News for 'agriculture'

Most Agriculture Ministers Hated Varghese Kurien

Most Agriculture Ministers Hated Varghese Kurien

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

At a function in Anand, ministers and the chief minister all in attendance, Varghese Kurien called the IAS lobby termites.

Innovators Invited To Transform Agriculture With AI Solutions

Innovators Invited To Transform Agriculture With AI Solutions

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

IIT Ropar's ANNAM.AI, in collaboration with Syngenta and Google, has launched 'HACK CORE 2026', a national AI hackathon. It invites innovators to develop AI-driven solutions for critical agricultural challenges like crop health, pest management, and climate-resilient farming, offering significant prizes and mentorship.

Manoj Bajpayee Buys Farm Land At THIS Price

Manoj Bajpayee Buys Farm Land At THIS Price

Rediff.com2 days ago

Manoj Bajpayee has expanded his real estate portfolio with the acquisition of 4.45 acres of agricultural land in Pune's scenic Mulshi taluka.

Centre deploys tool to prevent fertiliser shortage

Centre deploys tool to prevent fertiliser shortage

Rediff.com2 days ago

India's fertiliser ministry has introduced a new analytical tool and a national-to-retail dashboard to monitor fertiliser dispatches, movement, and inventories in real time, aiming to prevent localised shortages and ensure equitable access for farmers.

Punjab farmers begin week-long protest against Indo-US trade deal

Punjab farmers begin week-long protest against Indo-US trade deal

Rediff.com22 hours ago

Farmers under the Samyukta Kisan Morcha have initiated a week-long protest at the Chandigarh-Mohali border, demanding a minimum support price (MSP) based on the C2 plus 50 per cent formula, debt waivers, and opposing the proposed India-US trade deal, Electricity Amendment Bill, and Seed Bill. They also raised concerns about water depletion and sought resolutions based on riparian principles.

Probe reveals another exam paper leak at govt-run agri university

Probe reveals another exam paper leak at govt-run agri university

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya (IGKV) in Raipur has cancelled the BSc Agriculture first-year Plant Pathology exam after a police investigation confirmed its question paper was leaked. This follows an earlier leak of the Entomology paper, which led to arrests. The university is implementing new security measures, including digital paper distribution and increased CCTV surveillance, and will re-conduct the affected exams in September.

'Felt like winning a crore': CM Vijay's gesture moves elderly farm worker

'Felt like winning a crore': CM Vijay's gesture moves elderly farm worker

Rediff.com1 days ago

For Chellam, an elderly resident of Tamil Nadu's Salem district, Tuesday began like any other hard day on the field. But by afternoon, a fleeting encounter with Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay transformed an ordinary workday into a memory she says she will cherish for the rest of her life - one she compares to winning a "crore of rupees."

Watch: Take A Tour Of Varun Dhawan's New Farm

Watch: Take A Tour Of Varun Dhawan's New Farm

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Varun Dhawan has made a significant investment in agricultural farmland, declaring it his 'biggest achievement', highlighting a growing trend among celebrities to embrace organic farming and rural living over urban luxury.

'UP Has Potential To Generate More Than 11 Million Jobs'

'UP Has Potential To Generate More Than 11 Million Jobs'

Rediff.com2 days ago

'Improved law and order and transparent governance have helped change UP's investment image.'

Putin Offers More Fertilisers To India

Putin Offers More Fertilisers To India

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

Russia remains India's biggest fertiliser supplier, with imports rising nearly 40 per cent in 2025.

S&P Global Ratings retains India's 'BBB' sovereign rating with stable outlook

S&P Global Ratings retains India's 'BBB' sovereign rating with stable outlook

Rediff.com6 days ago

S&P Global Ratings has affirmed India's sovereign credit rating at 'BBB' with a stable outlook, citing the country's dynamic and fast-growing economy, strong external balance sheet, and stable institutions that ensure policy predictability.

Govt defends new GDP estimates, says revisions reflect data upgrades, not higher growth by design

Govt defends new GDP estimates, says revisions reflect data upgrades, not higher growth by design

Rediff.com16 hours ago

India's statistics ministry has defended its newly released economic growth estimates, stating that revisions to last year's GDP and the divergence between different price measures reflect updated data and estimation techniques rather than an attempt to artificially boost headline growth.

Industry credit growth jumps 20% in July, gold loans moderate: RBI data

Industry credit growth jumps 20% in July, gold loans moderate: RBI data

Rediff.com1 days ago

Bank credit to industry in India surged by 20 per cent year-on-year in July, significantly accelerating from the previous year, driven by strong expansion in sectors like engineering, gems and jewellery, and petroleum-related industries, according to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). However, growth in gold loans, while still expanding, saw a sharp moderation.

TN CM Vijay waives cooperative farm loans up to Rs 75,000

TN CM Vijay waives cooperative farm loans up to Rs 75,000

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay announced a comprehensive waiver of cooperative farm loans, providing full relief for loans up to Rs 75,000 and partial waivers for higher amounts, benefiting over 1.38 lakh farmers with an additional financial commitment of Rs 953.06 crore.

Why India's Ethanol Blending Policy Needs A Rethink

Why India's Ethanol Blending Policy Needs A Rethink

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

A group of experts has voiced significant concerns regarding India's ethanol-blended fuel policy, citing potential negative impacts on land-use, agriculture patterns, food security, groundwater levels, and household incomes. They recommend a return to E10 fuel and a review of the policy's overall benefits versus costs to consumers and the environment.

Trump unveils 50% tariffs as US-Canada trade war escalates

Trump unveils 50% tariffs as US-Canada trade war escalates

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

The US-Canada trade war has escalated sharply, with US President Donald Trump on Monday announcing that tariffs on Canadian cars, trucks, automotive parts and steel imports will be raised to 50 percent from January 2027, following the collapse of trade negotiations between Washington and Ottawa last week.

Vijay drops cases against farmers, teachers booked for protests

Vijay drops cases against farmers, teachers booked for protests

Rediff.com18 hours ago

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay announced the withdrawal of police cases against farmers who protested against the Parandur airport and SIPCOT projects, and against teachers who protested for their rights. The decision, made on humanitarian and democratic grounds, aims to strengthen democratic rights and public trust in the government.

Nepal floods revive Uttarakhand's Rishiganga, Dharali horrors

Nepal floods revive Uttarakhand's Rishiganga, Dharali horrors

Rediff.com6 days ago

The devastating floods in Nepal have brought back memories of two major disasters in Uttarakhand in recent years, the Rishiganga tragedy of February 2021 and the Dharali disaster of August 2025, which caused extensive loss of life and property and left thousands struggling to rebuild their lives.

Why India Must Bridge The Research-To-Technology Gap

Why India Must Bridge The Research-To-Technology Gap

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

Noted scientist Prof V Ramgopal Rao highlights India's significant progress in higher education and research but points out a critical gap in converting scientific discoveries into market-ready technologies. He advocates for a robust institutional framework, multidisciplinary collaboration, and stronger academia-industry ties to foster innovation and translate research into practical products.

Bangladesh's China-US Tilt Should Worry India

Bangladesh's China-US Tilt Should Worry India

Rediff.com1 days ago

Bangladesh-China and Bangladesh-US relations have evolved from reluctant engagement to increasingly consequential strategic partnerships.

PM lays out seven-point Sapta Dhara framework for Viksit Bharat

PM lays out seven-point Sapta Dhara framework for Viksit Bharat

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has introduced a 'Sapta Dhara' (seven-stream) reform framework, aiming to propel India into a developed nation by 2047. This comprehensive plan focuses on key sectors including manufacturing, agro-food processing, technology, logistics, defence, green and blue economy, and soft power, leveraging the nation's youth potential.

From accidental shooter to Asian Games: Army man Kedarling's incredible journey

From accidental shooter to Asian Games: Army man Kedarling's incredible journey

Rediff.com2 days ago

Naib Subedar Kedarling Balakrishna Uchaganve, a 27-year-old from a farming village in Karnataka, is set to represent India at the Asian Games in shooting, a sport he discovered only after joining the Indian Army in 2018 with no prior sporting ambition.

China, US, India must compensate Nepal for flash floods: Khanal

China, US, India must compensate Nepal for flash floods: Khanal

Rediff.com19 hours ago

Nepal has launched a diplomatic initiative to secure climate-related compensation from major greenhouse gas emitters, asserting that post-disaster assistance for recent deadly flash floods should be viewed as a moral and legal liability, not charity. Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal highlighted Nepal's disproportionate suffering from global warming despite negligible emissions, citing rapid glacier melt and extreme mountain disasters. The country has formally approached the Loss and Damage Fund board for urgent financial aid following a catastrophic flash flood in the Bhotekoshi river basin.

Govt forms quick response teams to combat fake news on social media

Govt forms quick response teams to combat fake news on social media

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

Government departments are establishing Quick Response Teams (QRTs) to promptly address and counter misleading or fake content circulating on social media. These teams will monitor digital platforms, verify information, and coordinate with fact-checking units to ensure timely and accurate responses to misinformation, with some ministries already having formed their QRTs.

The Taj's Hidden Story Is India's Wealth

The Taj's Hidden Story Is India's Wealth

Rediff.com7 days ago

In many ways, 17th century India occupied a position in the global economy comparable to that of the United States today. Just as millions of people now look towards America because of its economic opportunities, merchants, adventurers and trading companies once looked towards India.

Vijay opens Mettur gates, Cauvery water flows to delta fields amid scanty rain

Vijay opens Mettur gates, Cauvery water flows to delta fields amid scanty rain

Rediff.com1 days ago

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay opened the sluices of the Stanley Reservoir in Mettur on Tuesday for irrigation in the Cauvery delta districts.

India's Jobless Rate Climbs as Labour Participation Declines

India's Jobless Rate Climbs as Labour Participation Declines

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

India's urban unemployment rate for individuals aged 15 and above marginally increased to 6.7 per cent in April-June, while rural unemployment rose to 4.8 per cent, according to the latest Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS). This rise in unemployment coincides with a notable decline in the overall labour force participation rate (LFPR) to a five-quarter low of 54.6 per cent.

Saree becomes lifeline as Tamil Nadu pilgrims escape Nepal floods

Saree becomes lifeline as Tamil Nadu pilgrims escape Nepal floods

Rediff.com4 days ago

A group of 21 pilgrims from Tamil Nadu faced a terrifying ordeal during a pilgrimage to Mount Kailash when flash floods and mudslides struck Timure, Nepal. Despite being trapped in a raging torrent, a combination of miraculous coincidences, quick thinking, and the selfless heroism of a couple, Ratnakumar and Poonguzhali, ensured their survival. Indian and Tamil Nadu officials coordinated a swift rescue operation, bringing them safely back home.

How Generative AI Will Reshape India's Job Market

How Generative AI Will Reshape India's Job Market

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

A Goldman Sachs report indicates that up to 12% of India's non-agricultural workforce is at risk of substitution by generative AI, while 42-48% could be complemented. The report highlights uneven impacts across sectors and job types, with IT-enabled services facing higher risk and physical tasks remaining less affected. Gen-AI is projected to boost India's labour productivity growth over the next decade.

ISRO Bets Big on Space Startups

ISRO Bets Big on Space Startups

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

'ISRO will not manufacture any launch vehicles. That will all be done by the private sector or public sector undertakings.'

'Ethanol Blending Has Not Led to Sugar's Price Rise'

'Ethanol Blending Has Not Led to Sugar's Price Rise'

Rediff.com1 days ago

'The ethanol blended with petrol programme should not be halted or reconsidered.' 'India is not experiencing a structural sugar shortage, and the ethanol blending roadmap does not compete with food security or drive domestic price increases.'

RBI MPC members hint at rate hikes as inflation risks persist

RBI MPC members hint at rate hikes as inflation risks persist

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Members of the Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) have indicated that interest rate hikes may be necessary sooner rather than later, as headline inflation is projected to rise from its current benign levels in the coming months, according to the minutes of the August review.

HC accepts WhatsApp messages as dying declaration

HC accepts WhatsApp messages as dying declaration

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

The Madhya Pradesh High Court has deemed WhatsApp messages sent by a deceased tribal man to his father as a "prima facie crucial dying declaration" in a suicide abetment case. This ruling led to the denial of bail for three accused individuals, who were allegedly involved in harassing the victim over an agricultural land dispute. The court highlighted the electronic evidence and corroborating family statements.

'Young People Feel Uncertainty Because Of The Huge Disruption In The Job Market'

'Young People Feel Uncertainty Because Of The Huge Disruption In The Job Market'

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

'It could be in IT, it could be in administration, it could be in legal, it could be in technical services, but entry level jobs are rapidly disappearing because AI is taking them over.' 'So, the big question what would happen if the bottom rung of the ladder is removed?'

West Asia crisis: Putin assures India of steady energy, fertiliser supplies

West Asia crisis: Putin assures India of steady energy, fertiliser supplies

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

Russia on Monday assured India of uninterrupted supply of energy and fertilisers amid disruption caused by the West Asia crisis, as External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met President Vladimir Putin in Moscow and held talks with his key interlocutors.

Govt adviser bats for E10 petrol to protect older vehicles

Govt adviser bats for E10 petrol to protect older vehicles

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

A government adviser has called for India to reintroduce a petrol variant with a lower ethanol blend, such as E10, alongside the current E20 fuel. This move aims to protect millions of older vehicles, particularly two-wheelers, which may experience performance issues and damage from the higher 20 per cent ethanol blend.

Jharkhand HC stays cancellations of recruitment through 11th to 13th JPSC exams

Jharkhand HC stays cancellations of recruitment through 11th to 13th JPSC exams

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

The Jharkhand High Court has stayed the state government's notifications cancelling appointments made through the 11th to 13th JPSC examinations and for food safety officers, providing relief to approximately 450 candidates.

Health of Jharkhand protesters on hunger strike stable: Officials

Health of Jharkhand protesters on hunger strike stable: Officials

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

Four student protesters in Ranchi, on hunger strike against alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations, are in stable condition at Sadar Hospital. Two state ministers, Irfan Ansari and Shilpi Neha Tirkey, visited the students, urging them to end their fast and assuring government intervention, while students continue to demand resolution for alleged exam scams.

10 Malayalam Songs That Capture Onam Best

10 Malayalam Songs That Capture Onam Best

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

From timeless classics to modern favourites, these 10 Malayalam songs capture the colour, warmth and togetherness of Onam like few others can.

BNP veteran becomes new Bangladesh Prez in first contest after 35 years

BNP veteran becomes new Bangladesh Prez in first contest after 35 years

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, secretary general of the ruling Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and a close ally of former premier Khaleda Zia, has been elected as Bangladesh's new President in the first contested poll for the post in 35 years.