The Indian government has set a rice procurement target of 48.5 million tonnes for the 2024-25 marketing year, driven by a record paddy sowing in the ongoing kharif season. The government also encourages states to prioritize the purchase of coarse cereals due to a significant increase in their sowing area.
A new study suggests that combining solar energy production with farming, known as agri-PV, could significantly boost renewable electricity in Czechia, Hungary, Poland, and Slovakia while also enhancing food security and generating additional income for farmers. The study, by energy think tank Ember, proposes installing solar panels on 9% of farmland in the region, enough to meet the electricity needs of agriculture and food processing.
Japan is facing a significant rice shortage, a crisis driven by global warming and a surge in tourism. The shortage impacts travelers by potentially raising prices and limiting availability of rice-based dishes. The tourism industry faces challenges in meeting demand, potentially impacting menu offerings and travel experiences. The situation underscores the interconnectedness of tourism, food security, and climate change, highlighting the need for sustainable practices and adaptation to ensure a future for travel.
This article highlights the growing threat posed by Communist China to American security, economy, and culture. It outlines concerns regarding Chinese influence in various aspects of American life, from agriculture and politics to education and national security. It emphasizes the need for state leaders to take action to protect American interests and safeguard the nation’s future.
Japan is facing a severe rice shortage, driven by a confluence of factors including last summer’s extreme heat, an unprecedented surge in tourism, and government policies favoring livestock feed over rice. The shortage has sparked panic buying, price hikes, and concerns about the future of rice production in Japan, highlighting the intricate interplay between global tourism, food supply, and cultural identity.
Moa Technology, an Oxford University spin-out, has achieved remarkable results in international field trials of new herbicide classes with innovative modes of action. These findings offer hope for farmers struggling with weed resistance, a growing threat to global food security.
Professor Vo Tong Xuan, a leading agricultural scientist in Vietnam and globally recognized for his contributions to rice cultivation and food security, passed away on Monday at the age of 84. Xuan’s legacy includes the development of several Vietnamese rice varieties and the popularization of IR36 rice in the Mekong Delta region, where he played a crucial role in ensuring food security.
The European seed industry is facing a growing threat from patents, particularly in the area of new genetic editing techniques (NGTs). This could lead to increased corporate control over seeds, reduced genetic diversity, and potential risks to Europe’s food security.
A UN report reveals a grim reality: the global hunger crisis is worsening, making the 2030 goal of eliminating hunger increasingly unattainable. The number of people facing chronic hunger remains stagnant, with conflict, climate change, and economic crises exacerbating the situation. The report highlights stark inequalities, with low-income countries disproportionately affected, while urging for a more effective and focused approach to international aid.
With climate change leading to more frequent and severe droughts, scientists are racing to develop a wheat variety that can withstand these conditions. Wheat, a staple food for billions worldwide, is particularly vulnerable to water shortages due to its high water consumption. Traditional plant breeding methods have made some progress in creating drought-tolerant varieties, but the process is slow. Gene editing techniques, which allow for more precise changes to plant DNA, are offering new hope for a truly drought-resistant wheat. While challenges remain, such as the sheer complexity of the wheat genome, scientists are making strides and believe that this agricultural Holy Grail is within reach.
