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Time of India
5 days ago
- Climate
- Time of India
Early rain destroys onion crop across Maharashtra, farmers grapple with losses
Pune: Pre-monsoon showers in the last couple of weeks have majorly hit the last of the summer onion crop in Maharashtra. Heavy rain has damaged onion crops over 3,000 hectares in Nashik district between May 5 and 21, according to a primary assessment by the state agriculture department. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Onion farmers said that if the pre-monsoon showers had arrived 15 days later, it would have saved hundreds of quintals of onions. Gokulsingh Shisode, an onion farmer from Malegaon, lost 11 acres of onion to rain and is running huge losses. "It was raining so heavily that the field were ruined, and all my onion crop damaged. Eleven acres of plantation can yield up to 50-60 trolleys of onions (40 quintals per trolley)," said Shisode, who now hopes for some compensation from govt. Another farmer, Shriram Darade from Indapur, said they harvested onions from their 4-acre plantation and piled them up underneath trees. "Owing to heavy rain, we were not able to save these harvested onions, and they got spoiled. This kind of rain is unheard of in May," he lamented. Bharat Dighole, president of the Maharashtra Onion Growers Association, said onion-producing regions in the state like Konkan, Nashik, Pune, Kolhapur, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Jalgaon, Amravati and Nagpur have all witnessed heavy unseasonal rain since May 6. "Many farmers who harvested onions kept them in temporary locations for storage. These have also been damaged by rain. The exact damage is yet to be ascertained, but at least 5-10% of onions this season have been damaged," he said. Dighole expects that the next onion planting season may begin in June itself owing to weather conditions. The price of onions in wholesale and retail markets is low at present, and farmers fear that they will not be able to make up for their monsoon losses owing to low prices. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now "Due to the rain, purchase numbers for onions have gone down significantly, and that has led to a lower rate in the market. In the wholesale market, prices are trending at Rs11-15 per kg. Some farmers with holding capacity are stocking produce in hope of higher prices in the next few months," said Prashant Gote, head of the fruits and vegetables section at APMC Pune. Nivrutti Nyaharkar, an onion farmer from Yeola, told TOI, "The cost for onion production is around Rs1,800 per quintal, and farmers incur losses if they get the price below that." The average wholesale onion prices dropped by 60% in the last three-and-a-half months, from Rs3,100 per quintal on Feb 14 to Rs1,200 per quintal so far, due to a rise in supply as compared to demand. On April 1 this year, Centre removed 20% duty on onion export — nevertheless, average wholesale onion prices were recorded in the price range of Rs1,050 to Rs1,200 per quintal since then. At present, the average wholesale onion price at the country's largest wholesale onion market, Lasalgaon APMC, is recorded at Rs1,200 per quintal, while the minimum and maximum wholesale onion prices are at Rs600 and Rs1,612 per quintal, respectively.
Express Tribune
6 days ago
- Business
- Express Tribune
Greengrocers ignore official rates
Official prices of perishable food items across Lahore remained largely stable this week, but consumers saw little benefit due to widespread overcharging and profiteering by greengrocers, retailers and street vendors. Despite seasonal declines driven by peak harvest conditions and hot weather, shoppers continued to pay 50 to 100 per cent above official prices. For many residents, the failure to curb profiteering has become routine, with price lists issued by market committees often ignored and enforcement officials appearing disengaged from the daily struggles of the public. "What's the point of these official rates if no one follows them?" said Nadeem Qureshi, a father of three shopping in the Green Town Bazaar. "Vendors charge whatever they want, and no one checks them." Farzana Bibi, a homemaker from the Township area, shared. "Every week, I see prices go up on the same itemseven when the government says they've gone down. We're told there's a price control system, but we've yet to see it work." A review of official price lists and market surveys reveals stark contrasts. Live chicken was officially priced between Rs397 and Rs411 per kilogram, yet vendors sold it for Rs570 to Rs680, with boneless chicken reaching as high as Rs1,050 per kilogram. Despite official price control efforts, a wide range of essential vegetables and fruits continued to be sold at grossly inflated rates across Lahore's markets, burdening consumers with unchecked overpricing. From staples like potatoes, onions, and tomatoes to seasonal fruits such as mangoes, cherries, and apricots, the official rates served as little more than a formality. A-grade potatoes, fixed at Rs45 to Rs50, were routinely sold for up to Rs100 per kg, while onions listed at Rs30 to Rs35 fetched Rs80 in many places. Tomatoes, meant to cost Rs3035, were sold at nearly triple the price. Garlic and ginger, essential kitchen ingredients, saw massive discrepancies, with official prices being consistently ignoredChinese garlic, for instance, was listed at Rs285300 but sold at Rs500, and ginger retailed for up to Rs1,000 against its listed Rs610640. Similar patterns were observed in other vegetables. Bitter gourd, spinach, zucchini, and cucumbers, despite price reductions or stability, were sold far above government-fixed rates. Brinjal, priced officially at Rs6670, reached Rs140, and ladyfinger, listed at Rs124130, was sold at nearly Rs180. Even lemons, after a Rs70 drop in official price, cost up to Rs600 per kilogram in the markets. Cauliflower and cabbage were among the worst examples, sold at over four times their official rates. Fruits showed no relief either. Apples priced at Rs230390 were sold as high as Rs800, while bananas of all grades saw increases of Rs80130 over official rates. Dates were listed at Rs430460 but sold for as high as Rs800-2,000 per kilogram. Melons, watermelons, peaches, and phalsa all saw similar surges, with consumers paying far beyond government-fixed prices. This blatant disregard for official pricing mechanisms has rendered the price control system ineffective. Despite daily updates and official campaigns, vendors openly flout regulations with impunity, exploiting both high demand and lax enforcement.
What's On
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
A guide to the best golf courses in the UAE
It's time to par-tee… The UAE's golf scene is unmatched – whether you're new to the sport or confident walking in the footsteps of golfing greats – there's a course for you. With summer fast approaching, book an early morning or nighttime tee (with some great discounted rates) and keep working on your swing all season long. The Earth Course, Jumeirah Golf Estates One of Dubai's most iconic golf courses is found at Jumeirah Golf Estates. Designed by acclaimed golf course architect Greg Norman, the par 72 Earth Course is recognised for its perfectly manicured fairways, challenging bunkers and water hazards. It's the backdrop for one of the most prestigious golf tournaments in the calendar – the DP World Tour Championship, and as such has been played by champions including Rory McIlroy and Tyrrell Hatton. Golfers make their way around an 18-hole course designed to challenge and delight golfers of all abilities, teeing off from and returning to the Clubhouse, where facilities include The Crafty Fox gastropub and refined Italian eatery, Bussola. Rates from Dhs1,050. Book via the Viya app The Majlis Course, Emirates Golf Club Emirates Golf Club set the gold standard for golfing in the UAE when it was established in 1988 as the first grass course in the Middle East. In the decades that have followed, it's drawn sporting elite from across the globe to try their hand at its challenging layout, backdropped by the iconic Marina skyline. The 18-hole Championship golf course is a firm favourite of those who come to the emirates to play golf, thanks to its world-class facilities, lush fairways and deliberately placed bunkers. Rates from Dhs1,500. Book via the Viya app Yas Links Abu Dhabi Adding to the thrilling array of attractions found on Yas Island – including Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, Yas Marina Circuit and Warner Bros World – is Yas Links. Recognised as the first Links Golf Course in the Middle East, the Kyle Phillips-designed course is consistently regarded as one of the world's leading golf courses. Located on the island's west shores, its world-class facilities range from the floodlight practice ranges to the state-of-the-art Toptracer range technology. Then there's the course itself – fast fairways, challenging greens and scenic views that command your attention as much as the game. Rates from Dhs620. Book via the Viya app Al Hamra Golf Club, Ras Al Khaimah Lending itself well to golfers of all abilities, add a round on the par-72, 18 hole championship golf course at Al Hamra to your Ras Al Khaimah bucket list. Designed by Peter Harradine, the course centres scenically around four interconnected water lagoons, with a collection of villas dotting the edges. Each hole comes with five tee options, and the whole course features 5 million cubic metres of sand that have been expertly shaped to create gentle elevation that ranges from one to eight metres across the course. With the region's short daylight hours, Al Hamra has created a composite 9-hole course combining holes from the front and back nines designed for night golf, perfect for an after-work game or simply enjoying a challenging environment to hone your skills. Rates from Dhs265. Al Zorah Golf Club, Ajman Since opening in 2015, Al Zorah Golf Club has established itself as one of the most scenic spots for golf fans in the emirates, nestled within the verdant Ajman mangroves. Golf legend Jack Nicklaus' company Nicklaus Design are behind the 18-hole championship layout, which features two lakes and 88 bunkers. Water levels shift with the tides throughout the day, paired with the stretching views of the mangroves, provides a serene location for a game with your mates. The two-teed driving range is the perfect place to warm up, while the golf club restaurant is the perfect place to fuel up after your round. Rates from Dhs375. Sharjah Golf and Shooting Club A shooting range, archery, escape rooms and paintball – there are lots of exhilarating attractions to blow off some steam at with a visit to this emporium of active fun. But the golf course is arguably the jewel in the crown. Another Peter Harradine-designed course, the fully floodlight 9-hole course is described as a pleasure to play but a challenge to par. There's an array of water features, generous fairways, and large, challenging bunkers to put you through your paces. Through the summer, off-peak, mid-week rates start from just Dhs95, making it one of the most affordable rounds you'll find. Rates from Dhs95.
Business Standard
21-05-2025
- Business
- Business Standard
Amit Shah inaugurates Falcon Agrifriz's state-of-the-art frozen potato products manufacturing facility in Kadi, Mehsana, Gujarat
PRNewswire Mehsana (Gujarat) [India], May 21: In a landmark moment for India's food processing industry, Falcon Agrifriz Foods Private Limited inaugurated its state-of-the-art, fully automated frozen potato products manufacturing facility in Mehsana, Gujarat. The plant was inaugurated by the Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Government of India, Amit Shah, in the presence of the Chief Minister of Gujarat, Shri Bhupendrabhai Patel; Minister of Industries, Government of Gujarat, Balvantsinh Rajput; Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha, Mayankbhai Nayak; Member of Parliament, Mehsana, Shri Haribhai Patel; and Chairman of Falcon Group, Shri Tara Ranjan Patnaik. This state-of-the-art facility marks a significant milestone under the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Falcon Group and the Government of Gujarat. The group has invested approximately Rs1,050 crore in the state, aiming to transform Gujarat into a global hub for frozen potato-based products. For over four decades, the Falcon Group has championed growth rooted in quality, trust, and innovation. From animal nutrition and marine exports to real estate, mining, mineral exports, trading, healthtech, and strategic holdings, Falcon's diversified portfolio is driven by a common purpose: to build enduring value. Agrifriz extends this legacy into the realm of frozen foods with a mission to place India at the forefront of global convenience food exports. With the frozen food segment booming worldwide and India's agricultural strengths gaining global recognition, Falcon has set its sights on making India a leader in processed potato exports. The company's journey from farm to fork is powered by deep-rooted quality controls. A dedicated seed programme ensures consistent, high-quality produce. Seeds cultivated in the northern states--Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand--Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Leh Ladakh, are grown under expert supervision and then transported to Gujarat for commercial farming via Falcon's robust contract farming network of more than 4000 farmers. Harvested potatoes are quickly moved to advanced cold storage units, ensuring year-round availability and freshness. Spread across 25 acres, the Mehsana facility houses India's only and largest French Fries production line--spanning 350 metres and capable of producing 15 metric tons per hour. The facility also houses a potato specialty line with a 3.5 metric tonne per hour capacity. Built in under two years, it is among India's most advanced, green, and 100% automated food processing plants. Key features of the facility include: * Fully Automated Straight Production Line * French Fries Line Capacity - 15 Tonnes Per Hour * Potato Specialty Line Capacity - 3.5 Tonnes Per Hour * Shop Floor Temperature Maintained Below 28°C Shri Tara Ranjan Patnaik, Chairman of Falcon Group, reflected on the values that shaped this milestone and the broader mission it represents, stating, "Gujarat has always held a special place in India's agricultural landscape, and for Falcon, it was a natural choice. The state's abundant potato production, resilient farming community, and pro-business environment made it the perfect home for our flagship facility. This plant represents more than manufacturing; it embodies our philosophy of future-forward, responsible growth. We aim to produce efficiently, sustainably, and with the highest global standards. Looking ahead, our ambition is to make Falcon a global leader in food processing by expanding into new markets, driving innovation, and staying true to our values." Parthajeet Patnaik, Vice-Chairman of Falcon Group, called the inauguration a defining step forward, noting, "Falcon's journey has always been about transforming potential into impact--across sectors, regions, and generations. This facility marks a bold step in our commitment to building globally competitive, India-led enterprises. We're harnessing the strength of our farmers, the power of technology, and the vision of a new India to shape the future of food processing. It's not just about scaling operations--it's about creating a legacy of leadership, rooted in responsibility and driven by purpose." Echoing the company's forward-looking mission, Manish Tibrewal, Director & CEO of Falcon Agrifriz, added, "This facility marks more than an investment in infrastructure--it signals a decisive leap toward India's food processing leadership. What drives us is not just production, but a deeper purpose: nation-building from the soil up. Our dedicated seed programme, backed by skilled agronomists, ensures end-to-end traceability and consistent quality from the very source. With world-class automation and a farmer-first approach, we're reimagining what India can deliver to the world. This is just the beginning of a journey that puts India at the heart of the global food map." Falcon Agrifriz is already making its presence felt on global platforms, showcasing its brands--including Just Crave, Bon Vegato, Frizeto, and Just Fries--at exhibitions like Gulfood, AAHAR, and SIAL. These brands are not just about products; they represent the company's commitment to creating irresistible food experiences driven by taste, trust, and technology. With this new plant, Falcon reinforces its pledge to sustainable progress and India's potential to lead the global frozen food revolution--one French fry at a time. For more information, visit
New Straits Times
18-05-2025
- New Straits Times
Trader loses nearly RM20,000 to investment scam
KUALA TERENGGANU: A trader lost RM19,050 after falling victim to a fake investment scheme. Kuala Terengganu police chief Assistant Commissioner Azli Mohd Noor said the 38-year-old victim had come across an investment advertisement on Facebook on April 15. Drawn in by the offer, she reached out to the suspect, who promised a profit of RM20,060 with an initial investment of only RM300. "After making the first payment, two women known as Zaharah and Maznah asked the victim to make several more payments to access the promised returns. "She then made six payments using her savings, pawned jewellery and took out a loan. However, after over a month, she did not receive any returns," he said in a statement today. Azli said the victim lodged a police report at 8pm yesterday after suspecting she had been cheated. The case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code. — BERNAMA
