Agriculture
Signs of Govt pragmatism on edible oil
THE Union Agriculture Minister, Mr Nitish Kumar's reported statement to a group of Members of Parliament from the southern States that he would `prefer to deal with the country's edible oils situation in its totality in consultation with the Finance and
Commerce Ministries' reveals a refreshing approach to dealing with this vital segment of the food processing sector. The Minister was reacting to a demand for restricting the import of palm oil.
Coconut Board thrust on product diversification
THE Coconut Development Board (CDB) is planning to encourage diversification of coconut products. The board's Technology Development Centre near Kochi in Kerala has been pilot-testing various technologies in this regard.
USDA estimates global rice trade at 23.3 mt
AN initial expectation of some improvement in global rice trade during 2001 is unlikely to come true as, on current reckoning, prospects for import into major markets are limited. Despite a decline in world production, small increase in consumption and d
rawdown of stocks projected for next year, prices are likely to remain depressed.
Once bitten, twice shy -- Kerala farmers unwilling to cultivate vanilla
FARMERS in Kerala, who burnt their fingers experimenting with cocoa cultivation a few decades ago, are reluctant to take up vanilla, fearing lack of buying support and proper remunerative prices.
Commodities
Coir, product exports up Rs 5.5 cr in Apr-Nov
EXPORTS of coir and coir products during April-November 2000 registered an increase of Rs 5.5 crore taking the total to Rs 204.66 crore as against Rs 199.16 crore during the corresponding period last fiscal.
Plantations
Bright scope to export organic spices
WITH the lifestyle and food habits in Europe and the US showing a definite tilt towards natural and organic food products, there is a bright scope for the Indian spice exporters to ship organic spices to these lucrative markets.
Good demand for CTCs at Guwahati sale
CTC offerings met with a good demand this week and the price levels for better Assams were firm. Grainy and good leaf well-sized brokens in the medium segment also sold at around last levels.
Rubber
Rubber prices fall to Rs 27.75/kg
RUBBER prices have nosedived to a 12-month low this month, with RSS 4 grade dipping to Rs 27.75 per kg on December 9 at the main marketing centres from Rs 30 a month ago.
