Sandip Das

Retail sugar prices are expected to ease over the next fortnight as a sharp fall in factory-gate prices begins to work its way through the supply chain , offering some relief to consumers ahead of the festive season.

20% fall in ex-mills prices, fortnightly quotas introduced

September rainfall is expected to be below normal across most of India due to strengthening El Niño, impacting monsoon season totals and likely affecting kharif crop yields, especially pulses and oilseeds.

Commercial cultivation of genome-edited corn, soya likely in 5 years

Area under paddy dropped 4% to 42.18 million hectares in the kharif season due to deficient monsoon rains, with significant decline in key states, but surplus rice stocks ease procurement concerns.

Retail prices of key agricultural commodities like onion, rice, sugar, mustard oil are significantly higher due to declining production and rising global prices, pushing food inflation upwards in coming months. The government is releasing buffer stocks to control prices.

Bayer plays a key role in India's hybrid seeds sector, supporting 30 million farmers through Better Life Farming centers, promoting sustainable agriculture, hybrid seeds, and improved farm incomes.

The Indian government has asked sugar mills to ensure adequate monthly supplies and stabilize retail prices ahead of the upcoming festive season amid surging domestic costs.

The government will consult farmers' organisations on new seed and pesticide Bills before Parliament tabling, aiming to replace old laws with improved regulations for seed quality, pricing, and innovation.

Farmer Producer Organisations drive surge in agricultural commodity sales on NCDEX, with 75 FPOs trading Rs 57 crore in early FY27 while seeking faster settlements and expanded futures listings.