Latest news with #GeographicalIndication
Time of India
6 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Agri contribution to UP's economy up from 13.7% to 16.8% in 2023-24: Report
Lucknow: The primary sector, especially agriculture, has played an important role in improving the state's gross domestic product (GDP), according to a recent report on Uttar Pradesh 's District Domestic Product for 2023-24. The report says that the primary sector accounted for Rs 6.35 lakh crore in UP's GDP of Rs 25.63 lakh crore, out of which, Rs 3.96 lakh crore was contributed just by the crop sector. Prepared by the economics and statistics division of UP govt's planning department, the report says that the contribution of crops to the state's economy was 16.8% in 2023-24, registering a growth of 13.74% over the previous year. The top five districts in terms of volume of crops included Lakhimpur Kheri, Sitapur, Barabanki, Bijnor, and Badaun. Similarly, the top five districts with highest growth in crops were Bhadohi, Jalaun, Kanpur Dehat, Rae Bareli, and Jhansi. The report highlighted that at least 37 districts registered a growth rate higher than the state average of 13.7%. Principal secretary, planning, Alok Kumar said that according to data, the crop sector's Gross State Value Added (GSVA) was largely driven by foodgrain, which contributed 40.68% to GSVA. The contribution of fruits and vegetables was 22.58% and sugarcane contributed 19.4% to GSVA. "UP consistently remained self-sufficient in foodgrain production and consistently maintained leading position in wheat and sugarcane production at the national level. In 2023-24, the state produced 6.68 crore tonnes of foodgrain and 3.98 crore tons of wheat, contributing 18.14% and 31.19% to India's total foodgrain and wheat production, respectively," Kumar said. In 2023-24, UP produced 2,495 lakh tonnes of sugarcane. The report suggests that interventions by the state govt helped in the growth of the sector through timely payments and efficient crushing. The top five districts contributing the most to sugarcane production are Lakhimpur Kheri (3.22 crore tonnes), Bijnor (2.37 crore tonnes), Sitapur (1.9 crore tonnes), Muzaffarnagar (1.68 crore tonnes), and Meerut (1.46 crore tonnes). Districts with highest increase in sugarcane production were Azamgarh (53.5%), Mau (49.6%), Jaunpur (33.7%), Rae Bareli (24.7%), and Mathura (21%). The state also contributed 11.6% to India's total paddy production with a yield of 2.65 crore tonnes. The paddy sector benefitted from water conservation schemes, with areas like Bundelkhand and Purvanchal, reporting an increase in production by 2.09% and 7.89%, respectively. Initiatives like Khet Talab Yojana and Amrit Sarovar improved groundwater levels, which led to increased crop production. "Various agricultural products of UP are gaining global recognition with Geographical Indication (GI) tags. Kala Namak rice from Siddarthnagar, Pratapgarh's aamla, Malihabad's Dussehri mango, and Adamchini rice from Chandauli are a few examples. Mango exports touched 567.62 tonnes in 2023-24, an increase of 7.59% over the previous year. The top five districts contributing the most to mango production are Unnao, Lucknow, Saharanpur, Meerut, and Sitapur. Five districts with highest growth in mango production are Chitrakoot, Hamirpur, Jalaun, Banda, and Lalitpur," Kumar said. Lucknow: The primary sector, especially agriculture, has played an important role in improving the state's gross domestic product (GDP), according to a recent report on Uttar Pradesh's District Domestic Product for 2023-24. The report says that the primary sector accounted for Rs 6.35 lakh crore in UP's GDP of Rs 25.63 lakh crore, out of which, Rs 3.96 lakh crore was contributed just by the crop sector. Prepared by the economics and statistics division of UP govt's planning department, the report says that the contribution of crops to the state's economy was 16.8% in 2023-24, registering a growth of 13.74% over the previous year. The top five districts in terms of volume of crops included Lakhimpur Kheri, Sitapur, Barabanki, Bijnor, and Badaun. Similarly, the top five districts with highest growth in crops were Bhadohi, Jalaun, Kanpur Dehat, Rae Bareli, and Jhansi. The report highlighted that at least 37 districts registered a growth rate higher than the state average of 13.7%. Principal secretary, planning, Alok Kumar said that according to data, the crop sector's Gross State Value Added (GSVA) was largely driven by foodgrain, which contributed 40.68% to GSVA. The contribution of fruits and vegetables was 22.58% and sugarcane contributed 19.4% to GSVA. "UP consistently remained self-sufficient in foodgrain production and consistently maintained leading position in wheat and sugarcane production at the national level. In 2023-24, the state produced 6.68 crore tonnes of foodgrain and 3.98 crore tons of wheat, contributing 18.14% and 31.19% to India's total foodgrain and wheat production, respectively," Kumar said. In 2023-24, UP produced 2,495 lakh tonnes of sugarcane. The report suggests that interventions by the state govt helped in the growth of the sector through timely payments and efficient crushing. The top five districts contributing the most to sugarcane production are Lakhimpur Kheri (3.22 crore tonnes), Bijnor (2.37 crore tonnes), Sitapur (1.9 crore tonnes), Muzaffarnagar (1.68 crore tonnes), and Meerut (1.46 crore tonnes). Districts with highest increase in sugarcane production were Azamgarh (53.5%), Mau (49.6%), Jaunpur (33.7%), Rae Bareli (24.7%), and Mathura (21%). The state also contributed 11.6% to India's total paddy production with a yield of 2.65 crore tonnes. The paddy sector benefitted from water conservation schemes, with areas like Bundelkhand and Purvanchal, reporting an increase in production by 2.09% and 7.89%, respectively. Initiatives like Khet Talab Yojana and Amrit Sarovar improved groundwater levels, which led to increased crop production. "Various agricultural products of UP are gaining global recognition with Geographical Indication (GI) tags. Kala Namak rice from Siddarthnagar, Pratapgarh's aamla, Malihabad's Dussehri mango, and Adamchini rice from Chandauli are a few examples. Mango exports touched 567.62 tonnes in 2023-24, an increase of 7.59% over the previous year. The top five districts contributing the most to mango production are Unnao, Lucknow, Saharanpur, Meerut, and Sitapur. Five districts with highest growth in mango production are Chitrakoot, Hamirpur, Jalaun, Banda, and Lalitpur," Kumar said.
The Hindu
27-05-2025
- Business
- The Hindu
Export boost: Government restores RoDTEP scheme, allows leather exports from all ports
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has, over the last few days, taken steps to enhance the competitiveness, cost-effectiveness and reach of India's exports, including for leather items made in Tamil Nadu. On Monday (May 26, 2025) evening, the government announced that the Directorate General of Foreign Trade had removed port-related restrictions on the export of certain types of leather. Earlier, finished leather, wet blue leather, and East India tanned leather had to be exported from particular notified ports. Now, all such restrictions have been lifted, meaning these leather items can be exported from any port or inland container depot. East India tanned leather, produced using a special process involving vegetable dyes, has earned Tamil Nadu a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, giving the product an exclusive branding like Darjeeling Tea or Kanchipuram silk sarees. In addition, the government has also done away with the mandatory requirement for testing and certification by the Central Leather Research Institute (CLRI) for the export of these leather items. 'These procedural requirements were originally instituted to monitor export of value-added leather products and distinguish them from raw hides and dutiable items,' the Ministry of Commerce and Industry said in a release. 'However, with the removal of export duties on such leather categories and the clear physical distinction between processed and raw leather, the existing checks were considered redundant,' it added. Restoration of scheme for reimbursing exporters Another decision that could have a major impact on boosting India's export competitiveness is Tuesday's announcement of the restoration of the Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP) scheme for exporters done by Advance Authorization (AA) holders, Export-Oriented Units (EOUs), and units in Special Economic Zones (SEZs). Initiated in 2021, the RoDTEP scheme reimburses exporters for any embedded duties, taxes, or levies that are not otherwise reimbursed under any other existing scheme. The aim was to make Indian exports more competitive. The scheme benefits were available till February 5 of this year, following which export bodies lobbied hard for an extension, which has now come to pass. The move was cheered by export bodies. SC Ralhan, the president of the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) said that it would go a long way in 'improving the global competitiveness of Indian exporters' and that the extension of RoDTEP benefits to AA, EOU, and SEZ units 'reflects the government's recognition of their critical role in India's export ecosystem'. While the government has said the benefits would be restored from June 1, 2025, Mr. Ralhan requested the government to make them available from February 7, 2025, as this would ensure a seamless transition between when the benefits were revoked and when they were restored.
Indian Express
26-05-2025
- General
- Indian Express
Daily subject-wise quiz: History and Culture MCQs on Sikhism, Kumbakonam vetrilai, and more (Week 112)
Are you preparing for UPSC CSE Prelims? UPSC Essentials brings to you its initiative of daily subject-wise quizzes. These quizzes are designed to help you revise some of the most important topics from the static part of the syllabus. Attempt today's subject quiz on History and Culture to check your progress. Consider the following statements about the Kumbakonam vetrilai: I. It was recently granted a Geographical Indication (GI) tag by the Government of India, recognising its regional uniqueness and cultural significance. II. It is staple in South Asian households and is central to preparing paan, a popular South Asian post-meal chew. III. Kumbakonam, situated in Tamil Nadu, is home to vethalai or vetrilai, predominantly grown in Thanjavur's fertile Cauvery river basin, giving it a unique taste and aroma. Which of the above given statements is/are true? (a) I and II only (b) I and III only (c) II and III only (d) I, II and III Explanation The Kumbakonam vetrilai or betel leaf or paan leaf was recently granted a Geographical Indication (GI) tag by the Government of India, recognising its regional uniqueness and cultural significance. A staple in South Asian households, the betel leaf is central to preparing paan, a popular South Asian post-meal chew. The GI tag, announced in April 2025, and published in the Government Gazette in November 2024, took Tamil Nadu's total GI products to 62. Yet, many cultivators, marginal farmers and sellers remain unaware of this recognition and the benefits that come with it. Kumbakonam, six hours from Chennai, is home to vethalai or vetrilai, predominantly grown in Thanjavur's fertile Cauvery river basin, giving it a unique taste and aroma. The dark to light green, oblong heart-shaped leaves with a pungent taste are cultivated, washed and then bundled in places like Thiruvaiyaru, Papanasam, Thiruvidaimarudur, Kumbakonam, and Rajagiri. Therefore, option (d) is the correct answer. (For more, refer: Kumbakonam vetrilai or betel leaf gets GI tag: Why cultivators, sellers need incentives and awareness to benefit by Jayashree Narayanan, The Indian Express.) I. After renouncing family life to pursue asceticism, Guru Nanak rejected both caste distinctions and Hindu idolatry, choosing a low-caste Hindu and a Muslim musician as companions to spread his spiritual message to the masses. II. Guru Angad Dev built a gurdwara in Amritsar known as Sri Harmandir Sahib. III. By the first quarter of the nineteenth century, a Sikh empire with an efficient army was formed under the leadership of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Which of the above given statements is/are true? (a) I and III only (b) II only (c) III only (d) I, II and III Explanation Sikhism, founded by Guru Nanak in the fifteenth century, is often considered one of the youngest religions in the world. After renouncing family life and pursuing asceticism, Guru Nanak took a low-caste Hindu and a Muslim musician as his companions to preach his experience to the masses. Guru Nanak's successors propagated his message. The fifth Guru, Guru Arjan Dev, built a gurdwara in Amritsar, Sri Harmandir Sahib, also known as Sri Darbar Sahib or Golden Temple. The Sikhs emerged as a powerful political and military force by the late eighteenth century. By the first quarter of the nineteenth century, a Sikh empire with an efficient army was formed under the leadership of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Therefore, option (a) is the correct answer. (For more, refer: How caste permeated the Sikh community by Nikita Mohta, The Indian Express.) With reference to the Battle of Colachel, consider the following statement: I. The battle was fought against the Portuguese East India Company. II. It was the first time that an Asian kingdom had defeated a European power. Which of the above given statements is/are true? (a) I only (b) II only (c) Both I and II (d) Neither I nor II Explanation In 1741 King Marthanda Varma fought the Dutch East India Company commanded by the famous Admiral Eustachius De Lannoy. The Battle of Colachel is of huge significance in the history of India and Asia. It was the first time that an Asian kingdom had defeated a European power. Not only were the Dutch forces decimated, but also their colonial ambitions in India stalled. Therefore, option (b) is the correct answer. (For more, refer: Battle of Colachel: How an accidental shot ended Dutch plans for India by Srijana Siri, The Indian Express) Which of the following temples is associated with King Lalitaditya Muktapida? (a) Parashurameshvara Temple (b) Martand Temple (c) Lingaraja Temple (d) Kandarya Mahadeva Temple Explanation The Martand Temple was built by the Karkota dynasty king Lalitaditya Muktapida, who ruled Kashmir from 725 AD to 753 AD. Although some historians believe that an earlier temple existed here and was incorporated into Lalitaditya's grander structure, others credit Lalitaditya entirely for it. Lalitaditya built his capital at Parihaspora, the ruins of which also survive to this day. Therefore, option (b) is the correct answer. (For more, refer: Early history of Kashmir and Martand Temple by Manas Srivastava, The Indian Express) With which of the following events in the history of Modern India is Kanaklata Barua associated? (a) 1857 Revolt (b) Swadeshi Movement (c) Foundation of Indian National Congress (d) Quit India Movement Explanation One of the youngest martyrs of the Quit India Movement, Kanaklata Barua has an iconic status in Assam. Barua, then 17, led the Mrityu Bahini, a procession of freedom fighters, to unfurl the Tricolour at Gohpur police station on September 20, 1942. When police did not let them move forward, an altercation led to firing, killing Barua at the head of the procession. Therefore, option (d) is the correct answer. (For more, refer: President Murmu pays tribute to Matangini Hazra, Kanaklata Barua: Who were these freedom fighters, The Indian Express) Subscribe to our UPSC newsletter and stay updated with the news cues from the past week. Stay updated with the latest UPSC articles by joining our Telegram channel – IndianExpress UPSC Hub, and follow us on Instagram and X. Manas Srivastava is currently working as Senior Copy Editor with The Indian Express (digital) and leads a unique initiative of IE - UPSC Essentials. He majorly writes on UPSC, other competitive exams and education-related projects. In the past, Manas has represented India at the G-20 Youth Summit in Mexico. He is a former member of the Youth Council, GOI. A two-time topper/gold medallist in History (both in graduation and post-graduation) from Delhi University, he has mentored and taught UPSC aspirants for more than four years. His diverse role in The Indian Express consists of writing, editing, anchoring/ hosting, interviewing experts, and curating and simplifying news for the benefit of students. He hosts the YouTube talk show called 'Art and Culture with Devdutt Pattanaik' and a LIVE series on Instagram and YouTube called 'You Ask We Answer'.His talks on 'How to read a newspaper' focus on newspaper reading as an essential habit for students. His articles and videos aim at finding solutions to the general queries of students and hence he believes in being students' editor, preparing them not just for any exam but helping them to become informed citizens. This is where he makes his teaching profession meet journalism. He is also the editor of UPSC Essentials' monthly magazine for the aspirants. He is a recipient of the Dip Chand Memorial Award, the Lala Ram Mohan Prize and Prof. Papiya Ghosh Memorial Prize for academic excellence. He was also awarded the University's Post-Graduate Scholarship for pursuing M.A. in History where he chose to specialise in Ancient India due to his keen interest in Archaeology. He has also successfully completed a Certificate course on Women's Studies by the Women's Studies Development Centre, DU. As a part of N.S.S in the past, Manas has worked with national and international organisations and has shown keen interest and active participation in Social Service. He has led and been a part of projects involving areas such as gender sensitisation, persons with disability, helping slum dwellers, environment, adopting our heritage programme. He has also presented a case study on 'Psychological stress among students' at ICSQCC- Sri Lanka. As a compere for seminars and other events he likes to keep his orating hobby alive. His interests also lie in International Relations, Governance, Social issues, Essays and poetry. ... Read More
Hans India
25-05-2025
- Business
- Hans India
Sivakasi fireworks industry seeks GI tag to preserve legacy and boost exports
The century-old fireworks industry in Tamil Nadu's Sivakasi has formally applied for a Geographical Indication (GI) tag in a bid to protect its legacy, enhance credibility, and open new avenues for exports. The application for the GI tag under the "manufactured goods" category was submitted to the Geographical Indications Registry by the Tamil Nadu Fireworks and Amorces Manufacturers Association (TANFAMA), through advocate and IPR attorney, P. Suganthi. Often referred to as the 'fireworks capital of India,' Sivakasi, and its surrounding regions like Vemkottai, Virudhunagar, Sattur, Srivilliputhur, and parts of Kovilpatti, produce over 80 per cent of the country's fireworks. The industry thrives in Sivakasi's dry climate, which is particularly well-suited for firework manufacturing. The sector has a market value of approximately Rs 6,000 crore, growing at a rate of nearly 10 per cent annually. "There are many illegal and unregulated units operating not just in Sivakasi, but across the country. We are the pioneers of this industry, and a GI tag will help distinguish authentic Sivakasi-made fireworks. It will also enable us to seek financial support and expand into international markets," a TANFAMA representative said. Intellectual Property Rights attorney P. Sanjai Gandhi emphasised that a GI tag could help curb the menace of counterfeit and substandard fireworks in the market. "A GI tag lends credibility and acts as a safeguard against duplicate products," he said. The industry has long struggled with safety concerns, as illegal manufacturing units have contributed to frequent accidents involving fires and explosions. By securing a GI tag, the association hopes to reinforce quality control and improve safety standards. According to the GI filing, Sivakasi-made fireworks are used beyond celebrations. They are utilised by the armed forces for training purposes, and certain airports use Sivakasi rockets to deter birds and prevent bird strikes. The history of this industry dates back to pre-Independence days, with three pioneering firms—National Fireworks (chain crackers), Kaliswari Fireworks (fire pots), and Standard Fireworks ('Lakshmi' bombs). By 1980, the number of factories had surged to 189, employing over 75,000 people. Today, the region houses more than 1,000 units. Despite its growth, the industry faces challenges, including environmental concerns and a lack of interest among the younger generation to join the family trade. Manufacturers hope that a GI tag will revitalise interest and secure the future of this iconic industry.
Yahoo
22-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Lough Neagh fishing industry 'victim' of environmental damage
The fishing industry on Lough Neagh is "a victim" of the environmental challenges facing the lough, politicians have been told. The comments by representatives of the Lough Neagh Fishermen's Co-operative came as eel fishing in Lough Neagh was temporarily paused. The Co-operative said it was because the quality of the catch wasn't good enough. The season started on 5 May, but was suspended on 12 May. The Co-operative plans to resume fishing on 9 June, depending on its own assessments of the quality. Speaking at the Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs committee meeting this morning, CEO Kathleen McBride said that Lough Neagh eel was marketed as "the ultimate", as a product with Protected Geographical Indication status since 2011. "I have a sample catch scheduled for every week now until the week before the 9th. "We will gut these ourselves and try and assess them as best we can to see, and we'll work very closely with our markets in Holland to see is it what they're expecting, is it what they're needing?" She added that, while the science did not show a major decrease in the fat content of the eel, "our customers are telling us there's a significant decrease." Brexit means NI eels can't be sold in Britain Man sentenced after smuggling hundreds of endangered eels The former CEO of the Co-operative, Pat Close, told the committee that the fishing industry on Lough Neagh was probably "collateral damage" from the other environmental challenges facing the Lough. "There are many, many external factors and influences over which we have no control, or indeed had much consultation if any about, but that has led to a situation where the fishing industry is probably collateral damage and certainly a victim in this situation because of the impact all of these things have had on the fish quality, particularly the fat content." Most of the eel catch is exported to the Netherlands, where it is smoked. The rest of the catch is sent to England. The Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute said it had been "due to begin collecting samples on behalf of the department on the 13th of May". It added that because of the suspension, it was "therefore not able to assess the condition of any eels caught since fishing commenced and are not in a position to comment." Ms McBride urged the government to support the eel-fishing industry. "Our eels are traditional here; our methods are very traditional, and better than that, they're very sustainable. There's practically no carbon footprint on that capture. "And I think that's to be lauded in comparison to what's happening within the agricultural industry. "So we should be supported in that and looked up to how this works in a rural area."
