A prominent farmer leader, Rakesh Tikait, has expressed strong opposition to the recent development of genome-edited (GE) rice varieties by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). In a letter addressed to Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Tikait stated that the Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) fundamentally objects to the introduction of these GE rice…
A recent study by researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay (IIT Bombay) and the University of Hyderabad has revealed that farm size is not the main driver of productivity in India’s semi-arid tropical regions. Instead, access to essential resources like inputs, credit, and markets plays a much bigger role. The study analysed data…
India’s vision for ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ (Developed India 2047) hinges significantly on transforming its agri-food systems. This transformation is not just about producing more food, but about producing it sustainably and ensuring everyone has access to nutritious food. The current agri-food system faces many challenges. Climate change, water scarcity, and soil degradation threaten agricultural productivity….
The state government of Maharashtra has reported a concerning rise in farmer suicides, with 1,183 farmers taking their own lives in the past eight months of 2025. This figure comes despite the government’s claims of implementing various measures to support the farming community. These initiatives include establishing counselling centres, ensuring fair prices for agricultural produce,…
A growing crisis is impacting India’s cotton farmers, with many like Kailash Rao Kadam, a 55-year-old grower from western Maharashtra, deciding to abandon the crop. This summer-sown season might be his last with cotton, a crop that once brought prosperity to his village. The decline in cotton output is a serious concern. For the 2024-25…
A recent study reveals that India’s most dangerous snakes, known as the ‘Big Four’, are expected to move northwards due to changing climate patterns. This shift could significantly impact how India manages snakebites, a serious public health issue. The snakes in question are the Common Krait, Russell’s Viper, Saw-scaled Viper, and Spectacled Cobra. These species…
India’s push for biofuels, especially the E20 fuel programme, is having an unexpected effect on food prices. The price of wheat and products made from it, such as atta, maida, and suji, has gone up by around 10%. This increase is mainly because maize, a key crop, is being used more for producing ethanol. The…
Glyphosate, a widely used weedkiller, may be linked to kidney damage and cancer. A recent study used advanced computer methods to explore how this chemical affects the body. Scientists looked at how glyphosate interacts with different parts of our cells to understand its potential harm. The research identified many potential targets for glyphosate in the…
India is facing a critical juncture where swift economic reforms are essential. The country is known for its slow decision-making process, often relying on committees to examine issues rather than taking immediate action. This approach is no longer viable in a fast-paced global environment. Recent interactions with European nations highlight this disparity. While European leaders…
India has made a significant decision regarding its cotton imports. The government has waived the 11% import duty on cotton until December 31, 2025. This move aims to support the Indian textile industry, which is facing challenges due to lower domestic cotton production. Domestic cotton output has been on a decline. For the 2024-25 marketing…
