Latest news with #SEA
Indian Express
a day ago
- Business
- Indian Express
Indian farmers shifting to maize cultivation as soybean, cotton acreage shrinks
Farmers across the country have shifted significantly towards maize cultivation while areas dedicated to soybean and cotton farming are declining amid lower-than-expected realisations in the markets. As the country enters the last leg of kharif sowing, India has reported 708.31 lakh hectares of sowing as of July 21, as compared to 680.38 lakh hectares of last year, of which maize recorded the highest jump — from last year's 61.73 lakh hectares to 71.21 lakh hectares this year. However, oilseeds reported a 6 per cent dip, which is 156.76 lakh hectares as against last year's 162.80 lakh hectares. Soybean, the main kharif oilseed, was sown over 111.67 lakh hectares this year compared to last year's 118.96 lakh hectares. Cotton, the major lint crop, has also seen a decrease in the acreage from 102.05 of 202-25 to the present 98.55 lakh hectares of this year. The Solvent and Extractors Association (SEA) – the apex body of edible oil solvent and extractors companies – has expressed concerns about the potential dip in soybean, India's main summer-sown oilseed crop, acreage nationally. 'Soybean acreage has dipped by over 6 per cent compared to the previous year, possibly due to shifting crop preferences and regional weather variability. This trend merits close observation, as soybean remains a crucial pillar in India's oilseed economy and a major source of oil and meal,' Sanjeeve Asthana, President, SEA, said. Vilas Uphade, a farmer from Latur district of Maharashtra, noted that soybean is currently trading at Rs 4,000 per quintal in the wholesale market. 'This is against the government-declared Minimum Support Price (MSP) of Rs 5,328, which is even before the new crop has entered the market. We are expecting a bumper harvest this year, so I worry about what the price conditions will be post the harvest,' he said. With the kharif sowing entering its last phase, prices might see further slide. The demand for maize has increased due to its use as a feedstock for ethanol production. Partha Sarathi Biwas is an Assistant Editor with The Indian Express with 10+ years of experience in reporting on Agriculture, Commodities and Developmental issues. He has been with The Indian Express since 2011 and earlier worked with DNA. Partha's report about Farmers Producer Companies (FPC) as well long pieces on various agricultural issues have been cited by various academic publications including those published by the Government of India. He is often invited as a visiting faculty to various schools of journalism to talk about development journalism and rural reporting. In his spare time Partha trains for marathons and has participated in multiple marathons and half marathons. ... Read More
Business Standard
a day ago
- Business
- Business Standard
Himadri Recognised as CDP Supplier Engagement Leader 2024, Achieves 'A' Rating, Reaffirming Commitment to Climate Leadership and Value Chain Responsibility
PRNewswire Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], July 23: Himadri Speciality Chemical Ltd, a global frontrunner in advanced materials and sustainable chemical solutions, has been named a CDP Supplier Engagement Leader for 2024. This prestigious recognition places Himadri among the top-rated companies globally for its efforts in driving climate action across its supply chain. Himadri earned an 'A' rating across critical categories of CDP's Supplier Engagement Assessment (SEA), such as Supplier Engagement, Scope 3 Emissions Verification, Risk Management Processes, and Governance & Business Strategy. The highest performance on these crucial parameters reflects Himadri's strong alignment with global climate disclosure frameworks and deep-rooted approach to environmental stewardship. This milestone is built on Himadri's 'B' rating in its maiden CDP Climate Change and Water Security Evaluation in 2024, underscoring its rapid progression in ESG excellence and data transparency. The journey from a strong first showing to achieving Supplier Engagement Leadership within a year demonstrates Himadri's resolve to scale its sustainability performance and extend it throughout its value chain. Commenting on Himadri's making it on the 2024 Supplier Engagement Assessment A-list, Mr Anurag Choudhary, CMD & CEO of Himadri Speciality Chemical Ltd, stated, "Being recognised as a CDP Supplier Engagement Leader is a proud moment for all of us at Himadri. It validates our proactive and collaborative approach in aligning with global climate goals, not just within our operations, but also across our value chain partners. Our commitment is not just to compliance, but to real, measurable climate action." At Himadri, we believe that true leadership in sustainability goes beyond operational excellence --it lies in empowering the entire value chain to become a catalyst for climate resilience, transparency, and responsible growth. Earning the distinction of CDP Supplier Engagement Leader with an 'A' rating is a reaffirmation of our deep-rooted commitment to driving positive change collaboratively, upstream and downstream. This achievement underscores the strength of our integrated ESG strategy, where supplier engagement, Scope 3 emissions accountability, and governance are seamlessly aligned with global climate goals. As we look ahead, we remain resolute in expanding this ecosystem of shared responsibility by fostering co-innovation, strengthening partnerships, and enabling measurable impact across every layer of our value chain. Together, we are not just building a more sustainable Himadri--we are shaping a future-ready, climate-conscious industrial network that delivers enduring value for business, society, and the planet. About Himadri Speciality Chemical Ltd Himadri Speciality Chemical Ltd is a global speciality chemical conglomerate with a strong focus on research and development (R & D), innovation, and sustainability. As a pioneer in the production of lithium-ion battery materials in India, it continuously develops and innovates raw materials for the lithium-ion battery value chain. Its diverse product portfolio includes speciality carbon black, coal tar pitch, refined naphthalene, advanced materials, SNF, specialty oils, clean power, etc., catering to various industries such as lithium-ion batteries, paints, plastics, tires, technical rubber goods, aluminium, graphite electrodes, agrochemicals, defence, and construction chemicals. Himadri operates in both domestic and international markets, exporting to over 54 countries across the globe. With a strong commitment to corporate governance, safety, and sustainability, it has eight zero-liquid discharge manufacturing facilities and utilizes in-house clean power for 100% of its electrical energy needs. Himadri is a people-first organization and is making a positive impact on the industry, both in India and globally, through its focus on innovation fuelled by extensive R & D, new business opportunities, and sustainability. Photo -
Malaysian Reserve
a day ago
- Business
- Malaysian Reserve
Himadri Recognised as CDP Supplier Engagement Leader 2024, Achieves 'A' Rating, Reaffirming Commitment to Climate Leadership and Value Chain Responsibility
KOLKATA, India, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Himadri Speciality Chemical Ltd, a global frontrunner in advanced materials and sustainable chemical solutions, has been named a CDP Supplier Engagement Leader for 2024. This prestigious recognition places Himadri among the top-rated companies globally for its efforts in driving climate action across its supply chain. Himadri earned an 'A' rating across critical categories of CDP's Supplier Engagement Assessment (SEA), such as Supplier Engagement, Scope 3 Emissions Verification, Risk Management Processes, and Governance & Business Strategy. The highest performance on these crucial parameters reflects Himadri's strong alignment with global climate disclosure frameworks and deep-rooted approach to environmental stewardship. This milestone is built on Himadri's 'B' rating in its maiden CDP Climate Change and Water Security Evaluation in 2024, underscoring its rapid progression in ESG excellence and data transparency. The journey from a strong first showing to achieving Supplier Engagement Leadership within a year demonstrates Himadri's resolve to scale its sustainability performance and extend it throughout its value chain. Commenting on Himadri's making it on the 2024 Supplier Engagement Assessment A-list, Mr Anurag Choudhary, CMD & CEO of Himadri Speciality Chemical Ltd, stated, 'Being recognised as a CDP Supplier Engagement Leader is a proud moment for all of us at Himadri. It validates our proactive and collaborative approach in aligning with global climate goals, not just within our operations, but also across our value chain partners. Our commitment is not just to compliance, but to real, measurable climate action.' At Himadri, we believe that true leadership in sustainability goes beyond operational excellence —it lies in empowering the entire value chain to become a catalyst for climate resilience, transparency, and responsible growth. Earning the distinction of CDP Supplier Engagement Leader with an 'A' rating is a reaffirmation of our deep-rooted commitment to driving positive change collaboratively, upstream and downstream. This achievement underscores the strength of our integrated ESG strategy, where supplier engagement, Scope 3 emissions accountability, and governance are seamlessly aligned with global climate goals. As we look ahead, we remain resolute in expanding this ecosystem of shared responsibility by fostering co-innovation, strengthening partnerships, and enabling measurable impact across every layer of our value chain. Together, we are not just building a more sustainable Himadri—we are shaping a future-ready, climate-conscious industrial network that delivers enduring value for business, society, and the planet. About Himadri Speciality Chemical Ltd Himadri Speciality Chemical Ltd is a global speciality chemical conglomerate with a strong focus on research and development (R&D), innovation, and sustainability. As a pioneer in the production of lithium-ion battery materials in India, it continuously develops and innovates raw materials for the lithium-ion battery value chain. Its diverse product portfolio includes speciality carbon black, coal tar pitch, refined naphthalene, advanced materials, SNF, specialty oils, clean power, etc., catering to various industries such as lithium-ion batteries, paints, plastics, tires, technical rubber goods, aluminium, graphite electrodes, agrochemicals, defence, and construction chemicals. Himadri operates in both domestic and international markets, exporting to over 54 countries across the globe. With a strong commitment to corporate governance, safety, and sustainability, it has eight zero-liquid discharge manufacturing facilities and utilizes in-house clean power for 100% of its electrical energy needs. Himadri is a people-first organization and is making a positive impact on the industry, both in India and globally, through its focus on innovation fuelled by extensive R&D, new business opportunities, and sustainability. Photo –
The Independent
3 days ago
- Business
- The Independent
Survey reveals shocking number of UK women have experienced economic abuse
Around one in seven women have had their money and economic resources controlled by another person in the past 12 months, a new survey indicates. However, two-fifths of those did not speak to anyone about their experience, according to a report from the charity Surviving Economic Abuse (SEA). The charity commissioned Ipsos UK to survey over 2,800 women across the UK in October and November 2024. The research was developed by SEA with input from victim-survivors and academic advisers. SEA also found that many women were also unaware of economic abuse. Some 55 per cent know nothing about this form of domestic abuse, and a third (33 per cent) know "a little" about it. Economic abuse is a dangerous and prevalent form of domestic abuse that takes many forms. SEA said it could include a current or ex-partner restricting access to money or bank accounts, damaging property or possessions, taking out loans or building up debt in a victim-survivor's name. The report, Counting The Cost: The Scale And Impact Of Economic Abuse In The UK, indicated that women from ethnic minority backgrounds, disabled women and younger women (aged 18 to 24) were particularly likely to say they had experienced at least one form of economic abuse. Meanwhile, 28 per cent of women with children in the household had experienced economic abuse, compared with 10 per cent of UK women without children, the research indicated. The report also found that victim-survivors who had heard the term 'economic abuse' and knew something about it were more likely to seek help. Those who had heard the term were also more likely to speak to a domestic abuse charity or a bank. 'Awareness is critical because those who are aware are more likely to get the help they need,' Sam Smethers, chief executive of Surviving Economic Abuse, said. 'Many are trapped in dangerous situations with an abuser or left with mountains of debt, homeless and experiencing this form of coercive control long after the relationship has ended.' She said economic abuse is devastating for all victim-survivors, but the charity's data 'shows the impact of this abuse is felt particularly strongly by younger women, mothers, black and minoritised women and disabled women'. The charity quoted one woman saying of her former partner: 'He used money as a weapon – even after the relationship ended. I had to sell our home, live with the consequences of the bad credit he'd forced me into, and over 20 years later, I'm still in housing insecurity. 'Knowing this was economic abuse would have made such a difference. It's not just 'what happens' after divorce – it's abuse, and people need to know that. That's why I tell anyone going through this to contact SEA, and to speak to their bank – there is help, and you're not alone.' Jess Phillips, the minister for safeguarding and violence against women and girls, said: 'No woman should ever be trapped in an abusive relationship because of the suffering they will face if they try to leave, whether that is the threat of physical violence or the prospect of being plunged into poverty and homelessness. 'Tackling economic abuse – a true hidden crime – will be integral to achieving our ambition of halving violence against women and girls in a decade.' The charity said 'systemic change' must be driven across the public and private sectors, turning good practice into common practice, to transform the lives of victim-survivors. It is also calling for the public to join its mission to raise awareness of economic abuse, to help people spot the signs and access support. Surviving Economic Abuse highlighted some potential signs of economic abuse people can look out for: 1. Are they short of money or unable to buy inexpensive items even if they work? Have they asked to borrow money to pay bills or for essential items? 2. Do they say their partner deals with all money matters? Are their wages or benefits paid directly into their partner's account? Are they counting the pennies, or seeking their partner's permission before making any purchases? 3. Have they left their work when they liked their job? 4. Do they make excuses not to join friends for coffee and meals out? 5. Do they wear ill-fitting or worn-out clothing? Do they not have the money to go to the hairdresser or buy personal items? The charity said people can support victim-survivors of economic abuse by telling them help is available and they are not alone. It said people can also offer practical support, such as by offering a spare room or providing essential items such as food, clothing, and toiletries, as well as having information about domestic abuse services to hand.
Hans India
16-07-2025
- Business
- Hans India
Vijayawada to host 6th Cottonseed, Oil & Meal Conclave
Vijayawada: The Solvent Extractors' Association of India (SEA) and All India Cottonseed Crushers' Association (AICOSCA) will host the 6th SEA–AICOSCA Cottonseed, Oil & Meal Conclave here on August 2 and 3. The conclave will focus on promoting the cottonseed oil among consumers by discussing and highlighting its myriad virtues. Union Minister of State for Communications and Rural Development Dr Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani will inaugurate the event along with Agriculture Minister Kinjarapu Atchannaidu. Roop Rashi, CEO of the Khadi and Village Industries Commission, OP Goenka, Director of 3F Ltd, and Dr R Sarada Jayalakshmi Devi, Vice-Chancellor of ANGRAU and several industry leaders will also participate in the conclave. With the theme 'Revitalising Cottonseed: Growth Pathways for Oil, Meal, and Beyond,' the conclave will explore ways to maximise the potential of cottonseed oil and its by-products to enhance India's edible oil security, livestock feed industry, and rural economy. According to president of SEA Sanjeev Asthana, India produces 12.0 lakh tonnes of cottonseed oil annually and is widely used in Gujarat for cooking. 'Through this conclave we envisage to improve the awareness and encourage adoption of Cotton Seed Oil for domestic consumption,' he said. Sandeep Bajoria, Chairman AICOSCA and Dr BV Mehta, Executive Director of SEA also spoke. P Veera Narayan, Director of Sri Dhanalakshmi Cotton and Rice Mills at Guntur and Vice-Chairman of AICOSCA said, 'The conclave will focus on revitalising cottonseed oil processing and usage in the country. Andhra Pradesh is one of the largest producers of cotton seed and it is appropriate that we host the conference in Vijayawada this year. More than 300 delegates, including scientists, industry leaders, and traders, are expected to participate in this national platform, fostering collaboration and sustainable growth in the sector.
