Latest news with #Basmati
Indian Express
5 hours ago
- Business
- Indian Express
Punjab's paddy trap: Despite years of diversification push, state set for another season of water-guzzling crop
Despite years of policy push, expert recommendations, and farmer outreach on the need for crop diversification, Punjab remains firmly caught in the grip of paddy cultivation. As of July 21, the state has completed paddy sowing on 30.95 lakh hectares, nearly matching last year's highest-ever figure of 32.44 lakh hectares, a clear indication that a meaningful change in cropping patterns remains elusive. According to data from the Punjab Agriculture Department, of the total paddy area sown so far, 25.20 lakh hectares is under non-Basmati paddy, the water-intensive variety largely grown for government procurement, while 5.78 lakh hectares is under Basmati, which is mainly exported and doesn't come under Minimum Support Price (MSP). Sowing is still ongoing and is expected to inch closer to or equal to last year's figures. The grim reality underscores a recurring concern: while diversification has remained a buzzword in policy circles and press conferences, on the ground, farmers continue to rely on paddy as their primary Kharif crop due to assured procurement by the government and a lack of equally profitable alternatives, such as Kharif maize, cotton, and Basmati. In stark contrast, maize cultivation — often promoted as a key alternative in kharif season due to its relatively low water requirement — has only managed to cover 87,374 hectares in the entire state so far. District-wise, Hoshiarpur leads with 36,000 hectares, followed by Ropar (21,050 hectares), SBS Nagar (8,255 hectares), Pathankot (6,880 hectares), SAS Nagar (4,385 hectares) and Jalandhar (4,350 hectares). Agriculture experts say this skewed sowing pattern continues to jeopardise Punjab's already depleted groundwater reserves. 'Year after year, we talk of diversification, but paddy remains the default crop. Without strong incentives, robust marketing systems for alternative crops like maize or pulses, and a major shift in procurement policy, we will keep circling back to the same crisis,' said an agriculture official who wished not to be named. Farmers, meanwhile, cite economic compulsions. 'Paddy offers assured returns through MSP procurement, while maize markets are unpredictable. There is no safety net if we experiment and fail. Moreover, the yield of Kharif maize is much lower than that of paddy — maize yields range from 22 to 25 quintals per acre, whereas paddy yields range from 28 to 36 quintals per acre, depending on the variety,' said a farmer from Jalandhar. 'The government-announced MSP for maize is Rs 2,400 per quintal, slightly higher than paddy's Rs 2,389 per quintal but paddy's yield is much higher. However, maize is not procured by the government, and private players offer rates far below the MSP. So, only those farmers whose land is unsuitable for paddy, or those who have contracts with ethanol-producing companies, opt for Kharif maize,' added the farmer. As sowing draws to a close, Punjab once again finds itself trapped in a pattern that threatens both its environment and the long-term sustainability of agriculture. Unless bold, structural changes are implemented, the discussion around diversification may remain just that — mere talk, said an expert from Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana. He pointed out that even PAU experts appear more focused on developing high-yielding paddy and wheat varieties, rather than promoting the research of the seeds of alternative crops at the same pace.
Business Recorder
5 days ago
- Business
- Business Recorder
Pakistan ready to diversify exports to match UK industry needs: Jam Kamal
Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan expressed Pakistan's readiness to diversify its export basket in alignment with the UK's industrial needs. He said this during his meeting with the Greater Birmingham Chamber of Commerce. The minister acknowledged the growing trade volumes with the Midlands, and underlined Pakistan's evolving strengths beyond traditional sectors, including in processed foods, fisheries, pharmaceuticals, leather goods, IT services, furniture, ceramics, and sports goods, said a statement by the ministry. He also encouraged businesses in Birmingham to explore high-quality Pakistani products such as Basmati rice, mangoes, and halal-certified processed foods. 'In particular, he spotlighted Pakistan as a reliable partner for Birmingham's advanced manufacturing and automotive supply chains — citing cost-effective production capabilities, expertise in light engineering and metal fabrication, and Pakistan's strong track record in supplying global automotive brands.' The Minister also underscored opportunities under Pakistan's National EV Policy and renewable energy shift, especially in areas such as battery technology and electric drivetrains, which directly align with Birmingham's green mobility ambitions. The press release said that the minister visited 'Nouvo' a major UK-based food distribution company, and also the Birmingham City Football Club. His discussions at Nouvo focused on strengthening commercial supply chains and expanding the footprint of halal-certified and ethnic food products from Pakistan in the British market. 'These engagements underscore Pakistan's renewed emphasis on industrial linkages, regional value chains, and diaspora-led commercial diplomacy, reflecting a strong intent to position Pakistan as a value-added trade partner to the UK.'
Axios
15-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Axios
Bite Club: Indian fare meets Mexican food at Tikka N Taco
A mashup of Indian cuisine and the Valley's ubiquitous Mexican fare has arrived at a new restaurant in north Phoenix. State of play: Indian-Mexican fusion restaurant Tikka N Taco opened earlier this year on 19th Avenue just north of Peoria Avenue. Best bites: I ordered lamb tacos and masala nachos. The lamb was delicious and tender, complemented by the tacos' creamy sauce. And the nachos — I never would've thought to put masala on tortilla chips, but it worked. Zoom out: Tikka N Taco isn't the only Indian-Mexican fusion in the Valley. Taco Papi in north Scottsdale offers Indian tacos and Basmati rice bowls, though most of the menu is more traditional Mexican fare.
Hans India
14-07-2025
- Business
- Hans India
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami Meets PM Modi: Key Issues Discussed and Future Plans
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi and sought guidance on various subjects related to the development of Uttarakhand. The Chief Minister expressed gratitude to the Central Government for its support in the state's development and stated that under the leadership of the Prime Minister, Uttarakhand is ready to play an effective role in the vision of a Developed India by 2047. The Chief Minister said that all Indians feel proud that 27 countries across the world have conferred their highest civilian honor upon the Prime Minister. He presented to the Prime Minister a replica of the Kartik Swami Temple, a coffee table book on the Adi Kailash Yatra, and local products from Uttarakhand including ghee from Kanar (Dharachula), red rice from Purola, Basmati rice, black cumin (Kala Jeera), Gandhrayan herb, Jambu herb, and local honey. The Chief Minister requested the Prime Minister to direct the concerned departments for infrastructure development of Haridwar Ganga Corridor, Rishikesh Ganga Corridor, and Sharda Corridor in Champawat, similar to the master plans implemented in Kedarnath and Badrinath Dhams, with financing through CSR funds. He also urged the Prime Minister to instruct the concerned ministries for: • Developing Nepa Farm in Udham Singh Nagar into a semiconductor hub by attracting semiconductor industries, • Extending the Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) between Delhi and Meerut up to Haridwar, • Including route construction provisions in the Tanakpur-Bageshwar and Rishikesh-Uttarkashi rail projects. The Chief Minister informed the Prime Minister about the upcoming Nanda Raj Jat Yatra to be held in Uttarakhand in 2026 and said that environmentally friendly infrastructure must be developed for its smooth conduct. He invited the Prime Minister to attend this grand Himalayan pilgrimage to be held in August 2026 and requested a financial assistance of ₹400 crore from the Centre for the same. Regarding the Mahakumbh to be held in Haridwar in 2027, the Chief Minister said preparations have already begun. For the successful organization of the Mahakumbh, several works including repair of bridges, parking facilities, electricity, drinking water, toilets, transportation, and pedestrian paths for devotees need to be undertaken. He requested financial assistance of ₹3,500 crore from the Central Government. The Chief Minister also requested the approval of a DPR worth ₹1,015 crore under the RDSS scheme for undergrounding HT and LT power lines and automating the power system in Rishikesh and Haridwar. He mentioned that the state government is working to restore the unique heritage site Chaurasi Kutiya, near Rishikesh, to its original form. The required funding has already been arranged. He requested the approval of this proposal by the National Board for Wildlife. To link glacier-fed rivers with rain-fed rivers, he informed the Prime Minister that a preliminary proposal for the Pindar-Kosi link project has been prepared. If the glacier-fed Pindar River is connected to the rain-fed Kosi, Gagas, Gomti, and Garud rivers, about 2 lakh people in 625 villages of Bageshwar, Almora, and Nainital districts would benefit from improved drinking water and irrigation. Additionally, cities like Garud, Kausani, Dwarahat, Ranikhet, and Almora would have better water supply for over 1.25 lakh people. The Chief Minister requested that this project be taken up under a special scheme of the Government of India. He also urged the Prime Minister to approve the development of five hydropower projects with a combined capacity of 596 MW, based on the recommendations of the committee chaired by the Cabinet Secretary, Government of India. The Prime Minister enquired in detail about the Char Dham Yatra, Adi Kailash Yatra, Nanda Raj Jat Yatra, upcoming Mahakumbh in Haridwar, and the Jal Jeevan Mission in the state. Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami of full support from the Central Government for the development of Uttarakhand.
Business Standard
09-07-2025
- Business
- Business Standard
KRBL Limited Announces Strategic Entry into Health-Oriented FMCG Segment with the Launch of India Gate Uplife Edible Oils
NewsVoir New Delhi [India], July 9: KRBL Limited, India's leading rice company and the parent organisation behind the world's No. 1 Basmati rice brand--India Gate; has officially entered the health-focused FMCG segment with the launch of India Gate Uplife, a new brand designed to empower consumers towards healthy eating. The debut range under the India Gate Uplife portfolio includes two functional blended edible oils: GUT Pro Oil, India's first gut-friendly cooking oil, and Weight Watchers, a weight-management variant. These products have been developed to offer targeted health benefits for digestive wellness and calorie-conscious eating while preserving the flavour and familiarity of everyday Indian cooking. GUT Pro Oil is fortified with Pro Digest™, a proprietary system that supports digestive balance. With 40% higher Gamma Oryzanol content compared to the leading brand in the category, the formulation delivers proven anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, supporting gut health and normal blood function. The launch campaign draws a compelling parallel between the human body and a high-performance engine, with the message: "Keep Your Gut Revving." Weight Watchers, a second offering under the same line, features Lite Soak technology, which helps reduce oil absorption, enabling lower calorie intake without compromising on taste. This variant is also enriched with Gamma Oryzanol, known for its cholesterol-lowering and health benefits. "The launch of India Gate Uplife marks a strategic step in KRBL's vision to evolve into a multi-category, multi-brand FMCG player. With Uplife, we're building on the trust of India Gate to meet the evolving aspirations of Young India, offering products that are thoughtful, purposeful, and seamlessly integrated into everyday living. Uplife is more than just a new offering--it's our commitment to becoming a long-term lifestyle partner for today's dynamic consumer," Ayush Gupta, India Business Head, KRBL Limited. The products are currently available across modern trade outlets, leading e-commerce and quick commerce platforms; and to be followed by general trade. The launch will be amplified with a full-funnel 360° push, spanning digital channels, OTT along with in-store visibility. In its first phase, the brand has also onboarded nutritionists, food influencers, and fitness creators to build awareness around gut health and smart cooking oils; along with creator-led content, and health-focused integrations. This launch marks a critical milestone in KRBL's transformation into a diversified, health-first FMCG player. The company plans to expand the Uplife range across multiple categories, building a robust portfolio of functionally enhanced food products aligned with the aspirations of modern Indian households for a healthy lifestyle.
