Sugar prices have risen sharply ahead of the festive season, prompting concerns over supplies and retail costs. Agricultural economist Ashok Gulati has linked the pressure to lower output, depleted stocks, ethanol diversion and what he described as delayed corrective action. The government has announced measures including dealer stock limits, bulk-consumer restrictions and duty-free raw sugar imports. Gulati argues that earlier imports and broader policy changes could have reduced t

Andhra Pradesh has marked a new step in agricultural value addition with the launch of a non-GMO, high-expansion popcorn maize hybrid seed at Musunuru in Eluru district. The initiative aims to connect local maize farmers with food processing, research and market-led opportunities. The seed launch took place at the Gourmet Popcornica factory in the presence of Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan, Andhra Pradesh Governor S. Abdul Nazeer and Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu.