s Note

Indian agriculture is undergoing a decisive shift driven by policy reforms, digital traceability, climate resilience, and changing global trade dynamics. This edition highlights the developments shaping farmer incomes, Agri-markets, and agribusiness growth—from seed security and crop expansion to exports, tariffs, and clean-tech innovation. Our goal is to filter the noise and deliver only what truly matters. Whether you are a farmer, founder, investor, or student, we hope these insights help you make informed decisions and stay future-ready as India’s Agri ecosystem evolves.

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Top Funding, M&A’s in Agritech of this Week | AgriTech Intelligence- 1

Leave a Comment / AgriTech, AgriTech Intelligence, Investment & Funding / GrowinAgri

This week, many AgriTech and related companies received investments, and we have covered summaries of these funding rounds. let’s see…

Equitable Earth Raises $14.7M to Scale Trusted Certification for Nature-Based Carbon Projects

Paris-based carbon markets standard platform Equitable Earth has raised €12.6 million ($14.7 million) in a new funding round to expand its certification programme for nature-based carbon projects. Founded in 2020, the company provides a global certification standard approved under the ICVCM’s Core Carbon Principles (CCPs), ensuring projects deliver verified benefits for climate, biodiversity, and local communities. The funding will be used to strengthen data systems, modelling, R&D, and digital certification tools, grow its teams, expand the supply of certified credits, and develop new methodologies for threatened ecosystems, helping make carbon markets more trusted, transparent, and scalable.

reTyre Raises €7M to Scale Low-Carbon, Fully Recyclable Bike Tyres Made from Ocean Material

Norway-based startup reTyre has raised €7 million to scale its patented injection-moulding technology for producing low-carbon, 100% recyclable bicycle tyres using materials such as invasive sargassum seaweed and oyster shells. Led by Hatch Blue’s Blue Revolution Fund, with participation from Fundracer and existing investors, the funding will support production scale-up, fulfil a growing order book, and accelerate profitability. reTyre’s technology cuts CO₂ emissions by up to 80%, enables decentralised manufacturing near OEMs, and reduces transport emissions. The company will install its first fully automated production cell in Norway, followed by an Asian facility in 2026, and has entered a strategic co-development partnership with Vittoria to launch next-generation performance tyres based on its platform.

Black Bull Biochar Raises £4M to Scale Biochar Production and Carbon Removal Across the UK and Europe

UK-based Black Bull Biochar (BBB) has secured £4 million in late seed funding to expand its biochar production and low-carbon heat solutions across North West England and accelerate entry into northern Europe, including Denmark. The round was co-led by TSP Ventures and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) Investment Fund, with participation from Old College Capital, and includes £2M in equity and £2M in debt from Innovate UK’s Future Economy Facility. The funding will support new production sites, expanded R&D, and the relocation of BBB’s headquarters from London to Manchester. BBB’s pyrolysis technology converts sustainably sourced biomass into high-quality biochar for soil health and long-term carbon storage, while also decarbonising industrial heat systems, positioning the company as a scalable player in agricultural decarbonisation and carbon removals.

UK’s Verna Raises $4M to Use AI for Turning Biodiversity Reporting into Long-Term Nature Restoration

London-based NatureTech startup Verna has raised $4 million to help organisations move beyond biodiversity reporting and deliver measurable, long-term nature recovery projects. The funding round was led by NAP (Berlin) and Übermorgen (Zurich), with participation from Vanneck, Love Ventures, Concrete Ventures, and Climate VC. Verna’s platform integrates existing biodiversity datasets, supports planning and decision-making, and tracks restoration outcomes over decades, with upcoming AI-powered tools to optimise and verify recovery plans. Within a year of launch, the company surpassed $1M in ARR and now serves 3,000+ users across 100 organisations, initially focusing on Biodiversity Net Gain projects and expanding globally as demand for nature-positive action accelerates.

Hydrosat Raises $60M to Scale Thermal Satellite Data and AI Analytics for Water, Agriculture, and Defense

Thermal satellite data provider Hydrosat has raised $60 million in new funding to accelerate expansion across commercial, civil government, and defense markets. The financing includes Series B capital and additional equity, led by Hartree Partners, Subutai Capital Partners, and Space 4 Earth, with new participation from Truffle Capital and follow-on investments from existing backers. Hydrosat operates two thermal infrared satellites, delivering daily, field-scale temperature data across more than 10 million sq. km, and uses AI-powered analytics to generate actionable insights for water management, irrigation optimisation, drought monitoring, and resource security. The funding will support constellation expansion, product development, and deeper regional presence across Central Asia, MENA, India, and Latin America.

USask-Led Crop Research Projects Secure $4.5M to Advance Climate-Smart and Resilient Agriculture

More than $4.5 million has been awarded to 24 University of Saskatchewan (USask)–led crop research projects through Canada’s Agriculture Development Fund (ADF), announced at the Saskatchewan Crops Forum. In total, 39 crop-focused projects received ADF support in this funding round, with USask researchers leading more than half. The funded research spans soil health and carbon storage, crop genetics, pest and disease resistance, protein processing, and climate-smart agriculture, covering crops such as wheat, barley, pulses, oilseeds, and specialty crops. Additional support includes $2.5M from the Strategic Research Initiative for herbicide resistance research and $3.2M in industry contributions, reinforcing strong public–private collaboration to strengthen Canada’s agri-food resilience.

AfDB to Invest €102 Million to Boost Poultry and Crop Production in Benin

The African Development Bank approves a €102.12 million loan to Benin to implement the first phase of its Agriculture Transformation Programme in the savannah region. The project will cultivate 120,000 ha of maize and 80,000 ha of soybean, supporting annual poultry production of 41,000 tonnes. Benefiting 50,000 farmers directly and 500,000 indirectly, the initiative promotes climate-resilient seeds, structured water management, mechanization, and women’s participation, strengthening food security, livelihoods, and inclusive economic growth.

NPHarvest Receives Up to €1.2M from Business Finland Deep Tech Accelerator to Scale Fertilizer Innovation

Finnish cleantech company NPHarvest, which develops fertilizer inputs by recovering nutrients from liquid waste streams, has been selected for up to €1.2 million in funding through Business Finland’s Deep Tech Accelerator (DTA) program. The phased funding is tied to technical and commercial milestones and supports the company’s transition from pilot-scale demonstrations to scalable deployment. NPHarvest addresses nutrient overload challenges in Europe’s waste-to-energy sector by recovering nitrogen and phosphorus and converting them into usable fertilizers. The company’s industrial-scale demonstrator and field trials have validated the performance of recycled nutrients, positioning NPHarvest for broader commercialization across European agricultural and industrial markets.

Grove Secures $5M Seed Round to Build Demand-Driven Fresh Produce Supply Chain in Saudi Arabia

Riyadh-based fresh-produce startup Grove has raised $5M in Seed funding led by Outliers VC, with participation from angel investors, to scale its technology-enabled supply chain. Founded in 2024, the company operates a vertically coordinated model that connects farms, markets, and households while aligning production with real consumer demand. Grove aims to improve quality, transparency, and sustainability by shifting away from volume-driven, intermediary-led systems. The platform reports repeat-purchase rates of nearly 48% and food waste below 5%, highlighting strong early traction. The new funding will support expansion of its demand-driven model across Saudi Arabia’s fast-growing fresh produce market.

Indorama India Secures $72.9M Sustainability-Linked Trade Facility from DBS Bank India

Indorama India Private Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of Indorama Corporation, has secured a sustainability-linked trade facility of approximately $72.9M from DBS Bank India—the bank’s largest single-ticket facility of this kind. The financing is tied to predefined environmental performance targets, enabling Indorama to access capital while reducing energy, water, and emissions intensity across its manufacturing operations. The partnership strengthens Indorama’s liquidity while embedding sustainability into its financial strategy, reinforcing the company’s commitment to ESG-driven growth and responsible business practices.

Tagros Chemicals Acquires Bayer’s Flubendiamide Assets to Expand Global Footprint

Tagros Chemicals India has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Bayer AG’s Flubendiamide (FLB) business assets across Latin America, EMEA, and the Asia-Pacific region, significantly strengthening its global crop protection portfolio. The transaction includes formulations, trademarks, product registrations, regulatory and technical data, and inventories related to the diamide insecticide, providing Tagros access to more than 25 international markets. The acquisition enhances Tagros’ position in the diamide segment and marks its strategic entry into the B2C formulations market through its newly established entity, Arqivo, enabling the company to move closer to end-users with branded products while building a more integrated global presence in agricultural inputs.

Editor’s Note – First Edition of AgriTech Intelligence

Built for Decision-Makers

Welcome to the inaugural edition of AgriTech Intelligence by GrowinAgri! Designed for decision-makers, this newsletter brings you the most relevant insights from global AgriTech, FoodTech, and sustainability sectors.

This week, we highlight major investment moves shaping the future of agriculture — from Equitable Earth raising $14.7M to expand carbon certification, to Hydrosat securing $60M for AI-powered thermal satellite analytics, and Grove’s $5M seed round to scale demand-driven fresh produce supply chains in Saudi Arabia. Strategic acquisitions like Tagros Chemicals acquiring Bayer’s Flubendiamide assets and Indorama India securing a $72.9M sustainability-linked trade facility further illustrate the pace of innovation and global expansion.

These stories showcase how capital, technology, and sustainability are converging to create smarter, more resilient, and profitable agriculture. AgriTech Intelligence distills these developments to help founders, investors, and executives make informed decisions that drive growth.

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Tractor Junction Raises $22.5 Mn to Drive India’s Tractor Revolution with AI & Finance

Leave a Comment / India, Investment & Funding / Abhay Mishra

Tractor Junction, a popular online platform that helps farmers buy, sell, and finance used tractors, has just raised $22.5 million (about ₹200 crore) in its Series A funding round. The money was led by a European fund called Astanor, with help from its earlier investors Info Edge Ventures and Omnivore. The company plans to use this money to make its website and app smarter with AI, open more shops across India, and grow its loan service called FINJ so more farmers can easily afford tractors. Tractor Junction already sells around 300 used tractors every month and has given out loans worth over ₹1,500 crore. With this new funding, it aims to become the biggest and best tractor marketplace for rural India!

About Tractor Junction New Funding

Tractor Junction just got a big boost: $22.5 million (around ₹200 crore) in fresh funding!

This is called a Series A round. A big European fund named Astanor led the investment and gave the most money. Two old friends of the company, Info Edge Ventures and Omnivore, also joined in.

Out of the $22.5 million:

$17 million is new shares (equity)
$5.5 million is borrowed money (debt)

This is the biggest funding the company has received so far. Before this, they had raised only about $5.7 million. Now their total funding is more than $28 million!

With this new money, Tractor Junction will grow faster and help more farmers across India.

Tractor Junction’s Products and Services

Tractor Junction is India’s leading digital marketplace for farmers, offering a full ecosystem for rural mobility and agriculture. Their core “products” aren’t physical items but rather a platform and services that connect farmers with vehicles, tools, and financial support. Here’s a breakdown:

Main Marketplace Offerings

New Tractors: Over 300 models from top brands like Mahindra, Sonalika, Swaraj, New Holland, Eicher, and John Deere. Includes detailed specs, prices, features, videos, and comparisons to help farmers choose.
Used Tractors: Buy and sell certified second-hand tractors through their online listings and offline CoCo (company-owned) stores in 75+ cities across 6 states. They sell about 300 units monthly and have moved over 7,000 in the last three years.
Harvesters: 75+ models for efficient crop harvesting.
Farm Implements and Tools: 580+ attachments (like plows, seeders) and 135+ tools to enhance farming productivity.
Tyres: 120+ options tailored for tractors and rural vehicles.
Commercial Vehicles: Trucks, three-wheelers, and two-wheelers for rural transport.

Additional Services

Financing (FINJ): Their in-house arm, launched in 2024, provides loans for used vehicles. They’ve disbursed over ₹1,500 crore via 25 lender partners, with ₹150 crore monthly across 13 states.
Insurance: Coverage for tractors, implements, and vehicles to protect farmers’ investments.
Refurbishment and Certification: Ensures used vehicles meet quality standards before sale.
Information and Tools: Expert reviews, owner testimonials, on-road prices, and a mobile app for easy access. They also partner with 50+ OEMs and 1,000+ dealers.

With AI enhancements from their recent funding, they’re expanding to 200 cities and building a smarter platform for rural India. It’s all about making farming faster, cheaper, and more reliable!

Tractor Junction Future Plans

With the new $22.5 million funding, Tractor Junction plans to grow fast and become India’s biggest tractor platform. It will expand from 75 cities to around 200 cities in the next two years, open more shops, and sell many more used tractors. The company will make its app and website smarter by adding AI to help farmers find the perfect tractor quickly. It will also make its loan service FINJ much bigger, give loans in more states, and add easy insurance. Tractor Junction wants to double its money from ₹121 crore last year to ₹250 crore next year and help every farmer buy, sell, or finance a tractor easily!

Arevo, a eco-friendly plant food company, just got €7.3 million

Leave a Comment / America, Investment & Funding / GrowinAgri

Arevo, a Swedish company that makes eco-friendly plant food, just got €7.3 million from its friends who gave money before: Industrifonden, Fort Knox Förvaring AB, Navigare Ventures, and Stora Enso. This big pile of cash will help Arevo build a giant factory to make much more of its special natural plant food. The money will also let them improve how they make it and start selling it to farmers in other countries around the world.

About Funding

Arevo is a company from Sweden that makes special plant food using natural ingredients instead of harsh chemicals. They just got a big pile of money—€7.3 million—to build a huge factory so they can make lots more of this plant food and share it with farmers in other countries. The same kind friends who helped them before gave money again because they believe in Arevo’s idea.

About their Products

This special plant food is made from something called arginine phosphate. It helps plants grow strong, keeps extra bits from washing into rivers, and makes much less pollution than the old kinds of plant food that hurt the air. In fact, regular plant food causes almost twice as much air pollution as all the airplanes in the world!

Company welcomed a new helper

Arevo also welcomed a new helper named Maria to their team. She used to lead Sweden’s Green Party and knows tons about keeping the Earth clean and following green rules. With her help and the new money, Arevo is ready to grow super big and help farmers everywhere grow food in a way that’s gentle on our planet.

This funding will help them improve production and sell to farmers in other countries. The special plant food helps plants grow strong, stops leaks into rivers, and cuts pollution, making farming better for the planet.

FAO’s GIAHS Programme: Protecting Traditional Farming for a Sustainable Future

What You Should Know

FAO honoured 28 new Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) across 14 countries, bringing the total to 102 sites worldwide.
The event, held in Rome during FAO’s 80th Anniversary, celebrated communities preserving traditional knowledge, biodiversity, and climate resilience.
FAO Director-General QU Dongyu emphasized GIAHS’ role in achieving the Four Betters – Better Production, Nutrition, Environment, and Life.
Ministers and representatives from countries including Andorra, Tajikistan, Italy, Japan, and Indonesia joined the ceremony along with UN Tourism.
The programme featured a policy dialogue and a “Voices from GIAHS” talk show sharing success stories from six countries.
Launched in 2002, GIAHS now spans 29 countries, promoting agrobiodiversity, cultural heritage, and sustainable rural development.

What is Update

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) celebrated 28 new special farming areas from 14 countries. These places are called Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS). They show how farmers, fishers, and local people use old and smart ways to take care of the land, grow food, and protect nature.

The event was held in Rome during FAO’s 80th birthday. FAO’s leader, QU Dongyu, thanked all the people who keep these traditions alive and said their work helps the world have better food, a cleaner environment, and a happier life.

Leaders from countries like Andorra, Tajikistan, Italy, Japan, and Indonesia joined the event. There were talks about how to support these heritage systems and stories from farmers in different countries. The GIAHS program started in 2002 and now includes 102 sites in 29 countries, helping protect nature and culture for a better and greener future.

Principle Outcomes

The GIAHS program helps protect old and wise farming methods that care for the earth and use resources wisely. It supports farmers and local communities by keeping their traditions alive while improving their income through eco-friendly farming and tourism. It also helps protect plants, animals, and soils, keeping the environment healthy. By learning from these traditional systems, people can find better ways to grow food and face challenges like climate change.

The FAO’s GIAHS program is very important for the future of farming and nature. It connects old knowledge with new ideas to make food systems stronger and more sustainable. By honoring these special farming areas, the world learns to respect nature, value culture, and work together for a better, greener, and safer planet.

Today’s Market Rate Highlights – 12 September

Leave a Comment / Market & Trade, India / GrowinAgri

Cereals Market Rates

Wheat rates

Markets	Variety	Modal Prices (Rs/quintals)

Dahod, Gujarat	147 Average	2825
	Lokwan	2850
	Wheat	2750

Agar, Madhya Pradesh

Wheat

2611

Mumbai, Maharashtra

Other

4400

Nimbahera, Rajasthan

Other

2663

Agra, Uttar Pradesh

Dara

2600

Rice rates

Bangarpet, Karnataka

IR 20

3600

Manjeri, Kerala

Other

4850

Azamgarh, Uttar Pradesh

III

3350

Gadarpur, Uttarakhand

Other

3710

Balurghat, West Bengal

Common

3650

Maize rates

Tiruvuru, Andhra Pradesh	Hybrid/Local	2350
	Hybrid/Local	2250

Badwaha, Madhya Pradesh	Local	1360
	Local	1360

Nakodar, Punjab

Other

2060

Badepalli, Telangana

Local

1611

Bilsi, Uttar Pradesh

Hybrid

2000

Fruits Market Rates

Apple rates

Chandigarh(Grain/Fruit), Chandigarh

Apple

9000

Sonepat, Gujarat

Other

3000

Bhuntar, Himachal Pradesh

Apple

3000

Binny Mill (F&V), Bangalore, Karnataka

Apple

12000

Mumbai- Fruit Market, Maharashtra

Other

11000

Banana rates

Mehsana(Mehsana Veg), Gujarat

Other

1250

Binny Mill (F&V), Bangalore, Karnataka

Elakki Bale

3500

Nasik, Maharashtra

Khandesh

1500

Azadpur, Delhi

Other

1850

Faizabad, Uttar Pradesh

Banana – Ripe

2180

Vegetables Market Rates

Potato rates

Chandigarh(Grain/Fruit), Chandigarh

Other

800

Anand(Veg,Yard,Anand), Gujarat

Potato

1375

Gurgaon, Haryana

Other

1000

Vashi New Mumbai, Maharashtra

Other

1200

Azadpur, Delhi

Potato

1440

Tomato rates

Mulakalacheruvu, Andhra Pradesh

Local

2000

Chandigarh(Grain/Fruit), Chandigarh

Other

2000

Azadpur, Delhi

Tomato

1855

Jaipur (F&V), Rajasthan

Other

2050

Gudimalkapur, Telangana

Deshi

800

Today Spices Market Rate Highlights – 11 September

Leave a Comment / Market & Trade, India / GrowinAgri

Cummin Seed(Jeera) Market Rates

Markets	States	Modal Prices (Rs/quintals)

Halvad	Gujarat	17500
Jamnagar		15425

Mumbai

Maharashtra

25000

Ositan Mathania

Rajasthan

17500

Soanf Market Rates

Markets	States	Modal Prices (Rs/quintals)

Halvad

Gujarat

6500

Mumbai

Maharashtra

20000

Beawar

Rajasthan

7000

Turmeric Market Rates

Duggirala	Andhra Pradesh	10300
		10300

Chamaraj Nagar

Karnataka

8967

Jangipur

West Bengal

16650

Today’s Vegetable Market Rate Highlights – 11 September

Leave a Comment / Market & Trade, India / GrowinAgri

Potato Market Rates

Markets	State	Variety	Minimum Prices	Maximum Prices	Modal Prices	Unit of Price

Chandigarh(Grain/Fruit)

Chandigarh

Other

300

2300

1300

Rs/Quintal

Surat

Gujarat

Other

600

2000

1300

Rs/Quintal

Gurgaon

Haryana

Other

800

1200

1000

Rs/Quintal

Katni

Madhya Pradesh

Potato

1041

Rs/Quintal

Vashi New Mumbai

Maharashtra

Other

1100

1600

1350

Rs/Quintal

Keshopur

NCT of Delhi

Potato

800

1400

1200

Rs/Quintal

Jalandhar City(Jalandhar)

Punjab

Other

100

800

300

Rs/Quintal

Jaipur (F&V)

Rajasthan

Other

700

1300

1000

Rs/Quintal

Bowenpally

Telangana

(Red Nanital)

800

2000

1800

Rs/Quintal

Agra

Uttar Pradesh

Desi

950

1250

1100

Rs/Quintal

Tomato Market Rates

Markets	States	Variety	Minimum Prices	Maximum Prices	Modal Prices	Unit of Price

Mulakalacheruvu

Andhra Pradesh

Local

1300

2200

1800

Rs/Quintal

Chandigarh(Grain/Fruit)

Chandigarh

Other

800

2400

2000

Rs/Quintal

Gurgaon

Haryana

Other

1000

2000

1500

Rs/Quintal

Solan

Himanchal Pradesh

Other

600

2100

1500

Rs/Quintal

Kolar

Karnataka

Tomato

300

1660

1000

Rs/Quintal

Nagpur	Maharashtra	Local	1000	1700	1525	Rs/Quintal
		Other	1500	2000	1875	Rs/Quintal

Keshopur

Delhi

Tomato

2200

3400

2950

Rs/Quintal

Bowenpally

Telangana

Deshi

400

1400

1100

Rs/Quintal

Amroha

Uttar Pradesh

Deshi

2200

2400

2300

Rs/Quintal

Onion Market Rates

Chandigarh(Grain/Fruit)

Chandigarh

Other

800

1600

1200

Rs/Quintal

Surat

Gujarat

Other

500

1900

1200

Rs/Quintal

Batote

Jammu and Kashmir

Other

2500

2700

2600

Rs/Quintal

Kalapipal(F&V)

Madhya Pradesh

Onion

235

1270

900

Rs/Quintal

Devala

Maharashtra

Other

200

1430

1150

Rs/Quintal

Jaipur (F&V)

Rajasthan

Other

1000

1800

1400

Rs/Quintal

Lucknow

Uttar Pradesh

Red

1400

1500

1450

Rs/Quintal

Sheoraphuly

West Bengal

Nasik

1400

1800

1600

Rs/Quintal

Mushrooms Market Rates

Markets	State	Variety	Minimum Prices	Maximum Prices	Modal Prices	Unit of Price
Mandi(Mandi)	Himachal Pradesh	Mashrooms	18000	20000	19000	Rs/Quintal
Palampur	Himachal Pradesh	Other	18000	19000	18500	Rs/Quintal
Solan	Himachal Pradesh	Other	12000	13000	12500	Rs/Quintal
Kathua	Jammu and Kashmir	Mashrooms	13000	14000	13500	Rs/Quintal
Jagraon	Punjab	Mashrooms	7500	8500	8000	Rs/Quintal
Jalandhar City(Jalandhar)	Punjab	Mashrooms	6100	9800	8000	Rs/Quintal

Coriander(Leaves) Market Rates

Markets	States	Variety	Minimum Prices	Maximum Prices	Modal Prices	Unit of Price

Rajkot(Veg.Sub Yard)

Gujarat

Coriander

1000

4000

2500

Rs/Quintal

Indore(F&V)

Madhya Pradesh

Coriander

1000

4000

2500

Rs/Quintal

Ahmednagar

Maharashtra

Other

Rs/Quintal

Jaipur (F&V)

Rajasthan

Coriander

3000

4000

3500

Rs/Quintal

Green Chilli Market Rates

Markets	States	Variety	Minimum Prices	Maximum Prices	Modal Prices	Unit of Price

Chandigarh(Grain/Fruit)

Chandigarh

Other

2000

3500

2800

Rs/Quintal

Mehsana(Mehsana Veg)

Gujarat

Green Chilly

200

2800

1250

Rs/Quintal

Khargone(F&V)

Madhya Pradesh

Green Chilly

900

1400

1200

Rs/Quintal

Nagpur

Maharashtra

Other

2000

2500

2325

Rs/Quintal

Bowenpally

Telangana

Green Chilly

1500

3000

2700

Rs/Quintal

Sri Lanka Raises Onion Tax, Hurts Indian Farmers

Leave a Comment / India, Market & Trade / GrowinAgri

Sri Lanka has decided to charge more money to bring onions and potatoes into their country. Starting Tuesday, the tax on onions went up from 10 rupees per kilogram to 50 rupees per kilogram. They also increased the tax on potatoes. This makes it more expensive to send these vegetables from places like India to Sri Lanka.

Trouble for Indian Farmers

This change is bad news for farmers in India. They grow lots of onions, but they’re already getting low prices for them. Last year, India started sending onions to Sri Lanka again after a break. Now, Sri Lanka’s new tax might make it harder for Indian farmers to sell their onions there.

Sri Lanka’s Farmers Are Happy

Farmers in Sri Lanka are excited about this decision. They’ve been asking their government to raise taxes on imported vegetables for a long time. They say it’s tough to sell their own vegetables when cheaper ones come from other countries. A special report from Sri Lanka’s food safety team helped make this happen. It showed how imported vegetables affect local farmers.

How Much Are the New Taxes?

Here are the new taxes Sri Lanka is charging:

Potatoes: 20 rupees per kilogram
Red onions: 50 rupees per kilogram
Big onions: 10 rupees per kilogram
Sri Lanka hasn’t shared an official announcement yet, but people think it’s coming soon.

India’s Help Last Year

Last year, in April 2024, India allowed 10,000 tons of onions to be sent to Sri Lanka. This was part of a friendly “Neighborhood First” plan to help Sri Lanka during their New Year celebrations. But now, Sri Lanka’s new tax could make things harder for Indian farmers who depend on selling their onions.

Chhattisgarh Approves Rs 9.49 Crore for Irrigation Projects

Leave a Comment / India, Policy & Schemes / Arpit Pandey

In Jashpur, Chhattisgarh, farmers are getting a big help! The Chief Minister, Vishnu Dev Sai, has approved three special projects to fix old irrigation systems. These projects will cost Rs 9.49 crore and make farming easier for many people.

What Are These Projects?

The government is fixing three important water projects:

Konpara (Daltoli Dam) in Farsabahar: This will get Rs 3.47 crore to repair it.
Soro Diversion Scheme in Bagicha: This will get Rs 3.46 crore to make it better.
Ankira Pond Scheme in Farsabahar: This will get Rs 2.55 crore to fix it up.

How Will This Help Farmers?

These projects will bring more water to the fields. Farmers will have enough water to grow crops all year. This means they can grow more food and earn more money. It’s like giving their farms a big drink of water to stay healthy!

Saving Water and Growing Strong

Fixing these water systems will also help save water. Even if there’s a drought, farmers can still grow their crops. This will make farming stronger and help villages earn more money. Farmers will also learn new ways to grow crops better.

Uttar Pradesh Bans 11 Pesticides to Protect Basmati Rice Quality and Exports

Leave a Comment / India, Market & Trade / Arpit Pandey

The Uttar Pradesh government has made a big decision to keep Basmati rice special and safe. Starting August 1, they have banned 11 harmful pesticides in 30 districts for 60 days. This is to make sure the rice stays good for eating and selling to other countries.

Why the Ban?

Basmati rice is famous for its long grains and yummy smell. India sends a lot of it to countries like Europe, America, and others. These countries check the rice carefully to make sure it doesn’t have too many pesticide leftovers. If they find too much, they send the rice back, which is bad for farmers and India’s reputation. These pesticides can also harm people’s health.

The banned pesticides have tricky names like Tricyclazole, Buprofezin, and others. The ban is in 30 districts, like Hathras, Aligarh, Meerut, and Bareilly, where Basmati rice has a special tag called GI (Geographical Indication). This tag means the rice is unique to these places.

Why Do Farmers Use Pesticides?

Farmers use pesticides to protect their rice from diseases and bugs, like Blast Disease or Bacterial Leaf Blight. But if they use the wrong amount or spray too close to harvest time, some pesticide stays in the rice. This can cause other countries to reject it. For example, Europe allows only a tiny bit of pesticide (0.01 parts per million), while America allows 0.3, and Japan allows 0.8. Farmers need to be very careful!

What Should Farmers Do?

To keep Basmati rice safe and sellable, farmers should:

Use only pesticides suggested by agriculture experts or universities.

Use the right amount of pesticide.

Wait long enough after spraying before cutting the rice, as written on the pesticide label.

The government has warned that anyone selling these banned pesticides will face strict punishment under the Insecticides Act of 1968.

Why Basmati Is Special?

Basmati rice is loved worldwide for its taste and smell. India is the biggest rice exporter, and Basmati is a star! It grows in special areas, including parts of Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Haryana, which have the GI tag. This ban will help keep Basmati rice safe, healthy, and famous around the world!

Bonsai Robotics Boosts Team to Revolutionize Farming

Leave a Comment / America, AgriTech / GrowinAgri

Bonsai Robotics, a company creating smart machines for farmers, is making big moves! They’ve added new leaders to their team and bought another company called farm-ng to make farming easier with high-tech tools.

What’s Happening?

Bonsai Robotics welcomed a group of experts to lead their mission. These leaders know a lot about farming, robots, and computers. In July, Bonsai also bought farm-ng, a company that builds electric farm machines. This helps Bonsai offer more solutions to farmers.

Why It Matters

Bonsai is working on machines that can think for themselves using cameras and computers. These machines:

Work in tough spots, like dusty fields or places with no GPS.
Fit on old tractors or new electric machines, like the Bonsai Amiga.
Team up to get jobs done faster.
Share information to help farmers save money and grow better crops.

Who’s on the Team?

The new leaders bring tons of experience:

Tyler Niday, CEO: Built machines at John Deere and Blue River.
Ugur Oezdemir, CTO: Expert in making machines “see” with cameras.
John Teeple, COO: Ran tech projects at John Deere.
Matt Pigeon, CFO: Manages money for big companies.
Gary Bradski, Chief Science Officer: Created OpenCV, a tool that helps computers understand pictures.
Brendan Dowdle, Chief Business Officer: Used to lead farm-ng and now helps sell Bonsai’s machines.
Arlen Frew, CRO: Knows how to get new tech to farmers.

Looking Ahead

Bonsai is already testing its machines on crops like fruits and veggies. These machines help farmers who don’t have enough workers and make farming cheaper and faster. With their new team and farm-ng’s tech, Bonsai is ready to change farming for the better!

Areca Nut Farmers to Get Help for Virus Damage

Clearing Up Confusion About Areca Nuts

A report from the World Health Organization (WHO) caused some confusion about areca nuts from Karnataka. Some people thought it might cause cancer. The minister said scientists are testing the nuts to prove they are safe. They will share their findings soon.

Areca Nuts Are Important in India

Minister Chouhan said areca nuts have been used in India for a long time, especially in special ceremonies and traditions. They are also used in Ayurvedic and animal medicines because they have helpful substances.

Helping Farmers with Virus Damage

The minister said the government is serious about helping farmers who lost their areca nut crops because of a virus called Aerolif. Scientists are working on solutions to stop this disease and provide farmers with healthy plants. The government is also looking into ways to pay farmers for their losses.

Visiting Karnataka

Minister Chouhan plans to visit Karnataka with scientists and experts to check on the situation and make plans to improve areca nut farming.

India Leads in Areca Nut Production

India is the world’s biggest producer of areca nuts, making up 63% of the global supply. In 2023-24, India grew about 1.4 million tons of areca nuts on 949,000 hectares of land. Karnataka is the top state, producing 1 million tons on 676,000 hectares. Other states like Kerala, Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, West Bengal, and Tamil Nadu also grow areca nuts. About 6 million people in India depend on areca nut farming, and the crop is worth around ₹58,664 crore.

Exports and Imports

In 2023-24, India exported 10,637 tons of areca nuts worth ₹400 crore to countries like the UAE, Vietnam, Nepal, Malaysia, and the Maldives. To protect local farmers, the government has put a 100% tax on imported areca nuts and raised the minimum import price to ₹351 per kilogram. Officials are also checking the quality of imported nuts carefully.

Support Programs for Farmers

The government has set up a scientific committee to study diseases like Yellow Leaf Disease (YLD) and Leaf Spot Disease (LSD) that harm areca nuts. In 2024-25, ₹37 crore was given to Karnataka to help with these problems. For 2025-26, ₹8.6 crore was given for special programs. A ₹63.16 crore project for 2024-27 will help manage LSD in 10 areas of Karnataka. Another ₹9.99 crore project with 16 agencies is researching areca nuts and their effects on health.

The government is also running programs to teach farmers better ways to grow areca nuts and increase their income.

Conclusion

The Indian government is working hard to support areca nut farmers by addressing virus damage, improving crop quality, and protecting the industry from illegal imports. With scientific research, financial aid, and plans to visit affected areas, Minister Chouhan and his team are committed to helping farmers and ensuring the areca nut industry stays strong. These efforts will help millions of farmers and keep areca nuts an important part of India’s culture and economy.

India’s New Shield for Pigeon pea – Fighting a Crop-Killing Disease

Why This Is Important

Saves pigeon pea crops from major damage
Helps farmers grow more and earn better
Supports farming that can handle climate challenges
Keeps India’s food supply strong and secure

This is another proud achievement for ICAR and its partners, showing how science can protect farmers and make agriculture stronger for the future.

India’s Big Fish Farming First – Giant Trevally Success

Leave a Comment / Aquaculture, India / GrowinAgri

Scientists at the ICAR–Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) have done something no one in the world has ever done before – they have raised the Giant Trevally (Caranx ignobilis), a valuable sea fish, all the way from tiny babies (larvae) to healthy adults, without catching them from the wild.

And that’s not all – for the first time in India, they have made captive-bred seeds of this fish, which means baby fish ready to grow in farms.

These fish were grown in brackishwater cages at Kollam. Brackishwater is a mix of fresh water and salty sea water. The Giant Trevally grew super fast and could handle different salt levels even better than popular fish like silver pompano and cobia.

In 2024, these baby fish were given to farmers in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. Now, more coastal families can earn money from fish farming without harming the ocean’s natural fish populations.

Why It Is Important:

1. It Protects wild fish
2. It Helps fishermen and their families earn more
3. It Keeps oceans healthy
4. It Makes India a leader in fish farming

This is a proud moment for India and a big step in making our blue economy – the part of the economy that comes from the sea – more sustainable and science-driven.

Tamil Nadu Helps Over 1.5 Crore Farmers Check Soil Health

How Do Farmers Get These Soil Health Cards?

The government made a smart plan. They made sure all farmers, even small and poor ones, got their cards on time.

Special vans called Mobile Soil Testing Labs (MSTL) go to villages.
These vans collect soil, test it, and give the report with useful tips.
Farmers also get help from Krishi Sakhis (Agri volunteers) and ATMA officers who teach them in village meetings.

Before planting seasons like Kharif and Rabi, farmers get advice from Village Agriculture Groups.

Some Soils Need Extra Help

Most of the land in Tamil Nadu is healthy. But in some places, the soil has problems. For those areas, experts give special advice to fix the soil.

36 Soil Labs Are Now Very Modern

To make soil testing better, Tamil Nadu upgraded 36 big soil labs with new machines. These labs are now approved by the National Board (NABL).

The labs use high-tech tools like:

Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (AAS)
ICP Spectrophotometer

And guess what? Farmers can now see their soil test reports online on the Soil Health Card portal!

10 Lakh Solar Pumps for Our Farmers

Leave a Comment / India, Policy & Schemes / GrowinAgri

Big step for farmers! The Madhya Pradesh government has launched a major campaign to install 10 lakh solar pumps across the state by next year. This move aims to reduce farmers’ dependence on electricity and diesel, while making irrigation easier and more affordable.

What Are Solar Pumps?

Solar pumps use sunlight to pump water from wells or underground sources to the fields. Unlike traditional pumps, they don’t require grid electricity or fuel. This means zero power cuts, lower costs, and clean energy.

Up to 90% Subsidy for Farmers

Under the “Pradhan Mantri Krishak Mitra Surya Yojana”, farmers can get up to 90% subsidy on solar pumps. The remaining 10% is paid by the farmer. This support is being provided by both central and state governments.

This makes solar pumps affordable, even for small and marginal farmers.

What Did the CM Say?

Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav recently reviewed the project in a meeting with the Department of New and Renewable Energy. He directed officials to ensure that farmers get the full benefit of schemes like the PM-KUSUM Yojana, and that all related departments work together to meet the 10 lakh pump target.

Why This Matters

Reduced electricity bills
Reliable irrigation – no power cuts or diesel issues
Eco-friendly solution
Increased awareness among farmers
Future opportunity to sell extra solar energy

What’s Next?

The pump installation will be done in phases, and awareness drives will be conducted across rural areas. This campaign is expected to transform irrigation practices and empower farmers with energy independence.

This initiative isn’t just about pumps – it’s about energy security, savings, and self-reliance for farmers. With sunlight as their new partner, the future of farming in Madhya Pradesh looks bright and sustainable.

Autonomous Mushroom Harvesting Company 4AG Robotics Raises $40M CAD

Leave a Comment / Investment & Funding, AgriTech, America / GrowinAgri

Great news for Mushroom industry, worldwide; because an autonomous mushroom harvesting company, 4AG Robotics raises $40M CAD.

About 4AG Robotics

4AG Robotics a Canadian Company which is working with robotics for mushroom industry. this company help mushroom growers for harvesting mushrooms with their autonomous robots. their robots currently operate in Canada, Ireland, and Australia, with launches planned in the U.S. and Netherlands.

About Funding

This investment $40M CAD is series B funding round. this financing to accelerate production and global expansion. The round was led by Astanor and Cibus Capital, with participation from Voyager Capital and continued support from InBC, Emmertech, BDC Industrial Innovation Fund, the Jim Richardson Family Office, Stray Dog Capital, and Seraph Group. The new funding brings the company’s total capital raised to $57.5 million in two years.

Target is $60 billion Industry

According to 4AG, The global mushroom market is set to grow exponentially, reaching a projected value of $60 billion by 2030. However, as demand surges, the industry faces a stark reality: a growing gap in labor availability.

Future Plans of 4AG

Plan is clear of 4AG Robotics. global expansion & innovation in their technology. what you think about this 4AG Robotics and their technology and this investment also; comment below!

Today’s Top 7 Agri Updates | 22 July 2025

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1. China Reaffirms Food Security at 16th International Agri-Trade Policy Conference

Beijing hosted the 16th International Agricultural Trade Policy Conference on July 15, bringing together leaders from the WTO, FAO, and various international diplomats. Vice Minister Zhang Zhili reiterated China’s commitment to bolstering food security through a dual strategy of robust domestic production and moderate imports. Amid rising global protectionism, geopolitical conflicts, and climate change, the conference underscored the importance of multilateral collaboration, resilient supply chains, and advancing green transformation in agriculture. The 2025 China Agro-Trade Report was also released, setting a strategic path for China’s engagement in global agriculture.

2. India Set to Boost Global Pulse Production by 8 Million Tonnes by 2034

India is projected to contribute an additional 8 million tonnes of pulses to global output by 2034. This forecast from the OECD-FAO Outlook attributes growth to:

Hybrid seed adoption
Enhanced mechanization
Supportive policies for farmers
Wider intercropping practices by smallholders

Per capita pulse consumption in India is set to reach 8.6kg annually by 2034, promising improved nutrition and increased farmer incomes. India’s leadership solidifies Asia’s pivotal role in meeting the world’s rising pulse demand.

3. Kharif Sowing Momentum: 708 Lakh Hectares Surpassed, Cotton Down

As of July 18, 2025, India’s Kharif sowing covered 708.31 lakh hectares, up nearly 28 lakh hectares year-on-year. Key highlights:

Rice: Registered the highest growth, up by 19.47 lakh hectares.
Coarse Cereals & Pulses: Expanded significantly.
Cotton: Acreage declined by 3 lakh hectares, attributed to market price volatility and delayed monsoons.
Soybean: Area fell, but groundnut and bajra recorded gains.

Despite setbacks in cotton and oilseeds, India’s overall Kharif season displays solid momentum.

4. Chhattisgarh Acts Against Fertilizer and Seed Black Marketing

Cracking down on black marketing, Chhattisgarh authorities conducted surprise raids in Bilaspur district:

Notices issued to three dealers for unauthorized sales and billing irregularities.
One license suspended for 15 days over non-compliance.
Warehouses sealed and sales banned for regulatory violations.

A mandatory POS (Point-of-Sale) system for all fertilizer transactions is now enforced, protecting farmers from adulteration and unfair practices.

5. Google Unveils AMED AI Tool for Indian Farmers

Google, in partnership with IIT Kharagpur under the Amplify Initiative, introduced AMED API—an AI-driven tool designed to help Indian farmers:

Monitor crops and farmland in real time using satellite imagery and machine learning.
Identify crops, measure fields, and detect sowing/harvest dates.

While initial adoption is slow due to income constraints and fragmented landholdings, the tool aims to boost productivity and resilience for Indian farmers. Notably, it also supports India’s linguistic and cultural diversity through tailored AI datasets.

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6. Bihar Announces ₹50,000 per Hectare Fruit Cultivation Subsidy

The Bihar government has launched a new subsidy—₹50,000 per hectare—to promote commercial fruit farming (guava, amla, apple ber, lemon) under its Crop Diversification Programme. Key features:

Covers 50% of the ₹1 lakh cultivation cost, split into two installments.
Available for up to 4 hectares per eligible farmer.
Online, first-come-first-served application to ensure transparency.

This scheme aims to increase farmer incomes and promote climate-resilient, high-return horticulture.

7. Gujarat Mango Exports Surge, Gir Kesar in Spotlight

Gujarat has exported 3,000 tons of mangoes in the last five years, with a record 29% shipped in 2024-25 alone. The famed Gir Kesar mango, protected by GI tag, is seeing heightened global demand—especially in the US and South Africa. Other highlights:

Mango production climbed 21% from 2021-22 to 2023-24.
Cultivation area increased by 8.4%.
Amreli district led with 8.16 tons/hectare productivity.
An irradiation facility in Bavla improved export quality, treating 805 tons of mangoes since 2019.

Women in agribusiness: success stories and opportunities

Leave a Comment / AgriBusiness / Bishnu Priya Gouda

The concept of independent women or working women is not new. I have seen my grandmothers working in the fields, farming, and no one questioned them. Women in agriculture or agribusiness is not a new concept. However, the fact is that women in agriculture have often faced family financial instability in the farming community. Nevertheless, women nowadays are proving them wrong, making it a norm, and we have the proof with us.

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Success Stories and Opportunities

Some great examples of women’s empowerment in the agriculture field:

Nethra’s Story of Vaaradhi Farm

Nethra Reddy, the founder of Vaaradhi Farms, is an entrepreneur with a passion for organic farming and a sustainable lifestyle. Nethra, an agripreneur from Andhra Pradesh, is currently on the journey of building an organic and sustainable brand. She brings the goodness of nature to your table.

She has a lot of products — from raw organic vegetables to ghee pickles, raw natural honey, lip balms, etc., all organic and natural.

Nethra presents how agriculture can be a great and profitable career option for the young generation.

Binita Kumari’s Story of Mushroom Farming

Binita Kumari is a woman entrepreneur who does mushroom farming. She is from an underprivileged family in Bihar. But Binita’s dedication and hard work helped her to excel in farming. She learned mushroom farming from KVK (Krishi Vikas Kendra). She started her journey by procuring mushroom spawn from KVK Banka and completed her first 25 bags.

Binita is not only a successful mushroom farmer but also a great marketer. Her story inspired many women from her village as well as nearby villages. The Government of India helps women farmers in establishing their own businesses.

Remabhai’s Story of Soilless Dragon Fruit Farming

Agriculture is not always about money; sometimes it also works as mental therapy for a lifestyle that is not lazy but active. This is shown by a farmer from Kerala, Ramadevi, a retired zoology teacher. Where people say retirement is the end of your career and you spend time resting, for Ramadevi, retirement is not the end of her career, but the beginning of a new one.

Ramadevi is from Kerala. She started her journey of dragon fruit farming due to its benefits for the heart and eyes. She started farming on her terrace.

She chose to grow dragon fruit on her terrace and decided to do soilless farming. Though it came with a lot of difficulties, trial and error, and experimentation, she was able to grow them successfully. Her tricks worked like magic, and now she earns a good amount of money from dragon fruit farming post-retirement.

Sharmila’s Story of Drones in Agri-Tech

Under the government’s Drone Didi initiative, Sharmila Yadav, a farmer from Haryana, got herself enrolled in Drone Destination and the Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited.

She spent almost 5 weeks studying drones, both theory and practical. She was able to spray fertilizers over agricultural lands and earned a good income by using drones. This is not only the story of Sharmila but also of many other women registered under the Didi scheme.

This is where tech meets agriculture — and, most importantly, small farmers are able to earn from this kind of technology. Women from Varanasi, Haryana, Chhattisgarh, Punjab, and all over India are now part of this movement.

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Conclusion

All the stories above show different kinds of opportunities women have in agribusiness.

Opportunity by value addition to your produce and building a brand — like the way Nethra has done with Vaaradhi Farms. This is not just a farm but an initiative towards an organic and sustainable lifestyle.

Binita’s mushroom farming shows us that mushroom farming is profitable and a great opportunity for women farmers. She shows us that it doesn’t matter where you are from; if you have passion and are ready to work hard, you can achieve a fruitful life.

Remabhai shows us that retirement is not the end of your career but the beginning of a new journey, and age is just a number.

Drone Didis showed us that technology is not only for the privileged ones. Technology can be learned and used at any phase of your life; what you need is curiosity and willingness.

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