Cotlook Index: 28-09-2026
93.25 (Unch)
India's economy grows 7.8% in Q1 as exports strengthen: RBI
Tuesday, 29th Sep 2026, (Source: www.fibre2fashion.com)
Insights: India's economy grew 7.8 per cent year on year in Q1 2026-27, while merchandise exports rose 26.1 per cent in August and the trade deficit narrowed to $26.9 billion. However, ready-made garment exports fell 2.7 per cent, with inflation, energy costs and geopolitical tensions continuing to weigh on textile and apparel sourcing, adding to uncertainty for industry players.
India’s economy grew 7.8 per cent year on year (YoY) in the first quarter (Q1) of 2026-27, supported by domestic consumption and investment, while high-frequency indicators remained resilient through August despite renewed geopolitical tensions, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) said in its September 2026 Bulletin. Merchandise export growth remained strong in August, helping narrow India’s trade deficit to $26.9 billion from $32.0 billion in July. It rose 26.1 per cent YoY, while imports increased 14.1 per cent. However, exports of ready-made garments (RMG) of all textiles contracted 2.7 per cent YoY in August, indicating continued pressure on India’s apparel export performance. Exports to the US and China increased 21.8 per cent and 52.4 per cent, respectively, while exports to 17 of India’s 20 major destinations expanded. Exports to West Asia continued to contract. The RBI noted that domestic demand remained firm in August, with consumption and investment supporting overall economic activity. For manufacturers and sourcing businesses, the combination of resilient domestic demand and strong merchandise export growth provides a firmer macroeconomic backdrop, although the decline in RMG exports highlights continued challenges for the textile and apparel sector. Headline CPI inflation rose to 4.8 per cent in August, driven by the food and beverages group as well as higher fuel and core inflation. The RBI Bulletin also noted that global geopolitical tensions, trade fragmentation, energy supply disruptions and broader cost pressures continued to weigh on financial markets and business confidence. Renewed conflict in West Asia pushed energy prices higher, raising inflation concerns across advanced and emerging market economies. Financial markets also turned volatile in September amid geopolitical tensions and higher oil prices, adding to concerns over the balance between economic growth and inflation. India’s external sector remained supported by a moderate current account deficit in Q1 2026-27 and strong foreign direct investment (FDI) flows. Net FDI in July rose to its highest monthly level in five years, while net inflows under non-resident deposits increased sharply. Foreign exchange reserves reached an all-time high of $765.9 billion as of September 18, providing additional external-sector support.
Iran Chabahar rail link nears launch for India-Central Asia trade
Tuesday, 29th Sep 2026, (Source: www.fibre2fashion.com)
Insights: Iran has completed the 730-km Chabahar-Zahedan railway, which is expected to become operational within three to four months after final safety checks. The rail link will improve India's access to Afghanistan, Central Asia and eastern Russia through Chabahar, while supporting wider regional connectivity and the International North-South Transport Corridor.
Iran has completed the 730-km Chabahar-Zahedan railway, a project expected to improve India’s access to Afghanistan, Central Asia and eastern Russia through Iran. The railway is expected to become fully operational in three to four months after final safety checks by Iranian authorities, according to media reports. The railway connects the southeastern Iranian port of Chabahar with Zahedan and provides landlocked Afghanistan and Central Asian countries with another route to maritime trade through the Indian Ocean. For India-linked cargo, the line could provide a rail connection from Chabahar into Iran’s wider railway network and onward towards Central Asia, avoiding transit through Pakistan.The route has 33 stations, 39 tunnels and 201 bridges. Iranian authorities have begun final preparations for operations and are conducting safety checks before the line enters service. The development comes as New Delhi and Tehran continue discussions over India’s involvement at Chabahar Port. The port’s status was discussed when Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on September 11 on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit. India Ports Global Limited and Iran’s Ports and Maritime Organisation signed a 10-year agreement in May 2024 for the development and operation of the Shahid Beheshti terminal at Chabahar. India subsequently completed its $120 million financial commitment under the agreement. India’s involvement at Chabahar remains affected by US sanctions. The US withdrew a sanctions exception covering the project in September 2025 and later granted India a conditional waiver that expired on April 26, 2026. The Indian government has said it remains engaged with stakeholders on the implications. New Delhi is also discussing an arrangement under which a local Iranian ports authority could manage Chabahar Port, with provisions for India’s operational rights to return if US sanctions are lifted. The Chabahar-Zahedan railway forms part of wider efforts to connect the Indian Ocean gateway with Iran’s national rail network and improve access to markets in Afghanistan, Central Asia and beyond. Its development is also relevant to the broader International North-South Transport Corridor, which seeks to connect India with Iran, Central Asia, Russia and Europe.
India's weavers seek six-month duty relief as yarn costs rise
Monday, 28th Sep 2026, (Source: www.fibre2fashion.com)
Insights: Indian weaving representatives have urged the finance ministry to remove basic customs duty on MEG, PTA, POY, FDY and DTY for 6 months to ease polyester input costs.
The call follows price rises: PTA to ₹106.50 ($1.11) per kg, polyester melt to ₹120.05 per kg and polyester staple fibre up ₹2 per kg from September 26.
Industry comments warned pressure could affect employment but did not quantify job losses.
Indian weaving industry representatives have called for a six-month removal of basic customs duty (BCD) on key polyester inputs as higher material costs squeeze manufacturers and weaken demand. In a post addressed to the finance ministry on X, Ashish Gujarati, past president of the Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry, asked the government to remove BCD on monoethylene glycol (MEG), purified terephthalic acid (PTA), partially oriented yarn (POY), fully drawn yarn (FDY) and drawn textured yarn (DTY) for six months. Responding to the post, industry figure Alpesh Kapopara said a temporary review of duties on these materials could ease costs and support the competitiveness of the textile value chain. Rakesh M Barvaliya said yarn costs had become too high for weavers, while another commenter, Darshan, warned that continued pressure could affect employment. The request came amid rising domestic polyester prices. PTA increased by ₹1.10 ($0.01) to ₹106.50 ($1.11) per kg with effect from September 26, while polyester melt rose by ₹0.95 ($0.01) to ₹120.05 ($1.25) per kg. MEG remained at ₹83.70 ($0.87) per kg. Polyester staple fibre prices increased by ₹2 ($0.02) per kg on the same date, following a ₹3 ($0.03) per kg rise earlier in September. R K Vij, secretary general of the Polyester Textile Apparel Industry Association (PTAIA), said higher PTA and MEG costs had made downstream producers cautious, with many purchasing only to meet immediate requirements. Limited MEG availability had also led some producers to reduce operating rates and purchases, weighing on PTA demand, he said. Vij attributed a temporary PTA shortage in late August and early September partly to a decline in imports after the removal of a customs duty exemption in mid-July. He also cited constraints on competitively priced paraxylene supplies and elevated freight rates as pressures on production and downstream exports.
Unava Cotton Arrivals Begin
Monday, 28th Sep 2026, Yash Chouhan, (Source: www.smartinfoindia.com)
Cotton Arrivals Begin at Unava APMC; Prices Reach ₹2,525 per Maund
Mehsana, Gujarat: Arrivals of new cotton have commenced at the Unava APMC, located in the Unjha taluka of Mehsana district, Gujarat. Approximately 100 maunds of cotton have been recorded so far in early trading. Prices in the market ranged from ₹1,500 to ₹2,525 per maund, with ₹2,525 marking the highest rate recorded in this initial phase. Currently, cotton is primarily arriving from the Mehsana and Patan districts. According to APMC Secretary Rajubhai Patel, facilities such as accurate weighing, cash payments, drinking water, and parking are being provided for the convenience of farmers. The cotton market season typically runs from September to April, with peak arrivals usually expected between October and December. Market insiders anticipate higher cotton arrivals this year compared to the last. However, as the season has just begun and only 100 maunds have arrived, it is premature to estimate the total volume for the entire season. Future arrivals will be influenced by weather conditions, production levels, and farmers' decisions regarding sales. There is also speculation about a potential rise in cotton prices. Factors such as scanty rainfall, reduced cotton sowing, and overseas demand could impact the market. However, actual prices will ultimately be determined by market arrivals, cotton quality, production, and both domestic and international demand. Cotton is primarily used in the manufacture of textiles and yarn. Additionally, cotton seeds are processed to produce items such as cottonseed oil. As arrivals increase in the coming days, farmers and traders will closely monitor cotton prices and market conditions at the Unava APMC.
Weather Hits Jalgaon Cotton Crop
Monday, 28th Sep 2026, Yash Chouhan, (Source: www.smartinfoindia.com)
Weather Takes a Toll on Jalgaon Cotton Crop; Season Likely to End Before Diwali
Jalgaon, Maharashtra: Cotton farmers have faced mounting difficulties this year due to fluctuating weather conditions and erratic rainfall since the start of the Kharif season. Heavy rains in June and July hampered cotton growth in some areas, while the sowing of monsoon cotton was also disrupted through late July. Subsequently, a lack of adequate rainfall during the month of Shravan caused crops in many regions to suffer from water scarcity.
According to farmers, the summer cotton crop was affected by diseases such as rot and black rot. Farmers had to incur additional expenses on pesticides and other agricultural inputs to save the crop. Many had sown summer cotton in May using drip irrigation, relying on well water; however, a subsequent drop in well water levels stunted crop growth. Due to a low number of bolls, the yield for summer cotton is estimated at approximately 3 to 4 quintals per acre. Reports indicate that the monsoon cotton crop has also been affected in several areas. A lack of rainfall and the absence of retreating monsoon showers have impacted soil moisture and well water levels. Expenditure of ₹40,000 to ₹45,000 per Acre
Farmers state that the cost of cotton cultivation is ranging from ₹40,000 to ₹45,000 per acre. This includes expenses for fertilizers, seeds, labor, weeding, pesticides, harvesting, and other agricultural operations. Costs have further increased due to the use of additional chemicals to combat diseases and protect the crop.Concerns Regarding the Rabi Season Farmers anticipate that the cotton season in some areas may conclude earlier than usual—specifically, before Diwali. However, this situation may vary depending on the specific region and the stage of the crop's development. Farmers are also concerned about the availability of sufficient soil moisture and water for the Rabi season due to a lack of rainfall and irrigation water. The situation will become clearer in the coming days based on rainfall patterns, well water levels, and actual crop yields.
ICE cotton edges up on firmer market participation
Tuesday, 29th Sep 2026, (Source: www.fibre2fashion.com)
Insights: ICE cotton futures edged higher on Monday, supported by improved US export sales and firmer participation, while rising harvest progress and speculative long liquidation limited gains.
December 2026 closed at 82.86 cents per pound, up 15 points; US Upland sales rose to 230,500 bales, the US harvest reached 17 per cent, and China will suspend State Reserve cotton sales from September 30.
ICE cotton futures edged higher on Monday, supported by improved US export sales and firmer market participation, while gains remained limited due to rising US harvest progress and continued speculative long liquidation. Traders balanced improving demand signals against increasing new-crop availability. The most active December 2026 contract rose 15 points to close at 82.86 cents per pound. Other contracts gained 1–71 points. December 2026 traded between 82.07–83.86 cents, attempting to hold above 83 cents after last week’s 156-point recovery, but failed to sustain the level. Market activity improved, with volume rising to 61,336 contracts from 54,611 on Friday. Open interest (OI) reached a record 386,954 contracts on Friday, highlighting strong positioning in the market. However, CFTC data showed hedge funds reduced bullish exposure, liquidating 17,479 long contracts in the week ended September 22.
US export demand showed improvement, with Upland cotton sales for the week ended September 17 rising to 230,500 bales from 71,231 bales a week earlier. However, shipments remained below the USDA’s seasonal pace, keeping demand signals mixed.
Supply pressure is increasing as the US cotton harvest reached 17 per cent completion by September 28, ahead of the five-year average, according to USDA. Crop conditions stood at 35 per cent good-to-excellent and 30 per cent fair. Improved weather outlook in West Texas has also eased concerns over crop stress.
China’s cotton market remained firm, with the CC Index 3128B rising to 17,394 yuan ($2,588) per tonne on September 28. Meanwhile, China announced that State Reserve cotton sales will be suspended from September 30 after auctions began in July. The move removes a recent source of physical demand support, and the market will monitor whether commercial mill buying can offset the impact.
Cotton prices are currently supported by stronger export sales, limited certified stocks and commercial buying interest, while pressure comes from rising US supplies, speculative liquidation and the end of China’s reserve auctions.
December 2026 cotton faces immediate support near 82 cents and resistance around 83–84 cents. A sustained move above 84 cents could strengthen recovery, while weakness below 82 cents may renew selling pressure.
This morning (Indian Standard Time), December 2026 cotton was trading at 81.41 cents per pound (down 1.45 cent). Cash cotton was traded at 80.36 cents (up 0.15 cent), while the October 2026 contract traded at 79.06 cents (up 0.15 cent). The March 2027 contract was at 84.46 cents (down 1.29 cent), May 2027 at 86.21 cents (down 1.22 cent), and July 2027 at 86.62 cents (down 1.20 cent).
Weavers Seek Duty Relief on Polyester Inputs
Tuesday, 29th Sep 2026, Yash Chouhan, (Source: www.smartinfoindia.com)
Weavers Distressed by Rising Yarn Prices; Demand Six-Month Duty Relief
New Delhi: Amidst rising raw material costs and sluggish demand, India's weaving and textile industry has urged the government to waive the Basic Customs Duty (BCD) for six months on key raw materials used in the polyester industry. Industry representatives state that escalating costs are pressuring downstream manufacturers and undermining the competitiveness of the textile value chain.
Ashish Gujarati, former president of the Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry, took to X (formerly Twitter) to urge the Ministry of Finance to remove the BCD for six months on Monoethylene Glycol (MEG), Purified Terephthalic Acid (PTA), Partially Oriented Yarn (POY), Fully Drawn Yarn (FDY), and Drawn Textured Yarn (DTY).
Commenting on this demand, industry stakeholder Alpesh Kapopara noted that temporary duty relief on these materials could help reduce production costs and boost the competitiveness of the textile value chain. Rakesh M. Barvalia also expressed concern over high yarn prices, while Darshan voiced apprehensions that persistent cost pressures could impact employment.
Meanwhile, price hikes have been recorded in the domestic polyester market. On September 26, the price of PTA rose by ₹1.10 to ₹106.50 per kilogram, and the price of polyester melt increased by ₹0.95 to reach ₹120.05 per kilogram. The price of MEG remained stable at ₹83.70 per kilogram. On the same date, the price of polyester staple fiber increased by ₹2 per kilogram; it had previously seen a hike of ₹3 per kilogram earlier in September. According to R.K. Vij, General Secretary of the Polyester Textile Apparel Industry Association (PTAIA), downstream manufacturers are cautious about making purchases due to the rising costs of PTA and MEG. Some producers are buying material only to meet immediate requirements.
Vij also attributed the temporary shortage of PTA in late August and early September to a decline in imports following the withdrawal of the customs duty exemption in mid-July. He further highlighted difficulties in sourcing paraxylene at competitive prices and rising freight costs, both of which are exerting pressure on production and downstream exports.
Pink Bollworm Hits Amravati Cotton
Tuesday, 29th Sep 2026, Yash Chouhan, (Source: www.smartinfoindia.com)
Pink Bollworm Infestation in Pre-Monsoon Sown Cotton Raises Farmers' Concerns
Amravati, Maharashtra: Farmers in the Amravati region are concerned following the detection of pink bollworms in cotton crops sown before the monsoon. Pink bollworm larvae have been found inside cotton bolls in some fields in Valni Khurd and Valni Budruk. Farmers fear that the infestation could spread to other fields in the coming days.
Naresh Suigot, a farmer from Pathrot, had sown cotton in Valni Budruk during the last week of May, utilizing irrigation facilities. According to the farmer, the crop was in good condition until now, with over 70 bolls per plant, raising hopes for a good yield.
However, during a crop inspection, holes were observed in some cotton bolls. Upon opening the bolls, pink bollworm larvae were found inside. This discovery has heightened anxiety among farmers in the area.
The cotton crop is already grappling with water scarcity due to a lack of rainfall in the region. Consequently, if the pink bollworm infestation escalates, it could adversely affect cotton yields.
How does the pik bollworm damage the cotton crop?
The pink bollworm enters the cotton boll and damages the seeds and fibers. In the early stages, it is difficult to detect the infestation from the outside. Later, holes may become visible on the infected bolls.
According to agricultural experts, early sowing of cotton can increase the risk of pink bollworm infestation. However, the exact cause of the outbreak in this specific instance will only be determined after an investigation.
Farmers have been advised to monitor their fields regularly. If holes in the cotton bolls or signs of the pest are observed, they should seek timely advice from the Agriculture Department or agricultural experts. Additionally, they are urged to adhere to government guidelines regarding cotton sowing and seed procurement.
Virudhunagar Cotton Farmers Get Subsidies
Tuesday, 29th Sep 2026, Yash Chouhan, (Source: www.smartinfoindia.com)
Subsidies for Cotton Farmers in Virudhunagar under the 'Mission for Cotton Productivity'
Virudhunagar, Tamil Nadu: Cotton farmers in Virudhunagar district will receive subsidies for various activities under the ‘Mission for Cotton Productivity’ to encourage the adoption of modern technology and boost production and productivity. The scheme includes provisions for demonstration plots, drone-based spraying of crop protection chemicals, and technical training for farmers. District Collector Sharanya Ari stated that the mission aims to expand the area under cotton cultivation, improve crop quality and productivity, and connect farmers with modern agricultural techniques. Emphasis will also be placed on increasing farmers' income by the 2026-27 financial year. Under the scheme, farmers will receive a subsidy of ₹14,000 for High-Density Planting System (HDPS) demonstration plots. Additionally, assistance of ₹18,500 is provided for demonstration plots utilizing close-spacing planting methods. Farmers will receive a subsidy of ₹9,500 for demonstration plots dedicated to Extra-Long Staple (ELS) cotton cultivation.A subsidy of ₹7,500 will be provided for Integrated Crop Management (ICM) demonstration plots aimed at enhancing cotton production and productivity.Furthermore, farmers opting for drone-based spraying of crop protection chemicals will receive a subsidy covering 50 percent of the associated costs. Farmers will also receive training on the use of modern technologies in cotton cultivation.
A total area of 1,600 hectares has been earmarked for various demonstration plots, while 800 hectares have been designated for drone-based spraying of crop protection chemicals under the scheme. Interested farmers can register via the ‘Uzhavan’ app or by contacting the nearest Assistant Director (Agriculture) office.
Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan Calls for ‘Team Agriculture’ to Make India a Global Food Basket
Tuesday, 29th Sep 2026, Source: www.pib.gov.in)
Centre, States Must Rise Above Politics to Put Farmers First: Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan
India’s Farm Produce Set to Gain Global Reach Through New Trade Opportunities: Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan
More than ₹1200 Crore PM-RKVY Support Sanctioned to 10 States at National Agriculture Conference
Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan Announces Stronger Centre-State Coordination and Nationwide ‘Khet Bachao Abhiyan’
Natural Farming, Integrated Agriculture and Crop Diversification Key to a More Sustainable Farm Sector: Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan On the second day of the National Agriculture Conference – Rabi Campaign 2026, Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan chaired a session attended by Agriculture Ministers and senior officials from various states. Addressing the gathering, Shri Chouhan said that under the leadership and guidance of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Centre and states must rise above party politics and work in the spirit of ‘Team Agriculture’ to ensure the country’s food security and improve farmers’ livelihoods. “Governments and political parties come and go; parties are formed and dissolved, but the country and its farmers are eternal,” he said, stressing that the platform was not about politics but about finding practical ways to improve agriculture and advance the interests of farmers. Shri Chouhan also highlighted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, farmers’ interests have been accorded the highest priority in every major policy decision and international agreement. At the conference, Shri Chouhan handed over financial sanction letters worth more than ₹1200 crore to Agriculture Ministers of 10 states under the Prime Minister Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (PM-RKVY). Union Ministers of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Shri Ram Nath Thakur and Shri Bhagirath Choudhary, Agriculture Secretary Shri Atish Chandra, ICAR Director General Dr. M. L. Jat, along with senior officials from the Centre and states, scientists and representatives of various agricultural institutions, were present at the conference.
More than ₹ 1200 crore sanctioned to 10 states under PM-RKVY
Under PM-RKVY, sanction letters were distributed to 10 states, including ₹290 crore for West Bengal, ₹198 crore for Haryana, ₹181 crore for Chhattisgarh, ₹154 crore for Arunachal Pradesh, ₹114 crore for Bihar, ₹104 crore for Karnataka, ₹75 crore for Mizoram, ₹64 crore for Himachal Pradesh, ₹58 crore for Jharkhand and ₹43 crore for Punjab.
Shri Chouhan said the Union Government was not limiting itself to policy formulation, but was also ensuring timely availability of resources to states so that implementation of schemes could begin on the ground without delay.
Agriculture growth rate rises to 4.5 per cent
Highlighting the country’s agricultural performance, Shri Chouhan said that since 2015, the agriculture growth rate has increased from 3 per cent to 4.5 per cent. The average annual increase in foodgrain production has also more than doubled, rising from around 40 lakh tonnes earlier to 84 lakh tonnes per year. He further noted that in just two years, from 2023-24 to 2025-26, rabi foodgrain production recorded an unprecedented increase of 205 lakh tonnes. He attributed this historic growth to the collective efforts of state agriculture departments, scientists and farmers.
Monthly virtual reviews with states to strengthen cooperative federalism
Announcing a new mechanism to further strengthen cooperative federalism, Shri Chouhan said that, on the lines of weekly reviews conducted at the Centre, regular monthly virtual review meetings with states would now be held to continuously assess progress. At the state level, a strong State Agriculture Team will be constituted by bringing together the Agriculture Minister, Agriculture Secretary, state agricultural universities, ICAR institutions, Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), ATMA, Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), progressive farmers, processors, exporters and nodal officers of the Government of India. At the district level, monthly meetings will be held involving the Collector, Deputy Director of Agriculture (DDA), ATMA, KVKs, ICAR scientists, bankers and farmers.
Annual calendar for pre-season agriculture interface meetings
To ensure advance preparation for agricultural campaigns, Shri Chouhan announced an annual calendar for interface meetings. For the Kharif campaign, district-level meetings will be held on May 10 and state-level meetings on May 17 every year. Similarly, for the Rabi campaign, district-level meetings will be held on September 10 and state-level meetings on September 17 every year. In addition, a one-day special meeting will be organised across the country on a common date, bringing together Agriculture Ministers, officials and agricultural scientists simultaneously to discuss issues concerning farmers.‘Khet Bachao Abhiyan’ from October 22 to November 30
Emphasising the need to protect soil health and the environment, Shri Chouhan called for a nationwide ‘Khet Bachao Abhiyan’ from October 22 to November 30 this year. Scientists and all key stakeholders will actively participate in the campaign. Based on Soil Health Cards, the campaign will promote balanced use of fertilisers to protect soil fertility and beneficial insects. He also called for large-scale promotion of pulse cultivation in rice fallow areas of eastern India, particularly in Jharkhand, Bihar, Odisha and West Bengal, after the paddy harvest.
Rabi preparations to focus on soil moisture, water availability and crop protection
As part of preparations for the current rabi season, Shri Chouhan stressed that recommendations on crops and improved seeds should be based on soil moisture and water availability. He directed states to put in place effective arrangements to protect crops from diseases and pests, ensure saturation of all eligible farmers with Kisan Credit Cards (KCCs) and conduct transparent Crop Cutting Experiments (CCEs) under the crop insurance scheme. He also emphasised that state ministers should personally undertake regular reviews of the implementation of departmental schemes.
Strict action against spurious inputs, end to forced tagging
Stating that the availability of seeds and fertilisers in the country is adequate, Shri Chouhan directed states to take strict legal action against fake fertilisers, spurious seeds and sub-standard pesticides. He also directed that forced tagging be completely eliminated. Calling for agriculture to become more sustainable and remunerative, he urged states to adopt natural farming, integrated farming systems and crop diversification in mission mode.
Government working on multi-pronged strategy to ensure remunerative prices for farmers
Shri Chouhan said the government is pursuing a multi-dimensional strategy to ensure that farmers receive fair and remunerative prices for their produce. The strategy includes strengthening post-harvest management, scientific warehousing and marketing systems. He said that 100 per cent assured government procurement of tur, urad and masoor at MSP would be undertaken, with arrangements for payment within 48 hours. In line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, he said India would also leverage the new market opportunities emerging from international Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) to connect Indian agricultural products, fruits, vegetables and foodgrains with global markets. This, he said, would help farmers secure better returns for their produce and enable India to emerge as a major ‘food basket’ for the world.
