News for 'Directorate of Agriculture'

How Government Is Making Use Of AI

How Government Is Making Use Of AI

Rediff.com9 Oct 2024

The National Informatics Centre uses AI to automate document analysis and detect fraud in government departments.

Best Business Ideas Under Rs 1 Crore

Best Business Ideas Under Rs 1 Crore

Rediff.com10 Feb 2025

India's e-commerce market alone is projected to reach $200 billion by 2026, making it a prime industry for ambitious entrepreneurs, explains rediffGURU Harsh Bharwani.

'Urban demand is under stress, would need an upward spiral'

'Urban demand is under stress, would need an upward spiral'

Rediff.com5 Dec 2024

'Spending by the middle class is limited with a focus on savings. However, there is buoyancy at the top-end.'

Google Unveils AI For India's Developers

Google Unveils AI For India's Developers

Rediff.com18 Jul 2024

Developers in India now have expanded access to Google's powerful AI models with the 2 million token context window in Gemini 1.5 Pro and Gemma 2, the next generation of open models.

Google Cloud's ambitious India plans

Google Cloud's ambitious India plans

Rediff.com6 Oct 2024

India is among the fastest-growing markets for Google in the cloud services segment, a senior executive has said, adding that the tech giant is looking to partner companies in their business transformation through its offerings. Google Cloud India is seeing an "increased adoption" of its offerings across segments from the public sector to small and medium businesses and from startups and digital-native companies, Google Cloud India vice president and country managing director Bikram Singh Bedi told PTI.

How The Heat Wave Will Affect Your Kitchen

How The Heat Wave Will Affect Your Kitchen

Rediff.com2 May 2024

Apart from the human body, human food will bear direct repercussions. From staples such as wheat, to coffee, dairy, and even the great Hilsa face the threat of reduced supply due to the extreme heat.

'Ratan and I Were Good Chums'

'Ratan and I Were Good Chums'

Rediff.com14 Oct 2024

Arun Maira who worked for 25 years with the Tata Group, remembers his early years with Ratan Tata.

Making Drones For India's Villages

Making Drones For India's Villages

Rediff.com16 May 2024

'From our survey we found that there was a problem in the agricultural sector and drones could solve the problem.'

SC order against our wish, but acceptable to all: MoS agriculture

SC order against our wish, but acceptable to all: MoS agriculture

Rediff.com12 Jan 2021

Minister of State for Agriculture Kailash Choudhary also said the government is always ready for talks but it is up to farmer unions to decide whether they want to go ahead with the scheduled ninth round of talks on January 15.

Southwest Monsoon to reach Kerala on May 31 amid El Nino concerns

Southwest Monsoon to reach Kerala on May 31 amid El Nino concerns

Rediff.com15 May 2024

"This year, the Southwest Monsoon is likely to set over Kerala on May 31 with a model error of four days," the India meteorological department said on Wednesday.

Corporate bond market cooled 22% in August

Corporate bond market cooled 22% in August

Rediff.com11 Sep 2024

Corporate bond issuances fell by around 22 per cent in August, despite easing yields as issuers delayed raising funds awaiting the US Federal Reserve to start cutting interest rates from this month. Corporates and financial institutions expect yields to fall further and borrowing costs to become cheaper, said market participants. The US Fed is widely expected to cut interest rates by 25 bps in the 17-18 September meeting, marking the start of a downward interest rate cycle.

June-Aug 2024 was India's 2nd-hottest quarter since 1970: Report

June-Aug 2024 was India's 2nd-hottest quarter since 1970: Report

Rediff.com18 Sep 2024

India experienced its second-hottest quarter from June to August this year since 1970, with over one-third of the country's population enduring at least seven days of dangerous heat, according to a new report by a United States-based group of climate scientists and communicators.

BJP's best show in J-K polls is simply not good enough

BJP's best show in J-K polls is simply not good enough

Rediff.com8 Oct 2024

The BJP has emerged the second largest party by winning 29 constituencies in the maiden assembly polls post abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, improving its all-time high tally of 25 seats recorded in 2014 elections.

BJP States Go All Out With Populist Schemes

BJP States Go All Out With Populist Schemes

Rediff.com20 Jul 2024

Several BJP-backed state governments have unveiled schemes targeting the poor, women, farmers and students, following the party's setback in the Lok Sabha polls.

New govt may kick off pesticide, seed reforms

New govt may kick off pesticide, seed reforms

Rediff.com18 Apr 2024

With farm Acts out of the picture, the government may look at reforming the input side of the agriculture sector - regulations and rules that govern seeds, fertilisers and plant chemicals. Sources said such a blueprint, which is aimed at making the life of farmers easier, with quicker approvals but not compromising on quality, is in the works as part of the 100-day agenda of Modi 3.0. Also, ways to administer fertiliser subsidy more effectively and cutting down on leakages and diversions to build on the success of neem-coated urea are being thought of.

Banks turn cautious on lending to smaller microfinance players

Banks turn cautious on lending to smaller microfinance players

Rediff.com8 Jul 2024

Commercial banks have turned cautious in lending to smaller microfinance institutions (MFIs), which has compelled the latter to borrow from non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) at much higher rates. Recently Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Deputy Governor M Rajeshwar Rao slammed micro lenders for increasing their margins "disproportionately" and said these lenders were quick to pass on the increased cost to the borrowers but reluctant to pass on the benefits under the new regime, where margins are not capped.

As crisis deepens, exporters concerned about Indo-Bangladesh trade

As crisis deepens, exporters concerned about Indo-Bangladesh trade

Rediff.com5 Aug 2024

Domestic exporters on Monday expressed concerns over the crisis in Bangladesh and said the developments in the neighbouring country would have implications on bilateral trade. However, exporters expect that the situation may normalise soon. According to exporters, they are already facing disruptions in exports to Bangladesh due to a shortage of foreign exchange in that country.

Dr M S Swaminathan, who made India self-sufficient in food, passes away

Dr M S Swaminathan, who made India self-sufficient in food, passes away

Rediff.com29 Sep 2023

Renowned agricultural scientist M S Swaminathan and the driving force behind the nation's 'Green Revolution,' passed away in Chennai on Thursday.

Modi 3.0: 'Viksit Bharat' Reforms Not To Take Back Seat

Modi 3.0: 'Viksit Bharat' Reforms Not To Take Back Seat

Rediff.com13 Jun 2024

'The expeditious enactment of labour codes and strategic measures to bridge the skills jobs gap are critical.'

Where Would India Be Without Dr Singh?

Where Would India Be Without Dr Singh?

Rediff.com27 Dec 2024

What stood out in his 15-year journey as a member of the political executive at the Centre was his glowing record as India's most successful and effective finance minister. Both as prime minister and finance minister, he understood the importance of gradualism, except when the economy or the polity was in a crisis.

Under Stalin agriculture, environment get a new name; non-resident Tamils a new ministry

Under Stalin agriculture, environment get a new name; non-resident Tamils a new ministry

Rediff.com8 May 2021

Governor Banwarilal Purohit administered the oath of office and secrecy to 68-year old Stalin, for whom this would be the first stint as CM

Ban on onion export lifted; MEP of $550/tonne imposed

Ban on onion export lifted; MEP of $550/tonne imposed

Rediff.com4 May 2024

The government on Saturday lifted the ban on onion exports but imposed a minimum export price (MEP) of $550 per tonne, amid ongoing Lok Sabha elections in the country. Last night, the government imposed a 40 per cent duty on export of onions. In August last year, India had imposed a 40 per cent export duty on onions up to December 31, 2023.

'Indian On Moon By 2040'

'Indian On Moon By 2040'

Rediff.com21 Aug 2024

'Our vision for the future includes the creation of an active ecosystem, human space flight, a human space station.'

Govt removes minimum export price on onion

Govt removes minimum export price on onion

Rediff.com13 Sep 2024

The government on Friday scrapped a minimum price threshold that it had set previously for exports of onion as it looked to pass on the benefit of international glut to Indian farmers. The government had previously fixed a $550 per tonne as the minimum export price (MEP), which essentially meant farmers could not sell their produce overseas at lower than this rate.

Results review: PSBs' net profit grows 16% to Rs 39,974 crore in Q1

Results review: PSBs' net profit grows 16% to Rs 39,974 crore in Q1

Rediff.com13 Aug 2024

Public sector banks (PSBs) posted 16.1 per cent year-on-year (Y-o-Y) growth in net profit at Rs 39,974 crore during the June 2024 quarter. While net interest income (NII) showed subdued growth of 7.1 per cent, provisions and contingencies declined by 10.5 per cent Y-o-Y. This aided the bottom line to show steady growth.

'Should I Spend 40L To Send Son Abroad For MS?'

'Should I Spend 40L To Send Son Abroad For MS?'

Rediff.com26 Aug 2024

Given the prevailing employment market, uncertainty in the United States and the exorbitant expenses associated with studying abroad, it would be prudent for your son to acquire professional experience in India initially, advises rediffGURU Pananjay Tiwari.

'Looking to expand international business'

'Looking to expand international business'

Rediff.com25 Sep 2024

'It is difficult to write business internationally, without an 'A-' rating. It becomes more expensive.'

Who Will Take Over The Godrej Empires?

Who Will Take Over The Godrej Empires?

Rediff.com6 May 2024

Pirojsha Godrej, 43, patriarch Adi Godrej's son, is set to take over as chairman of the Godrej Industries Group from 2026 whol Nyrika Holkar, Smita Godrej Crishna's 42-year-old daughter, has emerged as the face of the Godrej Enterprises Group.

Like Suzuki, Kubota aims to make India its global hub

Like Suzuki, Kubota aims to make India its global hub

Rediff.com2 May 2024

Japanese agri-equipment firm Kubota is taking cues from Suzuki Motor's strategy to establish India as its global production hub, according to a report by Nikkei Asia. The acquisition of Escorts in 2022, leading to the rebranding as Escorts Kubota, a prominent tractor manufacturer in India, which held the fourth-largest global market share, offered Kubota a crucial foothold in the Indian and international markets, complementing its strengths with Escorts' established presence.

'Bitterly humiliated' Champai Soren joins BJP

'Bitterly humiliated' Champai Soren joins BJP

Rediff.com31 Aug 2024

Former Jharkhand chief minister Champai Soren joined the Bharatiya Janata Party on Friday, two days after he resigned from the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha citing dissatisfaction with the party's current style of functioning and 'bitter humiliation'.

'No need to panic on draft infra guidelines'

'No need to panic on draft infra guidelines'

Rediff.com24 May 2024

'It's a debatable topic, and we will submit our comments to the RBI by June 15.'

Explosion of...: TMC minister defends attack on ED team

Explosion of...: TMC minister defends attack on ED team

Rediff.com9 Jan 2024

Three ED officers were injured and several of their vehicles vandalised, as hundreds of supporters of TMC leader Shajahan Sheikh attacked them on January 5, when the team went to conduct a raid at his house in Sandeshkhali in connection with alleged irregularities in the state's ration system.

SC rejects Bengal govt's plea against CBI probe into Sandeshkhali

SC rejects Bengal govt's plea against CBI probe into Sandeshkhali

Rediff.com8 Jul 2024

The Supreme Court on Monday dismissed a plea filed by the West Bengal government challenging the Calcutta high court's order which directed a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the allegations of crimes against women and land grabbing in Sandeshkhali.

Explained: How National Testing Agency functions

Explained: How National Testing Agency functions

Rediff.com27 Jun 2024

Here is an explainer on the functioning of the seven-year-old body.

Why should Bengal come in as petitioner for ....: SC on Sandeshkhali case

Why should Bengal come in as petitioner for ....: SC on Sandeshkhali case

Rediff.com29 Apr 2024

The counsel appearing for the state said it was aggrieved by some comments made in the high court order.

Rural two-wheeler demand roars back to life in first half of 2024

Rural two-wheeler demand roars back to life in first half of 2024

Rediff.com22 Jul 2024

The two-wheeler segment has shown signs of recovery in the first half (H1) of calendar year (CY) 2024, largely driven by improving performance in rural areas. According to the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations, rural contribution to two-wheeler sales surged by 57-60 per cent in the April-June quarter of 2024-25, indicating a rising demand in these regions. Experts believe that this trend will continue, supported by a favourable monsoon season and government initiatives aimed at rural development.

'Cancelling Adani Project Not Good Sign'

'Cancelling Adani Project Not Good Sign'

Rediff.com30 Sep 2024

'If there is a push towards a Marxist oriented government it will be dangerous.' 'We have seen this in Nepal and Myanmar and it will be a concern for India if it is surrounded by countries with such political dispensations.'

ED attaches Shajahan Sheikh's assets worth Rs 12 cr

ED attaches Shajahan Sheikh's assets worth Rs 12 cr

Rediff.com6 Mar 2024

The Enforcement Directorate on Tuesday said it has attached over a dozen properties worth Rs 12.78 crore of suspended Trinamool Congress leader Shajahan Sheikh including bank deposits, an apartment, and agricultural and fishery land in Sandeshkhali and Kolkata in West Bengal.

Employer arrested for Indian farm worker's death in Italy

Employer arrested for Indian farm worker's death in Italy

Rediff.com3 Jul 2024

Italian police have arrested the owner of the agriculture company who dumped a 31-year-old Indian worker on the road without medical assistance after his arm was severed by heavy farm machinery, causing his death, a tragic incident that shocked the country and its leadership.

NCDEX, Skymet takes initial steps towards tradeable weather index

NCDEX, Skymet takes initial steps towards tradeable weather index

Rediff.com22 Aug 2023

India's leading commodity exchange, National Commodity and Derivatives Exchange (NCDEX), and private weather forecasting company Skymet took a significant step towards launching the country's first tradeable weather index on Monday (August 14) by entering into an agreement to deepen their understanding of the impact that weather has on agricultural commodities. The memorandum of understanding (MoU) between NCDEX and Skymet is a profound step in the direction of linking farmers with the weather in a scientific way, according to an official statement. Sources indicate that NCDEX and Skymet will conduct workshops and seminars across the country to educate farmers about how they can scientifically use weather forecasts to hedge risks.