Review Of Rabi Sowing Progress & Price Stability

The Union Minister for Agriculture, Farmers’ Welfare, and Rural Development held a review meeting with senior agriculture ministry officials to assess the progress of rabi sowing, monitor weather conditions, and discuss strategies for marketing agricultural produce. It was noted that several key crops, including wheat, rice, gram, mustard, and sesame, are currently fetching market prices higher than their respective Minimum Support Prices (MSPs), which is positive news for farmers.

Government Interventions Maintain Price Stability for Essential Food Items

Tur production is projected to increase by 2.5% compared to the previous year, with government procurement sanctions already in place. Chana and Masur production are also expected to be strong, and Kharif Moong production is estimated to be 20% higher than last year. Similarly, onion and potato sowing has progressed well due to favorable climate.

National Turmeric Board Launched to Boost Golden Spice Industry

The National Turmeric Board will provide leadership, enhance existing efforts, and facilitate coordination with government departments and agencies related to the turmeric sector. This focused approach aims to capitalize on the vast potential for expanding turmeric and turmeric product trade, particularly given the growing recognition of its health benefits.

Conclave in Hyderabad Focuses on Pandemic Preparedness and Animal Vaccine Innovation

Prof. Dr. Vinod K Paul, Member-Health, NITI Aayog, inaugurated the conclave and emphasized the critical need to bolster veterinary infrastructure to effectively combat future pandemics. The Secretary, Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, called for increased investment in animal health to improve productivity and enhance supply chain and cold chain systems for effective last-mile delivery of vaccines. The Animal Husbandry Commissioner, stressed the importance of ensuring vaccine security and pre-qualification for animal vaccines.

Draft Insecticides (Fifth Amendment) Rules, 2024  

The draft rules propose a fee of Rs. 200 per sample of bio-pesticides where the active ingredient is known. The fee for testing/ analyzing bio-pesticide samples submitted by farmers to ascertain quality would be specified in a revised Second Schedule. The Central Government may also consider exempting specific state governments from these fees for a reasonable period due to genuine difficulties.