Weekly Agri Dose #04: Breakthroughs, Policies & Global Shifts This Week
From Vietnam’s climate-resilient rice to India’s ₹111.5 Cr Potato Hub – Dive into this week’s top agri innovations, trade updates, and policy moves shaping the future of food and farming.
1. International Agriculture News
Global Tech Transfer Champions Trained at ICRISAT
ICRISAT, supported by India’s Ministry of External Affairs, conducted a two-week global training on technology transfer for 50 professionals from 23 countries. The program focused on bridging the gap between innovation and real-world application in agriculture. Experts from top institutions guided participants on commercialization, legal frameworks, and tech management. Field visits to Genome Valley and BITS Pilani showcased India’s innovation ecosystem. The initiative aims to empower global leaders to turn scientific research into impactful on-ground solutions.
Vietnam’s First Wild-Relative Rice Variety Brings Climate-Resilient Farming Breakthrough
Vietnam has officially recognized Nông Dân, its first-ever rice variety developed from wild crop relatives, after over a decade of breeding efforts. Created through crossbreeding elite rice with Oryza rufipogon from Papua New Guinea, the variety shows strong traits like salt tolerance, high yield, and great cooking quality. Farmers were actively involved in the selection, accelerating acceptance and demand. This breakthrough highlights how wild relatives can offer critical traits to combat climate change and support food security.
Nepal’s Hybrid Seed Revolution Boosts Farmer Incomes & Food Security
Nepal is transforming its maize seed sector by scaling local hybrid seed production, growing from 4.5 to 200 metric tons in five years through CIMMYT and NARC support. Seed hubs in Dang, Kailali, and Kapilvastu have streamlined production, improved quality, and tripled farmer incomes. The initiative reduces import dependence, creates rural jobs (especially for women), and supports food security. Public-private partnerships and government-backed buyback models are revitalizing Nepal’s agricultural economy, serving as a sustainable model for long-term rural prosperity.
ICRISAT Launches ‘Rapid-Ragi’ Protocol to Accelerate Finger Millet Research
ICRISAT has unveiled the world’s first speed breeding protocol for finger millet, named Rapid-Ragi, cutting the crop cycle from 100–135 days to just 68–85 days, enabling up to five generations per year. This open-access innovation boosts millet breeding efforts, especially across Asia and Africa where finger millet is crucial for nutrition and food security. Unlike earlier protocols for chickpea and pigeonpea, Rapid-Ragi uses mostly natural light, making it cost-effective and scalable. Scientists plan to adapt it for other small millets, advancing global efforts for climate-resilient, nutrient-rich crops.
FAO@80: Rome Schools Go Green with New Food Education Drive
To mark its 80th anniversary, FAO launched the “Together for Food Education” initiative with the City of Rome, aiming to promote healthy diets and sustainability in schools. The campaign includes activity books, board games, teaching kits, and guided tours of the upcoming FAO MuNe Museum. Students will engage with FAO experts and interactive exhibits on food systems and sustainability, instilling lifelong values of nutrition, food safety, and waste reduction.
Africa Unites to Combat Crop Threats: $65B Crisis Spurs Biosecurity Skills Push
CABI, supported by ACIAR, organized a plant biosecurity workshop in Nairobi to boost Africa’s capacity in managing pests and crop threats. Experts from 11 African nations, international bodies, and universities reviewed training programs and co-developed a roadmap for skills development. With agricultural losses in Africa estimated at $65 billion annually, the focus was on creating harmonized, multidisciplinary biosecurity education aligned with WTO, AfCFTA, and IPPC frameworks for food safety and trade. Experts stressed prevention, surveillance, and coordinated emergency response systems.
Sulanex Z Revolution: World’s First Patented DG Fertiliser Launched by SML Limited
SML Limited has launched Sulanex Z, a patented granular dispersible fertiliser with Sustained Release Technology (SRT) offering balanced crop nutrition from germination. It gradually releases sulphur and zinc, enhancing early growth, root development, and stress resistance. Sulanex Z suits various crops including cereals, pulses, oilseeds, fruits, and vegetables. Application methods include seed drill, broadcast, and spot application, with a recommended dose of 8 kg/acre. This innovation aims to boost yields, improve soil health, and increase farmer income.
₹111.5 Cr Boost: Agra to Host International Potato Centre for Farmer Prosperity
The Union Cabinet has approved setting up the International Potato Centre’s South Asia hub in Agra with ₹111.5 crore funding to uplift farmers. Uttar Pradesh has provided 10 hectares of land free of cost for the centre at Singna. The hub will develop high-yielding, climate-resilient potato and sweet potato varieties, focusing on post-harvest management, value addition, and farmer training. This initiative aims to increase farmer incomes, enhance food security, and create rural employment opportunities, positioning India as a regional innovation leader in the potato sector.
ICRISAT Unveils Game-Changer in Soil Degradation Monitoring
ICRISAT scientists developed a rapid and scalable soil degradation assessment tool using DRS technology with Sentinel-2 satellite and field data, reducing analysis time from weeks to minutes with up to 81% accuracy. Maps revealed strong links between degraded soils and crop yield losses, with irrigation emerging as a shield in rainfed zones. This cost-effective approach offers high-resolution degradation mapping, a breakthrough for climate-resilient precision agriculture. Future models will assess soil health even under crop cover, revolutionizing farmland monitoring across the Global South.
Chile Boosts Sustainable Potato Farming with New Biopesticide Project
CABI, INIA Chile, and Croda Foundation launched a three-year project to support 300 smallholder potato farmers with nature-based biopesticides. The initiative trains farmers on biological solutions to reduce chemical pesticide use and protect fragile ecosystems. Potatoes are key to Chile’s food security, especially in Los Lagos and Chiloé Island where production is heritage-linked. Climate change, irregular rainfall, and pest risks threaten these systems, making this intervention timely for livelihoods and national food security.
2. National Agriculture News
India’s Agrochemical Sector Eyes $14.5B by 2028 Amid Resilient Growth
India’s agrochemical market reached $11.2 billion in FY2025, projected to grow to $14.5 billion by FY2028 at a 9% CAGR despite a 22% export dip in FY2024. Herbicide exports surged 20% CAGR, with Japan emerging as a key buyer. Major players like PI Industries, UPL, and Bayer have launched key acquisitions, partnerships, and innovations, including sustainable farms, biocontrol products, and methane-reducing cattle feed, shifting strategies for long-term competitiveness.
Kharif 2025: Govt Fixes Fertilizer Prices – Urea at ₹266, DAP at ₹1350 per Bag
Ahead of the Kharif season, Madhya Pradesh Agriculture Department released updated fertilizer prices. Urea is available at ₹266.50/bag, DAP at ₹1350/bag, and NPK formulations from ₹1250–1750/bag. Farmers can buy these from cooperatives, private dealers, and MP Agro centers. Officials advised balanced nutrient use and alternative fertilizers to maintain soil health, emphasizing receipts and MRP verification to avoid overcharging.
India Floats ₹1,500 Cr Green Ammonia Tender to Decarbonize Fertilizer Industry
SECI has launched a ₹1,500 crore tender to procure 724,000 tonnes of green ammonia annually for 13 fertilizer plants under the MNRE’s SIGHT Scheme. Green ammonia, produced from renewable energy-based hydrogen, will replace fossil fuel-derived ammonia in urea and nitrogen fertilizer production, supporting India’s net-zero 2070 goal, reducing import dependence, and creating green jobs.
Kharif 2025 Sowing Jumps 13 Lakh Hectares Across India
As of June 20, 2025, total kharif sowing reached 137.84 lakh hectares, up by nearly 13 lakh hectares from last year. Rice (+4.86 lakh ha), pulses (+2.8 lakh ha, especially moong and urd bean), coarse cereals (+3.25 lakh ha), and cotton (+2.14 lakh ha) saw major increases. Oilseeds, jute & mesta, and ragi saw slight declines, signalling a strong start to the season despite monsoon variability.
Bihar Gets Mega Boost: 50,000 MT Hi-Tech Grain Silo Launched in Khagaria
Union Minister Pralhad Joshi inaugurated a 50,000 metric ton capacity modern steel silo warehouse in Khagaria, Bihar. Equipped with advanced technology, it ensures better grain storage, reduces spoilage, and boosts food security. It is part of PM Modi’s vision since 2014 to enhance agri-infrastructure. Joshi highlighted MSP payments within 48 hours and praised schemes like PM Garib Kalyan Yojana for supporting 80 crore citizens. The project marks a major step towards a self-reliant and food-secure India.
ICAR to Host DialogueNEXT 2025 Focusing on Farmer-Led Innovation
ICAR will host DialogueNEXT 2025 on September 8-9 in New Delhi with the World Food Prize, CIMMYT, and Borlaug Institute. The theme “Take it to the Farmer” emphasises ensuring agri innovations directly benefit farmers on-ground. Farmers will participate as storytellers and change-makers, shaping discussions and practical outcomes. Insights will feed into the Norman Borlaug International Dialogue in the US this October, honouring Borlaug’s legacy.
ICAR-IISR Launches Eco-Friendly Biopesticide for Cardamom Thrips
ICAR-IISR developed a biopesticide using Lecanicillium psalliotae to control thrips in cardamom, reducing yield losses up to 48%. The fungus-based formulation targets all life stages of thrips while improving plant growth and soil nutrients. Field trials in Kerala showed it matches chemical pesticides’ efficacy without health or residue risks. It comes in granular form and is certified by CIBRC. ICAR-IISR seeks industrial partners to commercialise this sustainable solution for the spice industry.
Minister Chouhan Calls Out Fake Seeds & Pesticides, Urges Reforms
Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan flagged rising farmer complaints about substandard seeds and pesticides, urging immediate reforms. Strict quality control measures and certified seed availability were announced to restore farmer trust. Research will now be farmer-driven with scientists working directly in fields. Focus areas include boosting soybean yields via genome editing, mechanisation, and promoting soy exports and value-added products. Chouhan emphasised a unified approach: “One Nation – One Agriculture – One Team” for sectoral growth.
Scientists Develop Radio Frequency Heating to Make Legumes Easier to Digest
Researchers at the University of Saskatchewan developed a radio frequency (RF) heating method to reduce antinutrients in legumes like beans and peas. Traditional heating often fails to deactivate antinutrients such as tannins, lectins, phytic acid, and trypsin inhibitors. RF heating directly heats internal water, creating pressure that bursts pores, improving digestibility, and reducing cooking time to minutes. Tests showed an 81% reduction in trypsin inhibitors without damaging legume structure, retaining nutritional value. This breakthrough makes plant-based proteins more digestible, nutritious, and scalable as sustainable food solutions.
3. Agritech & Startup News
Arqivo Makes a Grand Debut in India’s Agrochemical Market Backed by Tagros
Arqivo, a subsidiary of global crop protection giant Tagros Chemicals, officially entered the Indian agrochemical market on June 15 with a launch in Ramnagar, Uttarakhand. Over 100 channel partners from UP and Uttarakhand attended. Arqivo plans to deliver AI-powered, sustainable crop solutions tailored for Indian farmers. CEO Radha Krishna and President Jobi Eapen highlighted robust dealer training and Tagros’ global manufacturing strength to quickly establish Arqivo as a trusted Indian agri brand.
FMC Dodhylex® Herbicide Gets Green Light in South Korea
FMC secured full registration in South Korea for Dodhylex® active, the first new herbicide mode-of-action in rice farming in over 30 years. Classified as Group 28, it tackles resistant grass weeds with season-long control. FMC plans global rollout to crops like corn, soybean, and sugarcane, with approvals also in Peru and the Philippines.
BASF Launches Heat-Tolerant Canola Seed for Challenging Climates
BASF introduced InVigor Gold, a canola-quality Brassica juncea hybrid engineered for hotter, drier regions with low organic soils across Canada and the US. It offers LibertyLink® herbicide tolerance, blackleg and pod shatter resistance, and exceptional heat tolerance. Field trials showed an 8% yield increase over conventional varieties, supporting farmers and regional economic growth.
Koppert & Amoéba Partner to Launch Innovative Biofungicide Globally
Koppert and Amoéba signed a 5-year distribution deal for Amoéba’s Willaertia magna-based biofungicide, approved by EU states. It targets vine and vegetable crop diseases across 18 European countries and the USA from early 2026 under Koppert’s brand. Both firms plan co-developing new biofungicides, expanding sustainable offerings for growers. Future expansion into Brazil is under discussion.
Agdia Launches Rapid Field Test Kit for Squash Vein Yellowing Virus
Agdia launched a new rapid molecular test kit for Squash vein yellowing virus (SqVYV) using its AmplifyRP® XRT platform, enabling onsite detection within 30 minutes with 98.5% diagnostic sensitivity. This helps growers detect infections quickly, preventing major crop losses.
4. Machinery & Mechanization News
John Deere H Series Redefines Forestry Power and Precision
John Deere launched H Series Forestry Machines, including 1270H & 1470H Harvesters and 2010H & 2510H Forwarders. They offer 25% more load capacity, enhanced boom power, fuel efficiency, and a rotating cabin for operator comfort. The H216 Harvester Head provides advanced cutting features for hardwood and softwood, elevating modern forestry operations.
Case IH Unveils Game-Changing G500V Headers
Case IH’s new G500V VariCut headers enhance Axial-Flow combine performance with widths up to 12.5m. They feature a 575mm variable knife range, synchronized dual knife drive, and increased knife speed for faster harvesting. Hydraulic gauge wheels, quick coupling, and lighter click-on side knives reduce setup and maintenance time by over 50%.
5. Policy & Climate News
Bikaner Raid: Over 15,000 Kg Fake Fertilizers, Seeds & Pesticides Seized
Under Rajasthan’s Adan Gun Niyantran Abhiyan, Agriculture Minister Dr. Kirori Lal Meena led a crackdown on illegal agro-input warehouses in Bikaner, seizing over 15,000 kg of inputs from unlicensed godowns. FIRs have been initiated with strict inspections ordered to ensure high-quality inputs for farmers.
Big Relief for Mango Farmers: Centre & Karnataka to Share Price Loss Compensation
Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced compensation for mango farmers in Karnataka facing price crashes, especially Totapuri variety. Central and State governments will jointly compensate losses on 2.5 lakh metric tonnes of mangoes to stabilize farmer incomes.
Bengaluru Conclave Sparks Climate Action for Greener Cities
At the 7th GRIHA Regional Conclave, stakeholders united to push sustainable urban development under the theme “Innovate to Act for a Climate Resilient World.” Karnataka led as the first Indian state to mandate ECBC. The conclave launched JAN GRIHA, a low-cost green certification tool for small homes, and honored eco-friendly buildings and schools.
IRRI@65: $1.5B Boost & Global Pact to Reinvent Rice for Climate Resilience
At IRRI’s 65th anniversary forum with ADB, CGIAR, World Bank, and Southeast Asian governments, leaders discussed scalable climate-resilient rice technologies. A $1.5 billion ADB initiative and ADB-CGIAR Clearinghouse were announced to expand innovation across Asia.
Thailand Pushes Climate-Smart Rice Farming with IRRI & GCF
Thailand, IRRI, and Green Climate Fund are promoting low-emission, climate-resilient rice farming using drone tech, Direct Seeded Rice (DSR), and digital platforms. Tools like RiceMoRe integrate GHG data into national reporting, supporting Thailand’s climate goals.
Bihar Launches Subsidy Scheme for 33 Sugarcane Machines
Bihar launched “Ganna Yantrikaran Yojana” offering subsidies on 33 sugarcane farming machines from land preparation to harvesting. Farmers can apply online with up to three machines per farmer and ₹10 crore allocated for FY 2025–26.
Free Certified Soybean Seeds & ₹4,000 per Acre Subsidy in Bihar
Under the “Oilseed Mission,” Bihar farmers will receive 100% subsidized certified soybean seeds and ₹4,000/acre financial support targeting 5,000 acres. 355 quintals of certified seeds are distributed free, alongside local breeder seed production for self-reliance.
6. Market & Trade Updates
Cambodia Goes Bananas: 260,000 Tons Exported, 95% to China
Cambodia exported 260,000 MT of bananas in 2024, with 95% to China. The country is expanding cultivation and export infrastructure with 24 plantations and 36 packing units approved by China. Exports to Vietnam, South Korea, and Malaysia are also rising.
Uralchem Eyes Potash Supply Boost to Indonesia
Uralchem plans to restore potash supply volumes to Indonesia, which fell from 20% to 8-10% market share post-2022. Potash is crucial for Indonesia’s palm oil cultivation. Uralchem will rebuild through state partnerships and agri consultancy to local farmers.
India Begins First-Ever Export of Rose-Scented Litchis to Qatar & UAE
India exported its first consignment of rose-scented litchis from Pathankot, Punjab to Qatar and UAE, marking a milestone in horticulture exports. Punjab produced 71,490 MT litchis in 2023–24, contributing 12% to India’s output. India’s fruit and vegetable exports rose 5.67% to USD 3.87 billion in FY 2024–25.
7. Top Jobs of this Week
Cluster Head | urbanfarmsco | Know More
Sales officer (Agritech Sector) | AgroStar | Know More
Territory Executive – Sales | VNR Seeds | Know More
Supply Chain (Female Only) | Godrej Agrovet Ltd (Crop Protection Business) | Know More
Field Agronomist | Krishify | Know More
✍️ Editor’s Note
This week showcased how global collaborations, green innovations, and farmer-centric policies are shaping the future of agriculture. From Nepal’s hybrid seed revolution to India’s rapid kharif sowing and Thailand’s climate-smart rice, agriculture continues to be at the forefront of food security and climate resilience. Stay tuned with us for deeper insights next week.