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1. Agriculture and agronomy:

1.1 Krishi Mapper:

• Krishi MApper is an integrated app for Geospatial Data in Agriculture.
• Aim: It is aimed at enhancing the productivity and profitability of Indian agriculture, promoting sustainable
agricultural practices, and ensuring food security for the nation.
• Launched by: Union Ministry of Agriculture and farmers’ Welfare
• Significance: The app covers monitoring of all land-interventions-based schemes/programs such as Digital
Crop Survey, Natural Farming, Seed Production and Distribution, NFSM Horticulture, Agroforestry & Other
related schemes.

1.2 Cabinet Approves revision in Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) rates for RABI Season, 2022-23
• In May 2023, The Union Cabinet has approved the proposal of the Department of Fertilizers for revision in
Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) rates for various nutrients i.e., Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), Potash (K) and
Sulphur (S) for Rabi Season 2022-23 to make available 25 grades of Phosphatic and Potassic (P&K) fertilizers
to farmers at subsidized prices.
• Subsidy amount: Government will be providing a subsidy of Rs. 38,000 crores for the Kharif 2023 to fulfil its
commitment of providing quality and subsidized P&K fertilizers to farmers.
• Note: The NBS scheme does not cover Urea.

1.3 Third Advance Estimates of Production of major crops

• In May 2023, Third Advance Estimates of production of major crops for agricultural year 2022-23 have been
released by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
• As per Third Advance Estimates for 2022-23, Total Foodgrain production in the country is estimated at record
3305.34 lakh tones which is higher by 149.18 LMT as compared to previous year2021-22.

As per Third Advance Estimates, the estimated production of major crops for 2022-23 is as under:

S.NO Crops 2022-23

1. Rice 1355.42 LMT (record)
2. Wheat 1127.43 LMT (record)
3. Maize 359.13LMT
4. Nutri / Coarse Cereals 547.48 lakh tonnes
5. Pulses 275.04 LMT
6. Moong 37.40 LMT
7. Soybean and Rapeseed 149.76 LMT
8. Mustard 124.94 LMT
9. Oilseed production 409.96 LMT (record)
10. Sugarcane 4942.28 LMT (record)
11. Cotton 343.47 lakh bales (of 170 kg each)
12. Jute and Mesta 94.94 lakh bales (of 180 kg each)

1.4 Union Cabinet approves Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for Kharif Crops for Marketing Season 2023-24
• In June 2023, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved the increase in the
Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for all mandated Kharif Crops for Marketing Season 2023-24.

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1.5 The two ‘mosaic’ viruses that hit tomato crop in Maharashtra and Karnataka
• In July 2023, Farmers in Maharashtra have reported that their tomato crop was impacted by attacks of
the Cucumber Mosaic virus (CMV), while growers in Karnataka and other South Indian states have blamed
the Tomato Mosaic Virus (ToMV) for crop losses.
• Over the last three years, growers of tomato have complained of increased infestation with these two
viruses, leading to partial to complete crop losses.

1.6 Centre amends Export Policy of Non-Basmati White Rice to ensure adequate domestic availability at
reasonable prices
• In July 2023, in order to ensure adequate availability of Non-Basmati White Rice in the Indian market and
to allay the rise in prices in the domestic market, Government of India has amended the Export Policy of
above variety from ‘Free with export duty of 20%’ to ‘Prohibited’ with immediate effect.
• Note: However, there is no change in Export policy of Non-Basmati Rice (Par Boiled Rice) and Basmati Rice,
which forms the Bulk of Rice exports.

1.7 National Conference for Rabi Campaign 2023-24

• In September 2023, the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has organized the National
Conference on Agriculture for Rabi Campaign 2023-24.
• National targets for total food grains production have been set at 3320 lakh tonnes for the year 2023-24,
rabi season will contribute 1612 lakh tonnes out of this.
• Similarly share of rabi crops will be 181 out of 292 lakh tonnes for pulses and 145 out of 440 lakh tonnes
for oilseeds.
• For pulses, it is proposed to achieve the target of 325.47 lakh tonnes by 2025.

1.8 India permits 75,000 tonnes non-basmati white rice exports to UAE
• In September 2023, India has allowed the export of non-basmati white rice to the tune of 75,000 tonnes
to the UAE.
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 • The exports to UAE are permitted through National Cooperative Exports Limited, the Directorate General
of Foreign Trade said in the notification.

2. Soil conservation:

2.1 Introduction of Sulphur coated Urea (Urea Gold)

• In June 2023, The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved the introduction of Sulphur
coated Urea (Urea Gold) in the country for the first time. This is a superior alternative to the Neem coated
urea that is currently used.

Significance:

• Sulphur coated Urea (Urea Gold) is a fertilizer that has a thin layer of Sulphur on each granule of urea.
• This layer prevents the urea from dissolving quickly in water and thus reduces the loss of nitrogen due to
leaching and volatilization, but providing the same amount of nitrogen to the crops, which saves money for
the farmers and reduces the environmental impact of excess nitrogen.
• It also provides Sulphur to the soil, which is an essential nutrient for many crops, especially oilseeds and
pulses.

3. Plantation and horticulture

3.1 FSSAI notifies residue cap for five pesticides in tea plantation
• In May 2023, The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has operationalised the Maximum
Residue Limit (MRL) for five pesticides used in tea plantations.
• The five pesticides are emamectin, benzoate, fenpyroximate, hexaconazole, propiconazole, and
quinalphos.

3.2 Andhra Pradesh’s Araku Valley Coffee and black pepper get organic certificate
• In May 2023, in a significant achievement, the Girijan Co-operative Corporation (GCC), Visakhapatnam, Andhra
Pradesh, has been granted organic certification for its renowned Araku coffee and black pepper crops by the
Agriculture and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA).

3.3 ADB, India sign $130 million loan to promote horticulture in Himachal Pradesh
• In June 2023, The Government of India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) has signed a $130 million
loan to increase agricultural productivity, improve access to irrigation and promote horticulture
agribusinesses to raise farmers’ income in the state of Himachal Pradesh.
• Aim: The project aims to enhance farmers’ income and resilience to climate change in seven districts of
the state.

3.4 First advance estimates (2022-23) of area and production of horticultural crops
• In June 2023, the agriculture ministry has released its first advance estimates (2022-23) of area and
production of horticultural crops.

Estimation:

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3.5 India Permits Potato Imports from Bhutan till June 2024
• In July 2023, Ministry of Commerce & Industry has permitted the extension of potato imports from Bhutan
without any licensing requirement until June 2024.
• This decision aims to maintain a steady supply of potatoes while fostering bilateral trade relations
between the two countries.
• In a separate notification, the DGFT has also announced the permission to import 17,000 metric tonnes of
fresh (green) areca nut from Bhutan, without the condition of a minimum import price (MIP).

3.6 India hosted World Coffee Conference for first time in September
• India has hosted the 5th World Coffee Conference (WCC) in Bengaluru from September 25 to 28, where it
will present its diverse coffees to buyers from over 80 countries.
• This is the first time that the event will be held in Asia.
• Theme: Sustainability through Circular Economy and Regenerative Agriculture.
• Organized by: The Coffee Board, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and International Coffee
Organization.
• Mascot of the conference: Coffee Swami
• Note: The earlier editions of WCC were held in London (2001), Brazil (2005), Guatemala (2010), and Ethiopia
(2016).

3.7 World Spice Congress 2023

• The World Spice Congress has been held at Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra from the 15th to the 17th of
September 2023, serving as a focal point for the global spice industry.
• The World Spice Congress (WSC) 2023 marks its 14th edition, symbolizing its enduring significance and
impact.
• THEME: VISION 2030: S-P-I-C-E-S (Sustainability, Productivity, Innovation, Collaboration, Excellence and
Safety).
• The inaugural function was followed by the launch of a book called 'Spice Revolution - Promoting Value
Addition in Global Spices Trade'.

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4. Animal Husbandry and fisheries:

4.1 mooMark Becomes 1st Indian Private Dairy to offer Heat Index Insurance Plan to Farmers
• In June 2023, mooPay, the fintech arm of Stellapps, has collaborated with IBISA Network, HDFC ERGO, and
Gramcover to introduce an innovative insurance plan for farmers based on the Heat Index.
• It provides coverage to farmers if temperatures exceed specified limits for a predetermined number of days
during a 60-day period starting from May 1st, taking into account region-specific parameters.
• Each insured cattle are eligible for a maximum coverage of Rs. 2000. Currently, the insurance cover is
limited to one cattle per household.

4.2 Dugdh Sankalan Sathi Mobile App

• In June 2023, in a major boost to the dairy sector in India, the Union Minister of Heavy Industries has
launched the "Dugdh Sankalan Sathi Mobile App" at Mussorie, Uttarakhand.
• Designed and designed by: Rajasthan Electronics & Instruments Limited (REIL), a “Mini Ratna” Central
Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Heavy Industries.

4.3 Report Fish Disease’ App

• In June 2023, with a view to strengthen the farmer-based disease reporting system and for improving the
reporting of aquatic animal diseases in the country, Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and
Dairying, Shri Parshottam Rupala has launched the Report Fish Disease (RFD) App at Krishi Bhawan.
• Developed by: ICAR-NBFGR under National Surveillance Programme for Aquatic Animal Diseases
(NSPAAD), funded under Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana by the Department of Fisheries, Ministry
of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India.

4.4 India’s first fisheries Atal incubation centre to come up at KUFOS

• In July 2023, The Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS) has secured a grant of ₹10
crore from NITI Aayog to establish India’s first Atal Incubation Centre (AIC) in fisheries at the University.
• Aim: The AIC will serve as a hub for innovation, encouraging young minds to develop cutting-edge
technologies and solutions for the challenges faced by our marine ecosystems and fishing communities.

4.5 Northeast’s Mithun Gets ‘Food Animal’ Tag

• In September 2023, The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has recognized the mithun as
a ‘food animal,’ opening doors for its commercial use.
• The recognition of Mithun as a ‘food animal’ and the efforts to promote its meat as a commercial product
can indeed have significant economic and cultural implications for the region.

About Mithun:

• Mithun or Gayal, scientifically known as Bos frontalis, a ruminant species of the Bovidae family, is a
remarkable bovine species native to the lush and hilly regions of Northeast India, particularly the states of
Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, and Mizoram.
• It is also the state animal of both Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland.
• Often referred to as the “Cattle of the Hills,” Mithun holds significant cultural, economic, and ecological
importance in this region.

5. Recent development in agriculture and allied sectors:

5.1 Union Govt Constitutes 11-member Committee to Restructure 94-years-old ICAR

• In May 2023, in order to make ICAR more efficient and effective, the government has constituted a high-level
committee to restructure ICAR in line with the vision of Amrit Kal.
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 • The 11-member committee has been formed to restructure the ICAR.
• It is led by Sanjay Garg, Additional Secretary of the Department of Agricultural Research and Education and
the Secretary of ICAR.
• Note: Earlier, the government had constituted committees under Dr MS Swaminathan and Dr RA Mashlekar.
The recommendations provided by these committees have not been implemented.

5.2 Centre signs agreement with 6 states to start digital crop survey
• In May 2023, The Union Government has signed an agreement with six states -- Assam, Gujarat, Madhya
Pradesh, Odisha, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh -- to begin the digital crop survey.
• Digital crop survey is part of the government's Agristack or India Digital Ecosystem for Agriculture (IDEA) that
has been under development since 2020.

5.3 National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2023

• In June 2023, Indian Agriculture Research Institute (IARI) New Delhi has topped the inaugural National
Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) for the year 2023 under the category of Agriculture and Allied
sectors.
• National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI) Karnal and Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana have
grabbed second and third positions in India rankings 2023 in agriculture and allied category.
• The “agriculture and allied sectors” category was added this year.

5.4 Indian Council of Agricultural Research signs a MOU with Amazon Kisan to Empower Farmers
• In June 2023, Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), New Delhi signed a MoU with Amazon Kisan
to combine strengths and create synergy between the two organizations for guiding the farmers on
scientific cultivation of different crops for optimum yield and income.

5.5 FarmersFZ selected for UN's 'Accelerator Programme' for food startups
• In June 2023, a startup located in Kerala, known as Farmers Fresh Zone (FarmersFZ), has been selected for
the United Nations’ ‘Accelerator Programme’ hosted by the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO),
making the nation proud.
• FarmersFZ has figured in the list of 12 agri-food startups around the world for the UN body to develop
business.

5.6 Gabon’s first Agri-SEZ Project

• In June 2023, Union Minister of Education and Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Shri Dharmendra
Pradhan flagged off Gabon’s first Agri- SEZ project from New Delhi.

5.7 42nd Foundation Day function of NABARD

• The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) celebrated its 42nd Foundation Day on
July 12, 2023.
• Theme: “NABARD: 42 Years of Rural Transformation.”

5.8 Grain-Ex system for appearance-based e-Quality detection system

• In July 2023, an appearance-based detection system i.e., Grain-Ex through machine vision technology for
pulses developed under ‘National programme on Electronics and ICT applications in Agriculture and
Environment (AgriEnIcs)’ along with ICAR-IARI, New Delhi has been launched by the Ministry of Electronics
and Information Technology (MeitY).

Significance:

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 • The appearance-based e-Quality detection system for 14 types of pulses (Grain-Ex), would bring about a
transformative change in the e-NAM markets for quality-based pricing. This will be helpful for more than
1,200 e-NAM connected markets.

5.9 Indian Council of Agricultural Research celebrates its 95th Foundation and Technology Day
• In July 2023, The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has celebrated its 95th Foundation Day (16th
July) at National Agriculture Science Complex, Pusa, New Delhi.
• This is first time, the Foundation Day is celebrated as Technology Day, therefore, an exhibition has been
organized to show case ICAR technologies for the benefit of farmers, students and agri-industry.

5.10 YES-TECH Manual, WINDS Portal and AIDE Mobile App

• In July 2023, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare launched several new technological initiatives
under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana to empower farmers and streamlining the operations.

S. No Initiatives
1. YES-TECH Manual - It is a comprehensive guide developed after extensive testing and piloting in 100
districts of India. It facilitates the implementation of YES-TECH, a technology-driven yield estimation
system (YES). The manual offers methodologies, best practices, and integration insights for accurate yield
assessments.
2. WINDS Portal - It is a centralized platform that hosts, manages, and processes hyper-local weather data.
It collects data from Automatic Weather Stations and Rain Gauges at Taluk/Block and Gram Panchayat
levels.
3. AIDE Mobile App - The AIDE mobile app aims to revolutionize the enrolment process for crop insurance.
It is introduced on the Android platform and brings the enrolment process directly to the doorstep of
farmers.

5.11 “Bhu-Vision"
• In August 2023, in a groundbreaking advancement in agricultural technology, the IoT-based automated soil
testing and agronomy advisory platform, Bhu-Vision (also known as KRISHI-RASTAA Soil Testing System),
was officially introduced at ICAR-IIRR, Hyderabad.
• The technology, jointly developed by ICAR-IIRR and KrishiTantra, was manufactured by HiMedia
Laboratories and marketed by BhoomiSeva (HCF Tech Services Pvt. Ltd.).
• Bhu-Vision conducts 12 key soil parameter tests in just 30 minutes, providing quick and accurate results to
farmers and stakeholders through mobile-based soil health cards.

5.12 India's first Agricultural Data Exchange (ADeX) launched in Hyderabad

• In August 2023, the government of Telangana, in collaboration with the World Economic Forum and the
Indian Institute of Science (IISc) launched India's first Agricultural Data Exchange (ADeX) in Hyderabad.

About ADeX:

• Developed as a digital public infrastructure (DPI) for the agriculture sector, ADeX is an open-source, open-
standard, and inter-operable public good.

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 • The software platform facilitates a secure, standards-based exchange of data between agricultural data
users (agri application developers) and agricultural data providers (government agencies, private
companies, NGOs, universities, etc.).

Additional information:

• The Telangana government also launched the Agriculture Data Management Framework (ADMF) - a
framework for facilitating consent-based responsible data sharing.
• ADMF is applicable to all government departments dealing with agricultural activities, as well as, all
agriculture information users and providers. The framework provides a grievance redressal mechanism.

5.13 TDB-DST partners with Chemlife Innovations for Innovative Bio-Trace Minerals Project
• In August 2023, The Technology Development Board (TDB), operating under the Department of Science &
Technology (DST), has announced its strategic partnership with M/s Chemlife Innovations Pvt. Ltd.,
headquartered in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
• The project aims to revolutionize the manufacturing of bio-trace minerals for animal feed particularly
targeting the livestock and poultry/dairy sectors. These minerals are essential for animals’ health.
• TDB is giving ₹84 lakhs to this project which is a significant contribution to the total project cost of ₹ 142.60
lakhs.

5.14 Commerce ministry seeking views of ministries, NITI on draft bills on 5 cash crops
• In August 2023, the commerce ministry has circulated separate notes for the bills related to cash crops of
tea, coffee, spices, rubber and tobacco, which aim to promote their growth and create a conducive
environment for businesses by decriminalising minor offences, and seek input from various ministries, as
well as Niti Aayog, on draft bills pertaining to five cash crops.

5.15 GLOBAL SYMPOSIUM ON FARMERS' RIGHTS

• In September 2023, the president of India has inaugurated the global symposium on farmers’ rights in New
Delhi, emphasizing farmers' vital role as crop diversity conservers.
• Organized by: The Secretariat of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and
Agriculture (International Treaty) of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Rome and hosted by
the Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare in collaboration with Protection of Plant Varieties
and Farmers’ Rights (PPVFR) Authority, Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), ICAR-Indian
Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), and ICAR-National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (NBPGR).
• ‘Delhi Framework on Farmers’ Rights’: The deliberations and suggestions emanating from the GSFR have
been crystalized in a ‘Delhi Framework on Farmers’ Rights.

5.16 Unified Portal www.upag.gov.in for Agricultural Statistics

• In September 2023, The Unified Portal for Agricultural Statistics (UPAg Portal – www.upag.gov.in) has been
officially launched.

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 • It is a pioneering initiative by the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, to streamline data
management in the agriculture sector.
• The portal aims to provide real-time, reliable, and standardized information, empowering stakeholders and
facilitating more responsive and efficient agricultural policies.

5.17 Punjab submits State Action Plan and District-wise Action Plans for tackling the problem of stubble
burning
• In September 2023, the Punjab Government has submitted its State Action Plan and District-wise Action
Plans to the Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR & Adjoining Areas (CAQM) for the current
paddy harvesting season.
• The State Action Plan sets ambitious targets, aiming for at least a 50% reduction in fire counts in Punjab
during 2023 compared to the previous year.

5.18 Government launches KCC Ghar Ghar Abhiyaan, Kisan Rin Portal and WINDS manual
• In September 2023, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare (MoA&FW) has launched three
initiatives, namely the Kisan Rin Portal (KRP), KCC Ghar Ghar Abhiyaan and a manual on Weather
Information Network Data Systems (WINDS).

S. No Initiative
1. Kisan Rin Portal (KRP):
• Developed collaboratively by MoA&FW, the Department of Financial Services (DFS), Department of Animal
Husbandry & Dairying (DAH&D), Department of Fisheries (DoF), RBI, and NABARD, KRP is poised to
revolutionize access to credit services under the Kisan Credit Card (KCC).
• It facilitates farmers in availing subsidized agriculture credit through the Modified Interest Subvention
Scheme (MISS).
• The portal offers an integrated hub, providing a comprehensive view of farmer data, loan disbursement
specifics, interest subvention claims, and scheme utilization progress.
2. Ghar-Ghar KCC Abhiyaan - Door to Door KCC Campaign:
• The "Ghar-Ghar KCC Abhiyaan" underscores government commitment to Universal Financial Inclusion,
ensuring every farmer has unhindered access to credit facilities crucial for their agricultural pursuits.
• This campaign, starting from 1st October 2023 to 31st December 2023, targets the saturation of KCC
accounts among eligible PM KISAN beneficiary farmers.
• The ministry has verified existing KCC account holders' data against the PM KISAN database, identifying
those with KCC accounts and those without.
• The campaign aims to reach out to non-KCC account holder PM KISAN beneficiaries and facilitate their
seamless integration into the KCC scheme.
3. WINDS Manual:

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 • The WINDS initiative is an effort aimed at establishing a network of Automatic Weather Stations & Rain
Gauges at taluk/block and gram panchayat levels.
• This initiative creates a robust database of hyper-local weather data, supporting various agricultural
services.
• The comprehensive WINDS manual launched provides stakeholders with an in-depth understanding of the
portal's functionalities, data interpretation, and effective utilization.
• It guides States and Union Territories in establishing and integrating with the WINDS platform.
• Additionally, it offers practical insights into leveraging weather data for improved crop management,
resource allocation, and risk mitigation.

5.19 Web Portal for General Crop Estimation Survey (GCES)

• In September 2023, the secretary of the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (DA&FW)
launched the mobile application and the web portal for GCES (General Crop Estimation Survey).
• It has been developed for leveraging technology to enhance the reach, scope, and outcome of government
actions in the course of development.
• The automation of the GCES process will ensure on time reporting of crop statistics and accuracy of the
data.

5.20 AI Chatbot for the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN)
• In September 2023, the Union Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India has
launched AI Chatbot ‘Kisan e -Mitra’ for the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) Scheme at
New Delhi.
• The AI Chatbot launch marks a significant step towards enhancing the efficiency and reach of the PM-KISAN
scheme, and also providing farmers prompt, clear, and accurate responses to their queries.
• Currently, the Chatbot is available in English, Hindi, Bengali, Odia, and Tamil. In a short period, it will be
available in all 22 official languages of the country.

5.21 All-India Consumer Price Index Numbers for Agricultural and Rural Labourers – August, 2023
• In September 2023, All-India Consumer Price Index Numbers for Agricultural and Rural Labourers – August,
2023 has been released by the Ministry of Labour & Employment.
• In case of Agricultural Labourers, it recorded an increase of 2 to 19 points in 20 States. Tamil Nadu with
1423 points topped the index table whereas Himachal Pradesh with 942 points stood at the bottom.
• In case of Rural Labourers, it recorded an increase of 2 to 18 points in 20 States. Andhra Pradesh with 1412
points topped the index table whereas Himachal Pradesh with 1003 points stood at the bottom.
• Amongst states, the maximum increase in the Consumer Price Index Numbers for Agricultural Labourers
was experienced by Meghalaya (19 points) and for Rural Labourers by Gujarat and Meghalaya (18 points

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each) mainly due to rise in the prices of rice, pulses, beef, groundnut oil, onion, chillies green/dry, firewood,
bus fare, etc.

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