Monday, November 13, 2017

13th November,2017 daily global regional local rice e-newsletter by riceplus magaizne




CBN’s policy saves N217b from rice import

By Chijioke Nelson

The capital control policy of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), which excluded 41 items from accessing foreign exchange (forex) at the official window, saved the country N217 billion ($600 million) worth of forex in its first full year of implementation in 2016.

Besides, due to the dogged implementation of the restrictions, according to the bank, the country has also recorded spectacular improvements in domestic production of most of these items as at now.

CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele, who made the disclosure at the 2017 Bankers Dinner organised by the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), in Lagos, last night, said there is a significant fall in imports of rice from several countries as at now.He said Nigeria’s biggest rice exporter- Thailand, lost 99 per cent patronage from 1.2 million metric tonnes to only 784 metric tonnes by the end of 2016, being the first full year of the enforcement of the policy.

On the other hand, this fall in imports have been largely filled by a boost in local rice production, as emerging producers like Labana Rice Mills in Kebbi State are trying to keep pace with demand, now processing 320 tonnes of a rice a day.
   
Also, from Kano State, UMZA rice has expanded its milling capacity substantially to the extent that with the recently recorded bumper paddy harvest, the company today takes delivery of over 100 trucks of paddy rice daily.

Meanwhile, the bank chief said with stability in the turn of events, the policy makers may soon begin to mull strategies to ease the 16-month old rate hold, in efforts to further accelerate the recovery process.Monetary policy stance, he said, could change when the fundamentals become supportive, adding that if the pace of disinflation becomes adequate and inflation at predicted levels, the policy committee would begin to see strong justification for an easing of monetary policy.
Similarly, the President of CIBN, Prof. Segun Ajibola, has urged the government to see that the improving economy does not end in numbers, but reflect on the well being of the citizens.The don, while delivering his address at the dinner, said the subsisting World Bank’s Human Development Index on the country does not speak well of the conditions of the citizens and the improving economic growth.
He admitted that there have been marked improvement in the macroeconomic landscape between 2016 and now, especially the successes in ease of doing and inflation, but said that more needs to be done.
For Emefiele, the optimism is high that inflation would return to very low double digit or high single digit levels next year, as the socio-economic factors that are driving food inflation are resolved, which would then help to reduce the challenges therein.

“Over the last 12 months, Nigeria’s reserves grew by over $10 billion from just over $23 billion in October 2016 to over $33 billion in October 2017. It is my belief that if we remain resolute with our efforts, policies and actions, we can attain position of about $40 billion by end 2018.

“As we entrench and sustain the transparency in the forex market, with reserves’ accretion continuing, and market confidence and improved sentiments remain, I expect the exchange rate to not only be stable, but would begin to appreciate against major currencies,” he said.

The banker said that the achievements are clearly verifiable successes and of government’s attempts to create jobs locally, improve the wealth of our rural population, improve industrial capacities and ultimately attain economic growth in Nigeria.

“Psaltry International Limited (PIL), an agro-allied manufacturing company based in Oyo, produces starch. Before the policy, it had few customers and plenty of backlogged inventory.
“Today, PIL boasts over 50 multinational clients, including Nestle and Unilever. The company has saved Nigeria $7 million in foreign exchange drawdown over the two years of the policy.“Baton Nigeria has also taken advantage of the policy and is now producing high- quality, competitive toothpicks that is 25 per cent cheaper than their Chinese competition.

“As part of the gains from the policy and in line with an agreement we reached with Unilever, the company, which left the country few years ago, will be commissioning a new Blue Band Factory in Agbara, Ogun State early next month,” he added.
https://guardian.ng/business-services/money/cbns-policy-saves-n217b-from-rice-import/
Busiest day at Expo Pak 2017 as number of MoUs signed

November 12, 2017
KARACHI - Foreign buyers and their Pakistani counterparts had quite a busy day on the third day of Expo Pakistan 2017 as number of business deals were negotiated, major highlights of which included the signing of various Memorandums of Understanding (MoU)
The show continued in the same rhythm as buyers and sellers went ahead with their business negotiations aimed at shipments both in the immediate future and extended over the next year.
Federal Secretary Commerce Younus Dhaga and Secretary TDAP Inamullah Khan held meetings with members of Sri Lankan Export Development Board.
The importance of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the two countries was emphasised at the meeting, while the Srilankan Board showed their interest in the import of leather bags, jewellery, construction materials, rice, textile and sanitary-ware from Pakistan.
The commerce secretary offered members of the board the trade opportunity entailed in the provisions of GSP facility of Pakistan to increase their exports to the EU; besides, indicating the strength of construction sector of Pakistan for export to Sri Lanka.
Commerce Secretary Younus Dhaga promised to arrange their meetings with the textile, automobile and rubber manufacturers in the country.
A delegation of Qatari businessmen also called on the secretary commerce.  Increased prospects of trade between the two countries after the LNG agreement came under discussion.
Members of the delegation emphasised the need for a FTA between the two countries that could address the trade irritants like banking issues, pricing and freight matters.
The secretary said that TDAP had asked the CC Doha to arrange single country exhibition to introduce Pakistani textile, rice, sugar, cement, home textile, etc in the market.
An eight-member trade delegation from Uzbekistan, representing pharmaceutical, agriculture, CNG and food sectors, also called on the commerce secretary.
The secretary said that direct flights between Uzbekistan and Pakistan would be very helpful in ensuring smooth trade ties.
A delegation of businessmen from the Czech Republic also met with the federal secretary and showed their interest in the cosmetics, textile and fruit sectors. They were especially interested in the renewable energy sector.
The country is already doing business with Fatima Fertilizer, Sapphire and Orient Groups.
Besides that, a trade delegation from UAE also met with the secretary and informed him that they had signed business deals with M/s Dawn, M/s United King and M/s Big Bird.
Major highlights of the third day included signing of a MoU between Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Australia Pakistan Chamber of Commerce & Industry; an MoU between All Pakistan Gems Merchant & Jeweller Association and M/s Fakhar Malik Jewellery from Bahrain; and a Thailand company interested in signing Joint Venture with M/s Trading Vision, Lahore.
In addition, some Afghan companies also signed MoU with EPZA to invest in the purchase of land in EPZA (Karachi) worth $8 thousand to establish factory for processing of pulp and dry fruit.
The exporters of meat, dairy products & honey also got good response from the buyers in the show to their product range.
Besides, some buyers, who were interested in Pakistan’s sports sector, are planning to visit Sialkot to meet Pakistani firms there.


Modi, Trump meeting likely on sidelines of Manila ASEAN event
MANILA, NOVEMBER 11, 2017 17:13 IST
UPDATED: NOVEMBER 12, 2017 07:31 IST

U.S. President Donald Trump greets Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during their joint news conference in the Rose Garden of the White House in Washington, U.S. (File Photo)   | Photo Credit: Reuters
It will be significant, as it will be the first one since the idea of a quadrilateral grouping involving Japan, U.S., Australia and India has taken shape.
http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/article20209380.ece/alternates/FREE_960/USA-INDIATHNAKPrime Minister Narendra Modi and United States President Donald Trump are likely to meet on the sidelines of the 50th ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) anniversary celebrations in Manila on Monday, according to sources associated with the event.
Mr. Trump, who is visiting the region as part of his outreach to Asia, is likely to arrive in Manila on Sunday and hold meetings with regional leaders.
A meeting between Mr. Trump and Mr. Modi will be significant, as this is the first meeting since the idea of a quadrilateral grouping, involving Japan, US, Australia and India, has taken shape in recent months. Mr Trump hosted Mr Modi in the White House in June beginning their formal interaction since the former took charge in January.
Modi arrives tomorrow
Mr. Modi will be accompanied by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Foreign Secretary S. Jaishankar among other top diplomatic and security officials in his visit to Manila. He will arrive on Sunday afternoon at the Ninoy Acquino International Airport in the city and then participate in the Special Gala Celebration in the evening. On Monday, he will participate in the opening ceremony of the 31st ASEAN Summit and then visit the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) at Los Banos. He is also likely to visit the Museaum of History of Ideas and Mahaveer Philippine Foundation.
The Ministry of External Affairs, in a briefing on November 10, explained that the Foundation had brought the famed “Jaipur foot”, which helps amputees start a new life with assistance from Bhagwan Mahavir Viklang Sahayata Samiti of India.
Mr Modi is scheduled to meet with Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull of Australia, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe of Japan, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei and the Prime Minister of New Zealand on Tuesday. He will also be hosted by President Duterte of Philippines for a bilateral meeting on November 13.http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/modi-trump-meeting-likely-in-manila-asean-summit/article20209381.ece

'Jaipur Foot' makers praised by Modi

image: http://www.uniindia.com/cms/gall_content/2017/11/2017_11$largeimg11_Nov_2017_104700857.jpg
'Jaipur Foot' makers praised by Modi
Manila, Philippines, Nov 11 (UNI) The world famous 'Jaipur Foot' - made by Rajasthan-based Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti - is all set to hit headlines when Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits the Philippines for the ensuing ASEAN-India and East Asia Summits.

Besides diplomatic engagements, including high-profile bilateral meetings on the sidelines, besides

a possible between Mr Modi and the US President Donald Trump, Mr Modi will meet members of the Indian community at a reception to be hosted by Indian envoy in the Philippines.

The Prime Minister will also visit the International Rice Research Institute and the Mahavir Philippines Foundation Inc.

"The International Rice Research Institute which is in a place called Los Banos near Manila, is a leading institute of global repute. Through Scientific Research and Development, it has developed better quality of rice seed and helped the global community, including Indian scientists, in addressing issues of food security. A large number of Indian scientists are working in IRRI," a statement from the MEA said here.

The institute will also soon set up its South Asian Regional Centre in Varanasi. This will be the first center outside Philippines.

The Mahavir Philippines Foundation is an associate centre of Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti based in Jaipur, which famous for "Jaipur Foot.”

The philanthropic organisation, which has been set up by eminent Filipinos and Indian expat community, has distributed free "Jaipur Foot” to needy amputees.

"Our Prime Minister’s will visit this to demonstrate our India’s support to this very important charitable activity. Since its establishment, this particular foundation has fitted nearly 15,000 amputees in the Philippines with the Jaipur Foot making them capable of living a new life," Secretary East in MEA, Preeti Saran said in Delhi.

It will be not the first time that 'Jaipur foot' and the makers would come into focus.

In 2014, the Prime Minister had lauded the efforts of the Jaipur-based organisation, for holding a special camp at Srinagar in Kashmir Valley to provide artificial limbs and other aids to 1,300 people, who have lost their limbs.

Mr Modi will also participate in a special celebration to mark the 50th year of ASEAN.

"ASEAN is central to India’s Act East Policy, therefore our Prime Minister’s participation in the ASEAN India Summit and the East Asia Summit, provides a very important opportunity to reiterate our commitment to the partnership," Ms Saran has said.

'Jaipur Foot' specializes in offering to the users equipment that looks like a normal limb and is also

waterproof.

The 'foot' may be worn with or without shoes and the normal life is about three years.

UNI DEVN SV SB 1009


Modi-Trump bilateral likely on Monday at ASEAN summit
20:17 HRS IST
By Manash Pratim Bhuyan

Manila, Nov 11 (PTI)
 Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump are likely to have a bilateral meeting on Monday on the sidelines of the ASEAN summit here.

Modi will arrive here tomorrow to attend the 15th ASEAN- India summit and 12th East Asia summit on November 14.

Trump is also scheduled to arrive here tomorrow as part of his five-nation Asia tour of Japan, South Korea, China, Vietnam, and the Philippines.

Official sources said the meeting between Modi and Trump is likely to take place on Monday.

It will be the first meeting between the two leaders following a proposal to have a quadrilateral alliance among India, the US, Japan, and Australia.

Japan last month had indicated that it would propose a top-level dialogue with the US, India and Australia. Sources said officials of the four countries may meet on the sidelines of the ASEAN summit here.

Reacting to the Japanese move, India had said that it was open to working with like-minded countries on issues that advance its interests. The US had said it was looking at a "working-level" quadrilateral meeting in the near term with India, Japan and Australia.

Japan's Foreign Minister Taro Kono last month had said that Tokyo favours a dialogue between Japan, the US, India and Australia to further boost strategic partnership among the four countries.

The move to set up the quadrilateral comes in the backdrop of growing Chinese assertiveness in the South China Sea. The US has been favouring a larger role for India in the strategically key Indo-Pacific region.

The use of the term "Indo-Pacific" by Trump has led to speculation that it may have something to do with Washington preparing the ground for a revival of the so-called Quadrilateral strategic alliance between the US, Japan, Australia and India to counter China's rise.

In their meeting, Modi and Trump are likely to discuss a host of key issues of mutual interest including the security scenario in the region.

Trump yesterday praised India's "astounding" growth after it opened up its economy and also lauded Modi, saying he has been working successfully to bring the vast country and its people together.

Speaking at a gathering of CEOs on the sidelines of the annual Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in the Vietnamese city of Danang, Trump cited India as one of the countries in the Indo-Pacific region making strides.

He praised India as a sovereign democracy with a population of over 1 billion as well as the largest democracy in the world.

Modi is expected to meet many other leaders attending the two summits.

He will also participate in the ASEAN business and investment summit as well as a meeting of leaders of Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).

The RCEP, comprising the 10-member ASEAN bloc and six other countries -- India, China, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand, is engaged in negotiations for a free trade pact.

In his maiden visit to the Philippines as prime minister, Modi will also attend a reception by the Indian community and visit the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) and the Mahavir Philippines Foundation.
Rout jibe at central team
Subhashish Mohanty
https://www.telegraphindia.com/media/images/2017/11/12/DAMODARROUT02.jpgDamodar Rout
Bhubaneswar: The state government on Saturday made it clear that it would not welcome the central team arriving here on Sunday to assess the crop loss caused due to pest attack.
Agriculture minister Damodar Rout said: "We have no information about their visit. They might be coming to visit their relatives' house. Earlier, central ministers used to inform the state about their visits. Besides, the Centre should remember that agriculture is a state subject."
Rout said: "Only after the state government places a request with the Centre for sending a team, should the Centre send one. It seems that a BJP team is coming and not a central government one."
Accusing the central minister of overstepping his constitutional limits, Rout said: "This is a federal government. Everyone should remain within their limits."
Rout also came down heavily on Union agriculture minister Radha Mohan Singh for his statement that guidelines had been issued by the Central Rice Research Institute, Cuttack, about a possible pest attack on crops and possible preventive measures. "No such advisory was issued by the institute. We want to know when it turned into a central department. Its duty is to do research and not to issue guidelines to the state government," he said.
The six-members BJP team led by party MP Om Prakash Yadav visited Nuapda district on Saturday. "The Odisha government has failed to protect the interests of farmers and not implemented the central schemes," said Yadav.
State BJP spokesperson Sajjan Sharma said: "We don't need a lecture on the Constitution from Rout."
GST 'common sense' lesson
Sanjay K. Jha
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted on Saturday about his forthcoming visit to the International Rice Research Institute in the Philippines.
But Modi was treated to an unsolicited lesson in horticulture hours before he was scheduled to take off for Manila for the Asean summit and a day after the goods and services tax (GST) was subjected to a sweeping recast.
"Four months and 10 days is the time taken for common sense to germinate, flower and ripen into a fruit," Congress leader and former finance minister P. Chidambaram tweeted.
Chidambaram was referring to the time the Centre had taken to rejig the GST after its rollout on July 1 when Modi had described it as "good and simple tax".
Chidambaram did not forget to pay a "compliment" to the ministry headed by his successor Arun Jaitley: "The finance ministry must be complimented for improving macro-economic situation in four months and 10 days."
The Opposition has cited how the government had tried to brazen it out in the face of repeated appeals for a GST course correction. Tongue in cheek, Chidambaram suggested what may have prompted the government to eat humble pie: "Thank you Gujarat. Your election did what Parliament and common sense could not do."
The Congress declared on Saturday that the campaign on the GST would continue till the tax became "truly simple" with one tax, capped below 18 per cent.
Rahul Gandhi said only a government that lived in an ivory tower could be so oblivious to the miseries of the people as to defend reckless decisions like demonetisation and the flawed GST.
He told a rally in Gujarat: "We won't stop the fight till it becomes one simple tax, capped below 18 per cent. If the BJP government won't, the Congress will do it when we come to power."


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http://www.military-technologies.net/2017/11/12/modern-in-depth-rice-bran-wax-industry-research-report-size-share-growth-trends-and-forecast-2021/

Adityanath-led commission to guide, implement policies to double farmers’ income in UP by 2022

Another important task for the commission will include giving suggestion for procuring more production at reduced cost.

Written by Lalmani Verma | Lucknow | Published:November 12, 2017 12:23 pm
Yogi Adityanath, Uttar Pradesh, UP government, BJP, farmers income, indian express, india newsThe committee, called Krishak Samriddhi Aayog, headed by the chief minister and with the agriculture minister as vice-chairperson, has been mandated to meet its objectives by 2022.
The Uttar Pradesh government has constituted a committee to help draft and implement plans to double farmers’ income through increased crop production and other related means. The committee, called Krishak Samriddhi Aayog, headed by the chief minister and with the agriculture minister as vice-chairperson, has been mandated to meet its objectives by 2022.
Other members include a member of Niti Aayog, UP Chief Secretary, Agriculture Production Commissioner (APC), Dr US Singh of International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) of Philippines, Prof Sushil Kumar of IIM-Lucknow and nine farmers from the state who have been successful in farming particular crops.
According to the order issued regarding the constitution of the commission, the Aayog will focus on 15 points, including assessing strengths and weaknesses in agriculture, horticulture, animal husbandry and sericulture, and also to give suggestion in drafting of policies for sustainable and equal agriculture development.
Speaking to The Indian Express, Chief Secretary Rajiv Kumar informed, “This aayog is for policy guidance and implementation monitoring and collection of feedback through eminent farmers.” He also said that CM wants policy for doubling the income of the farmers with the help of suitable suggestions.
Another important task for the commission will include giving suggestion for procuring more production at reduced cost. Aayog will also suggest for strengthening the system for storage and marketing of crops. The body will also analyse factors responsible for decline in the income in the sector. It will also discuss on cooperative farming, contract farming, collective farming and corporate farming and to accordingly suggest for efficiency and cost effectiveness in the farming.
The nine eminent farmers included as farmers’ representatives in the commission belong to Barabanki, Banda, Varanasi, Muzaffarnagar, Lakhimpur Kheri, Mahoba, Deoria and Azamgarh districts. These farmers have been selected on ground of their having expertise in production of potato, banana, tomato, sugarcane, worm compost, animal husbandry, organic farming, floriculture, poultry and fisheries.
Sources said that names of these farmers were sought from concerned departments. There are nominees from concerned big companies as well who would suggest the measures for better marketing and production with low cost.
http://indianexpress.com/article/cities/lucknow/adityanath-led-commission-to-guide-implement-policies-to-double-farmers-income-in-state-by-2022-4933708/

EU to lift import restrictions on Fukushima rice and other Japanese foods from DecemberEU to lift import restrictions on Fukushima rice and other Japanese foods from December

JIJI
  • NOV 13, 2017
The European Union has decided to lift its restrictions on imports of some foods from 10 prefectures, such as rice grown in Fukushima — site of the country’s worst nuclear accident.
The partial lifting, decided by the European Commission, the EU’s executive arm, will take effect Dec. 1. The other nine prefectures are Akita, Miyagi, Gunma, Ibaraki, Tochigi, Chiba, Iwate, Nagano and Yamagata.
After the March 2011 accident at Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings Inc.’s Fukushima No. 1 nuclear plant, the EU required the submission of certificates from radiation checks for some foods from a total of 13 prefectures, which also included Yamanashi, Niigata and Shizuoka.
Following the removal of restrictions on Fukushima rice it will, in principle, be no longer necessary to prove that rice grown in other prefectures is not from Fukushima.
For Akita, the restrictions will be eliminated for wild vegetables. The prefecture will thus be fully exempted from EU restrictions.
Some foods from the other eight prefectures will also be excluded from the certification requirement.
In addition, some fisheries products from Fukushima, Miyagi, Gunma, Ibaraki, Tochigi, Chiba and Iwate — including crab, octopus, yellowtail, red sea bream and bluefin tuna — will be removed from the list.
The move by the EU may prompt countries and regions that also introduced import restrictions on Japanese foods after the nuclear accident, mainly Asian nations, to consider reviewing their measures, analysts said.
Meanwhile, the current certification requirement will remain in place for products including wild vegetables from Yamanashi, Niigata and Shizuoka.
At a press conference on July 6, where a broad accord on an EU-Japan economic partnership agreement for free trade was announced, European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker said that the import restrictions on some foods from Fukushima and other prefectures would be eased after this year’s summer holidays.
https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2017/11/13/business/eu-lift-import-restrictions-fukushima-rice-japanese-foods-december/#.Wglq01uCyM8


No ops at smoke-releasing units till further orders

Citing moisture in paddy, rice millers seek permission to use boilers despite ban
Nov 12, 2017, 12:12 AM; last updated: Nov 12, 2017, 12:12 AM (IST)
Trucks lined up at Badli on the Jhajjar road on Saturday. The NGT has banned entry of heavy vehicles into Delhi. Photo: Manoj Dhaka
Parveen Arora
Tribune News Service
Karnal, November 11
In compliance with directions of the National Green Tribunal (NGT), the Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB) has directed all smoke-releasing industries in the National Capital Region (NCR) not to carry out any industrial activity till further orders.
After receiving the directions, rice millers called an emergency meeting here this evening. They sought permission to use boilers as they had a large quantity of paddy in their mills, which had to be sent to the government under custom mill rice. They said high moisture content might damage and discolour it.
“Yesterday we directed all industrial units emitting smoke to stop operations as the NGT had banned all industrial activity in the NCR till further orders,” said Virender Punia, SDO, HSPCB.
“These include rice mills, brick-kilns, agricultural-implement industry, mining units, construction-material units, sugar mills, paper mills and distillery units. The next hearing is on November 14,” he said.
“Any violation will invite prosecution under environmental laws and closure order under the Air Act. We have received consent from several units for not operating their industries till further orders,” he added.
“We received the notice today. We are concerned about health of the common man and agree to the NGT decision,” said Vijay Setia, president of the All-India Rice Exporters Association.
“We have purchased paddy from farmers on behalf of the government. Its moisture content is between 22 per cent and 25 per cent. It needs immediate drying, which is not possible without operating boiler,” he pointed out.
“We called a meeting, in which we discussed our next course of action. We will keep our industries shut up to November 14 and thereafter announce our next step,” he stated.
“We request the NGT to allow the entire rice industry in the NCR to use boilers, which are being used as per norms,” he said.
“We have to return custom mill rice by March 31. If stocks with the rice industry and basmati stock with farmers is not dried immediately, it will be damaged and get discoloured,” he added.

No hand on loom in Panipat
Panipat: More than 700 boiler-based dyeing units and spinning mills  and 92 brick-kilns in the district have been shut till November 14 by the Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB) on the directions of the National Green Tribunal (NGT). The NGT had issued directions to ban construction, industrial activity and entry of truck into the national capital up to November 14 due to poor air quality. Following the NGT directions, the HSPCB ordered all boiler-based industrial units in the NCR to shut down. There were traffic jams in Samalkha and on the Rohtak bypass after the NGT ban on entry of heavy vehicles into Delhi. Traffic was being diverted from various places in the district. Bheem Rana, president of the Panipat Dyers Association, said it was a setback to the industry. Pankaj Chugh, an industrialist, said workers were sitting idle, but industrialists would have to pay them. Mukesh Tandon, TNShttp://www.tribuneindia.com/news/haryana/no-ops-at-smoke-releasing-units-till-further-orders/496208.html

Diesel, sugar, flour prices increased in Kabul

Security & Crime

ByOn
Nov 11, 2017 - 15:10
KABUL (Pajhwok): Prices of diesel, sugar, and Kazakhstani flour have increased during the outgoing week in Kabul, market sources said on Saturday.
Abdul Hadi, a worker at Wazir Abad Pump Station, told Pajhwok Afghan News the price of one litre of diesel increased from 46 Afghanis to 47 Afghanis and the price of petrol remained stable at 46afs.
Gas prices also stayed stable. Sharif Ahmad, a gas dealer in Kolola Poshta area confirmed the rate of gas remained steady at 60afs a kilogram.
The rate of firewood remained stable, a firewood seller in Shaheed square of Kabul city, Khan Mohammad, said the prices of 560 kg of each unpeeled oak and cedar was 6,800afs this week.
Food Traders’ Union head, Fazal Rahman, said the rate of 50-kg sack of Kazakhstani flour increased from 1,160afs to 1,200afs, a 49-kg of Pakistan sugar from 1,780afs to 1,800afs and a 16-kg tin of Kurshid ghee from 1,060afs to 1,070afs.
However, the price of 24-kg of Pakistan rice remained steady at 1,850afs.
Meanwhile, Noor Ahmad Khairkhwa, a tea seller at Kabul Mandavi, said a kilogram of Indonesian green tea cost 280afs and the same amount of African black tea 300afs, the same prices as of past seven days.
A slight difference could be seen in retail and wholesale prices, but in some areas, the difference is huge.
Ahmad Wali Panjshiri, who owns a grocery store in Dahn-i-Bagh area, sold a 49-kg of Pakistan Sugar for 2,000afs, 16-litre tin of Khurshid ghee for 1,200afs, 50-kg of Kazakhstani flour for 1,300afs, 24-kg of Pakistan rice for 2,100afs, a kilo of Indonesian green tea for 300afs and the same quantity of African black tea for 350afs.
The price of gold remained unchanged.
Haji Fawad Ahmad Saleh, a jeweler in Timor Shahi area, said the price of one gram of Arabian gold cost 2,300afs and the same amount of Russian cost 1,850afs.
According to Sadaqat money exchanger in Sara-i-Shazada, one US dollar accounted for 68.60afs and 1,000 Pakistani rupees for 638afs.
Sa

Live ASEAN Summit in Manila: PM Narendra Modi holds bilateral meeting with US President Donald Trump in Philippines

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is attending the 31st ASEAN Summit in Manila. The Prime Minister also met US President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the crucial event.

By: FE Online | New Delhi | Updated: November 13, 2017 3:09 PM
modi trump meet live, modi trump meet timing, modi trump meet update, modi asean updates, modi trump video, modi video, pm narendra modi, pm modi, donald trump, us president, asean summit, asean full form, Manila, Philippines, china, quadrilateral, japan, north korea, pm modi news, bjpNarendra Modi Donald Trump meet live: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is attending the 31st ASEAN Summit in Manila. The Prime Minister met US President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the crucial event.  
Narendra Modi Donald Trump meet live updates: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is attending the 31st ASEAN Summit in Manila. The Prime Minister met US President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the crucial event. PM Modi had arrived in the Philippines capital yesterday. Ahead of the crucial meet, PM Modi had also briefly met President Trump and Chinese Premier Li Keqiang on the sidelines of a gala dinner to mark the 50th anniversary of the ASEAN. Today is a big day as the whole world is looking forward to the meeting between PM Modi and President Trump. PM Modi had met Trump for the first time in June this year during his US visit. Trump, then had described PM Modi as as a “great Prime Minister”. PM Modi was given a warm welcome by President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump.
Track live updates of ASEAN Summit in Manila:
3:10 pm: Earlier, a musical version of the epic Ramayana was one of key attractions at the grand opening ceremony of the two-day-long ASEAN summit here today, reflecting India’s cultural linkages with the Philippines and several member countries of the 10-member bloc.
3:06 pm: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, US President Donald Trump, Chinese premier Li Keqiang, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and several other leaders from ASEAN’s partner countries attended the opening ceremony at the highly fortified Cultural Centre in this bustling metropolis.
3:03 pm: “It’s an honour to meet you again,” US President Donald Trump told PM Narendra Modi.
3:00 pm: “The relations between India and the United States are growing. Our relations go beyond. We are working for future interests of Asia and humanity,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, while addressing the media after the talks.
2:56 PM: Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump was all fingers and thumbs during a carefully choreographed photo op today at a summit of world leaders, failing to grasp whose hands he was supposed to be holding and breaking a lineup intended to showcase unity.
2:53 PM: WATCH- PM Narendra Modi met US President Donald Trump during ASEAN Summit in Manila
2:48 pm: Donald Trump praised India as a sovereign democracy with a population of over 1 billion as well as the largest democracy in the world.
2:45 pm: Speaking at a gathering of CEOs on the sidelines of the annual Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in the Vietnamese city of Danang, President Trump had cited India as one of the countries in the Indo-Pacific region making strides.
2:42 PM: President Trump on Saturday praised India’s “astounding” growth after it opened up its economy and also lauded PM Modi, saying he has been working successfully to bring the vast country and its people together.
2:39 pm: WATCH- What did PM Modi say ahead of the crucial meeting with US President Donald Trump



Rice Awareness Month

By Dahli Aspillera
November 13, 2017
IN observance of National Rice Awareness Month this November...

Be aware that planting rice is the most finicky, difficult of grains to cultivate, unstable, cost-inefficient, needing heavy inputs, just the right amount of rain, labor intensive (“Planting rice is never fun... bent from morn til the set of sun....”) In Japan, local rice (P200/kilo) is served in tiny bowls, of rationed servings, eaten with reverence. Consider the preferred staples in Africa (millet, sorghum, barley, lentils, yam, tapioca, etc.) most grow even from rocks, without water, and healthier than white rice.

Be aware that white rice does not have nutrients to keep an organism healthy and alive; white rice is mostly starch. One has to eat almost a kilo of white kanin--a quantity too much for a person--in order to get any hint of protein and nutrients of particular concern for Filipinos. Rice merchants and millers got us accustomed to eating white, not brown rice. Rice shippers and rice millers scrape all the healthy bran and germ from the rice grain. This is to make the rice lacking in nutrition, so that bukbok, bacteria, insects (wee beasties) will die of malnutrition before they can poop, pee and sweat in the sack of rice while at sea voyage. This for a longer shelf life for the rice.

Be aware that wee beasties eating in a bag of white rice will die of malnutrition. With wee beasties dead, a bag of white rice is not defiled with the poop, pee and sweat of the pests. White rice remains good indefinitely because there are no wee beasties. The rotten or spoiled smell of all foods is from the wee beasties that eat, poo, pee and sweat like all living creatures. A bag of white rice will stay clean and edible after months and months in shipment because the wee beasties have died of malnutrition in dry white rice.

Be aware that brown rice is palay very lightly milled; the reddish-brown coating, bran, and germ where all the nutrients are stored, have not been scraped away. So nutritious, even wee beasties remain healthy eating brown rice. As their millions and millions eat, they poop, pee and sweat, and increase and multiply into that bag of brown rice. The bag of brown rice turns bitter, inedible, bulok, with the smell of acidic poop, pee and sweat of wee beasties. A loss in profit for the millers and merchants who hate brown healthy rice because wee beasties rot it too soon.

Be aware that rice miller and merchants sacrifice nutrition (bran and germ) for profit. Filipino malnourished children are eating white rice, this nutrient-devoid white kanin. And all the nutritious bran and germs scrapings (darak) from the rice grain is fed to pigs. The Philippines has healthy pigs; malnourished, emaciated children.

In fact, brown rice has a higher milling yield. Brown rice grains may be bigger than white rice grains. This higher yield should allow for the price of brown rice (P60/kg) to get as low as the price of white rice (P40) making brown rice more popular, affordable, healthier for the poor. With the bigger, heavier, more nutritious brown rice grains, Sen. Legarda suggests that Filipinos ought to eat smaller servings/portions of [brown rice] kanin.

Senator Legarda: “Meanwhile, to support our agriculture sector, we must ensure more investments in agricultural research and infrastructure, improve water governance and land use policies, provide better forecasting tools and early warning systems, create a strengthened extension system that will assist farmers to achieve economic diversification, and access to credit and crop insurance.”

The Duterte administration provided for farmers under the proposed 2018 national budget: P2.6 billion, first-time subsidy given to farmers for irrigation; P2.669 billion for small-scale irrigation projects; and P4.281 billion for agricultural machinery and equipment. P20.209 billion for the programs of DA for rice, corn, high value crops development, organic agriculture, and livestock with priority to provinces that are major producers; promotion and development of organic agriculture; and provinces of poor farmers and fisherfolks.

Disaster-resilient agricultural infrastructure projects development of seeds, seminars and trainings for LGUs and farmers on the importance of rainwater catchments and organic farming, for sustainable land use. P1 billion for Quick Response Fund (QRF) standby fund for seeds and other planting materials, minor repair of small-scale irrigation systems, etc. for people living in communities or areas stricken by calamities, epidemics, crises and catastrophes of 2017 and in 2018.

Legarda: “Our farmers continue to face various challenges, especially with the impact of climate change and stronger natural hazards. Through these budget provisions, we hope to provide the much needed support that our farmers” need. Moreover, by providing stronger support, the government would entice more Filipino farmers to plant rice anew. Through these efforts, we hope for our country to eventually meet our own rice requirements without resorting to importation.” 


***

Dahliaspillera@yahoo.com
http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/opinion/rice-awareness-month


Officials told send selfie of visit to procurement centres

Pankul Sharma| TNN | Updated: Nov 13, 2017, 12:54 IST
Representative photo
BARIELL: Hours before chief minister Yogi Adityanathinspected some of the paddy procurement centres in Pilibhit, divisional commissioner PV Jaganmohan instructed divisional and district-level officials to click selfies of their visit to procurement centres to send the same on WhatsApp. The order was issued after complaints that officials make reports without visiting the centres.

At a review meeting on Saturday night, Jagmoham expressed his dissatisfaction over the low rate of paddy procurement by government agencies in Bareillydivision. Incidentally, this year, procurement began from the last week of September, around 25 days in advance than previous years. But due to lackadaisical approach of officials concerned, only 22% of the given target has been achieved so far in the four districts — Bareilly, Badaun, Shahjahanpur and Pilibhit.

Seeing such a slow progress, the commissioner ordered adverse entry in service book of seven officials and issued stern warnings to two others.


Adverse entry has been slapped against district managers of State Food Corporation in Bareilly; Food Marketing agency, Pradesh Cooperative Federation and Agro agency of Shahjahanpur; Food Marketing, Agro agency and SFC in Badaun.


"We often receive complaints that senior officials sitting at division and district level complete an 'inspection' without visiting the procurement centres. In order to prevent this inactive practice, all officials are instructed to send a selfie from the procurement centres," commissioner said.


On Sunday, district magistrate RV Singh said in his inquiry report that sub-divisional magistrate of Aonla had alleged that at some centres, false entry of paddy procurement were being made by officials deployed there in collusion with rice millers.

DM said, "An FIR will be lodged against such officials found. SDMs are instructed to ensure that paddy from at least five farmers from each village has been procured."
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bareilly/officials-told-send-selfie-of-visit-to-procurement-centres/articleshow/61619008.cms



Traditional seeds need to be conserved for organic farming
                    The conference aims to bring policy level changes to encourage community-based in-situ conservation of traditional seeds. Credit/ Vikas Choudhury At the 19th Organic World Congress, more than 55 groups have come together to call for the conservation of indigenous seeds and shunning GM crops
The conference aims to bring policy level changes to encourage community-based in-situ conservation of traditional seeds. Credit/ Vikas Choudhury

According to popular perception, organic farming is a system where crops are grown without chemical fertilizers. What many don’t know is that if a seed is genetically modified or even a hybrid variety, then the produce cannot be claimed organic. At an ongoing conference to highlight the importance of saving traditional seed varieties in organic farming, farmers and non-profits gathered to share their experiences on conserving indigenous seeds.
The conference, the 19th IFOAM Organic World Congress brought together more than 55 groups from across India, which work to save indigenous seeds. Farmers from over 15 states have displayed their seed collection till November 11. Organised by IFOAM Organics International, the conference aims to bring policy level changes to encourage community-based in-situ conservation of traditional seeds. Leneesh K, programme officer, Thanal, a Kerala-based agro ecology centre says that organic farming farmers are getting better profits by cultivating indigenous seeds than from conventional agriculture. While the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for normal paddy is Rs 22 /kg, the MSP for indigenous variety is Rs 28/kg, says Leneesh. Aromatic and medicinal value crops fare better with Rs 40-42/kg and Rs 50/kg as MSP, respectively.  As part of the Save Our Rice campaign, a people’s movement to revive rice culture and create sustainable rice ecosystems, Rice Diversity Blocks (RDB) have been introduced in these regions to conserve indigenous varieties. While the first such block was introduced in 2010 over 1.23 acre owned by Thanal, today there are 13 RDBs all over Kerala. Before the conference began, the preconference, held on 8th November at the Constitutional Club, New Delhi, called for measures, including strong seed regulation, proper implementation and a ban on GM and hybrid varieties. Farmers, seed savers and non-profits also called for encouraging community participatory research and licensing of seeds to ensure the produce is organic. Bharat Beej Swaraj Manch or India seed Sovereignty Alliance, a network of seed savers in India in a statement asked to “shun and resist the use of Genetically Modified products, to strive to influence public policies to keep them out of our food, farms and environment.”  

Harwich-based world food firm Surya Foods celebrates soaring success of Laila basmati rice brand

PUBLISHED: 16:42 10 November 2017 | UPDATED: 16:42 10 November 2017
Brothers Harry and Suki Dulai, managing director and chief executive respectively of Surya Foods, Harwich. Picture: ASHISH AMIN Brothers Harry and Suki Dulai, managing director and chief executive respectively of Surya Foods, Harwich. Picture: ASHISH AMIN
Brothers Harry and Suki Dulai, managing director and chief executive respectively of Surya Foods, Harwich. Picture: ASHISH AMIN

A Harwich food firm which produces a rice brand is thrilled after the product bucked the trend and saw sales soar during the religious month of Ramadan.

http://www.eadt.co.uk/news/harwich-based-world-food-firm-surya-foods-celebrates-soaring-success-of-laila-basmati-rice-brand-1-5274645


CBN’s policy saves N217b from rice import

By Chijioke Nelson
13 November 2017   |   4:27 am
accessing foreign exchange (forex) at the official window, saved the country N217 billion ($600 million) worth of forex in its first full year of implementation in 2016.

Besides, due to the dogged implementation of the restrictions, according to the bank, the country has also recorded spectacular improvements in domestic production of most of these items as at now.

CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele, who made the disclosure at the 2017 Bankers Dinner organised by the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), in Lagos, last night, said there is a significant fall in imports of rice from several countries as at now.He said Nigeria’s biggest rice exporter- Thailand, lost 99 per cent patronage from 1.2 million metric tonnes to only 784 metric tonnes by the end of 2016, being the first full year of the enforcement of the policy.

On the other hand, this fall in imports have been largely filled by a boost in local rice production, as emerging producers like Labana Rice Mills in Kebbi State are trying to keep pace with demand, now processing 320 tonnes of a rice a day.
   
Also, from Kano State, UMZA rice has expanded its milling capacity substantially to the extent that with the recently recorded bumper paddy harvest, the company today takes delivery of over 100 trucks of paddy rice daily.

Meanwhile, the bank chief said with stability in the turn of events, the policy makers may soon begin to mull strategies to ease the 16-month old rate hold, in efforts to further accelerate the recovery process.Monetary policy stance, he said, could change when the fundamentals become supportive, adding that if the pace of disinflation becomes adequate and inflation at predicted levels, the policy committee would begin to see strong justification for an easing of monetary policy.
Similarly, the President of CIBN, Prof. Segun Ajibola, has urged the government to see that the improving economy does not end in numbers, but reflect on the well being of the citizens.The don, while delivering his address at the dinner, said the subsisting World Bank’s Human Development Index on the country does not speak well of the conditions of the citizens and the improving economic growth.
He admitted that there have been marked improvement in the macroeconomic landscape between 2016 and now, especially the successes in ease of doing and inflation, but said that more needs to be done.
For Emefiele, the optimism is high that inflation would return to very low double digit or high single digit levels next year, as the socio-economic factors that are driving food inflation are resolved, which would then help to reduce the challenges therein.

“Over the last 12 months, Nigeria’s reserves grew by over $10 billion from just over $23 billion in October 2016 to over $33 billion in October 2017. It is my belief that if we remain resolute with our efforts, policies and actions, we can attain position of about $40 billion by end 2018.

“As we entrench and sustain the transparency in the forex market, with reserves’ accretion continuing, and market confidence and improved sentiments remain, I expect the exchange rate to not only be stable, but would begin to appreciate against major currencies,” he said.

The banker said that the achievements are clearly verifiable successes and of government’s attempts to create jobs locally, improve the wealth of our rural population, improve industrial capacities and ultimately attain economic growth in Nigeria.

“Psaltry International Limited (PIL), an agro-allied manufacturing company based in Oyo, produces starch. Before the policy, it had few customers and plenty of backlogged inventory.
“Today, PIL boasts over 50 multinational clients, including Nestle and Unilever. The company has saved Nigeria $7 million in foreign exchange drawdown over the two years of the policy.“Baton Nigeria has also taken advantage of the policy and is now producing high- quality, competitive toothpicks that is 25 per cent cheaper than their Chinese competition.

“As part of the gains from the policy and in line with an agreement we reached with Unilever, the company, which left the country few years ago, will be commissioning a new Blue Band Factory in Agbara, Ogun State early next month,” he added.
https://guardian.ng/business-services/money/cbns-policy-saves-n217b-from-rice-import/

Government to test rice-corn blend in PH

 November 12, 2017, 10:00 PM
By Madelaine B. Miraflor
In order to reduce the country’s dependency on rice imports, the government now wants to see if rice-corn blend could work in the Philippine market as it lays down strategies on how to market corn as an alternative staple to rice.
The National Food Authority (NFA) is collaborating with the Philippine Maize Federation, Inc. (Philmaize), the umbrella organization of corn growers across the country, for a taste survey of rice-corn blend to make it part of the mainstream Filipino diet.
Aside from its health benefits, higher consumption of corn could also mean savings of precious dollars for the Philippine government.
“By merely substituting rice with 10 percent corn grits, we would already solve our annual rice production shortage. Corn is also a more versatile crop that can be produced year-round even under marginal environments,” NFA administrator Jason Laureano Y. Aquino said. Called “Acceptability of the Different Rice-Corn Blends,” the survey shall determine the acceptability of rice-corn blend among a cross-section of Filipino consumers.
It will be undertaken during the 13th Philippine National Corn Congress on November 22 to 24 at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City.
“Results of the taste survey could help us strategize on how to market corn as an alternative staple to rice or as rice extender. This could eventually wean our country away from importing the shortfall in our annual rice production,” Aquino said.
In 2016, domestic consumption of rice was placed at 12.9 million metric tons (MMT) while production was only 11.5 MMT or a deficit of 1.4 MMT.
Thus, the country keeps on resorting to importation to boost buffer stock. The highest rice importations were recorded in the years 2007, 2008 and 2009 at 2.570 MMT, 2.6 MMT and 2.2 MMT, respectively.
As of now, only one out of five Filipinos eats white corn grits as staple food next to rice. For instance, the per capita consumption of corn in the Zamboanga Peninsula is 159.924 kilogram, higher than the national per capita consumption of rice at 109.874 kg.
“The rice-corn blend is being promoted as a health food because corn has lower calorie and carbohydrate content compared to rice. Studies show that corn also contains more vitamins, minerals and proteins than white rice. Blending the two would therefore give greater nutritional benefits to the consumer,” Aquino further said.
Yellow corn is also the main ingredient in the country’s livestock and poultry feeds. About one-third of Filipino farmers, or 1.8 million, depend on corn as their major source of livelihood.

Related Posts

https://business.mb.com.ph/2017/11/12/government-to-test-rice-corn-blend-in-ph/
https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/markets/commodities/news/europeans-prefer-indian-basmati-platter-farmers-happy/articleshow/61622748.cms






Philippines visit symbolises India's vow to deepen ties with ASEAN: Narendra Modi

PTI|
Updated: Nov 11, 2017, 05.16 PM IST
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Modi said his visit to MPFI will demonstrate India's support for its activities in distributing free prosthesis 'Jaipur Foot' among the needy amputees.Modi said his visit to MPFI will demonstrate India's support for its activities in distributing free prosthesis 'Jaipur Foot' among the needy amputees.Prime Minister Narendra Modi said today that his visit to the Philippines from tomorrow to attend the India-ASEAN Summit symbolises the country's commitment to deepening ties with the ASEAN member states and the Indo-Pacific region as part of the 'act east policy'.The prime minister also asserted that he was confident that his visit to Manila will give a new boost to India's bilateral relations with the Philippines, and also further strengthen the politico-security, economic and socio-cultural pillars of India's engagement with ASEAN.
In his departure statement ahead of the three-day trip, Modi also gave a broad outline of the events he will attend during his first bilateral visit to the Philippines.Apart from participating in the ASEAN-India and East Asia Summits, Modi would also take part in Special Celebrations of the 50th anniversary of ASEAN, Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Leaders' Meeting and ASEAN Business and Investment Summit.
"My participation in them symbolises India's commitment to continue deepening relationship with ASEAN Member States, in particular, and with the Indo-Pacific region, in general, within the framework of my Government's Act East Policy," the prime minister said.
The ASEAN Business and Investment Summit will boost the close cooperation to enhance trade ties with ASEAN member- states, which constitutes a significant 10.85 per cent of our overall trade, he said.
Modi said he looks forward to having a bilateral meeting with Philippines president Rodrigo Duterte and will also have interactions with other ASEAN and East Asia Summit Leaders.
He said he was also looking towards connecting with the Indian community in the Philippines.
Modi, in a Facebook post said, he will also visit the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) and Mahavir Philippines Foundation Inc. (MPFI).
IRRI, through scientific research and development, has developed better quality of rice seed and helped the global community in addressing food scarcity issues, the prime minister said.
"A large number of Indian scientists are working in IRRI and contributing to R&D in this field. My cabinet approved on July 12, 2017, a proposal for IRRI to set up its South Asia Regional Centre at Varanasi. This will be the first Research Centre by IRRI outside its headquarters in the Philippines," Modi said.
The Varanasi Centre would help increase farmers' income by enhancing and supporting rice productivity, reducing cost of production, value addition, diversification and enhancement of farmers' skills, he added.
Modi said his visit to MPFI will demonstrate India's support for its activities in distributing free prosthesis 'Jaipur Foot' among the needy amputees.
Since its establishment in 1989, MPFI has fitted nearly 15,000 amputees in the Philippines with 'Jaipur Foot', making them capable of living a new life, he said, adding that India is making a modest contribution to the foundation to support its noble humanitarian activities.
The 10-member grouping ASEAN and India comprise a total population of 1.85 billion people which is one-fourth of the global population. The combined GDP has been estimated at over 3.8 trillion dollars.
Trade between India and ASEAN stood at USD 65.04 billion in 2015-16 and comprises 10.12 per cent of India's total trade with the world.
The ASEAN grouping comprises Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Brunei, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Vietnam.
Apart from the 10 ASEAN Member states, East Asia Summit includes India, China, Japan, Republic of Korea, Australia, New Zealand, the United States and Russia.

Europeans prefer Indian Basmati platter, farmers happy

By Madhvi Sally, ET Bureau|
Updated: Nov 13, 2017, 09.21 AM IST
As per trade, Iran imports about 10 lakh tonne of rice every year to supplement its domestic production of about 20 lakh tonne.As per trade, Iran imports about 10 lakh tonne of rice every year to supplement its domestic production of about 20 lakh tonne.

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New Delhi: Robust demand from Europe, which buys 10 per cent of the total Basmati rice exported from India, could ensure better returns for Indian farmers this year. This, coupled with the likelihood of Iran lifting its ban on basmati imports from India soon is likely to hike prices further by 5 per cent to 10 per cent, said traders.

Farmers are getting 40 per cent-50 per cent higher prices for their basmati varieties at Rs 3,000-3,500 per 100 kg this year compared to the same period last year.

“Exports to European countries have been on the rise over the past few months. This is good news for the industry and farmers. Current prices are 40-50 per cent higher than the same period last year,” said Vijay Setia, president, All India Rice Exporters’ Association.

Europeans prefer Indian Basmati platter, farmers happy

Setia said overall exports could see a slight increase this year.

“White rice export to Europe will pick up by the year ahead. Currently, brown rice dominates Indian export,” said Priyanka Mittal, director at KRBL, which markets India Gate basmati brand. She added that a lower crop in the country has ensured better price realisation for farmers. Further, Mittal said that exports to Iran will kick off after that country lifts its ban on basmati imports.

As per trade, Iran imports about 10 lakh tonne of rice every year to supplement its domestic production of about 20 lakh tonne. Of this, about 7 lakh tonne is imported from India. At Amritsar Mandi, Jitendar Singh, a basmati trader, said all major exporters such as Lal Qila, KRBL, LT Overseas and other domestic players were on a buying spree.

“There was no carryover stock of basmati crop from last year and with this year’s crop being less, there has been a lot of buying. The rice quality is very good and prices are at Rs 3,000-3,500 a quintal for exportable varieties while for traditional basmati varieties it is going at Rs 4,000-4,200 a quintal,” he said. In 2016-17, total basmati rice export from India was 40,00,471.56 tonnes, while in 2015-16, export was 40,45,796.26 tonnes, said traders.


https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/prime-minister-visits-rice-research-institute-meets-indian-scientists/articleshow/61625064.cms

Philippines visit symbolises India's vow to deepen ties with ASEAN: Narendra Modi

PTI|
Updated: Nov 11, 2017, 05.16 PM IST
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PTI|
Updated: Nov 11, 2017, 05.16 PM IST
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https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/philippines-visit-symbolises-indias-vow-to-deepen-ties-with-asean-narendra-modi/articleshow/61606600.cms



India, US, Japan and Australia begin talks on China's growing military presence in the Indo-Pacific region

  • World leaders are concerned by China's growing presence in Indo-Pacific region
  • The Ministry of External Affairs said the consultations were held on many issues
  • See more news from India at www.dailymail.co.uk/indiahome 
India, the US, Japan and Australia held their first official-level talks on Sunday to keep the Indo-Pacific region free, open and inclusive. The talks come against a backdrop of China's growing military presence in the strategically important area.
On Tuesday leaders convene for the ASEAN summit to discuss the security challenges facing the Indo-Pacific region and China's military expansion in the South China Sea.
In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the consultations were held on issues of common interest in the Indo-Pacific region with a focus on cooperation based on converging vision and values for promotion of peace, stability and prosperity in the area.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi with US President Donald Trump, Japanese Prime Shinzo Abe and other world leaders at an ASEAN Summit dinner in Manila
Prime Minister Narendra Modi with US President Donald Trump, Japanese Prime Shinzo Abe and other world leaders at an ASEAN Summit dinner in Manila
During the meeting leaders also discussed the common challenges of terrorism and proliferation linkages impacting the region.
The MEA said the Indian side highlighted India's 'Act East Policy' as the cornerstone of its engagement in the Indo-Pacific region.
The meeting also deliberated on enhancing cooperation in dealing with challenges of terrorism and talked about tackling proliferation threats, including North Korea. 
Modi is scheduled to have a bilateral meeting with Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Monday and the security scenario in the Indo-Pacific region may figure in the meetings.
Modi will also be hosted by President Duterte of Philippines for a bilateral meeting on November 13.
Cambodia's Prime Minister Hun Sen speaks with India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi as President of the Philippines
Cambodia's Prime Minister Hun Sen speaks with India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi as President of the Philippines
'My participation in them symbolises India's commitment to continue deepening relationship with ASEAN member states, in particular, and with the Indo-Pacific region, in general, within the framework of my government's Act East Policy,' the PM said.
Modi will be accompanied by national security adviser Ajit Doval, foreign secretary S Jaishankar among other officials who handle specific divisions and countries related to ASEAN and East Asia Summit.
Modi will also participate in the ASEAN Business and Investment Summit which 'will boost the close cooperation to enhance trade ties with ASEAN member states, which constitutes a significant 10.85 per cent of our overall trade', said the PM in his statement.
He then added that he was looking towards connecting with the Indian community in the Philippines.
On Monday, he will participate in the opening ceremony of the 31st ASEAN Summit. 
He will also visit the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) and Mahavir Philippines Foundation Inc. (MPFI).
'A large number of Indian scientists are working in IRRI and contributing to R&D in this field. My Cabinet approved on July 12, 2017, a proposal for IRRI to set up its South Asia Regional Centre at Varanasi.
'This will be the first Research Centre by IRRI outside its headquarters in the Philippines,' Modi said.
Secretary East in the ministry of external affairs, Preeti Saran, said, 'The Mahavir Philippines Foundation on the other hand is an associate centre of Bhagwan Mahavir Viklang Sahayata Samiti based in Jaipur.'
No hug this time? Modi and Trump chat before the meeting
No hug this time? Modi and Trump chat before the meeting
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It is a non-profit philanthropic organisation, which has been set up by eminent Filipinos and Indian expat community and has distributed free 'Jaipur Foot' to needy amputees.
'PM will visit this to demonstrate India's support to this very important charitable activity.'
While there are going to be significant bilateral on the sidelines of the summit, the Modi-Trump meeting is also crucial because it comes right after Trump's visit to China and the support that the US has extended to China's Belt and Road Initiative — a move that India considers counter productive to the transparency and equality in growth of the region.

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