As the agricultural sector grapples with increasing challenges from pests and diseases, Felujit, with its unique formulation combining Penflufen and Tebuconazole, is set to transform the way farmers manage this persistent disease that has its origins in the soil. It effectively inhibits the growth of sheath blight by its dual mode of action throughout the entire body of the plant upon application, providing farmers with a reliable solution that enhances crop yields and quality.

A single spray of Felujit offers superior efficacy that lasts more than twice the current market standards. This means farmers can achieve effective disease control without the burden of multiple applications, saving both time and labor costs.

“Felujit is a highly effective solution for farmers, offering excellent control over sheath blight while streamlining their farming practices. Given the critical role of paddy in global food security, our innovation empowers farmers to manage disease effectively with fewer applications, optimizing their resources and enhancing their profitability amidst rising agricultural challenges”, said Mohan Babu, Cluster Commercial Lead, Crop Science Division of Bayer in India, Bangladesh & Sri Lanka.

Felujit’s unique selling proposition lies in its dual-action formulation, combining the strengths of two active ingredients to tackle Rhizoctonia, the main organism causing sheath blight. This innovative approach not only ensures effective control but also supports sustainable farming practices by optimizing the efficacy of the application.

Available in convenient sizes of 320 ml and 1 litre, Felujit is poised to become an essential tool in the fight against sheath blight.

The post Bayer’s Launch of Felujit for Effective Sheath Blight Management appeared first on NRI News.

The visit is a part of Meghalaya’s broader agenda to promote its organic and natural agricultural products, empower farmers through market access, and strengthen Meghalaya’s presence in the global agri-business sector. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been identified as a key market for Meghalaya’s produce, given its demand for high-quality products and its position as a global trade hub.

Nestled in the heart of Northeast India, Meghalaya, known as the “Abode of Clouds,” is home to unique ecosystems, fertile lands, and a predominantly agrarian population. With over 80% of Meghalaya’s population engaged in agriculture, the state has focused on developing sustainable farming systems, promoting organic cultivation, and integrating farmers into high-value global supply chains.

Meghalaya has taken progressive steps to enhance agricultural productivity, encourage farmer collectivization, and promote exports. Through initiatives like the Meghalaya State Agricultural Marketing Board (MSAMB), Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and Mission Organic Value Chain Development (MOVCD-NER), the state has facilitated aggregation, value addition, and branding of its premium produce, including GI-tagged Khasi Mandarin, Lakadong Turmeric, Organic Ginger, and Pineapple.

Key Events in Dubai:

The Meghalaya delegation, comprising senior government officials, FPO representatives, and entrepreneurs, will participate in the following key events:

17th March 2025: Product Showcase at Our Wellness Village Café, Sahara Centre, Sharjah

• Exclusive promotion of Meghalaya’s organic products to UAE consumers and businesses.
• Interaction with buyers, retailers, and hospitality industry stakeholders.

18th March 2025: Promotional Event at Lulu Hypermarket, Silicon Oasis, Dubai

• Display and retail promotion of Meghalaya’s premium agricultural products
• Meetings with trade partners to expand export volumes and explore new product categories.

The state’s “Meghalaya Model of Development” focuses on sustainable economic growth while ensuring environmental conservation, local community empowerment, and inclusive progress.

Recognizing the potential of Meghalaya’s organic produce in international markets, MSAMB signed an MoU with Lulu Group International in November 2023 anchored by The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA). This strategic partnership has already resulted in the successful export of GI-tagged Khasi Mandarin, Pineapple, and Ginger to Dubai, marking a significant milestone in Meghalaya’s agricultural export journey.

Building upon this success, the Dubai Market Exposure Visit will further strengthen trade relationships, open new channels for export, and enhance global awareness about Meghalaya’s unique agricultural offerings

The Market Exposure Visit to Dubai is designed to:

• Strengthen trade and business linkages between Meghalaya and the UAE.
• Provide farmer representatives with direct exposure to global market trends and consumer preferences.
• Promote Meghalaya’s organic and GI-tagged products in the UAE retail sector.
• Encourage investment in Meghalaya’s agribusiness sector through collaborations with global buyers.
• Expand the export footprint of Meghalaya’s agricultural products, enhancing income opportunities for farmers.

The initiative is expected to boost Meghalaya’s agricultural exports, create new trade partnerships, and increase farmer incomes, all while positioning Meghalaya as a leader in organic and sustainable agriculture.

The Government of Meghalaya is committed to strengthening agribusiness infrastructure, enhancing value addition, and facilitating farmer access to international markets. Through its flagship “Meghalaya Collective” brand, the state is building a strong identity for its agricultural products, ensuring quality, traceability, and premium market positioning.

With continued efforts in organic certification, logistics enhancement, and strategic partnerships, Meghalaya is poised to become a key player in India’s global agri-export ecosystem.

The post Meghalaya State Agricultural Marketing Board in Supporting Farmers’ Welfare appeared first on NRI News.

After the successful launch of Bastian Garden City in Bengaluru in 2023, this marks the brand’s foray into its third city in India, with Mumbai remaining the brand’s flagship.

Bastian Empire promises to bring Poonaites the inimitable blend of everything that the brand is known for: bold, striking interiors; glorious F&B offerings; and the distinctive Bastian vibe that feels exciting yet comfortable at the same time.

Says Ranjit Bindra, CEO of Bastian Hospitality Private Limited, “The success of the Bastian brand in Mumbai gave us the confidence to open doors in Bengaluru, a market which has welcomed us with open arms. We are therefore delighted to be foraying into our third city in India, with the launch of Bastian Empire in Pune. Pan-India and international expansion has always been part of our plan, and we are excited to be steadily growing our footprint in key markets across the country.”

Designed by Minal Chopra of Ineedspace, the long-time designer for the group’s restaurants, and Ranjit Bindra (CEO of Bastian Hospitality Private Limited), Bastian Empire has been created to resemble a cave on top of a high-rise. The 220-seater space is loosely divided into sections; guests will arrive in a Cappadocia-esque entrance area with soaring ceilings that are both rugged and smooth at once. Flooring in deliberately unfinished cobblestones and travertine marble further contributes to the rustic-chic feel. Every element of the restaurant has been designed with a wabi-sabi approach: one fine design element juxtaposed against one rustic one. The Main Bar area of the restaurant features relaxed, lounge seating, as well as high tables and chairs, all nestled in what feels like a suspended niche. The fine dining area offers back-to-back seating which is both intimate and private at the same time. At the opposite end of the space, a second DJ spins tunes that are more amenable to the dining audience, thus allowing for a comfortable mix of a party crowd and diners within the same space.  The entire restaurant stands out in its use of tone-on-tone, singular colors – beige, taupe, earthy shades, and neutrals punctuated by strikingly oversized wicker ceiling lamps, camouflage netting on the roof, and a chicly-distressed vibe that is signature Bastian.

The food brings to Pune the entire range of Bastian classics that keep diners in Mumbai (and now) Bengaluru visiting the restaurants time and time again. At dinner, Salads like Burrata Salad and Avocado Poke; and Signature Cold Dishes like Crab Roll; Bastian Ceviche; and Seafood Salad set the tone for the meal. Classics offer options such as Mongolian Lamb; The Mac; Baked Brie; and Pulled Chicken Taco. From the Sea options such as Steamed Garlic Prawns; Hot Stone Soup; and Lobstaa Bomb are a perfect complement to Robata dishes like King Mushroom; Baby Potatoes; Lamb Chop; and Pork Ribs. The Market menu, offering a pick of various proteins of choice or vegetables, cooked in sauces of the guest’s choosing, retains pride of place on the dinner menu, once again.

Instagrammable desserts that not only look good but taste great have also been a USP since Bastian first launched. Pune Empire will offer exciting and unique options like Banana Box, honey tuile, caramel banana, vanilla mousse, and caramel rocks; and Pedro Pudding, robata pineapple, fruit brioche, Pedro Ximenez sherry crème anglaise; a Best of Bastian section featuring favorites like Lotus Kunafa Cheesecake; and Baked Alaska; and the ever-popular Pull-Me-Up desserts, Hazelnut Crunch; and Mille-Feuille.

Bastian Empire’s distinctive bar menu is divided into distinct sections, the bar menu offers Crystal Clear, clarified cocktails which are a masterful fusion of mixology and science – using innovative technology, the bar team transforms traditional ingredients into liquid jewels; and Fizzy Fusions, drinks that deliver a delightful burst of sparkling refreshment onto the palate. The Farm to Glass section of the cocktail menu offers libations crafted using locally sourced, vibrant ingredients such as herbs, fruit, zesty citrus, and savory elements that promise a unique drinking experience. Of course, the menu would not be complete without the Best of Bastian, drinks that have stood the test of time since the restaurant first opened; and an intriguing Bastian Negroni section, a series of cocktails that are a modern interpretation of the classic Negroni, artfully reimagined by the talented mixologists at Bastian.

The post Discover the Bastian Empire: Bastian Hospitality’s Latest Venture in Pune appeared first on NRI News.

Commenting on the initiative, Balram Singh Yadav, Managing Director, of Godrej Agrovet Limited said, “Upliftment of the farming families is at the core of everything that we do at Godrej Agrovet. With the availability and usage of the right solution at the right time being an imperative for better yields, “Hello Godrej” will help us bridge the gap between farmers and agricultural experts by offering real-time personalized solutions.”

Changing climatic conditions and increased pest attacks have increased the concerns of the farmers. Amidst such continuously evolving farming conditions, enabling farmers to get access to the latest crop protection solutions and personalized guidance in their preferred language is a need of an hour. Through “Hello Godrej,” farmers across India can now avail of real-time advice through direct communication from our team of agricultural experts.

“Hello, Godrej, embodies the company’s vision of being the most trusted partner for Indian farmers in their journey towards sustainable and profitable agriculture. Leveraging Godrej Agrovet’s extensive experience and reputation, the initiative aims to build strong, trusting relationships with farmers, making it the go-to source for reliable agricultural information thus solidifying its leadership in the agriculture sector,” Rajavelu NK, CEO of the Crop Protection Business at Godrej Agrovet Limited.

Through this initiative, the company intends to reach farmers across the country to address their unique needs and challenges backed by Godrej Agrovet’s long-standing commitment to providing quality and reliable products to uplift farming families.

Helpline Number: 022 2519 4491

The post “Hello Godrej”: Your Ultimate Farming Advisory Helpline for Crop Protection appeared first on NRI News.

HYDERABAD: Coromandel International Limited (BSE: 506395, NSE: COROMANDEL), India’s leading Agri solutions provider in the business of Fertilisers, Crop Protection Chemicals, Bioproducts, Specialty Nutrients, Organic Fertilizer and Retail, today announced its milestone of clocking 16,000+ acres of farmland covered through its Gromor Drive – an agri drone spraying initiative.

As a company that recognizes the transformative potential of drones in agriculture, Coromandel International Limited launched its Gromor Drive in 2022 with a mission to provide cutting-edge drone spraying services to Indian farmers. The Gromor Drive aims to alleviate the challenges faced by farmers across the country, delivering superior results while prioritizing farmer safety and environmental sustainability. Since its inception, the innovative service has covered farmlands across Andhra Pradesh (AP) and Telangana State (TS), serving as a game-changer for farmers offering unparalleled precision spraying, cutting down labor, time, and water usage, and enhancing crop yields.

Gromor Drive’s widespread adoption underscores its efficacy in addressing the unique needs of diverse crops such as paddy, tobacco, chili, cotton, sugarcane, and pulses, in their farming practices.

Announcing the milestone, Sankarasubramanian S, Executive Director, Nutrient Business, Coromandel International Limited, said, “In line with our vision to enhance farmer prosperity and to end to the drudgery of their hard labor, Coromandel had initiated the Gromor Drive. Today, Gromor Drive has revolutionized the Indian agriculture landscape and it gives us immense happiness to share that we have crossed 16,000+acres of drone spraying in key southern states of AP and TS, making Coromandel the first fertilizer company to achieve such a significant milestone. It is heartening to know that the farmers across regions have quickly adapted to this technology and our services, evident from the overwhelming response across crop categories we received.”

“Through our understanding of farmer needs coupled with strong rural connect, we are rightly positioned to provide drone spraying services to the farming community across geographies. From reducing labor dependency to enhancing crop quality, Gromor Drive has emerged as a trusted ally for farmers striving for sustainable agricultural practices. We continue working towards extending Gromor Drive’s footprint across the country. Our company is now also working towards the empowerment of the rural women, by providing agri-drone Pilot training and Drones to women from Self Help Groups (SHGs) under the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s initiative Namo Drone Didi,” he added.

In this dynamic era of precision agriculture, drones have emerged as a beacon of hope for Indian agriculture. These Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), armed with Artificial Intelligence (AI) and remote sensing capabilities can provide real-time data on crop health, soil conditions, and pest infestations. As per studies, drone technology is recorded to offer a remarkable efficiency boost for agriculture spraying services, covering up to 30 acres per day, while reducing water consumption by a staggering 90%.

Sharing his testimonial on how he benefitted from Gromor Drive, Rajesh Kumar, a farmer from Andhra Pradesh, said, “Earlier, I used to spend hours manually spraying fertilizers on my crops, but with Coromandel Gromor Drive I can cover more acres in less time, minimum water consumption along with savings on labor costs.”

The post Coromandel’s Gromor Drive Crosses 16000+ Acres Of Drone-led Spraying appeared first on NRI News.

Toofan by Netafim India is 20% more affordable than the existing and available thin wall, non-pressure-compensated (NPC) drip lines in the Indian market, making modern, efficient irrigation accessible to all farmers regardless of subsidy eligibility. The drip line is 40% stronger with greater tensile strength, allowing farmers to cover up to 10 acres in a single day, saving both time and resources.

The innovative system with best-in-category anti-clogging technology ensures optimal delivery of water and nutrients, regardless of the water quality. The TurbuNextTM dripper labyrinth moves the debris out of the dripper, thus preventing clogging. It maintains a unique geometric tooth-shaped structure that increases turbulence, allowing longer lateral lengths and fewer sub-main pipes and connectors, ultimately saving on system and labor costs per hectare by 20% and 25%, respectively.

Toofan by Netafim India not only makes modern, efficient irrigation accessible to all but also offers a simplified buying process that transcends subsidy limitations. The cost-effective drip technology is now available to farmers of all scales, from large to small holdings, empowering them to embrace modern irrigation practices without subsidy constraints and offering an unprecedented installation speed.

The digital launch of Toofan by Netafim India concluded on the social media platforms of Netafim India and witnessed the interest of 10 Lakh farmers and dealers. Mr. Randhir Chauhan, Managing Director, Netafim India and Senior Vice President, Netafim Ltd., unveiled the product during the virtual launch. Toofan by Netafim India is an economical choice engineered with revolutionary TurbuNextTM technology and offers unparalleled durability, thus helping farmers achieve better crop yields. The technology is available for any row crops on flat topographies.

Netafim India aims to cover 25,000 ha of land and reach 35,000 farmers by 2025 across India to revolutionize sustainable farming. Regardless of the subsidy eligibility, Toofan by Netafim India provides lower flow rates with a large filtration area and ensures a consistent water flow to the crops, promising to usher in a new era of agricultural efficiency and empower Indian farmers for sustainable and quality cultivation.

The post Netafim India Launches Revolutionary Drip Technology Toofan for Sustainable Farming appeared first on NRI News.

PITHAMPUR: Mahindra & Mahindra Farm Equipment Sector (FES), a part of the Mahindra Group, today formally inaugurated its first dedicated farm machinery plant (non-tractor) in Pithampur, Madhya Pradesh.

The new plant was inaugurated by the Honourable Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Government of India, Shri Narendra Singh Tomar at an event attended by key state officials, dignitaries, and senior leaders from Mahindra & Mahindra.

Mahindra’s new farm machinery plant is strategically situated in the industrial city of Pithampur with access to a diverse supplier base, enabling the company to manufacture durable, high-quality, affordable, and accessible ‘Made in India, for India’ farm machinery, marketed in both the Mahindra & Swaraj brands. The plant will also manufacture products for export to global markets in Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas.

With its well-planned layout, the new plant is capable of rolling out a series of new products designed at Mahindra’s global technology Centres of Excellence in Finland, Japan, and Turkey. The new plant is spread over 23 acres and has the capacity to manufacture 1,200 combined harvesters and 3,300 rice transplanters per year. The Pithampur plant, along with its dedicated supplier park, is eventually expected to provide employment to 1,100 persons.

Speaking at the launch event of the new farm machinery plant, Honorable Minister of Agriculture and Rural welfare, Shri Narendra Singh Tomar said, “It gives me immense pleasure to be here at the launch of this one-of-a-kind facility for farm machinery in Madhya Pradesh, set up by the Mahindra Group. Mahindra has one of the most notable investments in the state providing mass direct and indirect employment in the region. Today, the Group is further enhancing its investment with the launch of its all-new greenfield facility to manufacture ‘Made in India’ farm machinery in Pithampur. This a milestone moment not just for the Mahindra group, but also for the country and our farmers.”

He further added, “Globally, mechanization has been one of the key components of high agricultural growth and higher food security with several studies suggesting a direct relationship between increased yields and farm mechanization. With our ambition of doubling farm mechanization in India by 2030, the Government of India has introduced several schemes and policies to support greater mechanization of Indian agriculture, and bringing Aatmanirbarta in farm mechanization is one of them.”

Hemant Sikka, President, of the Farm Equipment Sector, Mahindra & Mahindra Limited, said, “Mahindra has been the leader in the Tractorisation of India for several decades and is now determined to be a leader in the mechanization of farming. We aim to grow our farm machinery business by 10x in 5 years and the new farm machinery plant in Pithampur is a key pillar in the execution of this strategy.“

The post Mahindra Launches First Dedicated Farm Machinery Plant In Pithampur appeared first on NRI News.