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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 /

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

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

Leave a Comment / America, Investment & Funding /

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

Leave a Comment / America /

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 /

Cereals Market Rates

Wheat rates

MarketsVarietyModal Prices (Rs/quintals)
Dahod, Gujarat147 Average2825
Lokwan2850
Wheat2750
Agar, Madhya PradeshWheat2611
Mumbai, MaharashtraOther4400
Nimbahera, RajasthanOther2663
Agra, Uttar PradeshDara2600

Rice rates

Bangarpet, KarnatakaIR 203600
Manjeri, KeralaOther4850
Azamgarh, Uttar PradeshIII3350
Gadarpur, UttarakhandOther3710
Balurghat, West BengalCommon3650

Maize rates

Tiruvuru, Andhra PradeshHybrid/Local2350
Hybrid/Local2250
Badwaha, Madhya PradeshLocal1360
Local1360
Nakodar, PunjabOther2060
Badepalli, TelanganaLocal1611
Bilsi, Uttar PradeshHybrid2000

Fruits Market Rates

Apple rates

Chandigarh(Grain/Fruit), ChandigarhApple9000
Sonepat, GujaratOther3000
Bhuntar, Himachal PradeshApple3000
Binny Mill (F&V), Bangalore, KarnatakaApple12000
Mumbai- Fruit Market, MaharashtraOther11000

Banana rates

Mehsana(Mehsana Veg), GujaratOther1250
Binny Mill (F&V), Bangalore, KarnatakaElakki Bale3500
Nasik, MaharashtraKhandesh1500
Azadpur, DelhiOther1850
Faizabad, Uttar PradeshBanana – Ripe2180

Vegetables Market Rates

Potato rates

Chandigarh(Grain/Fruit), ChandigarhOther800
Anand(Veg,Yard,Anand), GujaratPotato1375
Gurgaon, HaryanaOther1000
Vashi New Mumbai, MaharashtraOther1200
Azadpur, DelhiPotato1440

Tomato rates

Mulakalacheruvu, Andhra PradeshLocal2000
Chandigarh(Grain/Fruit), ChandigarhOther2000
Azadpur, DelhiTomato1855
Jaipur (F&V), RajasthanOther2050
Gudimalkapur, TelanganaDeshi800

Today Spices Market Rate Highlights – 11 September

Leave a Comment / Market & Trade, India /

Cummin Seed(Jeera) Market Rates

MarketsStatesModal Prices (Rs/quintals)
HalvadGujarat17500
Jamnagar15425
MumbaiMaharashtra25000
Ositan MathaniaRajasthan17500

Soanf Market Rates

MarketsStatesModal Prices (Rs/quintals)
HalvadGujarat6500
MumbaiMaharashtra20000
BeawarRajasthan7000

Turmeric Market Rates

DuggiralaAndhra Pradesh10300
10300
Chamaraj NagarKarnataka8967
JangipurWest Bengal16650

Today’s Vegetable Market Rate Highlights – 11 September

Leave a Comment / Market & Trade, India /

Potato Market Rates

MarketsStateVarietyMinimum PricesMaximum PricesModal PricesUnit of Price
Chandigarh(Grain/Fruit)ChandigarhOther30023001300Rs/Quintal
SuratGujaratOther60020001300Rs/Quintal
GurgaonHaryanaOther80012001000Rs/Quintal
KatniMadhya PradeshPotato104110411041Rs/Quintal
Vashi New MumbaiMaharashtraOther110016001350Rs/Quintal
KeshopurNCT of DelhiPotato80014001200Rs/Quintal
Jalandhar City(Jalandhar)PunjabOther100800300Rs/Quintal
Jaipur (F&V)RajasthanOther70013001000Rs/Quintal
BowenpallyTelangana(Red Nanital)80020001800Rs/Quintal
AgraUttar PradeshDesi95012501100Rs/Quintal

Tomato Market Rates

MarketsStatesVarietyMinimum PricesMaximum PricesModal PricesUnit of Price
MulakalacheruvuAndhra PradeshLocal130022001800Rs/Quintal
Chandigarh(Grain/Fruit)ChandigarhOther80024002000Rs/Quintal
GurgaonHaryanaOther100020001500Rs/Quintal
SolanHimanchal PradeshOther60021001500Rs/Quintal
KolarKarnatakaTomato30016601000Rs/Quintal
NagpurMaharashtraLocal100017001525Rs/Quintal
Other150020001875Rs/Quintal
KeshopurDelhiTomato220034002950Rs/Quintal
BowenpallyTelanganaDeshi40014001100Rs/Quintal
AmrohaUttar PradeshDeshi220024002300Rs/Quintal

Onion Market Rates

Chandigarh(Grain/Fruit)ChandigarhOther80016001200Rs/Quintal
SuratGujaratOther50019001200Rs/Quintal
BatoteJammu and KashmirOther250027002600Rs/Quintal
Kalapipal(F&V)Madhya PradeshOnion2351270900Rs/Quintal
DevalaMaharashtraOther20014301150Rs/Quintal
Jaipur (F&V)RajasthanOther100018001400Rs/Quintal
LucknowUttar PradeshRed140015001450Rs/Quintal
SheoraphulyWest BengalNasik140018001600Rs/Quintal

Mushrooms Market Rates

MarketsStateVarietyMinimum PricesMaximum PricesModal PricesUnit of Price
Mandi(Mandi)Himachal PradeshMashrooms180002000019000Rs/Quintal
PalampurHimachal PradeshOther180001900018500Rs/Quintal
SolanHimachal PradeshOther120001300012500Rs/Quintal
KathuaJammu and KashmirMashrooms130001400013500Rs/Quintal
JagraonPunjabMashrooms750085008000Rs/Quintal
Jalandhar City(Jalandhar)PunjabMashrooms610098008000Rs/Quintal

Coriander(Leaves) Market Rates

MarketsStatesVarietyMinimum PricesMaximum PricesModal PricesUnit of Price
Rajkot(Veg.Sub Yard)GujaratCoriander100040002500Rs/Quintal
Indore(F&V)Madhya PradeshCoriander100040002500Rs/Quintal
AhmednagarMaharashtraOther6139Rs/Quintal
Jaipur (F&V)RajasthanCoriander300040003500Rs/Quintal

Green Chilli Market Rates

MarketsStatesVarietyMinimum PricesMaximum PricesModal PricesUnit of Price
Chandigarh(Grain/Fruit)ChandigarhOther200035002800Rs/Quintal
Mehsana(Mehsana Veg)GujaratGreen Chilly20028001250Rs/Quintal
Khargone(F&V)Madhya PradeshGreen Chilly90014001200Rs/Quintal
NagpurMaharashtraOther200025002325Rs/Quintal
BowenpallyTelanganaGreen Chilly150030002700Rs/Quintal

Sri Lanka Raises Onion Tax, Hurts Indian Farmers

Leave a Comment / India, Market & Trade /

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 /

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 /

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 /

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

Leave a Comment / India /

The government will help areca nut farmers whose crops were damaged by a virus, said Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan. He held a big meeting in New Delhi with other ministers, lawmakers, and officials to talk about problems faced by areca nut farmers.

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.

Other Problems Being Fixed

The meeting also discussed issues like illegal imports of areca nuts, moisture problems, and price differences for different sizes of nuts. The minister promised to solve these problems in a timely way to protect farmers and the areca nut industry.

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

Leave a Comment / India /

Pigeon pea (Arhar dal) is one of India’s most important crops. But it faces a dangerous problem – Sterility Mosaic Disease (SMD). This disease can destroy up to 90% of the crop, leaving farmers with huge losses.

Now, scientists from ICRISAT, ICAR–Indian Institute of Pulses Research, ICAR–Indian Agricultural Research Institute, and Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University (RPCAU), Dholi have made a big discovery. They have found a special gene called “Ccsmd04” that can protect pigeon pea from this deadly disease.

They have also created 4 DNA markers. These work like special “tests” that help scientists quickly find plants with the resistance gene. This makes it faster to develop and share strong, disease-fighting seeds with farmers.

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 /

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

Tamil Nadu Helps Over 1.5 Crore Farmers Check Soil Health

Leave a Comment / India /

Tamil Nadu has done something amazing for its farmers! Since the year 2015, the government has given over 1.5 crore Soil Health Cards to farmers. These cards tell farmers if their soil is healthy and what they need to grow better crops. This helps them use the right amount of fertilizer and take care of their land.

This news was shared in the Parliament by Minister Ramnath Thakur on August 6, 2025.

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 /

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 /

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!

Agri-Tech: Chinese Agriculture Terrorism, Cancer Train’s Myth, Mung Farmers Facing Problems

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Key Highlights

  • India’s Agri Future Gets a Boost: ICRISAT & IFFCO Join Hands for World-Class Seed Research Hub in Gujarat
  • Mosaic Unleashes Neptunion in China: Next-Gen Biostimulant to Fight Drought, Heat & Salinity
  • MP Farmers Hit by MSP Delay: Forced to Sell Moong Below ₹6,500 Despite Govt-Declared Rates
  • Myth Busted: Punjab’s ‘Cancer Train’ Narrative Falls Apart Under Real Data
  • India & Netherlands Unite for $30 Trillion Bioeconomy Revolution: White Paper Released
  • FAO & USA Deepen Agri Ties: Big Data, Smallholders & Global Standards Take Center Stage
  • Bayer Unveils Super-Resistant Tomatoes to Defeat Evolving ToBRFV Threat
  • FMC & Corteva Join Forces to Fight Crop Diseases with Next-Gen Fungicide Fluindapyr
  • John Deere Unveils F8 & F9 Series Forage Harvesters with Smart Tech and Power Boost
  • New Holland 2026 Combines & Headers: Enhanced Precision, Power & Productivity
  • New Holland Partners with Inchcape to Boost Mechanization in Kenyan Agriculture
  • New ICRISAT Center Drives Agricultural Innovation and Collaboration for Global South
  • Scaling Climate-Resilient Rice Innovations to Protect Coastal Bangladesh Farmers
  • ICARDA Powers Next-Gen Cloud Tools to Revolutionize Crop Breeding Analytics
  • FiBL Transforms Organic Agriculture Knowledge Landscape Across Africa with Digital Innovation
  • Solar Farming Revolution: Shivraj Chouhan Urges Integrated Models to Boost Marginal Farmers’ Income
  • India Weather Alert: Heavy Rain, Thunderstorms & Heatwaves to Hit Multiple States This Week
  • Agroterrorism Alarm: Chinese Scientist Caught Smuggling Deadly Crop Fungus into U.S.
  • Fake Seeds & Fertilizers Crackdown: Minister Orders License Cancellation & FIRs
  • Free Insurance for 42 Lakh Livestock: Rajasthan Launches Massive Animal Cover Drive
  • India’s Agri Economy Set to Hit $1.4 Trillion by 2035 – McKinsey Forecasts Massive Growth
  • Amul Goes Global: India’s Iconic Milk Brand Now Available in Spain & Europe
  • Fake Fertilizer Busted: 600 Bags Seized in Maharashtra, Illegally Sourced from Rajasthan
  • Wheat Procurement Closing Soon: Latest Mandi Prices & Bonuses in UP, Rajasthan & Bihar
  • Advanta Seeds Goes Big in Europe with Strategic Corn Acquisition from Italy’s K-Adriatica
  • Fresh Del Monte Taps Dr. Nizar Haddad to Lead Innovation & Sustainable Growth via De l’Ora Bio
  • 61% Aussie Grain Growers Eye Autonomous Tech—But Cost & Connectivity Hold Back Progress
  • Kubota & Agtonomy Join Forces to Revolutionize Specialty Crop Farming with Smart Machines

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$20M+ Funding Boost: Vestaron Gears Up for Bioinsecticide Breakthroughs

Leave a Comment / Investment & Funding, America /

Vestaron has successfully closed an oversubscribed funding round exceeding $20 million. Vestaron is leader in peptide-based bioinsecticide development. This new capital will drive the company’s expansion in North America and Europe while accelerating the commercialization of its innovative crop protection solutions.

Key Highlights

  • Vestaron secures over $20 million in funding to accelerate commercialization and expansion.
  • The company is focusing on North America and Europe, leveraging new regulatory approvals.
  • BASIN™, Vestaron’s second peptide-based active ingredient, has been approved in the U.S. and Mexico.
  • Strategic partnerships, including a production agreement with ADM, enhance scalability and cost efficiency.
  • Investors show strong confidence in Vestaron’s leadership and commitment to sustainable agriculture.

Commercialization and Global Growth

BASIN™ Set for Full Launch in 2025

Vestaron anticipates that by the end of 2025, it will receive full regulatory approvals and commercially launch BASIN™, This is second active ingredient. This addition will complement the company’s existing SPEAR® product line, providing farmers with more tools to combat pest resistance sustainably.

The company is also exploring further market entry opportunities beyond North America and Europe, reinforcing its commitment to addressing global agricultural challenges.

Greenlight Biosciences Secures $25M in Series C Funding to Drive Sustainable Agriculture

Leave a Comment / America, Investment & Funding /

Greenlight Biosciences recently closed its Series C Funding round $25 Million from just Climate and other investors. Company has taken another major Make rapid progress in transforming the agricultural industry with sustainable solutions. This investment will help in accelerate the commercialization of RNA-based agricultural BioSolutions.

Innovation of Greenlight Biosciences in Crop Protection

One of GreenLight Bio’s most effective innovation is the development and commercialization of Calantha™, the first-ever RNA-based crop protection spray. It offers an innovative alternative to conventional chemical pesticides to potato growers- delivering comparable efficacy while ensuring enhanced environmental safety. This is a Important shift in sustainable farming practices. Calantha™ registered in both the United States and Ukraine

Expanding the GreenLight Product Portfolio

With the newly secured funding, It company is focusing on scaling up its product portfolio. In that two key developments include:

  • Norroa™ – This is a revolutionary RNA solution targeting varroa mites in honeybee colonies. With U.S. registration pending, Norroa™ holds immense promise in tackling the alarming decline of pollinator populations.
  • Fortivance™ – It is a next-generation adjuvant designed to boost agricultural treatment performance while minimizing environmental impact.

According to the Honey Bee Health Coalition, U.S. beekeepers have reported honeybee colony losses averaging 62% between June 2024 and February 2025—underscoring the urgent need for solutions like Norroa™.

A Vision for a Greener Future

With the latest funding round, Greenlight Biosciences is poised to lead the way in sustainable agriculture, delivering innovative solutions that protect crops, pollinators, and the planet. As the company continues to pioneer RNA-based advancements, the future of farming looks greener than ever.

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