India’s farming sector is getting a high-tech upgrade with a new initiative from the Netherlands. This project aims to help Indian farmers produce pesticide-free food using modern greenhouse technology. The goal is to grow crops in a way that is safe from climate changes. The Dutch government is working with Indian partners on this project….
New analysis of trial data from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) is raising questions about two gene-edited rice varieties recently released by the government. These varieties, DRR Rice 100 (Kamala) and Pusa DST Rice 1, were introduced with claims of increased yield and better tolerance to drought and salinity. However, the analysis suggests…
In Finland, a unique experiment is taking place in kindergartens. Children are encouraged to play with mud, dig in soil, and interact with natural elements. This approach, part of a growing movement, aims to boost children’s health by increasing their exposure to the diverse microscopic life found in nature. Researchers believe this connection between external…
The Indian government has introduced a 30 per cent duty on yellow pea imports, aiming to prevent further drops in local prices. This duty, effective from November 1st, is comprised of a 10 per cent customs duty and a 20 per cent agriculture infrastructure development cess. The pulses trade had been calling for a higher…
A controversy has erupted in India concerning two newly developed genome-edited rice varieties. The Coalition for a GM-Free India has accused the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) of manipulating test results and making exaggerated claims about the success of these varieties. These allegations specifically target two rice types: Pusa DST-1 and DRR Dhan 100…
The Delhi High Court has issued a significant ruling, placing a ban on the sale and import of Genetically Modified (GM) foods unless they are clearly labelled. This decision comes after concerns were raised about the potential health and environmental impacts of GM products. The court’s directive aims to provide consumers with the right to…
The Coalition for a GM-Free India has recently voiced serious concerns regarding the field trials of two new genome-edited rice varieties developed by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). These varieties, named Pusa DST-1 and DRR Dhan 100 (Kamala), have been the subject of scrutiny due to questions raised about the scientific process and…
The Indian Sugar & Bio-Energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA) has raised serious concerns about the sugar sector’s future. ISMA Vice President Niraj Shivgaokar stated that a significant reduction in ethanol allocation from sugarcane could lead to distilleries not being used to their full potential. This could also mean less sugar being diverted for ethanol production. As…
India’s natural farming movement is doing well on the supply side. Policies are in place, pilot projects are running, and farmers are being trained. However, there’s a missing piece: strong consumer demand. Without this, natural farming might not reach its full potential. We need more than just farmers and government action; individuals, communities, and ethical…
India is using more herbicides than ever before, and this is causing worry among health experts, environmentalists, and farmers. A recent report, ‘Status of Herbicides in India,’ by the Savitri Waney Charitable Foundation, highlights this increase and its harmful effects. Herbicides are chemicals designed to kill unwanted plants. They were first introduced to India in…
