Latest news with #Amaranth
Business Recorder
17 hours ago
- Business
- Business Recorder
US natural gas futures drop on near-record output
NEW YORK: US natural gas futures fell about 3% on Friday on near-record output and ample supplies of the fuel in storage. That price decline came despite strong liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports and forecasts for the weather to remain hotter than normal through late August. The heat means homes and businesses will likely keep their air conditioners cranked up until the end of the month, forcing power generators to burn more gas than usual for this time of year. More than 40% of the electricity produced in the US comes from gas-fired power plants. Front-month gas futures for September delivery on the New York Mercantile Exchange fell 7.7 cents, or 2.5%, to settle at $2.99 per million British thermal units. That put the contract down for a third week in a row, losing about 3% this week, 1% last week, and 13% three weeks ago. In a sign that the market is not worried about having enough gas supplies this winter, the premium of futures for March over April 2026 was on track to fall to a record low on Friday. The industry calls the March-April spread the 'widow maker' because rapid price moves resulting from changing weather forecasts have forced some speculators out of business, including the Amaranth hedge fund, which lost more than $6 billion in 2006. Traders use the March-April and October-November spreads to bet on winter weather forecasts and supply and demand. March is the last month of the winter heating season when utilities pull gas out of storage and October is the last month of the summer cooling season when utilities inject gas into storage. Despite a hotter-than-usual summer, record output has allowed energy firms to inject more gas into storage than usual in recent months.
Business Recorder
4 days ago
- Business
- Business Recorder
US natural gas futures steady
NEW YORK: US natural gas futures held steady on Wednesday on little changes in daily output or weather and demand forecasts for the next two weeks. That price stability came despite near-record gas flows to liquefied natural gas export plants and forecasts that hotter-than-normal weather will last through late August. The heat means homes and businesses will likely keep their air conditioners cranked up until the end of the month, forcing power generators to burn more gas than usual for this time of year. More than 40% of the electricity produced in the US comes from gas-fired power plants. Front-month gas futures for September delivery on the New York Mercantile Exchange fell 0.1 cent, or 0.2%, to $3.004 per million British thermal units at 8:50 a.m. EDT (1250 GMT). In a sign that the market is not worried about having enough gas supplies this winter, the premium of futures for March over April 2026 NGH26-J26, which the industry calls the widow maker, was on track to fall to a record low on Wednesday. The industry calls the March-April spread the 'widow maker' because rapid price moves resulting from changing weather forecasts have forced some speculators out of business, including the Amaranth hedge fund, which lost more than $6 billion in 2006. The industry uses the March-April and October-November spreads to bet on winter weather forecasts and supply and demand since March is the last month of the winter heating season when utilities pull gas out of storage and October is the last month of the summer cooling season when utilities inject gas into storage. Despite a hotter-than-usual summer, record output has allowed energy firms to inject more gas into storage than usual in recent months. Analysts said gas stockpiles were currently around 7% above normal for this time of year and would likely keep growing in coming weeks. EIA/GASNGAS/POLL In the Atlantic Ocean, meanwhile, the US National Hurricane Center said there were two disturbances that could turn into tropical cyclones over the next week - one with a 40% chance of forming off the coasts of North and South Carolina and one with a 60% chance of forming in the North Central Atlantic. LSEG said average gas output in the Lower 48 states eased to 107.8 billion cubic feet per day (bcfd) so far in August, down from a monthly record high of 107.9 bcfd in July.
Time of India
01-08-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Why Amaranth is a must-have plant for every home gardener and how to grow it
Amaranth is a highly underrated plant that deserves a place in every home garden. Not only is it easy to grow, but it also provides a dual harvest: its leafy greens and nutrient-rich seeds. Amaranth is a traditional staple in many Indian kitchens, and it is slowly making a comeback thanks to its health benefits and adaptability. Whether you want to improve your nutrition, reduce grocery bills, or grow something that thrives in hot weather, amaranth is an ideal choice. Amaranth is more than just a grain substitute Amaranth is often used as a grain, but technically, it's a seed. It's gluten-free, high in protein, and rich in fibre, making it suitable for people with celiac disease or those following low-carb or high-protein diets. When cooked, the seeds have a nutty flavour and gelatinous texture that works well in porridges, pilafs, and even baked goods. But there's more: amaranth leaves are edible too and commonly used like spinach or methi in Indian cuisine. The leaves are packed with vitamins A, C, and K, along with iron, calcium, and antioxidants . They can help improve immunity, support bone strength, and contribute to skin and eye health. Why every home garden needs Amaranth Amaranth grows quickly, thrives in hot and dry conditions, and doesn't need much maintenance. This makes it perfect for home gardeners, even beginners. The plant can be grown in pots or in garden beds, and it can tolerate less-than-perfect soil. It is also resistant to many common pests, which reduces the need for chemical interventions. Additionally, amaranth is a cut-and-come-again crop, meaning you can harvest its leaves multiple times without killing the plant. Step-by-step guide to growing Amaranth at home Choose the right location Amaranth grows best in a spot that gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Full sun encourages lush leaf growth and healthier plants. The soil should drain well and not retain too much water. You can improve your soil by mixing in organic compost or a balanced fertiliser before planting. Plant seeds or seedlings You can either sow seeds directly into your garden or start them indoors and transplant later. Sow seeds about 4 inches apart, just under the surface of the soil. If starting indoors, plant seeds in seed trays about 6–8 weeks before the last frost and transplant them when they are sturdy, spacing them 12 inches apart. Thin out crowded seedlings Once the seedlings grow to about 4–6 inches tall, thin them out so the remaining plants have enough space to grow. Overcrowding leads to poor airflow and increases the risk of disease. Water carefully Water your amaranth plants regularly to keep the soil moist, especially during dry spells. However, avoid overwatering, as soggy soil can cause root rot. Use your finger to check the soil, if the top inch is dry, it's time to water. Feed the soil for better growth Amaranth responds well to nitrogen-rich fertilisers, especially if you're growing it for the leaves. You can also use well-rotted cow dung or organic manure to promote leafy growth. Use mulch to retain moisture and reduce weeds Apply a layer of mulch (dry leaves, straw, or grass clippings) around the base of the plant. This helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the roots cool. Harvest leaves early and often You can begin harvesting leaves 3–4 weeks after sowing, once the plant reaches a height of 4–6 inches. Pick outer leaves or snip the whole plant above a node to encourage side growth. The more you harvest, the more it grows! Pair with companion plants Amaranth grows well when paired with crops like corn or beans. Corn provides shade and structure, while amaranth improves soil health and suppresses weeds. Watch for fungal problems in humid weather Though amaranth is hardy, it can develop fungal diseases if the area is too damp. Ensure good air circulation between plants, avoid overhead watering, and remove any yellow or wilted leaves to keep the plant healthy. Choose your variety wisely Some amaranth varieties are grown mainly for their leafy greens (like red amaranth), while others are bred for seeds. Decide based on your needs, or try growing both types! Amaranth is a multi-purpose plant that fits beautifully into the Indian home garden. With little care, it gives you a steady supply of protein-rich seeds and iron-packed greens. Whether you want to eat healthier, become more self-sufficient, or simply enjoy gardening, amaranth is a plant worth growing. Amaranth truly stands out as a super crop for Indian home gardeners. Easy to grow, drought-tolerant, and packed with nutritional value, it offers both health and horticultural benefits. Whether you're harvesting the iron-rich leaves or the protein-packed seeds, this low-maintenance plant delivers high rewards. Its ability to thrive in Indian climates, repel pests naturally, and regenerate after cutting makes it ideal for beginners and seasoned gardeners alike. By adding amaranth to your garden, you're not just growing a plant; you're cultivating health, sustainability, and self-reliance, all in your own backyard. Also Read: Grow a bonsai garden at home with native indian trees: The complete beginner's guide
India Gazette
06-07-2025
- India Gazette
BRO improves pathway to Amarnath for ease of devotees: Director General Lt General Raghu Srinivasan
New Delhi [India], July 6 (ANI): Border Roads Organisation (BRO) Director General (DG) Lieutenant General Raghu Srinivasan on Sunday informed that the statutory body under the Defence Ministry has been tasked to improve the stretches taken by the devotees for the Amarnath yatra. The tracks for the two approaches - Chandanwari and Baltal - taken by the devotees to the Amarnath yatra in Jammu and Kashmir, which were merely three to four feet wide, have been widened to 12 feet, he added. 'We are very fortunate and blessed as the BRO to be associated with the projects involving religious destinations in the extreme parts of our northern borders. The Amarnath Yatra has two approaches: one from Chandanwari and one from Baltal. The tracks of both these approaches were initially just three to four feet wide. We were honoured that the LG, Manoj Sinha, had tasked the Border Roads Organisation with improving the 45 km long stretches of the Amarnath Shrine. The stretches have been widened to 12 feet,' Lt General Srinivasan told ANI. He further stated that the BRO had taken effective measures to ensure that the geological conditions were not disturbed in the eco-sensitive region. He added that handrails for 32 kilometres along the Amaranth route have been installed for the ease of devotees. 'What has also been done is that considering the extreme religious significance of this location, extreme care has been taken to ensure that the geological conditions are not disturbed, the eco-sensitivities are maintained, and that whatever work we had to carry out was done by prudent technical means. We are very grateful that we got this task, and we are hopeful that the Amarnath yatra, with its due reverence, is completed,' Lt General Srinivasan said. The pilgrims undertaking the annual Amarnath Yatra have expressed appreciation for the security forces and the overall arrangements along the Pahalgam route, saying that they feel safe and supported in their spiritual journey to the Holy Cave of Shri Amarnath Ji. Earlier on Saturday, Union Minister Jitendra Singh stated that around 26,000-27,000 pilgrims have visited the Amarnath Yatra since the start of the annual pilgrimage, dispelling the misconception that the enthusiasm of pilgrims would decrease following the Pahalgam terrorist attack. The Union Minister attributed the high turnout of pilgrims as a testament to the government's success and said that people have confidence that, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, there would be no shortcomings in the security arrangements. (ANI)
CTV News
04-06-2025
- General
- CTV News
‘Suspicious' Dufferin County fire under investigation
Security footage of suspects who may have been involved in a fire in Amaranth Twp., Ont., on Fri., May 30, 2025. Provincial police are continuing to investigate a fire that happened in the Township of Amaranth last week, one they say spread across two homes and are deeming suspicious. According to Dufferin OPP, officers and Grand Valley firefighters responded to a fire at two homes under construction around 1 a.m. this past Friday in an estate subdivision on Fennel Drive, near the Ninth Line of Amaranth Township. Police say their investigation revealed that the fire may have been set intentionally, citing security footage that shows two people running toward the homes at around 12:40 a.m. before the fire began. They were described as wearing all black. Dufferin OPP's Major Crime Unit (MCU) is leading the ongoing investigation with help from OPP's Forensic Identification Services (FIS). Anyone with additional footage or information that may assist the investigation is being asked to contact Dufferin OPP's MCU or Crime Stoppers. Anyone affected by the incident is encouraged to contact Caledon/Dufferin Victim Services.
