Tag: Indian agriculture

  • Vertical Farming: A Revolutionary Approach to Agriculture in India

    As one of the country’s most important economic drivers, India’s agricultural industry is a vital cog in the wheel of the Indian economy. However, primarily due to urbanisation and industrialisation, the amount of cultivable land decreases as the nation’s population rises. The majority of Indian farmers are already working on very small plots of land, and any further reduction would be a death sentence for them. But now, this problem has a clear answer in vertical farming, which, with the help of modern technology, has the potential to revolutionise India’s agricultural sector.

    According to the World Economic Forum, innovations in production technology have brought the concept of vertical farms within reach, making them a viable alternative to farming methods that rely on pesticides and fertilisers. The number of vertical farms in the United States has reportedly surpassed 2,000. These farms can outperform conventional outdoor growing methods while reducing water usage by 70% to 95% and can fit inside areas like buildings or shipping containers. The Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) discovered that different fruit crops in the Delhi region could save about 25% in water and 30% in fertiliser by using the drip fertigation method.

    Researchers at Research and Markets predict that between 2021 and 2026, the vertical farming industry in India will expand at a CAGR of over 20%. As mentioned in the research, vertical farming systems based on hydroponics account for most of the market share because of their efficiency and cheap operating costs.

    Types of Vertical Farming Solutions Gaining Traction
    Vertical Farming Crops That Generate A Profit
    Government Promoting Vertical Farm Culture

    Growing Up: How Vertical Farming Works

    Types of Vertical Farming Solutions Gaining Traction

    The vertical farm setup comes in various techniques and sizes per the operations’ requirements. Currently, there 8 to 9 setups that are most popular in India, such as Vertical Farms in buildings, Container Vertical Farms, Underground Vertical Farms, Hydroponics, Aquaponics, Aeroponics, Rooftop Greenhouses, Soil Based Vertical farming, etc. Using technology in operations such as irrigation, crop monitoring, data collection, spraying of insecticides and pesticides, etc, has enabled cultivators to increase their output by going through precise data collected by installed sensors.

    The National Institute of Agricultural Economics and Policy Research revealed that, depending on the technology employed, the cost of establishing a vertical farm in India can vary between 50 lakhs to 1 crore rupees per acre. Everything from lighting and irrigation systems to fertiliser solutions and the cost of constructing the vertical farm structure are necessary for crop growth.

    An annual operating budget of 5–10 lakhs rupees per acre is typical for vertical farms. Everything from power to water to labour and other inputs needed for crop care and harvesting goes into this total.

    The Indian vertical farming industry is highly competitive, with major competitors such as Fresher Underwater Farms Private Limited, Future Farms LLP, Triton Foodworks Private Limited, and Altius Farms Private Limited. These businesses aim to increase their market share by forming strategic alliances and creating cutting-edge technology.

    Vertical Farming Crops That Generate A Profit

    Certain crops can provide handsome profits to vertical farmers. Crops such as tomatoes, strawberries, mushrooms, peppers, etc., can strike the right chord for farmers. However, a vertical farm in India can grow various crops, not limited to the ones listed above. Demand, weather, and resource availability are some variables that will influence crop selection.

    Since vertical farming allows cultivators to cultivate crops without soil, it has opened a gate for people living in deserted areas. Using technology such as hydroponics, aquaponics, and aeroponics, they can cultivate crops by installing a set-up in their location.

    Hydroponics – Various aggregate substrates and growing media, including vermiculite, coconut coir, or perlite, are utilised in hydroponics, a method of plant cultivation that does not use soil but nutrient solutions based on water. Commercial enterprises, amateurs, and small-scale farmers all use hydroponic production systems.


    Introduction to Hydroponic Farming System and its benefits and uses
    The advanced model of sustainable farms operates on the science of hydroponic farming, a soil-free farming technique. It is a system of growing crops without soil, often called soilless farming.


    Aquaponics – Hydroponics and aquaculture, or fish farming, are combined in aquaponic farming. In this system, plants clean the water for the fish, while the fish fertilise the plants with their excrement. Both grains and fish can be efficiently and sustainably produced in this way. Even in densely populated cities, residents can enjoy a steady supply of locally grown produce and seafood thanks to aquaponic vertical farms.

    Aeroponics – One method of cultivating plants that do not require soil or other growing medium is known as aeroponics. A nutrient solution or aerosol of nutrient solution is misted or sprayed onto the plant roots at regular intervals while they are suspended in the air.

    Market Share of Vertical Farming Worldwide, by Technology
    Market Share of Vertical Farming Worldwide, by Technology

    Government Promoting Vertical Farm Culture

    Considering that most companies engaging in vertical farming businesses are startups, it is of utmost importance for the central and state governments to support these new budding entrepreneurs. Given the promising future of vertical farming in India, the federal and state governments have taken measures to encourage farmers to use it.

    Initiatives such as  Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY), National Horticulture Mission (NHM) and StartUp India are rightly aligned to provide needed fodder to these companies. With PMKSY, the government aims to latch on to the water-saving advantages of vertical farming, which is why it is actively promoting the use of precision irrigation systems and aims to improve agricultural water efficiency.

    Similarly, with NHM it plans to provide financial assistance for the establishment of poly houses and shade net houses, which can be utilised for vertical farming purposes.

    Lastly, StartUp India was created to strengthen and promote India’s startup scene. The Indian government hopes to turn the country into a startup nirvana with this flagship programme. The federal and state governments are working hard to ensure that all aspects of this enterprise are in sync, and they are speeding up the policymaking process to achieve this goal. This includes offering financial assistance to entrepreneurs and connecting them with mentors.


    The Reasons Behind the Massive Growth of AgriTech Startups In India
    The agritech startups have benefited many farmers in India. Let’s look at the growth, initiatives by the government and successful agritech startups.


    FAQs

    What is vertical farming?

    Vertical farming is growing crops in vertically stacked layers indoors, often in buildings or shipping containers.

    What crops are profitable for vertical farming in India?

    High-value crops with good demand, like tomatoes, strawberries, leafy greens, and peppers, are popular. However, crop selection depends on market demand, climate control capabilities, and resource availability.

    How much does it cost to set up a vertical farm in India?

    The cost varies depending on technology and scale. Estimates suggest a range of 50 lakhs to 1 crore rupees per acre for establishing a vertical farm, with an annual operating budget of 5-10 lakh rupees per acre.

  • 300 Smallholder Farmers From Ratnagiri Come Together To Launch Aamoré: A New Way To Experience Alphonso Mangoes

    New Delhi, 15th April 2024Konkan Ratnagiri Bhoomi Agro Producer Company owned and managed by Ratnagiri Farmers, today launched Aamoré – a new D2C brand of Alphonso mangoes owned by smallholder farmers. With a community of over 300 smallholder farmers at its core, Aamoré aims to revolutionize the global perception of Indian agriculture and the iconic Alphonso mango.

    Through extensive collaboration and innovative practices, Aamoré brings the highest standards of quality and freshness to Alphonso mango lovers around the world. The initiative is focused on empowering local farmers by equipping them with the tools and knowledge necessary to produce export-ready fruit. This includes the establishment of state-of-the-art packhouse operations, sophisticated scanning technology for each mango, strategies to eliminate spongy tissue, and comprehensive traceability from farm to fork.

    In the pilot year, Aamoré Alphonso mangoes are making their debut on the world stage, reaching consumers across the USA, Europe, the UK, Abu Dhabi, and select cities in India. The global launch for a product of this nature symbolizes a confident step forward for Indian smallholder farmers. Currently, customers Delhi NCR can order Alphonso mangoes from aamore.co.in.

    Speaking on this landmark occasion, Ravish Chavan, Chief Program Officer, Konkan Ratnagiri Bhoomi Agro Producer Company said, “Aamoré is all about the innovation and empowerment that we strive to instil in our farming community. It is a testament to what Indian farmers can achieve with the right support and resources. By presenting Aamoré on the global market, we’re not just offering a premium product but also challenging the traditional confines of smallholder farming. Our farmers are not just cultivators; they are forward-thinking entrepreneurs ready to make their mark on the world.”

    Aamoré focuses on the two core pillars of the community, the farmer and the consumer. For Farmers, it is an opportunity to realise significantly higher incomes, sustainably and independently. On the other end, for consumers worldwide, Aamoré delivers an unparalleled experience of the highest quality of Alphonso Mangoes; a fruit that is authentic GI Certified and lives up to the promise of being the King of Fruits.

    Aamoré Alphonso mangoes
    Aamoré Alphonso mangoes

    About Konkan Ratnagiri Bhoomi Agro Producer Company

    Konkan Ratnagiri Bhoomi Agro Producer Company is a farmer-owned enterprise dedicated to uplifting the lives of smallholder farmers in India. Through innovative agricultural practices and a focus on quality and sustainability, the company aims to redefine the role of the Indian farmer on the global stage.


    Top 22 Best Agritech Startups in India in 2022
    Agriculture is one of the largest industries in India. Here’s a look at some of the leading agritech startups in India and their funding.


  • India Aiming to Become the Hub of Millet Production

    Recently, the 46th session of the Codex Alimentarious Commission (CAC), an international body established by the World Health Organisation and the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations with 188 member nations, was held in Rome, Italy, and during that session, the CAC commended India’s Standards on Millets and accepted the country’s proposal to create global standards for millets. The international meeting was a great success for India’s newly drafted group standard for fifteen different types of millets, which details eight quality characteristics. Sorghum and pearl millet both have standards in Codex at the moment.

    Just like with pulses, India has proposed creating international standards for millets, with a focus on the following varieties: Finger millet, Barnyard millet, Kodo millet, Proso millet, and Little millet. Attendees from 161 member nations, including the EU, voted overwhelmingly in favor of the proposal at the conference held at FAO Headquarters in Rome.

    In the past, millets were widely consumed in rural regions as a main source of nutrition in India. This was due to their high nutrient density, ease of cultivation, low water requirements, and lack of pesticide and insecticide use. But then the green revolution hit the nation in 1966 and 1967, and the government and many businesses began actively pushing it. But the present administration sees the promise in millets, and they are marketing them as a miracle crop that would end the global hunger and malnutrition problem.

    India’s Campaign to Increase Millets’ Popularity Around the World
    Next-Gen Solution
    Roadblocks Hampering the Growth

    India’s Campaign to Increase Millets’ Popularity Around the World

    More than 102 nations sent representatives to a two-day conference on millets that India hosted in March 2023 when it was the G-20 president. The event took place in New Delhi. Topics covered during the international conference honoring the IYM 2023 included research and development, nutritional advantages, value chain development, market connections, and production and consumption of millets.

    In 2023, India accounted for 20% of the world’s millet production and produced 80% of it in Asia, according to the Economic Survey of India.

    The worldwide average millet yield is 1229 kg/ha, while India’s average production is 1239 kg/ha. Worldwide, India ranks first for millet production and second for exports. A variety of millets, such as Jowar, Raagi, Bajra, Ramdana, Cheena, and Saama, are cultivated in India. With a particular emphasis on millets, the Union Budget 2023–24 promised to transform the Indian Institute of Millet Research in Hyderabad into a world-class center for exchanging knowledge, expertise, and cutting-edge research to establish India as a leading center for millet research. Growing these healthy millets is an important part of small farmers’ roles in improving the health of the Indian population, which was recognized in the Union Budget 2023-24.

    With the start of the International Year of Millets and Other Ancient Grains (2023), India has joined the ranks of other countries actively participating in the IYM initiatives. India’s G-20 Presidency and the FAO’s global activities on millets at the IYM 2023 have helped bring together nations, research institutes, and civil society organizations to work towards the goal of zero hunger, which is the second Sustainable Development Goal set by the United Nations.

    Millet Production Across India in Financial Year 2022, by State
    Millet Production Across India in Financial Year 2022, by State

    Next-Gen Solution

    Over the last 30 years, the United Nations has seen a disturbing increase in the frequency of severe weather events. According to scientists, these disasters have been made much worse by climate change. Sea levels are rising due to the fast melting of glaciers and ice sheets, and extreme weather events such as heatwaves, droughts, and floods are becoming more common. In addition, marine heatwaves have been caused by the warming of our oceans, and the Arctic Sea has seen a considerable decrease in ice covering. The consequences of climate change are already being felt by people, especially in terms of food insecurity. An extra 100 million people might fall into poverty by 2030, according to the World Bank’s climate change predictions. These figures show how urgent it is to try to lessen the impact of climate change on the food supply.

    In this context, millets, which are well-known to address issues of food insecurity, agriculture, and the environment, take on a greater significance. Global experts now support the sustainable development and use of these nutri grains as a realistic solution to mitigate the effects of climate change and ensure a reliable supply of healthy food. As people throughout the world start to realize how bad climate change is, millet is rising in popularity as a possible crop for the future. With a shorter growth cycle than wheat and a water requirement 70% lower than rice, millets offer a complete solution to the issues brought about by climate change. According to the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), millets offer several benefits that other, more often consumed cereals do not.

    Roadblocks Hampering the Growth

    According to ICRISAT, an organization jointly formed through an MoU between the Government of India and the CGIAR, By implementing interventions on the supply and demand sides, taking both the short and long term into account, one must ensure that millet production remains economically viable for farmers. It is important to keep the national food security factor in mind while crafting policies to increase millet production.

    From 18 million metric tonnes in 2018 to 45 million metric tonnes in 2030, that is the yearly production target set by the government for millets. Compared to rice, millet now has a significantly lower average productivity of only 1 to 1.5 t/ha. Therefore, the country’s food security could be jeopardized if there was an attempt to convert rice-growing land to millets without first identifying which areas to target.

    Moreover, according to Tapas Chandra Roy, a certified Farm Advisor on millet, millet processors in India face a problem with the grain recovery rates of the machinery they use, which are just 70 to 80%. There are more broken and unhulled grains in the final product because of the decreased efficiency. The efficiency of dehulling millets is influenced by the speed of the impeller. You are aware that millet grains vary in size, shape, and husk content, which makes them challenging to work with. It takes two different kinds of dehullers to properly dehusk all kinds of millets; using just one won’t cut it. A double-stage dehuller is necessary for the removal of the husk from Kodo and Barnyard Millet due to the many seed coatings that these varieties feature.

    Millets’ husks are notoriously difficult to collect and separate from the processing unit’s effluent, which frequently ends up blended in with the finished product. Processing and disposing of millet husks is a challenge for many millet processors. An answer might be possible if value-added items could be made from millet husks.

    Making certain items with only millet ingredients becomes quite challenging due to millet’s complete absence of gluten. Improving nutrient availability while decreasing anti-nutritional components still needs additional study and development.


    Top 22 Best Agritech Startups in India in 2022
    Agriculture is one of the largest industries in India. Here’s a look at some of the leading agritech startups in India and their funding.


  • The Rise of Organic Food Brands in India

    An agricultural system that avoids the use and application of man-made fertilizers, pesticides, growth regulators, and livestock feed additives produces organic food. The label on the food packet that reads ‘organic food’ is a reassurance to consumers that toxic pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs) aren’t utilized in meal production, and the cattle have now no longer been fed antibiotics. In addition to this, organic food is also an assurance that strict cultivation standards have been adhered to concerning the impact on soil, water, and air. Organic food cultivation is a great support for environmental protection.

    India introduced the organic farming policy in 2005. Since then, organic foods’ public profile has been continuously rising as more and more consumers see the connection between diet, health, and the environment.

    What Drives the Indian Organic Food Market
    Market Overview
    Best Organic Brands, Foods, and Distribution Channels
    Challenges Faced by the Indian Organic Food Market
    Conclusion

    What Drives the Indian Organic Food Market

    The Indian government’s strong support for organic farming is acting as a catalyst for the rise in demand for organic food. The government is providing financial support to farmers who are adopting organic farming, under various government schemes like the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH), National Food Security Mission (NFSM), Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY), National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA), etc.

    The major factor driving the growth of organic food in India is the increasing awareness about health in the country. The rising demand for organic food is due to the attention that Indian consumers are now giving to the nutrient content and the quality of the food they consume. Moreover, the increasing consumer expenditure on health and wellness products is also driven by strong economic growth, urbanization, and rising income levels.

    Organic Brands Bloom in the Indian Food Market

    Market Overview

    While still in its nascent stages, the Indian organic food industry has a promising future. It has received a major boost post the covid-19 pandemic. Currently, India ranks first in Asia and fifth in the world with 23 lakh hectares of land under organic farming as per the Organics International Report of 2021 by IFOAM (International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements).

    Indian Organic Food Industry: Insights, Growth & Statistics
    Are you interested in Organic Foods? Well, the demand for organic food is increasing, which is a healthier and better option for both the environment and humans.

    The Indian Organic Food Market has steadily grown from USD 200 million in 2018 to USD 820 million in 2020. The omnichannel presence of organic food stores has also registered huge growth due to consumers moving to digital grocery shopping. While the pre-covid revenue split of the organic food brands was 5% online and 95% in-store, this number went up to 20% online and 80% in-store during the peak of the pandemic.

    In the future, the organic food market in India is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 25.25% between the years 2022 and 2027.

    💡
    Sikkim is India’s first fully organic state.

    Best Organic Brands, Foods, and Distribution Channels

    The idea behind the consumption of organic food is to go back to survival basics which prompted sustenance on natural food. Organic Food brands in India have grown over the years and registered the highest growth in the pandemic and post-pandemic era. The best domestic organic food brands that have withstood the time and quality test are –

    1. Organic Tattva – Brand owned by Mehrotra Consumer Products Pvt. Ltd.
    2. 24 Mantra – Brand owned by Sresta Natural Bioproducts Pvt. Ltd.
    3. Praakritik – Brand owned by Praakritik Natural and Organics LLP
    4. Organic India – Brand owned by Organic India
    5. Pure and Sure – Brand owned by Phalada Agro Research Foundations Pvt. Ltd.
    6. Nutriorg – Brand owned by Rattan Organic Foods Pvt. Ltd.
    7. Nourish Organics – Brand owned by Nourish Organics
    8. Adya Organics – Brand owned by Adya Organics
    9. Avadata Organics – Brand owned by Avadata Organics Pvt. Ltd.
    10. Pro Nature – Brand owned by Pro Nature Organic Foods Pvt. Ltd.

    Through these brands, various types of organic food items are now freely available in the market through Hypermarkets, Supermarkets, Specialty Stores, Convenience Stores, Online stores, and other channels.  The organic food item list consists of –

    1. Organic Beverages
    2. Organic Cereal and Food Grains
    3. Organic Meat, Poultry and Dairy
    4. Organic Spices and Pulses
    5. Organic Processed Food
    6. Organic Fruits and Vegetables

    Challenges Faced by the Indian Organic Food Market

    As growth-oriented the organic food market is within the country, it faces real challenges in terms of scalability, growth, and market share.

    Limited Awareness

    The current level of prejudice in Indian society has made organic food a status sign and luxury rather than a basic staple. The word-of-mouth publicity has increased awareness about the word ‘organic’ but not as a sustainable solution.

    Choice of a Lower-Priced Product

    The Indian consumer is price sensitive. This is also because of the huge variance in disposable income capability. This means that the automatic choice of product is led by price than quality, resulting in a large fraction opting out of the organic food market products.

    Non-Friendly Retail Market

    Retailers, understandably, prefer to fill shelves with fast-moving products. The lesser-known organic brands do not get premium shelf spaces or even a large amount of shelf space. This creates a gap between the buyer and the seller of organic foods.

    Traditional Farming Habits

    The results of chemical fertilizer-driven farming are quick and lucrative. Farmers are wary of the results of the organic way of farming. This is, however, slowly changing as the Indian government is taking steps to support farmers who are shifting to organic farming.

    Demand and Supply Gaps

    The supply of organic foods, currently, is not in tandem with the demand. Many times, the gap is quite visible with more supply than demand, or more demand than supply. This gap needs to be covered and balanced so as to even out the demand-supply scenario.

    Conclusion

    The Indian Organic Food Market has a long way to go. Currently, it is highly fragmented with the presence of several small and large players competing for price and quality. However, the past few years have seen organic brands gaining the spotlight and popularity. In the coming years, India is set to not only register growth in Organic Food brands but also innovatively deal with the challenges posing in front of this industry.

    FAQs

    Which organic food brand is best in India?

    The top organic food brands in India are –

    • Organic Tattva
    • Prakritik
    • Nutriorg
    • Organic India
    • Nourish Organics
    • Adya Organics
    • Avadata Organics
    • Pro Nature
    • 24 Mantra
    • Pure and Sure

    Pesticides and chemicals in Indian agriculture contaminate water and soil. To address this, companies are emphasizing organic farming, which promotes food security, improves farmers’ livelihoods, and eliminates harmful chemicals.

    Is organic farming the future of India?

    Organic farming has seen a drastic overall development in almost every crop type due to an increase in awareness of food security and environmental safety. Health-conscious consumers today will support the growth of the organic agricultural sector in many ways.

    What are the challenges faced by the Indian Organic Food market?

    A few challenges faced by the Indian Organic Food market are –

    • Limited Awareness
    • Demand and Supply Gaps
    • Non-Friendly Retail Market
    • Choice of Lower-Priced Product
    • Traditional Farming Habits
  • Amazon Agritech | How Amazon Enters Agritech to Help Farmers?

    Amazon has set high standards in e-commerce as well as in many other fields. But the Agritech sector is a new sector on which Amazon is focussing right now due to many different reasons. And also, when it comes to agriculture, you cannot ignore India. Amazon also has big plans for the Indian Agri sector. The Indian agriculture sector is currently experiencing a lot of influence from private players. Amazon is trying to Invest in the Agritech space in India to make some modern changes. This may secure the farm produce in the Indian agricultural sector. Let’s jump into the topic to know more about it.

    How will Amazon help farmers?
    How is Amazon Entering Agritech?
    Benefits of Amazon Agritech
    Government Plans For The Agritech Sector
    Conclusion
    FAQs

    How will Amazon help farmers?

    Amazon retail is trying to help farmers in India by launching its agronomy services which will notify the farmers about important crop-related data. These early notifications and information will help the farmers to make the necessary decisions for their crops. Now, this whole process takes place through an application through which necessary information is conveyed to the farmers related to crops, and it’s production. Amazon has entered the Agritech sector to secure farm produce. This farm produce yields two-thirds of the country’s $1 trillion retail spendings. Also, in India, many crops are not grown throughout the year. The government aims to bring in the private players to improve the farm work by yielding good results from suitable technology available. Amazon is a private giant which can invest a nice amount of money in reforming the agricultural sector.

    Reactive and proactive plant programs supported by Amazon will provide cutting-edge technology to farmers and other crop growers. The dedicated mobile application will provide farmers with real-time advice and information on crop data and insights. As a Private company, Amazon tends to stretch its boundaries in different sectors, and the Agritech sector is perhaps one of the most developing sectors in the current time. Also, crop data needs critical analysis to be processed, and farmers will proceed accordingly, which will improve the crop produce. Private players could fulfill these factors in a better way if they cooperate with the government.

    How is Amazon Entering Agritech?

    Agronomy services launched by Amazon retail is a new footprint by a private company in the Agritech field of Indian agriculture. This system will provide early guidance and advice to farmers on crop production and other insights. Also, Amazon focuses on machine learning to improve productivity and build a more convenient supply infrastructure. According to Amazon’s Indian senior officials, this technology will improve the quality of crop production and will yield good results.

    Also, with this launch, the Amazon Agritech solutions have created an ecosystem through agronomist-powered field interventions. Also, tools were added to track down these field interventions. But every step requires huge support from the farmers on the field. Amazon needs to deliver good quality services with an agreement to supply vegetables and fruits of desired quality. Supply chain is a big challenge for Amazon. Old supply chains may damage the product, which will result in loss of trust and money. As a private giant, it’s not that difficult for the company to invest a big amount in the modernization of the supply chain.

    Benefits of Amazon Agritech

    Amazon Agritech
    Amazon Agritech

    This system makes sure that farmers make accurate decisions about their crops on time. The instructions and timely advice help the farmers to get early data on how to manage crop production and increase farm produce. Also, the supply chains can be processed properly now with the interface as well as farmers will get informed about rotten or damaged fruits and vegetables. This will improve the quality of fruits and vegetables, which will reach millions of customers. The government is also aiming to harness profit through suitable technology available. India is a developing nation, so the agricultural sector must get proper reforms.

    Also, farmers are showing interest in tech-led innovation in the field of farming. Smart farming methods will make it more profitable for the farmers to grow proper quality crops without much wastage. This technology will improve the results of the farming process and will deliver better. Amazon retail has also planned a proper temperature-controlled supply chain. This will ensure proper and safe transportation of the produce from the farm to the processing centers. After this, the packing process will take place with proper monitoring and will be dispatched to Amazon stores near customers. The Advancement in technology will help in upgrading the older ways of supplies and gathering farming data.

    Government Plans For The Agritech Sector

    The government of India is seeking a partnership of private giants to revolutionize the Indian agricultural sector. The technology provided by Companies such as Amazon will help to increase the farm yields. As a developing nation, India may see huge reforms in the agricultural sector in the next decade from a more modern perspective. The introduction to machine learning and artificial intelligence with modern supply chains and better advice on crop production are some of the examples. Some of these have already arrived in India,  as the Amazon Agritech.

    The aim is to increase profit revenue by increasing the farm produce. Also, time delays in supply chains can now be corrected, saving valuable time and capital. Farmers will get early warnings and important updates about the crops, which will help them to work more efficiently in the fields.


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    Conclusion

    The government and private entities will work together to bring suitable reforms to the sector that employs half of India’s population. Also, the agricultural sector contributes highly to India’s GDP, which is why it needs a good amount of investment too. Private companies have huge capital reserves to invest in technologies which can be helpful for the government to bring reforms. But the end decision must stay with the farmers who will work day and night in the crop fields to feed the entire nation.

    FAQs

    What is Amazon Kisan store?

    Amazon India’s Kisan Store help farmers with agriculture inputs like seeds, farm tools & accessories, plant protection, and many other agricultural products at competitive prices.

    What is amazon agronomy service?

    Amazon’s agronomy services empower farmers. It helps in following ways:

    • It gives them timely advice on farming.
    • It enables them to make proper decisions on actions needed for their crops.
    • It introduces machine learning technology for better production.
    • It helps in building a robust supply chain infrastructure.
  • Meat Industry In India: Current State, Challenges, And Growth Opportunities

    The meat production industry is a vital part of the Indian agricultural setup. According to a research, meat production in India is estimated at 6.3 million tons annually and is ranked 5th in the world in terms of production volume. India is responsible for 3% of the total meat production in the world. The nation has the world’s largest population of livestock at about 515 million.

    The meat production segment has witnessed a healthy growth rate. It is known for generating reasonable returns for the producers. In India, beef and pork serve as valuable nutrition-filled consumables and are available at relatively lower prices. Almost 70% of the Indian population is non-vegetarian. The per capita meat consumption in India every year is around 5.2kg. Chicken and fish have the highest consumption rate. The consumption of poultry meat in India was over 3.9 million metric tons in 2020.


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    The Indian Meat Market
    Why is India a Favorable Destination for Poultry and Food Processing Industries?
    Advantages of Starting Meat and Poultry Production in India
    Opportunity in Poultry and Meat Sector
    Challenges Faced by The Meat Industry in India
    More About The Meat Industry in India
    The Future of Meat Industry
    FAQs

    The Indian Meat Market

    India exports more than more than 7,000 metric tons of poultry meat to other countries. Livestock trading in India is regulated by the state governments. India has the lowest per capita meat consumption in the world. It was just 5.6 kg in 2013, whereas the global average was 33.2 kg in that year. The Indian meat market mostly focuses on fresh meat; frozen meat is mostly exported.

    The volume of meat produced from 2016 to 2019 in India.
    The volume of meat produced from 2016 to 2019 in India.

    India has a large resource pool of animal castings and other by-products. The meat industry in India grew substantially during the periods of 2006-2007 and 2012- 2013. India is the second largest producer of buffalo meat in the world. The poultry meat segment is the largest sub-sector in the country’s meat industry and owned almost 50% of the total meat production in 2012-13. It is followed by beef/buffalo meat, goat meat, pork meat, sheep meat, and lamb meat.

    Uttar Pradesh (UP) is the largest meat producer followed by Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu in the specified order. Sustained income and economic growth, a growing urban population, rapidly growing middle class, changing lifestyles, improvement in transportation and storage facilities, and the rise of supermarkets in rural towns are fueling the rapid increase in the consumption of animal-based food products in India.

    Why is India a Favorable Destination for Poultry and Food Processing Industries?

    • India is the fastest growing economy in the world.
    • It is the largest producer of agricultural commodities.
    • It has the second largest consumer market globally.
    • India has significant investments in world class ports, logistics, and supply chain infrastructure.
    • Proactive government policies.
    • Investor-friendly incentives.
    • Highly skilled manpower.

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    Advantages of Starting Meat and Poultry Production in India

    • India has the world’s largest population of livestock.
    • India produces around 5.3 million metric tons of meat and 75 billion eggs annually.
    • India is the largest producer of buffalo meat and the second largest producer of goat meat.
    • The current processing level in poultry is 6% while it stands at 21% for meat.
    • Poultry is a highly integrated industry.
    • The country is on par with the efficiency levels of many western countries.
    • The government of India has taken steps for modernization of municipal slaughter houses to provide safe and hygienic meat to consumers.
    • Export-oriented units have invested significantly in the establishment of large slaughter houses-cum-meat processing plants laden with the latest technology.
    • Farm automation, slaughter houses, logistics, and point-of-sale cold storage infrastructures are amazing growth avenues in India given the changing preference of Indian consumers for clean, safe, and hygienic meat products.

    There are about 27 modern meat processing plants (approved after due inspection) for the export of meat. All export oriented units (EOU) are registered with the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) of India.

    An video about Licious, an Indian startup for meat and seafood production in India.

    Opportunity in Poultry and Meat Sector

    The table below outlines the growth opportunities for the ‘technology and equipment suppliers’ and ‘poultry industry players’.

    Technology and Equipment Suppliers Poultry Industry Players
    New technologies in meat and poultry processing. New products that add value such as frozen products, RTC/RTE, and snacks.
    Cold chains. Egg powder plants.
    New veterinary technologies and services. New feed formulations.
    Food testing labs. Hatcheries.

    Challenges Faced by the Meat Industry in India

    One of the major challenges is improving the productivity of farm animals. The average annual milk yield of Indian cattle is 1172 kg which is only about 50 per cent of the global average. The frequent outbreak of infections like the foot and mouth disease, black quarter infection, and influenza severely impacts livestock health and lowers productivity.

    The next problem is the generation of greenhouse gases by the humongous population of herbivorous animals in India. Reducing the emissions through mitigation and adaptation strategies is a major challenge.

    Crossbreeding of indigenous species with exotic stocks to enhance the genetic potential of different species has been successful only to a limited extent.

    A breakdown of meat production trend in India.
    A breakdown of meat production trend in India.

    Unregulated meat markets, tropical climate, inadequate slaughterhouse hygiene measures, and the lack of surveillance of meat-borne diseases enhance the risk of health-related and occupational hazards. According to research, there are about 8000 registered and more than 20,000 unregistered slaughterhouses in the country and most of them are devoid of basic amenities like light and ventilation. Moreover, the slaughtering and carcass-dressing processes are performed in open areas in highly unhygienic conditions following which the meat is sold with little or no veterinary inspection.

    Finally, the meat production segment is largely unorganized. Traditional production systems and disorderly practices have spoilt the reputation of the Indian meat industry.

    More about the Meat Industry in India

    While India has an abundant supply of meat, the meat processing industry is yet to catch up. Meat processing covers a spectrum of products. It includes animal husbandry, poultry farm produce, bulk frozen meat, chilled and deli meat, packaged meat, and ready-to-eat processed meat products.

    There is immense scope for meat processing in poultry. In fact, the poultry industry has made considerable progress by developing and marketing value-added products. The meat industry is slowly yet steadily catching pace on the global front with India now exporting both frozen and fresh chilled meat to more than 60 countries.

    The major item of export is de-boned frozen buffalo meat which accounts for 97 per cent of the total meat export. The major markets for Indian buffalo meat are Malaysia and Egypt while for sheep meat and goat meat, the markets are UAE, Iran, and Jordan. India also exports a small quantity of processed meat to Thailand, Yemen, and Japan and some poultry products to Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, and Qatar.


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    The Future of Meat Industry

    Raising animals that are in good health is essential for the production of good quality meat. Farmers’ cooperatives can play a major role in the nourishment and marketing of hale and hearty livestock. They can also encourage backward integration/contract farming. Above all, if the Indian meat industry wants to achieve global recognition, the maintenance of food safety at all stages of production, processing, packing, storage, and marketing of meat and meat-derived products while adhering to the standards prescribed by the importing countries shall make a significant impact.

    FAQs

    What is livestock industry?

    Livestock industry is the industry dealing with raising the animals and processing of the animal products for consumers.

    What is meat industry?

    The meat industry handles the slaughtering, processing, packaging, and distribution of animals such as poultry, cattle, pigs, sheep and other livestock.

    What is the rank of India in meat production?

    India ranks 5th in meat production.

    Who is the largest meat producer in the world?

    The United States is the largest meat producer in the world.

    Which state is the largest producer of meat in India?

    Uttar Pradesh is the largest producer of meat in India.

    Which country is largest supplier of meat?

    Brazil is the largest exporter of meat.

  • Agriculture Business Ideas

    Agriculture is one of today’s most sophisticated and challenging markets. Alot of farming companies are currently rising fast.

    Any of these farms may be achieved with less money, while others can require tremendous capital investments.

    About 60% of the world’s population is dependent on subsistence agriculture. This is why technological innovations have been made to ensure that agricultural goods are continuously supplied to support the masses.

    Since then, technical innovation contributed to some of the most profitable agricultural business concepts in 2020, generating business prospects for agriculture around the world. Small farms grow up with traders moving rapidly to benefit from the ideas of money-making growers.

    We have found a way out of farmers who believe they struggle forever in their lives because of famine, credit, and last rain. Even small farmers will now produce more simple farming revenue. In agriculture, there are different ways to earn a good income.

    Here are a few tips to keep in mind before starting a business in agriculture:

    1. Understand what your plan is and what will you be offering to the consumers

    You should first have an idea about what you are going to do, what you will be providing, etc before you start something new. This is teamwork. You should also include in this package the revenues you wish to makeover a given period, the equipment you will need to do that, the correct permits for your agri-business, and the correct policies to protect your new businesses in the case of injuries or emergencies.

    2. Get your fundings prepared!

    Fundings for your Agricultural Business
    Fundings for your Agricultural Business

    Find the best way to fund your agriculture. A bank’s loan is becoming extremely difficult to secure for new ventures due to the state of the economy of our country. There are several alternative funding solutions to help the company get started on the right foot.

    You should consider agriculture factoring because the company already has incoming and outgoing orders for customers. In periods where you might have more than just going out, agricultural factoring will help your organization monitor the money flow.

    As you frequently face outstanding invoices and demands, you will be purchased in advance by a factoring firm to provide you with a cash advance.

    You need special licenses to run your company, according to your state. The correct documents can be found from the office of the Secretary of State. When you intend to do business with foreigners, make sure you complete the right papers for the countries that you are selling or buying.

    4. Establish a Roadmap for Marketing

    Roadmap for Marketing
    Roadmap for Marketing

    Your organization is ready to work. Farmers, vendors, and others will be made aware of your company by a Marketing Campaign. Your company would suffer without a good marketing campaign.

    5. Gather employees to complete your empire and get started

    You should consider recruiting staff after you have built a robust marketing strategy and are beginning to reel in new customers. It is not a work to complete orders for your farmer. Get the support you need to give your new buyers a lasting first experience.

    You will burden yourself by beginning your agri-business. We hope these 6 tips will enable you to trust your agricultural sector.

    Now, we will be able to assist you with multiple fruitful ideas in agriculture if you wish to make your career in agriculture:

    1. Mushroom farming

    Mushroom Farming Business Ideas
    Mushroom Farming Business Ideas

    Champagne agriculture is one of the most lucrative farmers, with low investment and less room to launch. The cultivation of mushrooms in India is rapidly increasing as an alternative source of income for many. Largest mushroom growers throughout the country, the United States, China, Italy, and the Netherlands. Uttar Pradesh is India’s leading champagne maker and Tripura and Kerala.

    While a farmer who grows only 100 logs of mushrooms cannot be considered a full-time grower of mushrooms, he also can profit. The farmers from the countryside who sterilizes their compost in a barbecue pot and raises just 12 sleeping places in their basements, either, won’t qualify as an official mushroom farmer.

    2. Bee farming

    Agriculturers considering commercial honey bee production should consider educating beekeepers. Normally, a queen, several thousand workers, and a few hundred drones make up a colony. Job is separated and the role of the different tasks is specialized. They make nests called ‘wax’ which are secreted from worker bees’ wax glands. The bees use their cells to produce small flour and store food. In the upper comb, the sweetheart is stored. Rows of pollen-storage cells, brood cells, and drone brood cells should be present in the comb. Some bee species produce one open pebble, while others develop several pebble pebbles on dark cavities.

    3. Production of organic manure

    The start of an organic fertilizer manufacturing business can, however, be viewed as a capital-intensive company. If you start your own organic fertilizer production business, you will also obtain subsidies from your government and other donor organizations. It’s important to note that you can think twice before launching an organic fertilizer production firm if you can’t carry offensive smells.

    4. Poultry farming

    Poultry farming Business Idea
    Poultry farming Business Idea

    A significant industry is poultry farming. There are essentially two kinds of cultivation – broilers, and layers. Broilers are chicken with beef that you raise. Chicken layers you raise for eggs. It is also important to consider whether to rear broilers or layers of eggs and to raise chicks. This is simply the decision to begin development to produce meat or eggs.

    The marketing factor is one of the key aspects that should be remembered when you launch your poultry business. It is impossible to accomplish your company objectives without a marketing strategy.

    5. Export fruits and vegetables

    The most lucrative is the fruit export market, as fruits in all parts of the world are eating. It is well known that in every world several varieties of fruit do not thrive due to soil or temperature, so the fruit must be shipped to other countries from its countries of origin.

    It needs very intensive investment as you would need to buy the fruit farm, rent/lease a factory, pay for transport, and other logistics. This is a very lucrative business but requires a very significant investment.

    You should ensure that you comply with all rules and laws before starting to export fruit. I would also note that the business strategy is a very necessary part to be considered.

    Before you can become a player in this industry, you don’t need to have a fruit farm; the willingness to know where various kinds of fruit are cheap and to sell to a ready market outside the United States is a key element of this sector.

    6. Tea leaves plantation

    Tea Leaves Business Ideas
    Tea Leaves Business Ideas

    Tea is an Asian native always green shrub. It is known as a drink that is typically drunk sweet, either with water or with milk. Tea is believed to be from southwest China, where it was eaten as a medicinal drink. The reputation of tea steadily spread to countries in East Asia and reached Europe in the 16th century.  In FY 2018 India has become one of the world’s leading tea producers with a production of 1325,05 million kg. Tea export income has also grown to 5064.88 crores.

    The movement towards cultivating more varieties and mixtures is slowly on the rise, and more area can be cultivated. Ensuring good production and management after the harvest will increase the efficiency of the tea industry.

    7. Piggery

    Now, when we are talking about the most commonly used meat in the country, it’s pork meat or pig meat and that’s why most people who want to get into the livestock industry choose pig farms.

    This agricultural activity primarily focuses on the cultivation, breeding, and selling of pigs. Pigs are known as highly qualified chicken feed converters. In India, socially backward groups have performed this farm for the most part because they don’t have other career opportunities to earn the same income.

    Pigs grow faster than other species and take a limited time to be sold as adult pigs on the market. In chemical and soap manufacturing, paints, and poultry feed, the market for pig fat is immense.

    Finally, a pig farming company promises a high even break and ROI ratio.

    8. Fish farming

    Fish Farming is the Fastest Growing Sector
    Fish Farming is the Fastest Growing Sector

    Aquaculture in which fish are raised in enclosures to be sold as food is a method of fish farming. It is the fastest-growing sector in the processing of animal food. In these artificial ecosystems, about half of the world’s fish eaten are cultivated. Farm species are widely grown such as salmon, cod, cacao, trout. These “Aqua-Farms,” or concrete enclosures on the ground, can take the shape of mesh cages immersed in nature.

    9. Fertilizer distribution business

    In the broader agricultural manufacturing landscape, fertilizer companies belong. Many do not know how important farming and other modes of cultivation are to fertilizer companies. In the fertilizer sector, the dedicated worker has a host of money-making opportunities.

    Farming requires fertilizer, by its very existence. Fertilizer not only progresses in agriculture but in general usage, especially organic fertilizers like manure or compost.

    10. Potato chips production

    Potato Chips Manufacturing Idea
    Potato Chips Manufacturing Idea

    Potato chips are in great demand. With more number of people depending on fast food, Chips are also increasing in demand. By the next few years, it is expected that the demand for home made potato chips may increase every year by around 4 percent in the Indian market.

    Being easily affordable and available, the demand and popularity of homemade potato chips are increasing. It is also becoming a part of our ever-changing lifestyle. Chips are also considered as low-fat healthy alternatives for healthy food. This means that in near future the market demand will further increase.

    Conclusion

    Whichever type of business you choose, do not forget to write down your whole plan and agenda before getting started. You should perform proper market research on the demand, the technological know-how and its marketing before beginning any agro-based company. Before doing this, you can develop an appropriate farming business strategy.