Copra MSP: Mixed reactions from producers
The 4.61 per cent increase in minimum support price (MSP) for the milling copra variety at ₹9,960 per quintal for the 2020 season over the previous season has brought cheers to producers and the processing industry in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. However, the producers of ball copra variety in Karnataka are disappointed with the 3.83 per cent increase at ₹10,300 a quintal.
Govt to draw up National Fisheries Policy: Giriraj
The government plans to formulate a National Fisheries Policy for holistic development of the sector, which is growing at an annual rate of 8 per cent, Union Fisheries Minister Giriraj Singh said in the Rajya Sabha.
The government will take care of the interests of traditional fishermen while framing the policy, said Singh, who also holds Animal Husbandry and Dairying portfolios, while replying to supplementary questions during Question Hour.
Basmati exports may see a dip this fiscal
Exports of basmati rice, the largest product in India’s agri export basket, in the current financial year are seen lower by around 5 per cent over last year’s level as shipments are disrupted following the outbreak of the coronavirus.
“The availability of containers is becoming difficult in India. Our exports are getting hit,” said Vijay Setia of Chaman Lal Setia Exports in Karnal and former president of All India Rice Exporters Association. “Our exports till January were lower by 1 per cent in volumes and about 10 per cent in dollar terms. Shipments in February and March have been hit. The overall shortfall in exports for the financial year 2019-20 is expected to be around 5 per cent in volumes over last year.”
