Beyoncé appeared visibly astonished to hear her album Cowboy Carter had won best country album at this year’s Grammy Awards. Onstage, the singer offered a heartfelt reflection on musical genre:
I think sometimes genre is a code word to keep us in our place as artists and I just want to encourage people to do what they’re passionate about and stay persistent.
Beyoncé’s speech built on a more pointed critique of genre found in one of the tracks from her album, SPAGHETTII.
The track opens with a soundbite from Linda Martell, a pioneering Black country music singer who enjoyed commercial success in the 1960s, but whose career was marred by both overt racial abuse and accusations she didn’t “sound black”. In the soundbite, Martell says:
Genres are a funny little concept, aren’t they? […] In theory, they have a simple definition that’s easy to understand, but in practice, well, some may feel confined.
This description of confinement was echoed in 2024, when the Country Music Association Awards controversially excluded Cowboy Carter from the nomination process due to insufficient radio airplay, as per the award rules.
Media reports claimed some country radio stations refused to play, or were slow to play, Beyoncé’s new album because they didn’t recognise her as a country artist.
Debates about the usefulness of genre have been around for a while, and won’t disappear anytime soon. Beyoncé’s Grammy win presses us to consider the relevance of genre in the modern music world – and the extent to which these rigid definitions can be justified.
Is ‘genre’ useful in music?
On one level, genre is a simple and necessary mechanism for categorising different types of music. Genre encodes various aspects of music, including instrumentation, the time period it originates from, its emotional character, and the melodic, rhythmic and harmonic conventions it employs.
Terms such as jazz, rock, country, R&B, metal, hip-hop, folk and EDM are rich in meaning, and are routinely used as identity markers for performers – and for award categories at events like the Grammys. They also help us discuss our musical preferences, and teach and learn about music in educational settings.
At the same time, these terms remain fluid and contested. Research tracking the rise and fall of musical genres highlights the power genres have in shaping our understanding and experience of music.
Consider rock as an example. In the early 1950s, radio disc jockeys popularised the term rock’n’roll to describe a distinct style that drew from genres including rhythm and blues, gospel and country music, but which differed from each of these in character and function.
The societal adoption of rock’n’roll as a “new” genre wasn’t just driven by the features present in the music, but by its resonance with a teenage audience for whom it signalled rebellion, associations with sexuality and a merging of different American music cultures.
Just as Elvis Presley came to embody the genre, divergent practices gave rise to new and adapted terminology. “Rockabilly” (a style that combines elements of country and rock’n’roll) entered the lexicon. Rock’n’roll simply became “rock” and numerous adjectives such as “folk”, “psychedelic”, “progressive”, “punk”, “classic” and “hard” were attached to make sense of the continually evolving style.
I’d argue the music of Elvis Presley has little in common with the stoner rock band Kyuss, yet we group them in the same broad musical taxonomy.
Research has revealed significant inconsistencies in how people use and understand music genre terminology. Nonetheless, genre labels have historically been considered useful tools to communicate meaningful information about musical experiences.
So, what’s Beyoncé’s problem with genre?
Problems can arise for musicians when genres don’t simply describe musical practices, but work to control or distort them. Record labels have a profit imperative that incentivises artists to create music that’s easily categorised into well-established genres.
The risk this incentive poses to creativity has traditionally been offset by audiences demanding new and diverse music – alongside a flourishing independent musical culture that either ignores or is overtly antagonistic towards the generic preferences of large record labels.
That said, musicians are also pushed to adhere to narrow definitions of genre due to search functions in streaming services and methodologies used by music charts.
For example, the ARIA (Australian Recording Industry Association) charts’ code of practice lists six genre charts: core classical, country, crossover/classical, dance, hip hop/R&B, and jazz and blues. And while the ARIAs have a range of mechanisms to track record sales, the codification of these genres inevitably influences Australian musicians who wish to make a living from their music.
Beyond this, powerful cultural associations with certain genres can make their boundaries difficult to cross. Sometimes genre boundaries are rightly inflexible – particularly those associated with regional music-making or First Peoples’ cultures.
Cowboy Carter however, represents a rediscovery and celebration of Black country musicians. It draws attention to how these musicians were neglected because they didn’t align with prevailing assumptions about the genre.
The fact that Beyoncé’s choice to explore country music was in any way contentious emphasises this point. The foray by The Beatles’ drummer Ringo Starr into country music was, by contrast, uncontroversial.
Genre as a framework is, ultimately, necessary. It’s impossible to discuss music without some way of making sense of it all. Listeners, however, should recognise that rigid genre definition can distort creativity. They should also reflect on whether it may be distorting their listening habits, too.
Timothy McKenry does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Source: United States Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama)
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined his colleagues in introducing the Jumpstarting Our Businesses by Supporting Students (JOBS) Act, legislation to help more Americans get good-paying jobs by allowing students to use federal Pell Grants—needs-based education grants for lower-income individuals—to pay for shorter-term job training programs for the first time. Currently, students can only use Pell Grants for two- and four-year colleges and universities. By expanding Pell Grant eligibility, the JOBS Act would help close the skill gap by allowing people to access job training they might otherwise be unable to afford but need for careers in high-demand fields.
“A college degree isn’t the one-size-fits-all solution to achieving the American dream,” said Sen. Tuberville. “Since I got to Congress, I’ve been focused on expanding workforce training and skills-based learning programs. Students should not be discouraged from entering the labor industry because they cannot afford the mandatory training. Alabama relies on these skilled workers, and Congress should be making it easier for them to pursue necessary training, not harder. This bill will open up more career opportunities for students in an evolving job market. I’m proud to join my colleagues in cosponsoring the JOBS Act.”
Joining U.S. Senator Tuberville in cosponsoring the legislation are U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Cory Booker (D-NJ), John Boozman (R-AR), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Steve Daines (R-MT), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), John Hoeven (R-ND), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mark Warner (D-VA), Roger Wicker (R-MS), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).
The JOBS Actis supported by Advance CTE, the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC), the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE), the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT), the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM), Business Roundtable, the Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP), the Exhibitions and Conferences Alliance (ECA), Higher Learning Advocates (HLA), HP Inc., the Information Technology Industry Council (ITI), Jobs for the Future (JFF), the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies, NAF, the National Association of Workforce Boards (NAWB), the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP), the National Skills Coalition (NSC), the Progressive Policy Institute (PPI), Rebuilding America’s Middle Class (RAMC), and the Virginia Community College System.
Read full text of the legislation here.
BACKGROUND:
The JOBS Act would allow Pell Grants to be used for high-quality job training programs that are at least eight weeks in length and lead to industry-recognized credentials or certificates. Under current law, Pell Grants can only be applied toward programs that are over 600 clock hours or at least 15 weeks in length, rendering students in shorter-term high-quality job training programs ineligible for crucial assistance.
Specifically, the JOBS Act would amend the Higher Education Act by:
Expanding Pell Grant eligibility to students enrolled in rigorous and high-quality, short-term skills and job training programs that lead to industry-recognized credentials and certificates and ultimately employment in high-wage, high-skill industry sectors or careers.
Ensuring students who receive Pell Grants are earning high-quality postsecondary credentials by requiring that the credentials:
Meet the standards under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), such as meaningful career counseling and aligning programs to in-demand career pathways or registered apprenticeship programs,
Are recognized by employers, industry, or sector partnerships,
Align with the skill needs of industries in the state or local economy,
Are approved by the state workforce board in addition to the U.S. Department of Education.
Defining eligible job training programs as those providing career and technical education instruction at an institution of higher education, such as a community or technical college that provides:
At least 150 clock hours of instruction time over a period of at least eight weeks,
Training that meets the needs of the local or regional workforce and industry partnerships,
Streamlined ability to transfer credits so students can continue to pursue further education in their careers,
Students with licenses, certifications, or credentials that meet the hiring requirements of multiple employers in the field for which the job training is offered.
Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP, and Aging Committees.
Source: New South Wales Department of Primary Industries
Minister for Agriculture and Western NSW – Media Release
5 Feb 2025
Three NSW based animal welfare organisations will share in $2.45 million to fund the rehoming of animals following their contribution to important scientific research projects.
The Minns Labor Government’s Research Animals Rehoming Grant Program supports organisations to find forever homes for cats, dogs, guinea pigs and other animals after they have completed their involvement in research.
With this investment and a suite of initiatives, including the recent passing of the Puppy Farm Bill introducing mandatory regulation of dog breeders, the Government is delivering on its commitment to modernise and strengthen the state’s animal welfare environment.
The animal rehoming organisations to receive funding are:
Animal Welfare League (AWL) – $825,000 The AWL will continue its re-homing pilot program including building a wing at its site for dogs and cats from research establishments to transition them and then find new homes post-retirement.
Blacktown Animal Rehoming Centre – $800,000 The centre plans to build a “real life room” at their current facility. The room will simulate a home environment to allow animals previously used in research to undertake rehabilitation and help them move on to the next phase of their lives.
Liberty Foundation Australia – $825,000 Liberty Foundation will scale up its rehoming work with small animals such as guinea pigs, rabbits, rats and mice, including new education and volunteer programs to raise awareness and encourage more people to adopt an animal from research.
The Rehoming Grant Program funding is part of a broader $7 million investment to enhance positive welfare outcomes for animals, both during and after use in research, including identifying alternatives to replace animals in research.
The vast bulk of cats and dogs used in research are either part of programs designed to taste test new pet foods or as part of animal medicine test programs run through vet clinics with the approval of the animal’s owner.
Minister for Agriculture and Western NSW, Tara Moriarty said:
“The Minns Labor Government is committed to improving the welfare outcomes of all animals and in this case that of research animals.
“This $2.45 million in funding will make a real and proven difference and is dedicated to improving animal welfare outcomes by supporting specialist organisations to successfully rehome research animals.
“Effective rehoming requires education and a coordinated, cooperative approach, and that is why the NSW Government is supporting this by working with research, rehoming and animal welfare organisations to achieve the best outcome for research animals when they retire.”
NSW CEO Animal Welfare League Stephen Albin said:
“AWL NSW is pleased to be one of the recipients of funding from this important program, it will assist us rehome the animals that come into our care, regardless of their origins.
“Our commitment involves enhancing each animal’s socialisation skills by understanding their past, respecting their individual needs, and providing a safe and protected sanctuary here at our Kemps Creek Shelter.
“We offer every animal, including those from research, high-quality veterinary care, behavioural improvements, including walking animals four times daily, nutritional enhancement and careful matching with potential owners.
“Our unique ‘Hope to Love’ journey allows for prolonged stays demonstrating our dedication to animal welfare.”
Paula Wallace, Director Liberty Foundation Australia said:
“Liberty Foundation is delighted to be awarded funding as part of this unique grant program, which will help us provide a lifeline for animals moving from research establishments into the community.
“We know that small animals coming out of research settings can transition well into people’s homes as pets and companions and this funding means we can provide this opportunity to more animals.
“This funding comes at a crucial time, when more research establishments than ever before are wanting to work with us to provide the best possible outcomes for animals after their time in research.
“Funding like this is vital for small charities like Liberty Foundation to give us the helping hand we need to scale up our activities and share the wonderful message of rehoming with more people.”
Brad Bunting Mayor of Blacktown City said:
“This NSW Government grant will further support Blacktown City Council’s vision to help animals transition to happy, comfortable lives while changing community perceptions around rehoming pets.
“The ‘real life room’ at the Blacktown Animal Rehoming Centre (BARC) is a practical step toward easing the transition of retired research animals back into the real world, giving them the chance to live happy and comfortable lives.
“BARC is a state-of-the-art facility built to give animals the best chance at finding loving permanent homes. Designed with world-leading research, it sets a new standard for animal welfare, creating a welcoming space where pets in need and families searching for their perfect companion can come together.
MEDIA: Michael Salmon | Minister Moriarty | 0417 495 018
Milo Hartill is “Black, fat and f**gy”, according to the title of her new cabaret work.
Actor, model, influencer and one helluva singer, 24-year-old Hartill shines. Black, Fat and F**gy is an autobiographical show, tracing defining moments of Hartill’s life as a Black, fat and queer person who grew up in Western Australia and now works in show biz.
Centred in its name, the performance wades through aspects of her intersectional identity. This itself serves as a loose structure for the production: Blackness to fatness to queerness, with clear overlaps.
The unapologetic self
Hartill leans into stereotypes and tropes so hard she ultimately upends them.
An early moment has her teasing an audience member – importantly, a white audience member – with an invitation to touch her hair. It’s a stunning moment within the work as it plays out, an image potentially loaded with racism interjected into performance with subversive, tongue-in-cheek humour and support for the chosen audience member.
It leads immediately into a rendition of Solange’s Don’t Touch My Hair. Other featured songs include Chaka Khan’s I’m Every Woman, Frank Sinatra’s Something Stupid (performed with puppetry) and Whitney Houston’s I Have Nothing, with notable changes to the lyrics to fit the themes and tone of the show.
Hartill is supported onstage by Lucy O’Brien on piano, who regularly chimes in with commentary and humour. The duo share a strong bond, their rapport is apparent and endearing. Within the first minute of the show we are eating from the palm of their hands.
The duo read out examples of real, fat-phobic hate mail sent to Hartill’s social media inboxes.
As an artist and researcher in fat-centred performance, for me, this is one of the more interesting moments in the show. It unapologetically adopts a didactic mode of delivery, revealing to audiences the kinds of despicable, violent language directed at fat people.
Black, Fat and F**gy is an entirely unique, memorable and vital performance work. Matto Lucas/UMAC/Midsumma
Theatre audiences (and makers, especially) tend to despise these kinds of didactic moments, especially pertaining to identity politics, as it marks a shift from “showing” (with metaphor) to “telling” in its messaging.
But how else can performance give contextual significance to something without this kind of direct telling, especially when most audiences will not have an embodied experience of fatness to draw on and make inferences?
Unless you have directly seen or heard the unrelenting, unmitigated hate speech directed at fat bodies, it is difficult to capture or convey. The “unique” aspect of this language, laid bare by Hartill in performance, is that it is delivered with a sense of righteousness: that this person is in a way helping the fat person by shaming them.
Moments like this serve a vital function in how performance can, broadly, capture both actual experiences and associated feelings related to a topic, while aiming to impart some new knowledge or finding for its audience to take away, to sit with, to talk about and maybe go on to learn more on.
A beautiful mixed bag
This didactic mode of delivery is only fleeting within the show. Adopting a cabaret-style delivery (but with standard theatre seated rows), Black, Fat and F**gy weaves together aspects of musical theatre (songs), stand-up (humour) and drag performance (aesthetic): it is a queerly hybrid form.
The show is rough around the edges. The performance allows for a high level of improvisation and audience engagement, which can lead to stalled moments and interruptions of laughter. Performance scholar T.L. Cowan writes the improvisatory nature of cabaret informs a “cabaret consciousness” that “allows an audience to enjoy a show not in spite of the mixed-bag-ness of cabaret, but because of it”.
The mixed-bag-ness of Black, Fat and F**gy is its charm, and Hartill complements this style with a mixed-bag delivery of tricks from her deep repertoire of skills.
The show weaves together songs, stand-up and drag: it is a queerly hybrid form. Matto Lucas/UMAC/Midsumma
Black, Fat and F**gy is an entirely unique, memorable and vital performance work you should move to the top of your list of must-see Midsumma events. The production is a 70-minute-plus romp which will leave you crying, both from laughter and by acknowledging the current climate against Black, fat f*gs everywhere.
Black Fat and F**gy is at the Guild Theatre, University of Melbourne, for Midsumma Festival until February 6.
Jonathan Graffam-O’Meara does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and U.S. Representative Rosa DeLauro (D-CT-03) introduced the Expanded Food Safety Investigation Act (EFSIA), legislation that would grant the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) the authority to collect microbial samples from concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs), also known as factory farms, during outbreaks or when there is a public health need.
Factory farming is at the heart of the spread of bird flu. The reintroduction of this legislation comes as public health experts raise alarms about the ongoing threat of H5N1, avian influenza, as variations continue to mutate, and in addition to persistent foodborne illness risks.
The CDC reports that 1 in 6 Americans suffer from foodborne illnesses annually, resulting in 128,000 hospitalizations and 3,000 deaths. Many of these illnesses stem from bacteria and other microbes originating in animal agriculture. Over 55 percent of foodborne Salmonella cases are linked to animals and animal products. Harmful bacteria from animal production facilities also contaminate fields of produce, further endangering consumers.
Despite these clear threats, public health agencies currently lack the authority to conduct microbial sampling on factory farms, limiting their ability to investigate and prevent outbreaks. Investigators are frequently denied access to farms, obstructing efforts to pinpoint the source of outbreaks and implement safeguards.
“Every year, thousands of Americans fall victim to foodborne illnesses,” said Senator Booker. “Currently, the FDA lacks the jurisdiction to investigate outbreaks and identify the sources of contaminated food stemming from animal agriculture. This bicameral legislation will reduce the prevalence of foodborne diseases by empowering the FDA and other public health agencies to properly respond to and investigate outbreaks when they happen and get contaminated food off our grocery shelves.”
“It is clear that corporate consolidation has made our food system more vulnerable—not only to foodborne illness but also to emerging public health threats like H5N1,” said Representative DeLauro. “This crisis is exacerbated by a weak FDA, which lacks the authority to properly investigate outbreaks and remove contaminated food from the market. Under current law, multinational corporations can obstruct FDA foodborne illness investigations, delaying critical public health interventions. That cannot continue. That is why I am reintroducing the Expanded Food Safety Investigation Act, which will ensure FDA has the power to investigate corporate agribusinesses, respond effectively to public health threats, and protect American consumers.”
“The Expanded Food Safety Act would close a critical gap in our public health safety net by allowing outbreak investigators a chance to trace the source of outbreaks on large animal farms,” said Sarah Sorscher, Director of Regulatory Affairs at Center for Science in the Public Interest. “This common sense safeguard is long overdue and can help provide solutions to stop outbreaks at their source.”
The legislation is endorsed by American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), Animal Rights Initiative, Antibiotic Resistance Action Center at The George Washington University, Associated Humane Societies, Center for Biological Diversity, Center for Food Safety, Center for Science in the Public Interest, Ceres Community Project, Chilis on Wheels, Compassionate Action for Animals, Consumer Federation of America, Consumer Reports, Earthjustice, Environmental Working Group, Farm Forward, Farm Sanctuary, Food and Water Watch, Food Animal Concerns Trust, Friends of the Earth, Godspeed Horse Hostel Inc, Government Accountability Project, Iowa Environmental Council, KWT Consulting, Mercy For Animals, National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition, Natural Resources Defense Council, Mercy For Animals, PIRG, San Francisco Bay Physicians for Social Responsibility, Slow Food USA, STOP Foodborne Illness, Strategies for Ethical & Environmental Development (SEED), Texas Humane Legislation Network, Vegan Activist Alliance, and World Animal Protection.
Many people looking to improve their health try to boost fibre intake by eating more vegetables.
But while all veggies offer health benefits, not all are particularly high in fibre. You can eat loads of salads and vegetables and still fall short of your recommended daily fibre intake.
So, which vegetables pack the biggest fibre punch? Here’s what you need to know.
What is fibre and how much am I supposed to be getting?
Fibre, or dietary fibre, refers to the parts of plant foods that our bodies cannot digest or absorb.
It passes mostly unchanged through our stomach and intestines, then gets removed from the body through our stool.
There are two types of fibre which have different functions and health benefits: soluble and insoluble.
Soluble fibre dissolves in water and can help lower blood cholesterol levels. Food sources include fruit, vegetables and legumes.
Insoluble fibre adds bulk to the stool which helps move food through the bowels. Food sources include nuts, seeds and wholegrains.
Both types are beneficial.
Australia’s healthy eating guidelines recommend women consume 25 grams of fibre a day and men consume 30 grams a day.
However, research shows most people do not eat enough fibre. Most adults get about 21 grams a day.
4 big reasons to increase fibre
Boosting fibre intake is a manageable and effective way to improve your overall health.
Making small changes to eat more fibrous vegetables can lead to:
1. Better digestion
Fibre helps maintain regular bowel movements and can alleviate constipation.
2. Better heart health
Increasing soluble fibre (by eating foods such as fruit and vegetables) can help lower cholesterol levels, which can reduce your risk of heart disease.
3. Weight management
High-fibre foods are filling, which can help people feel fuller for longer and prevent overeating.
Recent research published in prestigious medical journal The Lancet provided some eye-opening stats on why fibre matters.
The researchers, who combined evidence from clinical trials, found people who ate 25–29 grams of fibre per day had a 15–30% lower risk of life-threatening conditions like heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes compared to those who consumed fewer than 15 grams of fibre per day.
Vegetables are excellent sources of both soluble and insoluble fibre, along with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
The following veggies are some of the highest in fibre:
green peas
avocado
artichokes
parsnips
brussels sprouts
kale
sweet potatoes
beetroot
carrots
broccoli
pumpkin
Which vegetables are low in fibre?
Comparatively lower fibre veggies include:
asparagus
spinach (raw)
cauliflower
mushrooms
capsicum
tomato
lettuce
cucumber
These vegetables have lots of health benefits. But if meeting a fibre goal is your aim then don’t forget to complement these veggies with other higher-fibre ones, too.
Vegetables are excellent sources of both soluble and insoluble fibre – but some have more fibre than others. anna.q/Shutterstock
Does it matter how I prepare or cook the vegetables?
Yes.
The way we prepare vegetables can impact their fibre content, as cooking can cause structural changes in the dietary fibre components.
Some research has shown pressure cooking reduces fibre levels more greatly than roasting or microwave cooking.
For optimal health, it’s important to include a mix of both cooked and raw vegetables in your diet.
It’s worth noting that juicing removes most of the fibre from vegetables, leaving mostly sugars and water.
For improved fibre intake, it’s better to eat whole vegetables rather than relying on juices.
What about other, non-vegetable sources of fibre?
To meet your fibre recommendations each day, you can chose from a variety of fibre-rich foods (not only vegetables) including:
legumes and pulses (such as kidney beans and chickpeas)
wholegrain flour and bread
fruits
wholegrains (such oats, brown rice, quinoa, barley)
nuts and seeds (such as flaxseeds and chia seeds)
A fibre-rich day that meets a recommended 30 grams would include:
breakfast: 1⁄2 cup of rolled oats with milk and 1⁄2 cup of berries = about 6 grams of fibre
snack: one banana = about 2 grams
lunch: two cups of salad vegetables, 1⁄2 cup of four-bean mix, and canned tuna = about 9 grams
snack: 30 grams of almonds = about 3 grams
dinner: 1.5 cups of stir-fried vegetables with tofu or chicken, one cup of cooked brown rice = about 10 grams
supper: 1⁄2 a punnet of strawberries with some yoghurt = about 3 grams.
Bringing it all together
Vegetables are a key part of a healthy, balanced diet, packed with fibre that supports digestion, blood glucose control, weight management, and reduces risk of chronic disease.
However, the nutritional value of them can vary depending on the type and the cooking method used.
By understanding the fibre content in different veggies and how preparation methods affect it, we can make informed dietary choices to improve our overall health.
Lauren Ball receives funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council, Queensland Health and Mater Misericordia. She is a Director of Dietitians Australia, a Director of Food Standards Australia and New Zealand, a Director of the Darling Downs and West Moreton Primary Health Network and an Associate Member of the Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences.
Emily Burch does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Manhattan, KS, Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Landmark Bancorp, Inc. (“Landmark”; Nasdaq: LARK) reported diluted earnings per share of $0.57 for the three months ended December 31, 2024, compared to $0.68 per share in the third quarter of 2024 and $0.46 per share in the same quarter last year. Net income for the fourth quarter totaled $3.3 million, compared to $2.6 million in the fourth quarter of 2023 and $3.9 million in the prior quarter. For the three months ended December 31, 2024, the return on average assets was 0.83%, the return on average equity was 9.54% and the efficiency ratio was 70.0%.
For the year ended December 31, 2024, diluted earnings per share totaled $2.26 compared to $2.13 during 2023. Net earnings for 2024 totaled $13.0 million, compared to $12.2 million in 2023, or an increase of 6.3%. For the year ended December 31, 2024, the return on average assets was 0.83%, the return on average equity was 10.01% and the efficiency ratio was 69.1%.
2024 Performance Highlights
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Fourth quarter loan growth totaled $50.5 million or an annualized increase of 20.1% over the prior quarter.
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For the year, gross loans grew $103.7 million or 10.9%.
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Net interest margin improved 21 basis points to 3.51% compared to 3.30% in prior quarter.
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Deposits increased $53.3 million, or 16.6% annualized, from the prior quarter.
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Total borrowings decreased $34.7 million in the fourth quarter.
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A pre-tax loss of $1.0 million was realized in the fourth quarter to reposition a portion of the investment portfolio.
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Credit quality remained good with net charge-offs totaling $219,000 in the fourth quarter.
In making this announcement, Abby Wendel, President and Chief Executive Officer of Landmark, commented, “During 2024, we experienced strong loan demand, especially for residential mortgages and commercial real estate loans. In the fourth quarter 2024, we saw strong growth in virtually all loan categories, with total gross loans increasing by $51 million or 20% (annualized). Total deposits also increased in the fourth quarter by more than $53 million, mostly due to seasonal growth in money market and interest checking accounts. The increase in deposits coupled with investment securities sales and maturities this quarter helped fund loan growth and reduce expensive short-term borrowings. For the year, net interest income grew 5.6% over the previous year while in the fourth quarter 2024 our net interest margin improved to 3.51%. Strategic investments in our people and product offerings resulted in higher non-interest expenses, particularly in the fourth quarter. Credit quality remained solid overall.”
Landmark’s Board of Directors declared a cash dividend of $0.21 per share, to be paid March 5, 2025, to common stockholders of record as of the close of business on February 19, 2025. On December 16, 2024, the Company issued a 5% stock dividend to common stockholders, representing the 24th consecutive year that a stock dividend has been paid.
Management will host a conference call to discuss the Company’s financial results at 10:00 a.m. (Central time) on Wednesday, February 5, 2025. Investors may participate via telephone by dialing (833) 470-1428 and using access code 296482. A replay of the call will be available through February 12, 2025, by dialing (866) 813-9403 and using access code 817329.
Net Interest Income
Net interest income in the fourth quarter of 2024 amounted to $12.4 million representing an increase of $795,000, or 6.9%, compared to the previous quarter. The increase in net interest income was due mainly to lower interest expense on deposits and other borrowed funds. The net interest margin increased to 3.51% during the fourth quarter from 3.30% during the prior quarter. Compared to the previous quarter, interest income on loans increased $22,000 to $16.0 million due to higher average balances but partially offset by lower yields on loans. Average loan balances increased $24.5 million while the average tax-equivalent yield on the loan portfolio decreased 15 basis points to 6.28%. Interest on investment securities declined slightly due to lower balances while partially offset by higher earning rates. Compared to the third quarter 2024, interest on deposits decreased $480,000, or 8.2% mainly due to lower rates, while interest on other borrowed funds declined by $363,000, due to lower rates and balances. The average rate on interest-bearing deposits decreased 23 basis points to 2.25% while the average rate on other borrowed funds decreased 51 basis points to 5.10% in the fourth quarter.
Non-Interest Income
Non-interest income totaled $3.4 million for the fourth quarter of 2024, a decrease of $882,000 from the previous quarter. The decrease in non-interest income during the fourth quarter of 2024 was primarily due to a $1.0 million loss on the sales of lower yielding investment securities mentioned above, while the third quarter of 2024 did not include any sales of investment securities. Additionally, lower sales of residential mortgages this quarter resulted in a decline of $182,000 in gains on sales of these mortgages. The decline in other non-interest income of $221,000 this quarter compared to the prior quarter resulted from sales of premises, equipment and foreclosed assets that did not re-occur in the current quarter. Partially offsetting those declines was an increase of $722,000 in bank owned life insurance income.
Non-Interest Expense
During the fourth quarter of 2024, non-interest expense totaled $11.9 million, an increase of $1.3 million compared to the prior quarter. The increase in non-interest expense was primarily due to increases of $470,000 in professional fees and $461,000 in compensation and benefits. The increase in professional fees this quarter was primarily due to higher consulting costs on several initiatives. The increase in compensation and benefits was attributable to an increase in employees and higher incentive compensation costs.
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Landmark recorded an income tax benefit of $886,000 in the fourth quarter of 2024 compared to income tax expense of $867,000 in the prior quarter. The effective tax rate was (37.0%) in the fourth quarter of 2024 compared to 18.1% in the third quarter of 2024. The fourth quarter of 2024 included the recognition of $1.0 million of previously unrecognized tax benefits, which reduced the effective tax rate.
Balance Sheet Highlights
As of December 31, 2024, gross loans totaled $1.1 billion, an increase of $50.5 million, or 20.1% annualized since September 30, 2024. During the quarter, loan growth was primarily comprised of commercial real estate (growth of $21.1 million), commercial (growth of $10.7 million), agriculture (growth of $8.6 million) and one-to-four family residential real estate (growth of $7.8 million) loans. Investment securities decreased $38.5 million during the fourth quarter of 2024 and included sales of $36.0 million in low-rate U.S. treasury securities offset by purchases of $18.0 million in market rate U.S. treasury securities. Pre-tax unrealized net losses on the investment securities portfolio increased from $13.3 million at September 30, 2024 to $20.9 million at December 31, 2024 mainly due to higher market rates for these securities at year end.
Period end deposit balances increased $53.3 million to $1.3 billion at December 31, 2024. The increase in deposits was mainly driven by an increase in money market and checking (increase of $71.3 million) but partially offset by declines in certificates of deposit (decrease of $9.2 million) and non-interest-bearing demand deposits (decrease of $8.6 million). The increase in money market and checking accounts was mainly driven by seasonal growth in public fund deposit account balances. Total borrowings decreased $34.7 million during the fourth quarter 2024. At December 31, 2024, the loan to deposits ratio was 78.2% compared to 77.6% in the prior quarter.
Stockholders’ equity decreased to $136.2 million (book value of $23.59 per share) as of December 31, 2024, from $139.7 million (book value of $24.18 per share) as of September 30, 2024. The decrease in stockholders’ equity was due to an increase in accumulated other comprehensive losses as the unrealized net losses on investments securities increased during the fourth quarter. The ratio of equity to total assets decreased to 8.65% on December 31, 2024, from 8.93% on September 30, 2024.
The allowance for credit losses totaled $12.8 million, or 1.22% of total gross loans on December 31, 2024, compared to $11.5 million, or 1.15% of total gross loans on September 30, 2024. Net loan charge-offs totaled $219,000 in the fourth quarter of 2024, compared to $9,000 during the third quarter of 2024. A provision for credit losses for loans of $1.5 million was recorded in the fourth quarter of 2024 compared to $650,000 in the third quarter of 2024.
Non-performing loans totaled $13.1 million, or 1.25% of gross loans at December 31, 2024 compared to $13.4 million, or 1.34% of gross loans at September 30, 2024. Loans 30-89 days delinquent declined to $6.2 million, or 0.59% of gross loans, as of December 31, 2024, compared to $7.3 million, or 0.73% of gross loans, as of September 30, 2024.
About Landmark
Landmark Bancorp, Inc., the holding company for Landmark National Bank, is listed on the Nasdaq Global Market under the symbol “LARK.” Headquartered in Manhattan, Kansas, Landmark National Bank is a community banking organization dedicated to providing quality financial and banking services. Landmark National Bank has 29 locations in 23 communities across Kansas: Manhattan (2), Auburn, Dodge City (2), Fort Scott (2), Garden City, Great Bend (2), Hoisington, Iola, Junction City, La Crosse, Lawrence (2), Lenexa, Louisburg, Mound City, Osage City, Osawatomie, Overland Park, Paola, Pittsburg, Prairie Village, Topeka (2), Wamego and Wellsville, Kansas. Visit www.banklandmark.com for more information.
Contact: Mark A. Herpich Chief Financial Officer (785) 565-2000
Special Note Concerning Forward-Looking Statements
This press release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 with respect to the financial condition, results of operations, plans, objectives, future performance and business of Landmark. Forward-looking statements, which may be based upon beliefs, expectations and assumptions of our management and on information currently available to management, are generally identifiable by the use of words such as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “intend,” “estimate,” “may,” “will,” “would,” “could,” “should” or other similar expressions. Additionally, all statements in this press release, including forward-looking statements, speak only as of the date they are made, and Landmark undertakes no obligation to update any statement in light of new information or future events. A number of factors, many of which are beyond our ability to control or predict, could cause actual results to differ materially from those in our forward-looking statements. These factors include, among others, the following: (i) the strength of the local, national and international economies, including the effects of changing inflationary pressures and supply chain constraints on such economies; (ii) changes in state and federal laws, regulations and governmental policies concerning banking, securities, consumer protection, insurance, monetary, trade and tax matters, including changes in interpretation or prioritization; (iii) changes in interest rates and prepayment rates of our assets; (iv) increased competition in the financial services sector and the inability to attract new customers, including from non-bank competitors such as credit unions and “fintech” companies; (v) timely development and acceptance of new products and services; (vi) changes in technology and the ability to develop and maintain secure and reliable electronic systems; (vii) our risk management framework; (viii) interruptions in information technology and telecommunications systems and third-party services; (ix) changes and uncertainty in benchmark interest rates, including the timing of additional rate changes, if any, by the Federal Reserve; (x) the economic effects of severe weather, natural disasters, widespread disease or pandemics, or other external events; (xi) the loss of key executives or employees; (xii) changes in consumer spending; (xiii) integration of acquired businesses; (xiv) unexpected outcomes of existing or new litigation; (xv) changes in accounting policies and practices, such as the implementation of the current expected credit losses accounting standard; (xvi) the economic impact of past and any future terrorist attacks, acts of war, including the current Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the conflict in Ukraine, or threats thereof, and the response of the United States to any such threats and attacks; (xvii) the ability to manage credit risk, forecast loan losses and maintain an adequate allowance for loan losses; (xviii) fluctuations in the value of securities held in our securities portfolio; (xix) concentrations within our loan portfolio, large loans to certain borrowers, and large deposits from certain clients; (xx) the concentration of large deposits from certain clients who have balances above current FDIC insurance limits and may withdraw deposits to diversify their exposure; (xxi) the level of non-performing assets on our balance sheets; (xxii) the ability to raise additional capital; (xxiii) cyber-attacks; (xxiv) declines in real estate values; (xxv) the effects of fraud on the part of our employees, customers, vendors or counterparties; and (xxvi) any other risks described in the “Risk Factors” sections of reports filed by Landmark with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These risks and uncertainties should be considered in evaluating forward-looking statements, and undue reliance should not be placed on such statements. Additional information concerning Landmark and its business, including additional risk factors that could materially affect Landmark’s financial results, is included in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
LANDMARK BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES Consolidated Balance Sheets (unaudited)
December 31,
September 30,
June 30,
March 31,
December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)
2024
2024
2024
2024
2023
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents
$
20,275
$
21,211
$
23,889
$
16,468
$
27,101
Interest-bearing deposits at other banks
4,110
4,363
4,881
4,920
4,918
Investment securities available-for-sale, at fair value:
U.S. treasury securities
64,458
83,753
89,325
93,683
95,667
Municipal obligations, tax exempt
107,128
112,126
114,047
118,445
120,623
Municipal obligations, taxable
71,715
75,129
74,588
75,371
79,083
Agency mortgage-backed securities
129,211
140,004
142,499
149,777
157,396
Total investment securities available-for-sale
372,512
411,012
420,459
437,276
452,769
Investment securities held-to-maturity
3,672
3,643
3,613
3,584
3,555
Bank stocks, at cost
6,618
7,894
9,647
7,850
8,123
Loans:
One-to-four family residential real estate
352,209
344,380
332,090
312,833
302,544
Construction and land
25,328
23,454
30,480
24,823
21,090
Commercial real estate
345,159
324,016
318,850
323,397
320,962
Commercial
192,325
181,652
178,876
181,945
180,942
Agriculture
100,562
91,986
84,523
86,808
89,680
Municipal
7,091
7,098
6,556
5,690
4,507
Consumer
29,679
29,263
29,200
28,544
28,931
Total gross loans
1,052,353
1,001,849
980,575
964,040
948,656
Net deferred loan (fees) costs and loans in process
(307
)
(63
)
(583
)
(578
)
(429
)
Allowance for credit losses
(12,825
)
(11,544
)
(10,903
)
(10,851
)
(10,608
)
Loans, net
1,039,221
990,242
969,089
952,611
937,619
Loans held for sale, at fair value
3,420
3,250
2,513
2,697
853
Bank owned life insurance
39,056
39,176
38,826
38,578
38,333
Premises and equipment, net
20,220
20,976
20,986
20,696
19,709
Goodwill
32,377
32,377
32,377
32,377
32,377
Other intangible assets, net
2,578
2,729
2,900
3,071
3,241
Mortgage servicing rights
3,061
3,041
2,997
2,977
3,158
Real estate owned, net
167
428
428
428
928
Other assets
26,855
23,309
28,149
29,684
28,988
Total assets
$
1,574,142
$
1,563,651
$
1,560,754
$
1,553,217
$
1,561,672
Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
Liabilities:
Deposits:
Non-interest-bearing demand
351,595
360,188
360,631
364,386
367,103
Money market and checking
636,963
565,629
546,385
583,315
613,613
Savings
145,514
145,825
150,996
154,000
152,381
Certificates of deposit
194,694
203,860
192,470
191,823
183,154
Total deposits
1,328,766
1,275,502
1,250,482
1,293,524
1,316,251
FHLB and other borrowings
53,046
92,050
131,330
74,716
64,662
Subordinated debentures
21,651
21,651
21,651
21,651
21,651
Repurchase agreements
13,808
9,528
8,745
15,895
12,714
Accrued interest and other liabilities
20,656
25,229
20,292
20,760
19,480
Total liabilities
1,437,927
1,423,960
1,432,500
1,426,546
1,434,758
Stockholders’ equity:
Common stock
58
55
55
55
55
Additional paid-in capital
95,051
89,532
89,469
89,364
89,208
Retained earnings
56,934
60,549
57,774
55,912
54,282
Treasury stock, at cost
–
(396
)
(330
)
(249
)
(75
)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
(15,828
)
(10,049
)
(18,714
)
(18,411
)
(16,556
)
Total stockholders’ equity
136,215
139,691
128,254
126,671
126,914
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity
$
1,574,142
$
1,563,651
$
1,560,754
$
1,553,217
$
1,561,672
LANDMARK BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES Consolidated Statements of Earnings (unaudited)
Three months ended,
Year ended,
December 31,
September 30,
December 31,
December 31,
December 31,
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)
2024
2024
2023
2024
2023
Interest income:
Loans
$
15,955
$
15,933
$
14,223
$
61,400
$
51,753
Investment securities:
Taxable
2,210
2,301
2,453
9,298
9,594
Tax-exempt
738
747
761
3,008
3,094
Interest-bearing deposits at banks
49
41
49
193
242
Total interest income
18,952
19,022
17,486
73,899
64,683
Interest expense:
Deposits
5,350
5,830
4,879
22,310
15,254
FHLB and other borrowings
737
1,100
1,203
3,886
4,048
Subordinated debentures
389
416
422
1,635
1,590
Repurchase agreements
77
72
96
344
499
Total interest expense
6,553
7,418
6,600
28,175
21,391
Net interest income
12,399
11,604
10,886
45,724
43,292
Provision for credit losses
1,500
500
50
2,300
349
Net interest income after provision for credit losses
10,899
11,104
10,836
43,424
42,943
Non-interest income:
Fees and service charges
2,710
2,880
2,763
10,742
10,220
Gains on sales of loans, net
522
704
255
2,386
2,269
Bank owned life insurance
976
254
242
1,723
913
Losses on sales of investment securities, net
(1,031
)
–
(1,246
)
(1,031
)
(1,246
)
Other
194
415
240
924
1,074
Total non-interest income
3,371
4,253
2,254
14,744
13,230
Non-interest expense:
Compensation and benefits
6,264
5,803
5,756
23,103
22,681
Occupancy and equipment
1,550
1,429
1,429
5,663
5,565
Data processing
452
464
462
1,889
1,940
Amortization of mortgage servicing rights and other intangibles
240
256
437
1,164
1,844
Professional fees
1,043
573
730
2,912
2,452
Valuation allowance on real estate held for sale
–
–
–
1,108
–
Other
2,325
2,034
1,748
8,240
7,501
Total non-interest expense
11,874
10,559
10,562
44,079
41,983
Earnings before income taxes
2,396
4,798
2,528
14,089
14,190
Income tax expense (benefit)
(886
)
867
(111
)
1,086
1,954
Net earnings
$
3,282
$
3,931
$
2,639
$
13,003
$
12,236
Net earnings per share (1)
Basic
$
0.57
$
0.68
$
0.46
$
2.26
$
2.13
Diluted
0.57
0.68
0.46
2.26
2.13
Dividends per share (1)
0.20
0.20
0.19
0.80
0.76
Shares outstanding at end of period (1)
5,775,198
5,776,282
5,751,475
5,775,198
5,751,475
Weighted average common shares outstanding – basic (1)
5,775,227
5,765,348
5,755,175
5,758,056
5,751,585
Weighted average common shares outstanding – diluted (1)
5,789,764
5,770,514
5,755,175
5,764,282
5,754,840
Tax equivalent net interest income
$
12,574
$
11,777
$
11,017
$
46,428
$
44,040
(1
)
Share and per share values at or for the periods ended September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2024 have been adjusted to give effect to the 5% stock dividend paid during December 2024.
LANDMARK BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES Select Ratios and Other Data (unaudited)
As of or for the three months ended,
As of or for the year ended,
December 31,
September 30,
December 31,
December 31,
December 31,
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)
2024
2024
2023
2024
2023
Performance ratios:
Return on average assets (1)
0.83
%
1.01
%
0.67
%
0.83
%
0.80
%
Return on average equity (1)
9.54
%
11.95
%
9.39
%
10.01
%
10.70
%
Net interest margin (1)(2)
3.51
%
3.30
%
3.11
%
3.28
%
3.17
%
Effective tax rate
-37.0
%
18.1
%
-4.4
%
7.7
%
13.8
%
Efficiency ratio (3)
70.0
%
66.5
%
71.9
%
69.1
%
71.2
%
Non-interest income to total income (3)
25.9
%
25.5
%
24.3
%
25.3
%
25.1
%
Average balances:
Investment securities
$
409,648
$
428,301
$
463,763
$
432,928
$
486,268
Loans
1,010,153
985,659
934,333
974,293
891,487
Assets
1,568,821
1,562,482
1,555,742
1,558,236
1,535,694
Interest-bearing deposits
944,969
936,218
910,610
938,223
892,373
FHLB and other borrowings
57,507
77,958
84,408
70,226
74,210
Subordinated debentures
21,651
21,651
21,651
21,651
21,651
Repurchase agreements
12,212
10,774
13,785
12,216
18,361
Stockholders’ equity
$
136,933
$
132,271
$
111,560
$
129,944
$
114,339
Average tax equivalent yield/cost (1):
Investment securities
3.03
%
2.99
%
2.86
%
3.00
%
2.76
%
Loans
6.28
%
6.43
%
6.04
%
6.30
%
5.81
%
Total interest-bearing assets
5.34
%
5.38
%
4.97
%
5.28
%
4.71
%
Interest-bearing deposits
2.25
%
2.48
%
2.13
%
2.38
%
1.71
%
FHLB and other borrowings
5.10
%
5.61
%
5.65
%
5.53
%
5.45
%
Subordinated debentures
7.15
%
7.64
%
7.73
%
7.55
%
7.34
%
Repurchase agreements
2.51
%
2.66
%
2.79
%
2.82
%
2.72
%
Total interest-bearing liabilities
2.52
%
2.82
%
2.54
%
2.70
%
2.13
%
Capital ratios:
Equity to total assets
8.65
%
8.93
%
8.13
%
Tangible equity to tangible assets (3)
6.58
%
6.84
%
5.98
%
Book value per share
$
23.59
$
24.18
$
22.07
Tangible book value per share (3)
$
17.53
$
18.11
$
15.87
Rollforward of allowance for credit losses (loans):
Beginning balance
$
11,544
$
10,903
$
10,970
$
10,608
$
8,791
Adoption of CECL
–
–
–
–
1,523
Charge-offs
(246
)
(153
)
(442
)
(659
)
(850
)
Recoveries
27
144
80
476
894
Provision for credit losses for loans
1,500
650
–
2,400
250
Ending balance
$
12,825
$
11,544
$
10,608
$
12,825
$
10,608
Allowance for unfunded loan commitments
$
150
$
300
$
200
Non-performing assets:
Non-accrual loans
$
13,115
$
13,415
$
2,391
Accruing loans over 90 days past due
–
–
–
Real estate owned
167
428
928
Total non-performing assets
$
13,282
$
13,843
$
3,319
Loans 30-89 days delinquent
$
6,201
$
7,301
$
1,582
Other ratios:
Loans to deposits
78.21
%
77.64
%
71.23
%
Loans 30-89 days delinquent and still accruing to gross loans outstanding
0.59
%
0.73
%
0.17
%
Total non-performing loans to gross loans outstanding
1.25
%
1.34
%
0.25
%
Total non-performing assets to total assets
0.84
%
0.89
%
0.21
%
Allowance for credit losses to gross loans outstanding
1.22
%
1.15
%
1.12
%
Allowance for credit losses to total non-performing loans
97.79
%
86.05
%
443.66
%
Net loan charge-offs to average loans (1)
0.09
%
0.00
%
0.15
%
0.03
%
-0.01
%
(1
)
Information is annualized.
(2
)
Net interest margin is presented on a fully tax equivalent basis, using a 21% federal tax rate.
(3
)
Non-GAAP financial measures. See the “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” section of this press release for a reconciliation to the most comparable GAAP equivalent.
LANDMARK BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES Non-GAAP Finacials Measures (unaudited)
As of or for the three months ended,
As of or for the year ended,
December 31,
September 30,
December 31,
December 31,
December 31,
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)
2024
2024
2023
2024
2023
Non-GAAP financial ratio reconciliation:
Total non-interest expense
$
11,874
$
10,559
$
10,562
$
44,079
$
41,983
Less: foreclosure and real estate owned expense
(13
)
(23
)
(40
)
(47
)
(61
)
Less: amortization of other intangibles
(151
)
(171
)
(174
)
(663
)
(765
)
Less: valuation allowance on real estate held for sale
–
–
–
(1,108
)
–
Adjusted non-interest expense (A)
11,710
10,365
10,348
42,261
41,157
Net interest income (B)
12,399
11,604
10,886
45,724
43,292
Non-interest income
3,371
4,253
2,254
14,744
13,230
Less: losses on sales of investment securities, net
1,031
–
1,246
1,031
1,246
Less: gains on sales of premises and equipment and foreclosed assets
Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) tonight took to the Senate floor to speak on President Trump and Elon Musk’s unconstitutional actions to dismantle the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and call on Congress to protect the agency, which has played an indispensable role in protecting the interests, security, and reputation of the United States around the globe.
Watch Senator Welch’s speech below:
Read Senator Welch’s remarks as delivered here.
Senator Welch’s Committee and Subcommittee Assignments for the 119th Congress include:
Senate Committee on Finance
Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, & Forestry
Ranking Member, Subcommittee on Rural Development, Energy, and Credit
Senate Committee on the Judiciary
Ranking Member, Subcommittee on the Constitution
Senate Committee on Rules & Administration
Senator Peter Welch has spent the bulk of his life working to improve the lives of folks who too often get left behind. After fighting housing discrimination in Chicago, he enrolled in law school at the UC-Berkeley, and later settled in White River Junction, Vermont, where he worked as a public defender before founding a small law practice. He was first elected to represent Windsor County in the Vermont Senate in 1980. Peter was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives where he served for 16 years before being elected to the Senate in 2022. In the Senate, he’s focused on lowering costs for Vermonters, making Washington work better for Vermont, and protecting civil rights and democracy in America and abroad.
Learn more about his work by visiting his website or by following him on social media.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
A record £2.65 billion will be committed to build or maintain up to 1,000 flood defences, protecting more than 66,000 properties.
Environment Agency: Ipswich Tidal Barrier
Tens of thousands of homes and business will be better protected from flooding as the government unveils a record package to build new flood defences and maintain and repair those already in place.
As part of the Plan for Change, the Government is committing a record two-year investment of £2.65 billion with 52,000 properties set to benefit from new defences by March 2026. To shore up creaking defences in need of repairs, funding will be reprioritised for investment in much-needed maintenance, benefitting a further 14,500 properties. This means a total of 66,500 properties will benefit from this funding.
With the frequency of extreme weather events only continuing to rise, leading to devastating impacts for people, homes, businesses and communities and costing the UK economy billions each year, decisive action to invest in adapting to climate change has never been more important.
As well as protecting families from the devastation of flooding, the investment supports economic growth by protecting businesses, supporting jobs, and supporting a stable economy in the face of the increasing risk of flooding as a result of climate change. It will also protect farmland which has been badly hit by recent storms, in turn helping to safeguard farm businesses and farmers’ profits.
This Government inherited flood assets in their poorest condition on record, as years of underinvestment and damaging storms left 3,000 of the Environment Agency’s 38,000 high-consequence assets at below the required condition.
The announcement comes as the Government’s Floods Resilience Taskforce meets today, with Floods Minister Emma Hardy joined by ministers from across government alongside representatives from the Met Office, Local Resilience Forums, and the National Farmers’ Union. They will look at further steps that can be taken to protect the 6.3 million properties in England at risk from flooding, and discuss lessons to learn from Storms Bert, Conall and Éowyn this winter.
Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Steve Reed said:
The storms this winter have devastated lives and livelihoods.
The role of any Government is to protect its citizens.
Under our Plan for Change, we are investing a record £2.65 billion to build and maintenance flood defences to protect lives, homes and businesses from the dangers of flooding.
Up to 1000 projects are set to receive a share of the funding. Projects receiving funding include:
Bridgwater Tidal Barrier Flood Defence Scheme in Somerset, which will receive £43 million.
The Derby Flood Risk Management Scheme “Our City Our River”, which is set to receive £35 million.
In the West Midlands, the Beales Corner project, which protects communities in Bewdley, will benefit from £2 million.
An additional £3.5 million for the Poole Bridge to Hunger Hill Flood Defences in Dorset
Support for property flood resilience schemes across Leicestershire, Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, receiving £2.5 million.
Essential maintenance will be made to defences across the country including:
Phase 3 of the Stallingborough Sea Defences along the Humber estuary, receiving over £7 million
A further £3.8 million will be spent to improve protection in Pevensey Bay, as part of work to repair local sea defences.
Environment Agency Chair Alan Lovell said:
The impact of flooding on our communities will only become greater as climate change brings more extreme weather, like Storms Bert, Conall and Éowyn.
With this new funding, we will work closely with the Government to deliver the vital projects that are needed across the country, ensuring our investment goes to those communities who need it the most.
Recognising many flood defence projects have stalled, £140 million from the investment programme will be prioritised for 31 projects that are ready for delivery, ensuring nearby communities are protected as soon as possible. The full list of schemes to benefit will be announced in the coming months.
In addition to providing this crucial funding, the Government will be focused on fixing the foundations of the nation’s flood defences and giving communities confidence that they will protect them. This year, £36 million is being spent to undertake urgent repairs to defences damaged in last winter’s extreme flooding events.
For the next year, a further £72 million will go towards maintaining and repairing assets, including those damaged in recent flood events, to ensure they are as resilient as possible and operate as expected.
Today’s Floods Resilience Taskforce will be hosted by Flood Re, a joint initiative between the Government and insurers aimed at making the flood cover part of household insurance policies more affordable.
The expert group’s discussions will focus on the national and local response to this winter’s flooding. It will also discuss further the long-term delivery of the Government’s flood resilience strategy and investment, including the planned review of the government’s funding formula for allocating money to flood and coastal erosion defence schemes.
Wider action to improve the nation’s flood resilience
The government is committed to delivering a refreshed and updated approach to flood defences, fit for the challenges we face.
The existing funding formula for allocating money to defences slows down the delivery of new schemes through a complex application process and neglects more innovative approaches to flood management – which is why a consultation to update the formula will be launched shortly.
In addition, to support rural communities impacted by flooding, more than £57 million has paid out to farmers impacted by severe weather between October 2023 and March 2024. The Farming Recovery fund has supported 12,700 businesses to cover the cost of restoring their farmland.
Elsewhere, the government has allocated £50 million to internal drainage boards (IDBs) as part of a one-off £75 million IDB Fund. This funding will empower IDBs to manage water levels effectively for agriculture and environmental needs, ensuring their crucial role in flood and water management is supported for years to come.
In addition, the Environment Agency has also confirmed that 34 natural flood management projects will move ahead to delivery. These projects, which are located across England, will use nature to increase the nation’s flood resilience. These projects, which are located across England, will use nature to increase the nation’s flood resilience.
Beneficiaries include Leicester City Council, which is working in partnership with Trent Rivers Trust to reduce flood risk across 13 locations in Leicestershire. Their work includes implementing blue green sustainable drainage at several schools, tree planting, and creating new wetlands to improve floodplain connectivity and increase flood water storage.
Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA), alongside a group of 37 senators, wrote to President Trump strongly condemning the President’s recent order to remove Inspectors General (IGs) from at least 18 government agencies and called on the President to immediately reinstate the officials. According to the Inspector General Independence and Empowerment Act, which was signed into law in 2022, the President is required to provide a 30-day notice and substantive reasons for removal in writing to Congress before an Inspector General can be removed. President Trump failed to alert Congress or provide substantive reasoning.
In Virginia, IGs have played key roles in much-needed oversight, including over the quality of the United States Postal Services’ work, and in responding to the horrific animal abuse committed by Envigo Global Services against 4,000 beagles in Cumberland County.
“These officials, which include those appointed by Presidents of both parties, including many during your first Administration, collectively conduct oversight of trillions of dollars of federal spending and the conduct of millions of federal employees,” wrote the senators. “Removing these non-partisan watchdogs without providing a substantive and non-political reason is not lawful, and undermines their independence, jeopardizing their critical mission to identify and root out waste, fraud, and abuse within federal programs.”
The senators continued, “While the President has the authority to remove Inspectors General from office, Congress has established clear requirements to ensure such removals are transparent and are not politicized. The law requires that the President provide a written 30-day notice to both Houses of Congress and include “the substantive rationale, including detailed and case-specific reasons for any such removal or transfer.” With respect to your firings Friday night, Congress has not received either the mandatory 30-day notice or a rationale for their removal. Because your actions violated the law, these Inspectors General should be reinstated immediately…”
IGs are responsible for providing independent oversight of federal programs and play a key role in improving government efficiency and effectiveness. IGs were removed from at least 18 departments and agencies, including Departments of Defense, State, Education, Transportation, Veterans Affairs, Housing and Urban Development, Interior, Energy, Commerce, Agriculture, Labor, Health and Human Services, and Treasury, and the Environmental Protection Agency, the Office of Personnel Management, the Small Business Administration, the Social Security Administration, and the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction.
In addition to Warner and Kaine, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Ed Markey (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Jack Reed (D-RI), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Rev. Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Patty Murray (D-WA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), and John Fetterman (D-PA).
The full text of the letter is available here and below.
Dear Mr. President,
Your decision Friday evening to remove Inspectors General (IGs) from at least 18 offices across government—including those overseeing the Departments of Defense, State, Education, Transportation, Veterans Affairs, Housing and Urban Development, Interior, Energy, Commerce, Agriculture, Labor, Health and Human Services, and Treasury, and the Environmental Protection Agency, the Office of Personnel Management, the Small Business Administration, and the Social Security Administration, as well as the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction—does not comply with current law and could do lasting harm to IG independence. These officials, which include those appointed by Presidents of both parties, including many during your first Administration, collectively conduct oversight of trillions of dollars of federal spending and the conduct of millions of federal employees. Removing these non-partisan watchdogs without providing a substantive and non-political reason is not lawful, and undermines their independence, jeopardizing their critical mission to identify and root out waste, fraud, and abuse within federal programs.
Inspectors General are responsible for providing independent oversight of federal programs by working to root out waste, fraud, and abuse and protect taxpayer dollars – oversight our federal agencies desperately need. They play a key role in improving government efficiency and effectiveness and have helped identify and recover billions of taxpayer dollars. IG independence is the foundation of this work, and IGs must be free of political influence so that they can carry out their important mission with integrity and credibility. The federal government and the American people count on these officials to operate in a professional and non-partisan way to hold our government accountable—regardless of who is in power. Without strong, qualified, and independent officials to lead these critical efforts, the Administration risks wasting taxpayer dollars, and allowing fraud and misconduct to go unchecked. For example, just this week the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) issued an unlawful memo directing agencies to pause nearly all federal grants and loans, which significantly disrupts the administration of over a trillion dollars of critical assistance to communities, businesses, and organizations across the country. It is especially vital to have independent watchdogs at each of these agencies to conduct oversight of the impacts of this unconstitutional and unprecedented directive.
While the President has the authority to remove Inspectors General from office, Congress has established clear requirements to ensure such removals are transparent and are not politicized. The law requires that the President provide a written 30-day notice to both Houses of Congress and include “the substantive rationale, including detailed and case-specific reasons for any such removal or transfer.” With respect to your firings Friday night, Congress has not received either the mandatory 30-day notice or a rationale for their removal. Because your actions violated the law, these Inspectors General should be reinstated immediately, until such time as you have provided in writing “the substantive rationale, including detailed and case-specific reasons” for each of the affected Inspectors General and the 30-day notice period has expired.
Lastly, if you believe it is necessary to place any of the affected IGs on administrative leave before the 30-day notice period has ended, the law requires that you submit a separate notification to Congress explaining how the IG presents a threat as defined in the Administrative Leave Act.
Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins
Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Peter Welch (D-VT) introduced the Making Agricultural Products Locally Essential (MAPLE) Act and the Supporting All Producers (SAP) Act, two bipartisan, bicameral bills to support the Maine maple industry. Senator Angus King is a cosponsor of both bills.
“Maine is the third largest producer of pure maple syrup in the country, producing more than 575,000 gallons in a normal season, and bringing in more than $55 million to our state each year while supporting hundreds of local jobs,” said Senator Collins. “These bills support both local producers and consumers and make this market more accessible for all Mainers.”
The MAPLE Act would provide a new market for maple syrup producers while increasing seniors’ access to nutritious, locally sourced maple syrup products by adding maple syrup to the eligible products under the Seniors Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP). SFMNP gives low-income seniors access to locally grown fruits, vegetables, honey, and herbs at farmers’ markets, roadside stands, and community-supported agriculture programs. In addition to Senator King, the bill is cosponsored in the Senate by Senators Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), and led in the House by Representatives Nick Langworthy (R-NY-23) and Joe Courtney (D-CT-02).
The SAP Act would require the U.S. Department of Agriculture to consult with maple producers when determining education and research priorities for the Acer Access and Development Program (Acer), a competitive grant program supporting research and education related to maple syrup production and sustainability in the industry. The House version of the bill is led by Representatives Langworthy and Becca Balint (VT-At-Large).
Concerning the first and second questions, the Commission cannot take position without further details. Both questions seem largely related to the interpretation of the national law, which the Commission cannot comment on.
Nevertheless, Article 345 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union expresses the principle of neutrality in relation to the rules in Member States governing the system of property ownership.
This implies that public bodies, such as municipalities or regions, may also carry out economic activities and then constitute undertakings, as defined in the jurisprudence of the EU Courts.
However, the classification of such an entity as an undertaking is always relative to a specific activity. An entity that carries out both economic and non-economic activities is to be regarded as an undertaking only with regard to the former.
It follows that EU competition law, including EU State aid law, does not require to qualify a municipality or region that carries out different activities, some of them economic and some non-economic, as an undertaking with regard to all its activities, but only with regard to those that are economic in nature.
As such, these rules do not require to qualify the entirety of a municipality or region that, amongst many activities, also carries out the economic activity of primary agricultural production as a farmer, but rather only those activities that constitute such primary agricultural production.
Moreover, the Commission is committed to bring down electricity prices for households and businesses to support the energy transition and the Union’s competitiveness.
Therefore, the Commission is working on the Clean Industrial Deal and an Action Plan for Affordable Energy to be published in the first hundred days of this Commission, in line with the mission letters by the President of the Commission to the Executive Vice-President for a Clean, Just and Competitive Transition[1] and to the Commissioner for Energy and Housing[2].
5 February 2025 – Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the face – Boxer Mike Tyson famously said, “Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the face”. He was simply pointing out in his own unique direct way, that sometimes things don’t go the way you think. There can be unintended consequences. Your opponent can counter punch, so a “plan b” can be useful!
The new USA government has a plan to use tariffs as a way of incentivising other countries to do things that are helpful to the USA. Things like curtail immigrants or drugs travelling over the border, or to shift their manufacturing jobs to America. The President has described the word “tariffs” as “the most beautiful word in the dictionary” so its clear he likes the idea of using tariffs. It does have some logic. Maybe this plan will work?
So, using emergency powers that enable quick action, rather than long winded trade negotiation processes, this plan is being implemented this week. First up, 10% tariff on goods from China, and energy products from Canada. Tariffs will be set at 25% for most other goods from Canada and Mexico. If these countries change their drug, migration and manufacturing policies, the USA will look to review the tariff levels. That’s the new deal.
New Zealand had its own tariffs for many years as was fashionable. But now we seek fair trade, with no tariffs or quotas, or other non-tariff trade barriers in our trading relationships. It matters to us as a small trading country at the bottom of the world. Multilateral co-operation and enforcement frameworks such as the World Trade Organisation are vital.
America, like many countries, has a long history of using tariffs. An excellent example of how things can end up like a punch in the face, as Mike Tyson would put it, is the passing of what was known as the “Smoot Hawley” Tariff Act on June 17, 1930. This raised tariffs on over 20,000 imported goods, despite a petition signed by 1,028 economists asking President Hoover to veto the legislation. He didn’t. The theory was it would save jobs in America and protect local producers from international competition following the “Black Thursday” share market crash on October 24, 1929.
But it didn’t make things better, it made things worse.
Americas trading partners punched back. They didn’t do nothing. They retaliated, just as Canada and Mexico now have. The world economy and geopolitics has evolved significantly since the great depression and what happened then may not happen now. However, history can perhaps provide some small insight as to how this might play out.
Wikipedia tells us that after the Smoot- Hawley passed – yes – USA imports did decrease by 66% from $4.4 billion in 1929, to $1.5 billion in 1933. So that must be good for domestic jobs and industries? Well no, because other countries punched back with their own tariffs, as well as sourcing their own imports from other countries rather than America.
As a result, USA exports also decreased 61% from $5.4 billion to $2.1 billion. GNP fell from $103.1 billion in 1929 to $75.8 billion in 1931, bottoming out at $55.6 billion in 1933, a drop of around 50% over four years.
So rather than create jobs, jobs were lost, and plenty of them. Unemployment was at 8% in 1930 when the Smoot–Hawley Tariff Act was passed, but the new law failed to lower it. The unemployment rate jumped to 16% in 1931, and 25% in 1932–33. The factories that produced those export goods couldn’t sell their products, so staff lost their jobs.
Unemployment didn’t fall below early 1930s levels until the massive economic stimulus of World War 2.
As with any economy, there is always more than just one thing happening, but at that time, that is what happened in the USA. So how does this current fast changing situation effect New Zealand?
Unlike 100 years ago, we get impacted very quickly by the transmission of changes in our exchange rate, interest rates, commodity prices, share markets and trade flows. This then flows through our economy.
For example, if inflation goes up in America because of the new tariffs, international interest rates may go up, thus reducing the speed of any reductions on our mortgage rates. Dairy commodity prices might rise, but so too might international oil prices, pushing up our fuel prices and inflation. Our dollar may fall, making it cheaper for tourists to visit, but the cost of servicing our increasing national debt more expensive. Chinese built EVs may be more available and cheaper here as cars are diverted from the USA market.
There will be all sorts of positive and negative impacts, unintended consequences and unforeseen outcomes. It could be overall positive or overall negative for both America and New Zealand, but we just don’t know. We do know though that it creates more uncertainty, and that’s not helpful to anyone.
So will it be a punch in the face, as Mike Tyson suggests, or a pat on the back? Either way, we need to be fleet of foot and have a “Plan B”.
Conor English is a Director of Silvereye – a Wellington based Government relations firm, a former exporter, CEO of Federated Farmers, and Independent Advisor to the Reserve Bank of New Zealand.
Source: United States Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama)
WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined U.S. Senator John Hoeven (R-ND) in introducing a resolution under the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to repeal a rule proposed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) included in Democrats’ Inflation Reduction Act that creates a new tax on natural gas production. The tax would increase our dependence on foreign nations for energy and cause higher energy costs for consumers. Last month, Senator Tuberville also joined U.S. Senator Ted Cruz in reintroducing legislation to repeal the Natural Gas Tax.
“For the last four years, Americans have felt the impacts of Bidenflation from the gas pump to the grocery store,” said Senator Tuberville. “Democrats have shut down our offshore drilling and made us reliant on foreign adversaries for our energy without considering the impact that it has on Americans’ daily lives. The last thing hardworking Americans need right now are more taxes and higher prices. I look forward to seeing this disastrous methane tax overturned and working with President Trump to make America energy independent once again.
Full text of the resolution can be read here.
Also joining Senators Tuberville and Hoeven in introducing the resolution are U.S. Senators Roger Marshall (R-KS), Mike Lee (R-UT), James Lankford (R-OK), Steve Daines (R-MT), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Katie Britt (R-AL), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), James Risch (R-ID), Rick Scott (R-FL), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Rand Paul (R-KY), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Jim Justice (R-WV), John Kennedy (R-LA), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and John Barrasso (R-WY).
BACKGROUND:
For the last four years, Senator Tuberville has helped introduce numerous pieces of legislation pushing back against the Biden administration’s war on American energy, citing the impacts rising energy costs would have on hardworking Americans and Alabamians that work in the Gulf of America’s energy industry. Senator Tuberville has also been vocal about how increased energy costs cut into farmers’ bottom lines and the need to bring down energy costs so that we can preserve our small family farms.
MORE:
Tuberville, Cruz Introduce Legislation Eliminating Natural Gas Tax, Bolstering American Energy Security
Tuberville, Cruz Introduce Legislation to Repeal Biden’s Natural Gas Tax for Unleashing American Energy
ICYMI: Tuberville in Fox News: How Congress Can Reverse Biden’s Radical Energy Agenda
Tuberville Blasts Biden Administration For Playing Politics With U.S. Energy
Tuberville Continues to Fight Biden Administration’s Rule Threatening Gulf’s Energy Sector
Tuberville Sponsors Legislation to Prevent Administration From Shutting Down Offshore Energy Development
ICYMI: Tuberville and NOIA President Sound Alarm on Biden Rule Proposal Threatening Gulf’s Energy Sector
Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP, and Aging Committees.
Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich
Heinrich named Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on the Legislative Branch
WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) announced his assignments on the Senate Appropriations Committee for the 119th Congress. Heinrich’s positions on the Appropriations Committee allow him to directly advocate for and deliver investments that improve New Mexicans’ safety, well-being, and quality of life.
“As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I have delivered hundreds of millions of dollars in investments to New Mexico, helping to lower costs for working families, grow local economies, and create jobs New Mexicans can build their families around. Our appropriations bills are essential to New Mexico’s economy. They support our local law enforcement, fire departments, hospitals, schools, newborns, elders and veterans, and help keep communities safe across New Mexico.
“I will stand up to anybody who tries to prevent investments I’ve secured from reaching New Mexicans. The Constitution is clear: the president cannot override, delay, or rescind Congress’s funding laws. Donald Trump’s attacks on federal funding for our state cannot stand.”
Heinrich has been assigned to the following Senate Appropriations Subcommittees:
Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Subcommittee
Energy and Water Development Subcommittee
Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Subcommittee
Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Subcommittee
Legislative Branch Subcommittee
Heinrich will be Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on the Legislative Branch, which oversees the funding of:
Joint Committee on Taxation
Joint Economic Committee
Congressional Budget Office
Government Accountability Office
Architect of the Capitol
Books for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (Library of Congress)
Botanic Garden (Architect of the Capitol)
Capitol Police
Congressional Research Service (Library of Congress)
Copyright Office (Library of Congress)
Government Publishing Office
House of Representatives
John C. Stennis Center for Public Service, Training, and Development
Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies
Library of Congress
Office of Compliance
Office of Congressional Accessibility Services
Office of the Attending Physician
Open World Leadership Center Trust Fund
Senate
This will be Heinrich’s third Congress serving on the U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations.
Heinrich’s Committee assignments for the 119th Congress:
In the 119th Congress, Heinrich is serving as Ranking Member for the Senate Energy and Natural Resources (ENR) Committee. The ENR Committee plays a critical role in setting national energy policies and managing our nation’s public lands within the U.S. Department of the Interior and the U.S. Forest Service. The Committee also oversees the U.S. Department of Energy and has jurisdiction over U.S. territories and nuclear waste policy.
Heinrich will continue to serve on the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, the U.S. Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, and the U.S. Congress Joint Economic Committee.
Heinrich will also serve as Co-Chair of the Senate Artificial Intelligence (AI) Caucus, the Senate Fusion Energy Caucus, the Bicameral Electrification Caucus, the International Conservation Caucus, and the Senate Outdoor Recreation Caucus. Heinrich will serve as a member of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus, Senate Democratic Hispanic Task Force, National Service Congressional Caucus, Congressional Dietary Supplement Caucus, and the Congressional Directed Energy Caucus.
Both Mexico and Canada managed to buy some time. After urgent phone calls with Trump on Feb. 3, their leaders each secured a one-month reprieve. But Mexico’s Claudia Sheinbaum and Canada’s Justin Trudeau also made it clear to their U.S. counterpart: If these tariffs go through, they’ll hit back with their own trade restrictions. The world is watching the opening moves of what could become another costly trade war.
As a professor of economics, I can explain why this poses significant risks to the U.S. economy and American consumers. Economic theory suggests that tariffs distort market efficiency, raising production costs while limiting consumer choice and increasing prices.
Who really pays for tariffs?
While politicians often frame tariffs as a way to punish other countries, they actually hit domestic consumers and businesses hardest. Whether they’re facing higher grocery bills or disruptions in manufacturing, Americans will feel the strain.
Worse yet, such measures commonly set off a cycle of retaliation. During past trade disputes involving the U.S., affected nations have responded with counter-tariffs on American products, including textiles, steel and agricultural goods. Such retaliatory efforts have led to sharp declines in U.S. exports.
History also shows that trade wars are self-defeating. The Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act of 1930, which imposed tariffs on over 20,000 imported goods, prompted swift retaliation from trading partners and contributed to deepening the Great Depression.
Modern trade wars have other consequences
Modern trade wars hit closer to home than most Americans realize. The recent tariff threat against Colombia reveals why. In 2023, Colombian farmers supplied US$1.14 billion worth of fresh-cut flowers to U.S. florists. In a near-crisis that lasted a weekend, Trump threatened to slap steep tariffs on the South American nation, right when flower shops across America were stocking up for one of their busiest seasons: Valentine’s Day.
The same tariffs would have hit Colombian coffee too, affecting everything from neighborhood cafes to grocery store prices. This shows how modern trade disputes can instantly disrupt the everyday purchases Americans make.
Other key trading partners, including the European Union, have also come into the crosshairs. On Jan. 30, 2025, the president issued a stark warning to Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa – the so-called BRICS nations – threatening 100% tariffs if they continued efforts to reduce reliance on the U.S. dollar as their reserve currency.
These threats can do more than alienate strategic partners; they risk accelerating dedollarization – pushing nations to develop alternative financial systems that weaken U.S. influence in global trade.
A more effective approach
Beyond causing immediate economic pain, constant tariff threats risk damaging America’s credibility as a reliable trading partner. The U.S. helped establish the rules-based international trading system, but regular tariff threats erode global trust and push trading partners to seek alternatives to the U.S. market.
I believe the path to maintaining America’s economic leadership lies in embracing a smarter, more strategic trade policy – one that builds alliances instead of breaking them. A strategy that prioritizes negotiation, fosters innovation and enhances competitiveness – and that doesn’t rely on protectionist tactics more often used by developing nations – would strengthen cooperation and stability, ensuring long-term economic prosperity.
Bedassa Tadesse does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s reply to the Motion of Thanks on the President’s Address in Lok Sabha The President’s address clearly strengthens the resolve to build a Viksit Bharat: PM
We have not given false slogans to the poor, but true development, A Government that has worked for all sections of society: PM
We believe in ensuring resources are spent towards public welfare: PM
Our Government is proud of the middle class and will always support it: PM
Proud of India’s Yuva Shakti; Since 2014, we have focused on the youth of the country and emphasized on their aspirations, today our youth are succeeding in every field: PM
We are leveraging the power of AI to build an Aspirational India: PM
An unwavering commitment to strengthening the values enshrined in our Constitution: PM
Public service is all about nation building: PM
Our commitment to the Constitution motivates us to take strong and pro-people decisions: PM
Our Government has worked to create maximum opportunities for people from SC, ST and OBC Communities: PM
Our Government has shown how to strengthen unity as well as care for the poor and downtrodden: PM
Emphasis on saturation is generating outstanding results:PM
In the last decade, unprecedented support has been given to the MSME sector: PM
Posted On: 04 FEB 2025 9:13PM by PIB Delhi
The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi replied to the Motion of Thanks on the President’s Address to Parliament in the Lok Sabha today. Addressing the House, the Prime Minister appreciated the contributions of all honorable MPs who participated in the discussions yesterday and today, noting that the tradition of democracy includes both praise where necessary and some negative remarks where needed, which is natural. Highlighting the great privilege of being given the opportunity by the people to express gratitude for the President’s address for the 14th time, he extended his respectful thanks to the citizens and acknowledged all participants in the discussion for enriching the proposal with their thoughts.
Remarking that as of 2025, a quarter of the 21st century has passed, Shri Modi noted that time will judge the achievements of the post-independence 20th century and the first 25 years of the 21st century. He emphasized that a detailed study of the President’s address reveals that it instills new confidence in the future 25 years and the vision of a developed India. The Prime Minister highlighted that the President’s address strengthens the resolve for a Viksit Bharat, creates new confidence, and inspires the general public.
The Prime Minister highlighted that in the last 10 years, 25 crore people had moved out of poverty, as revealed by many studies. He remarked that this effort was possible due to effective implementation of the schemes with devotion and utmost sensitivity by the Government towards the poor and the needy. He added that when people who are grounded and who know the ground reality, work for the people at the ground level, then change is inevitable and certain on the ground. “Our Government has not given false slogans to the poor, but true development”, said Shri Modi. He added that his was a Government that has worked for all sections of society by understanding the pain of the poor and aspirations of the middle-class with utmost passion, which was lacking in some people.
Noting that it was truly a despair to live in kachcha houses and huts during the monsoons, the Prime Minister said four crore houses were distributed to the poor till now by the Government. Highlighting the difficulties faced by women to defecate in the open, he added that the Government had built more than 12 crore toilets to alleviate the difficulties of women. Emphasising that the Government was focused on ensuring water in the taps of every house through the Har Ghar Jal scheme, the Prime Minister said that even after 75 years of Independence, around 75% or more than 16 crore houses lacked tap-water connections. He added that the Government had ensured 12 crore families tap water connection in the last 5 years and the work was progressing rapidly. Underlining the details of the work done for the poor in the President’s address, Shri Modi said while identifying a problem was not sufficient but was necessary to work with utmost devotion to ensure that a solution was found. He added that his Government, as seen in their work over the last 10 years as well as the President’s address, worked with devotion to ensure solution to the problems.
Highlighting the previous situation when out of every rupee spent, only 15 paise reaches the intended destination, the Prime Minister underscored that the Government’s model of “Bachat bhi, Vikas bhi”, meaning progress with savings, to ensure that the people’s money is used for the welfare of the people. He added that with the JanDhan-Aadhar-Mobile (JAM) Trinity, the Government started Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) and deposited around ₹40 lakh Crore in the bank accounts of the people. Underlining that around 10 crore Ghost beneficiaries were benefiting from the welfare schemes of the Government, the Prime Minister said that during the last 10 years, ghost beneficiaries were eliminated to ensure social justice and the actual beneficiaries were added through various schemes. He added that this had saved around ₹3 lakh crore from reaching the wrong hands. Shri Modi highlighted that the Government had extensively utilized technology in public procurement, bringing in transparency through the GeM (Government e-Marketplace) portal, which is now also being used by state Governments. The procurement made through the GeM portal has been more cost-effective compared to traditional procurement methods, resulting in a savings of ₹1,15,000 crore for the Government.
Shri Modi highlighted that the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan was initially ridiculed, with many treating it as a mistake or a sin. Despite the criticism, he proudly stated that due to these cleanliness efforts, in recent years, the Government has earned ₹2,300 crore by selling scrap from Government offices. The Prime Minister invoked Mahatma Gandhi’s principle of trusteeship, emphasizing that they are trustees of the public’s property and are committed to saving every paisa and using it properly.
Highlighting that the Government made a significant decision on ethanol blending, the Prime Minister acknowledged that India is not energy independent and relies on external sources. He said that the introduction of ethanol blending reduced the expenditure on petrol and diesel, resulting in savings of ₹1 Lakh crore. The Prime Minister emphasized that this amount has directly benefited the farmers, putting nearly ₹1 lakh crore into their pockets.
The Prime Minister remarked that while he talks about savings, newspapers used to be filled with headlines about scams worth lakhs and crores. He noted that it has been ten years since such scams have occurred, highlighting that the absence of these scams has saved the country lakhs of crores of rupees. These savings have been directed towards serving the public.
Emphasising that the various steps taken have resulted in savings of lakhs of crores of rupees, Shri Modi clarified that these funds were not used to build grand palaces but were instead invested in nation-building. He noted that the infrastructure budget was ₹1.8 lakh crore ten years ago before their tenure while today, the infrastructure budget stands at ₹11 lakh crore which the President in her address described how India’s foundation is being strengthened. The Prime Minister highlighted that strong foundations have been laid for development in areas like roads, highways, railways, and rural roads.
“Savings in the Government treasury are essential, as emphasized through the principle of trusteeship. However, it is equally important that common citizens also benefit from such savings”, said the Prime Minister. He highlighted that schemes should be designed to ensure public savings. Citing the Ayushman Bharat scheme, he mentioned that the expenses borne by citizens due to illnesses have significantly reduced. He stated that the Ayushman Bharat scheme has saved approximately ₹1.2 lakh crore for the people. Underscoring the importance of Jan Aushadhi Kendras, Shri Modi noted that for families with elderly members aged 60-70, medical expenses can be substantial and the Jan Aushadhi Kendras, providing an 80% discount on medicines, have helped families save around ₹30,000 crore on medical expenses.
Shri Modi highlighted UNICEF’s estimation that families with proper sanitation and toilets save approximately ₹70,000 annually. He emphasized the significant benefits that initiatives like the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, toilet construction, and access to clean water have brought to ordinary families.
Emphasizing that the “Nal se Jal” initiative has been praised by the WHO, the Prime Minister remarked that according to the WHO report, access to clean water through the initiative has saved families an average of ₹40,000 annually on medical expenses related to other diseases. He highlighted that there are many such schemes that have helped common citizens save on their expenses.
Highlighting that the distribution of free grain to millions of citizens has resulted in significant savings for families, Shri Modi said the PM Suryagarh free electricity scheme has saved families an average of ₹25,000 to ₹30,000 annually on electricity expenses. Additionally, any excess electricity generated can be sold for income. The Prime Minister emphasized the significant savings for common citizens through various initiatives. He mentioned the LED bulb campaign, noting that before their tenure, LED bulbs were sold for ₹400 each. Due to the campaign, the price dropped to ₹40, resulting in electricity savings and increased illumination. He added that this campaign has saved citizens approximately ₹20,000 crore. The Prime Minister highlighted that farmers who have scientifically utilized the Soil Health Card have benefited significantly, with savings of ₹30,000 per acre.
Touching upon the Income tax, the Prime Minister highlighted that over the past ten years, the Government has reduced income tax rates, thereby increasing savings for the middle class. He highlighted that in 2013-14, only ₹2 lakh was exempted from income tax while today, ₹12 lakh is completely exempt from income tax. The Prime Minister noted that throughout 2014, 2017, 2019, and 2023, the Government has continuously worked on providing relief and with the addition of a standard deduction of ₹75,000, salaried individuals will not have to pay any income tax on earnings up to ₹12.75 lakh from April 1st onwards.
Criticizing the previous dispensations for being disconnected from the ground realities and engaging in lofty talks, the Prime Minister further pointed out that the leaders who spoke about the 21st century were not even able to fulfill the needs of the 20th century. He expressed his pain at realizing that the country is 40-50 years late in accomplishing tasks that should have been completed decades ago. Shri Modi added that since 2014, when the public gave the opportunity to serve, the Government has focused extensively on the youth, emphasizing their aspirations and creating numerous opportunities for them. As a result, the youth are now proudly showcasing their talents and achievements. The Prime Minister highlighted the opening of the space sector, defense sector, and the launch of the Semiconductor Mission. To promote innovation, several new schemes have been introduced, and the Startup India ecosystem has been fully developed. Additionally, he highlighted that a significant decision in the current budget is the income tax exemption on incomes up to ₹12 lakh, which has garnered much attention. Furthermore, the Prime Minister announced the opening of the nuclear energy sector, which will have long-term positive impacts and outcomes for the nation.
Emphasizing the importance of AI, 3D printing, robotics, and virtual reality, and underscoring the efforts in the gaming sector, Shri Modi encouraged the nation’s youth to make India the capital of creative gaming worldwide, noting the rapid progress in this area. The Prime Minister remarked that for him, AI stands for not just Artificial Intelligence but also Aspirational India. He highlighted the initiation of 10,000 Atal Tinkering Labs in schools, where students are astonishing others with their robotics creations. The current budget includes provisions for 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs. The Prime Minister also noted that India’s AI Mission has generated global optimism, and India’s presence on the world AI platform has become significant.
Underlining that this year’s budget includes investment in the domain of Deep Tech, the Prime Minister emphasized that to progress rapidly in the 21st century, which is entirely technology-driven, it is essential for India to advance quickly in the field of deep tech. He remarked that the Government is continuously working with the future of the youth in mind. However, he criticized certain political parties for deceiving the youth with promises of allowances during elections which they fail to fulfill. He stated that these parties have become a disaster for the future of the youth.
Remarking on the recent developments in Haryana, noting that the promise of providing jobs without any cost or intermediaries was fulfilled immediately upon forming the Government, the Prime Minister highlighted this as a testament to their commitment. He celebrated Haryana’s historic third consecutive victory, marking it as a significant achievement in the state’s history. Similarly, the Prime Minister acknowledged the historic results in Maharashtra, noting the unprecedented number of seats held by the ruling party, attributing this success to the blessings of the people.
The Prime Minister referenced the President’s address, which extensively discussed the completion of 75 years of the Constitution. He emphasized that in addition to the articles of the Constitution, its spirit must be lived and we stand by it. Shri Modi remarked that it is a tradition for the President to outline the Government’s activities of the past year in their address, similar to how Governors present the activities of their respective states in their speeches. He emphasized that the true spirit of the Constitution and democracy was demonstrated when Gujarat celebrated its 50th anniversary, and he was serving as the Chief Minister. He added that during the Golden Jubilee year, he made a significant decision to compile all the speeches given by Governors in the assembly over the past 50 years into a book, which is now available in all libraries. He noted that his administration took pride in publishing these speeches. He underscored their commitment to living by, dedicating themselves to, and understanding the spirit of the Constitution.
The Prime Minister remarked that in 2014, when they came to power, there was no recognized opposition party, as none had secured the required number of seats. Many laws allowed the Government to operate independently, and several committees stipulated the inclusion of the Leader of the Opposition, but there was none. The Prime Minister highlighted that, in adherence to the spirit of the Constitution and the values of democracy, they decided to invite the leader of the largest party in the meetings, despite the absence of a recognized opposition. This demonstrated their commitment to the essence of democracy. Shri Modi remarked that in the past, Prime Ministers would handle files independently. However, his administration has included the Leader of the Opposition in these processes and even enacted laws to ensure their participation. The Prime Minister noted that when the Election Commission is formed, the Leader of the Opposition will be part of the decision-making process, demonstrating their commitment to living by the Constitution.
Highlighting that in Delhi, several places have private museums created by families, Shri Modi noted that when it comes to utilizing public funds, it is important to live by the spirit of democracy and the Constitution. He mentioned the creation of the PM Museum, which showcases the lives and work of all Prime Ministers, from the first to his predecessors. The Prime Minister expressed his desire for the families of the great leaders featured in the PM Museum to visit and suggest additions to enrich the museum further, inspiring the younger generation. He emphasized that living for oneself is common, but living for the Constitution is a higher calling that they are committed to.
“When power is used for service, it leads to nation-building, but when power becomes a legacy, it destroys people”, said the Prime Minister. He emphasized that they adhere to the spirit of the Constitution and do not engage in divisive politics. He highlighted the importance of national unity and recalled the creation of the world’s tallest statue, the Statue of Unity, dedicated to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel as their commitment to living by the Constitution drives their actions.
Expressing his concern that it is unfortunate that some people are openly using the language of urban Naxals, Shri Modi highlighted that those who speak this language and challenge the Indian State can neither understand the Constitution nor the unity of the country.
Highlighting that for seven decades, Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh were deprived of constitutional rights, the Prime Minister noted that this was an injustice to both the Constitution and the people of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. By revoking Article 370, the Prime Minister highlighted that the people of these regions now receive the same rights as other citizens of the country. He emphasized that they understand and live by the spirit of the Constitution, which is why they make such strong decisions.
Stressing that the Constitution does not allow for discrimination, Shri Modi criticized those who live with a biased mindset, pointing out the difficulties imposed on Muslim women. By abolishing triple talaq, the Prime Minister stated that they have given Muslim daughters their rightful equality as per the Constitution.
Emphasizing that whenever their Government has been in power, they have worked with a long-term vision, the Prime Minister expressed concern over the divisive language used by some, driven by despair and hopelessness. He noted that their focus has always been on those who are left behind, as envisioned by Mahatma Gandhi. Shri Modi highlighted the creation of separate ministries, such as for the Northeast and for tribal affairs under Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s leadership, demonstrating their commitment to inclusive development.
Highlighting that India’s southern and eastern coastal states have significant fishing communities, Shri Modi emphasized the importance of considering the well-being of these communities, including those in small inland water areas. The Prime Minister highlighted that it is their Government that created a separate ministry for fisheries to address the needs of fishermen and support their livelihoods.
Pointing out the potential within the marginalized sections of society, the Prime Minister remarked that by focusing on skill development, new opportunities can be created, leading to a new life for their aspirations. This led to the creation of a separate Ministry for Skill Development. He also highlighted that the primary duty of democracy is to provide opportunities to even the most ordinary citizens. To enhance and strengthen India’s cooperative sector, which connects crores of people, the Government has created a separate Ministry for Cooperatives. The Prime Minister noted that this demonstrates their vision.
The Prime Minister remarked that discussing caste has become fashionable for some people and for the past 30-35 years, OBC MPs from various parties have been demanding constitutional status for the OBC Commission. He added that it was their Government that granted constitutional status to the OBC Commission. He highlighted that the Backward Classes Commission is now part of the constitutional framework.
The Prime Minister remarked that they have worked steadfastly to provide maximum opportunities for SC, ST, and OBC communities in every sector. He posed important questions to the nation, asking if there has ever been a time when three MPs from the same SC family served in Parliament simultaneously, or three MPs from the same ST family at the same time. He highlighted the stark difference between the words and actions of some individuals, indicating a vast gap between their promises and reality.
The Prime Minister highlighted there is a need for the empowerment of SC and ST communities while noting the importance of maintaining unity without creating social tensions. He provided an example by noting that before 2014, there were 387 medical colleges in the country. Today, the number has increased to 780, resulting in a rise in available seats. He pointed out that before 2014, there were 7,700 MBBS seats for SC students. After ten years of work, the number has increased to 17,000, thereby significantly improving opportunities for the Dalit community to become doctors, without creating social tensions and while respecting each other’s dignity. Shri Modi highlighted that before 2014, there were 3,800 MBBS seats for ST students. Today, this number has increased to approximately 9,000. He also noted that before 2014, there were fewer than 14,000 MBBS seats for OBC students. Today, this number has risen to approximately 32,000, enabling 32,000 OBC students to become doctors. The Prime Minister highlighted that over the past ten years, a new university has been established every week, a new ITI has been opened every day, and a new college has been inaugurated every two days. He emphasized the significant increase in opportunities for SC, ST, and OBC youth.
“We are committed to ensuring 100% saturation of all schemes so that no beneficiary is left out”, exclaimed Shri Modi. He highlighted that everyone who is entitled to benefits should receive them, rejecting the outdated model where only a few are favored. The Prime Minister criticized the politics of appeasement and stated that to build a developed India, the country must move away from appeasement to a path of satisfaction. He stressed that every section of society should receive their due without any discrimination. According to him, achieving 100% saturation means true social justice, secularism, and respect for the Constitution.
Stressing that the spirit of the Constitution is to ensure better health for all, Shri Modi noted that today is Cancer Day, and health is being discussed extensively across the country and the world. He remarked that some individuals, driven by political selfishness, are obstructing the provision of healthcare services to the poor and elderly. The Prime Minister noted that 30,000 hospitals, including specialized private hospitals, are connected to the Ayushman Bharat scheme, offering free treatment to Ayushman cardholders. However, certain political parties, due to their narrow mindset and flawed policies, have closed the doors of these hospitals to the poor, affecting cancer patients. Citing a recent study by the public health journal Lancet, which stated that timely cancer treatment has begun under the Ayushman scheme, Shri Modi emphasized the Government’s seriousness in cancer screening and treatment, highlighting that early diagnosis and treatment can save cancer patients. The Lancet credited the Ayushman scheme, noting significant progress in this direction in India.
Highlighting the significant step taken in this budget to make cancer medicines more affordable, Shri Modi mentioned it was an important decision that will benefit cancer patients, especially on Cancer Day. He urged all honorable MPs to utilize this benefit for patients in their constituencies. He noted the challenges faced by patients due to the limited number of hospitals and announced the decision to establish 200 daycare centers. These centers will provide substantial relief to both patients and their families.
Touching upon the discussions on foreign policy addressed during the President’s speech, the Prime Minister noted that some individuals feel the need to speak on foreign policy to appear mature, even if it harms the country. He suggested that those truly interested in foreign policy should read the book “JFK’s Forgotten Crisis” by a renowned foreign policy scholar. The book details important events and discussions between India’s first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, and then US President John F. Kennedy during challenging times.
The Prime Minister expressed his disappointment at the disrespect shown towards the President, a woman from a poor family, following her address. He emphasized that he understands political frustration, but questioned the reasons behind such disrespect towards the President. Remarking that India is moving forward by embracing the mantra of women-led development, leaving behind regressive mindsets, Shri Modi emphasized that if women, who constitute half of the population, are given full opportunities, India can progress at twice the speed. His conviction has only strengthened after 25 years of working in this field. He highlighted that in the past ten years, 10 crore women, primarily from marginalized and rural backgrounds, have joined self-help groups (SHGs). These women’s capabilities have increased, their social status has improved, and the Government has enhanced their assistance up to ₹20 lakh to help them further their work. The Prime Minister noted that these efforts have had a highly positive impact on the rural economy.
Highlighting the discussion of the Lakhpati Didi campaign in the President’s address, the Prime Minister noted that since the formation of the new Government for the third time, over 50 lakh Lakhpati Didis have been registered. He remarked that since the inception of this initiative, approximately 1.25 crore women have become Lakhpati Didis, and the goal is to make three crore women Lakhpati Didis through economic programs. The Prime Minister noted the significant psychological shift in villages, where women operating drones, known as Namo Drone Didis, have changed the community’s perception of women. These Drone Didis are earning lakhs of rupees by working in fields. He also highlighted the role of the Mudra Yojana in empowering women, with crores of women entering the industrial sector for the first time and taking on entrepreneurial roles.
Emphasising that out of the 4 crore homes provided to families, approximately 75% have been registered in the names of women, the Prime Minister emphasized “this change is laying the foundation for a strong and empowered 21st-century India”. “The goal of a developed India cannot be achieved without strengthening the rural economy”, exclaimed the Prime Minister. He emphasized the importance of agriculture in the rural economy and noted that farmers are a strong pillar of developed India. Over the past decade, the agriculture budget has increased tenfold since 2014, marking a significant jump.
The Prime Minister remarked that before 2014, farmers faced difficulties and even police action when demanding urea. He added that they had to stand in long queues overnight, and fertilizer meant for farmers often ended up in black markets. Shri Modi said today, farmers receive ample fertilizer. He added that during the COVID-19 crisis, supply chains were disrupted, and global prices soared. Shri Modi said that despite India’s dependency on imported urea, the Government managed to bear the cost. He added that a bag of urea costing the Government ₹3,000 is provided to farmers at less than ₹300. He highlighted that their continuous efforts ensure maximum benefits for farmers.
“In the past ten years, ₹12 lakh crore has been spent to ensure affordable fertilizer for farmers and through the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, about ₹3.5 lakh crore has been directly transferred to farmers’ accounts”, said Shri Modi. He highlighted the record increase in MSP and stated that procurement has tripled over the past decade. He noted that farmer loans have been made more accessible and affordable, with a threefold increase in the amount of credit provided. Shri Modi emphasized that during natural disasters, farmers were previously left to fend for themselves, but under the PM Fasal Bima Yojana, ₹2 lakh crore has been disbursed to farmers. He highlighted the unprecedented steps taken in irrigation over the past decade, referencing Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar’s comprehensive and inclusive vision for water management. He mentioned that over 100 major irrigation projects, pending for decades, have been completed to ensure water reaches farmers’ fields. The Prime Minister noted that Dr. Ambedkar advocated for river linking, a vision that went unfulfilled for years. Today, projects like the Ken-Betwa Link Project and the Parvati-Kalisindh-Chambal Link Project have commenced. He also shared his successful experience in Gujarat with similar river-linking initiatives.
“Every Indian should dream of seeing Made in India food packets on dining tables around the world”, said the Prime Minister. He expressed joy that Indian tea and coffee are now gaining popularity globally, and turmeric has seen a surge in demand post-COVID period. He noted that in the coming times, Indian processed seafood and Bihar’s makhana will also make their mark worldwide. The Prime Minister highlighted that India’s millets, known as Shri Anna, will enhance India’s reputation in international markets.
Stressing the importance of Future Ready cities for a developed India, Shri Modi noted that the country is rapidly urbanizing, which should be seen as an opportunity rather than a challenge. He highlighted that the expansion of infrastructure leads to the creation of opportunities, as increased connectivity boosts possibilities. The Prime Minister mentioned the inauguration of the first Namo Rail connecting Delhi and Uttar Pradesh and expressed his experience of traveling on it. He stressed the need for such connectivity and infrastructure to reach all major cities in India, reflecting the nation’s future direction. He remarked that Delhi’s metro rail network has doubled, and now metro networks are expanding to Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. The Prime Minister proudly highlighted that India’s metro network has surpassed 1,000 kilometers, with an additional 1,000 kilometers currently under development, showcasing the rapid progress. He highlighted several initiatives taken by the Indian Government to reduce pollution, including the introduction of 12,000 electric buses across the country, providing a significant service to Delhi as well.
Mentioning the expansion of the Gig Economy in major cities, with lakhs of young people joining, the Prime Minister announced the registration of gig workers on the e-Shram portal and the provision of an ID card upon verification. He also stated that gig workers would benefit from the Ayushman scheme, ensuring they have access to healthcare. He estimated that there are currently around one crore gig workers in the country and emphasized the Government’s ongoing efforts to support this sector.
The Prime Minister highlighted the significant job opportunities presented by the MSME sector, emphasizing its potential for employment. He remarked that small industries symbolize a self-reliant India and contribute immensely to the country’s economy. The Government’s policy focuses on simplicity, convenience, and support for MSMEs, with an emphasis on Mission Manufacturing to boost the manufacturing sector and create jobs for young people through skill development.
Mentioning that several initiatives have been launched to improve the MSME sector, Shri Modi said that the MSME criteria established in 2006 were updated twice in the past decade, with significant upgrades in 2020 and in this budget. He highlighted the financial support provided to MSMEs, addressing the challenge of formal financial resources, and the special support given to the MSME sector during the COVID crisis. The Prime Minister noted the focus on industries like the toy and textile sectors, ensuring cash flow and providing loans without collateral, resulting in job creation and job security. He mentioned the introduction of customized credit cards and credit guarantee coverage to ease the business operations of small industries. He proudly shared that before 2014, India imported toys, but today, Indian toy manufacturers are exporting toys worldwide, with a significant reduction in imports and a 239% increase in exports. The Prime Minister highlighted that various sectors operated by MSMEs are gaining global recognition, with Made in India products like clothing, electronics, and electrical goods becoming part of daily life in other countries.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the dream of a developed India is not just a dream of the Government but the dream of 140 crore Indians. He highlighted that India is moving forward with great confidence and urged everyone to contribute their energy towards realizing this dream. He noted that there are global examples of countries becoming developed within 20-25 years, and India, with its demographic advantage, democracy, and demand, can achieve the same by 2047, when India celebrates 100 years of independence.
The Prime Minister stressed the need to achieve greater goals and remain committed to creating a modern, capable, and developed India for many years to come. He called on all political parties, leaders, and citizens to prioritize the nation above all and work together towards the dream of a developed India. Concluding his address, the Prime Minister expressed his gratitude and thanked the President for the address and extended his appreciation to the members of the House.
APEDA’s financial assistance schemes boosts 47.3% surge in India’s fruit and vegetable exports APEDA strengthens exporter growth with new schemes for infrastructure, quality, and market development
India’s fruit and vegetable exports reach 123 countries, with 17 new market added in 3 years
Posted On: 04 FEB 2025 7:58PM by PIB Delhi
The Department of Commerce through Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) provides financial assistance to its member exporters of APEDA from across the country, for export promotion of its Scheduled products, including for Fruits & vegetables, under Agriculture and Processed Foods Export Promotion Scheme of APEDA for the 15th Finance Commission Cycle (2021-22 to 2025-26) in following three broad areas:
Scheme for infrastructure Development – Financial assistance for setting up of packhouse facilities with packing / grading lines, pre-cooling unit with cold storage and refrigerated transportation etc., cable system for handling of crops like banana, pre-shipment treatment facilities such as irradiation, vapor heat treatment, hot water dip treatment and common infrastructure facilities, reefer vans and missing gap in the existing infrastructure of individual exporters.
Scheme for Quality Development – Financial assistance for purchase of laboratory testing equipment, installation of quality management system, handheld devices for capturing farm level coordinates for traceability and testing of water, soil, residues and pesticides etc.
Scheme for Market Promotion – The assistance covers participation of exporters in international trade fairs, organizing buyer seller meets and developing packaging standards for new products and upgrading the existing packaging standards.
The details of financial assistance guidelines are available at APEDA Website www.apeda.gov.in under the “Scheme” tab.
As a result of these initiatives, there has been a growth of 47.3%, in the volume of exports of fruits and vegetables between the period 2019-20 to 2023-24.
Export data of fruits and vegetables in last five years
Country:All
Product:Fresh Fruits & Vegetables
Value In USD Million
Qty In Thousand MT
Products
2019-20
2020-21
2021-22
2022-23
2023-24
2019-20
2020-21
2021-22
2022-23
2023-24
Fresh Fruits & Vegetables
1,282.43
1,342.13
1,527.63
1,635.95
1,814.58
2,659.48
3,148.08
3,376.25
4,335.68
3,911.95
Source: DGCIS
Growth in terms of Volume in the last five years =47.30%
Growth in terms of Value in the last five years= 41.50 %
The Government maintains the record of total exports of fruits and vegetables from India. The export figures of States are compiled on the basis of the State-of-Origin code reported by the exporters in the shipping bills. Thus, the state wise data of exports of Fruits and vegetables is not available as the same is not validated by DGCI&S. However, the major states producing Fruits and vegetables are Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Bihar, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Karnataka.
India’s Export of Mango and Onion to World (By Variety)
Product
Variety
USD Million
Qty in MT
2019-20
2020-21
2021-22
2022-23
2023-24
2019-20
2020-21
2021-22
2022-23
2023-24
Mango
Other Mangoes
0.00
25.42
23.48
33.26
36.18
0.00
15795.09
17448.90
17257.28
23786.16
Kesar
0.00
2.92
6.91
4.97
11.25
0.00
983.73
2319.08
1749.97
3787.01
Alphonso (Hapus)
0.00
6.08
10.09
7.84
8.68
0.00
3195.86
5994.86
2829.76
2673.39
Banganapalli
0.00
1.46
3.01
2.00
3.20
0.00
830.55
1674.04
856.91
1081.68
Chausa
0.00
0.05
0.05
0.03
0.24
0.00
40.98
25.64
19.72
488.26
Langda
0.00
0.08
0.16
0.12
0.19
0.00
48.99
122.16
70.02
81.94
Dasheri
0.00
0.09
0.11
0.06
0.17
0.00
49.50
75.92
34.70
75.54
Totapuri
0.00
0.07
0.17
0.20
0.16
0.00
47.47
151.01
116.60
91.95
Mallika
0.00
0.03
0.09
0.06
0.07
0.00
41.40
61.16
28.81
38.17
Mangoes , Fresh/Dried,
56.11
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
49658.68
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
Total Mangoes
56.11
36.20
44.07
48.54
60.14
49658.68
21033.57
27872.77
22963.77
32104.10
Onion
Other Onions Fresh of Chilled
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
434.78
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
1606683.97
Rose Onions Fresh of Chilled
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
38.94
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
110755.38
Onions, Fresh/Chilled
324.20
378.49
460.56
561.38
0.00
1149896.84
1578016.57
1537496.85
2525258.35
0.00
Total Onions
324.20
378.49
460.56
561.38
473.72
1149896.84
1578016.57
1537496.85
2525258.35
1717439.35
Source: DGCIS
Note :- ITC HS Code with (*) mark of the Commodity is either dropped or re-allocated
In FY 2023-24, India’s exports of Fresh Fruits and Vegetables reached 123 countries. In the last 3 years, Indian fresh produce entered 17 new markets, some of which are Brazil, Georgia, Uganda, Papua New Guinea, Czech Republic, Uganda, Ghana etc. This has been achieved through a host of measures such as participation in international trade fairs, actively pursuing market access negotiations, organizing buyer seller meets etc.
Department of Commerce is working in close coordination with the MoA&FW in prioritizing agriculture products for market access negotiations to reach new markets. As a result, India has achieved new market access in following commodities in the last three years:
Indian Potatoes and Onions in Serbia
Baby corn and fresh banana in Canada
Pomegranate arils in Australia, USA, Serbia, and New Zealand
Whole pomegranates in Australia via Irradiation treatment
The barriers in accessing new markets differ from product to product and are dynamic in nature. Some of the major barriers in accessing new markets for fruits & vegetables are:
Long geographic distance from India raising the costs of logistics.
Delay in grant of market access by importing countries for certain products.
Stringent Phyto-sanitary requirements imposed by some importing countries.
Delay in registration of enterprises in certain countries.
To address the above issues, various steps are being taken by the Department of Commerce:
For expand market access to our products, MoA&FW & APEDA have identified key products and key countries for intensifying market access negotiations.
Development of Sea protocols for horticulture products to reduce logistic expenses and to enable larger volume of exports.
Regular follow up with the counterpart authorities of importing countries with support of our Missions abroad for registration of facilities and market access negotiations.
For meeting stringent Phyto-sanitary requirements, setting up of traceability system and a system of farmer and facility registration.
The Government had set a target of mobilizing 10 crore rural households into SHGs under theDeendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihood Mission(DAY – NRLM) by 2023-24. The target of mobilization of 10 crore households was achieved in March 2024.
The State/UT-wise targets and the number of households mobilized under Deen Dayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) is given at Annexure.
Nellore district has 37 rural blocks. All the 37 blocks are covered under the DAY-NRLM.
The Central allocation under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) for Andhra Pradesh for the last three financial years amounted to Rs. 756 crores. However, only Rs. 377 crores released, reason for non- release of entire amount is because of non-submission of proposals by the State due to delay in receipt of funds from Treasury.
For the current financial year, the approved central share under DAY-NRLM for Andhra Pradesh is Rs.307.69 crore out of which Rs.76.92 crore has been released so far.
The Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana (MKSP), a key sub-scheme under DAY-NRLM aimed at enhancing the livelihoods and income of Mahila Kisans. The Ministry had approved 13 projects under MKSP in 2011, including Nellore District in Andhra Pradesh. After grant of two extensions, these projects were closed in FY 2019.
For FY 2023-24, the Ministry approved an Annual Action Plan for an amount of Rs. 64 Cr. for MKSP, with the central share being Rs. 38.40 Cr. and the state share Rs. 25.60 Cr. The physical target for the year included the creation of 160 Integrated Farming Clusters (IFC) under MKSP. However, the Andhra Pradesh SRLM has not opened the budget head for MKSP in FY 2023-24. Moreover, the MKSP budget provision was not reflected in the Public Financial Management System (PFMS) TRSY-07 report for FY 2023-24, which are mandatory for the release of funds under Central Sponsored Schemes as per the Department of Expenditure norms. Due to which the Ministry has not released any fund to Andhra Pradesh SRLM for MKSP during FY 2023-24. Out of the total allocation of Rs. 15 crores (Rs. 9 Cr. Central Share + Rs. 6 Cr. State share) for FY 2024-25, amount of Rs. 2.25 Cr. has been released as a part of the Central Share.
Regarding the Start-Up Village Entrepreneurship Programme (SVEP), which is a demand-driven scheme, funds are released based on the submission of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) from the state. However, the Andhra Pradesh SRLM has delayed the submission of the required DPRs and financial documents for SVEP components, which has also delayed the timely release of funds for the programme. Out of the total allocation of Rs. 13.33 crore (Rs. 8 Cr. Central Share + Rs.5.33 Cr. State share) for FY 2024-25, amount of Rs. 2 Cr. has been released as a part of the Central Share.
State
Target for HH Mobilisation
Mobilisation as on March 24
Andaman
15000
13194
Andhra Pradesh
8310437
9075289
Arunachal
84623
86937
Assam
3593756
4111020
Bihar
12332493
12713428
Chhattisgarh
3193288
3068427
Daman DIU and NH
12469
12695
Goa
45947
50298
Gujarat
3031245
2783006
Haryana
730806
629094
Himachal Pradesh
338103
378542
Jammu & Kashmir
950000
797805
Jharkhand
3446912
3589607
Karnataka
3239273
4207374
Kerala
3644669
4002478
Ladakh
13315
11710
Lakshadweep
3692
4363
Madhya Pradesh
6549384
5829972
Maharashtra
7109774
6525549
Manipur
207481
99810
Meghalaya
418254
444264
Mizoram
73765
85934
Nagaland
121260
135261
Odisha
6610605
5757107
Puducherry
45931
59714
Punjab
657609
543246
Rajasthan
4600000
3804161
Sikkim
58557
56675
Tamil Nadu
3675989
4023939
Telangana
4593482
4820573
Tripura
460061
494675
Uttar Pradesh
11807911
9507884
Uttarakhand
491114
497777
West Bengal
11593207
12251533
Total
102060412
100473341
This information was given by the Minister of State for Rural Development Shri Kamlesh Paswan in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.
The Government has employed Artificial Intelligence (AI) methods to address various challenges in the agricultural sector to aid farmers. Some of the initiatives are given below:
‘Kisan e-Mitra’, an AI-powered chatbot, has been developed to assist farmers with responses to the queries about the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme. This solution supports multiple languages and is evolving to assist with other government programs.
National Pest Surveillance System, for tackling the loss of produce due to climate change, utilizes AI and Machine Learning to detect pest infestation in crop issues, enabling timely intervention for healthier crops.
AI based analytics using field photographs for crop health assessment and crop health monitoring using Satellite, weather & soil moisture datasets for rice and wheat crop.
This information was given by Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Ramnath Thakur in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.
Yes, the Government has taken several steps towards mitigation of adverse impact of global warming and climate change on agriculture in the country including Uttar Pradesh. The National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) provides an overarching policy framework to enable the country to adapt to climate change and enhance ecological sustainability. One of the National Missions under NAPCC is the National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA), which implements strategies to make agriculture more resilient to the changing climate. Several schemes have also been initiated under NMSA to deal with the adverse climate situations. Per Drop More Crop (PDMC) scheme increases water use efficiency at the farm level through micro irrigation technologies i.e. drip and sprinkler irrigation systems. Rainfed Area Development focuses on Integrated Farming System for enhancing productivity and minimizing risks associated with climatic variability. The Soil Health & Fertility scheme assists states in promoting integrated nutrient management through judicious use of chemical fertilizers including secondary and micronutrients in conjunction with organic manures & bio-fertilizers for improving soil health and its productivity. Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture, Agroforestry & National Bamboo Mission also promote climate resilience in agriculture. Further, Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana along with weather index based Restructured Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme provide a comprehensive insurance cover against crop failure by providing financial support to farmers suffering crop loss/damage arising out of unforeseen natural calamities.
The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) under Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, is implementing a flagship network project namely National Innovations in Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA). Through this project, various climate change mitigation activities have been under taken. In Uttar Pradesh, one cluster of 3 to 4 villages each from 17 districts viz., Baghpat, Bahraich, Banda, Basti, Chitrakoot, Gonda, Gorakhpur, Hamirpur, Jalaun, Jhansi, Kanpur (Dehat), Kaushambi, Kushi Nagar, Maharajganj, Pratapgarh, Sant Ravidas Nagar and Sonbhadra were taken up for technology adoption. Climate resilient technologies such as system of rice intensification, aerobic rice, direct seeding of rice, zero till wheat sowing, cultivation of climate resilient varieties tolerant to extreme weather conditions such as drought and heat; in-situ incorporation of rice residues; etc. have been developed and demonstrated in these districts. Capacity building programs to farmers on climate resilient agriculture in these districts were also undertaken.
This information was given by Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Ramnath Thakur in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.
The restructured National Bamboo Mission (NBM) has been launched as a Centrally Sponsored Scheme in 2018-19. NBM provides assistance to both the Government & private sectors for the propagation and cultivation of bamboo in non-forest land, bamboo treatment, establishment of markets, incubation centers, value added product development & processing and development of tools & equipments. The funding pattern is 60:40 between Centre and State Government for all States except NE & Hilly States, where it is 90:10 and 100% in case of Union Territories/Bamboo Technology Support Groups (BTSGs) and National Level Agencies.
Major objectives of the Mission are to increase the availability of quality planting materials, area expansion of bamboo cultivation, improve post-harvest management, primary treatment and seasoning, preservation technologies, market infrastructure, product development, promote skill development and re-align efforts to reduce dependency on import of bamboo and bamboo products.
The restructured NBM is being implemented in Uttar Pradesh since 2019-20. Bareilly Bamboo cluster under NBM is Operational in Shahjahanpur District. Under the NBM, activities i.e. Nursery establishment, Bamboo Plantation, Skill Development, Demonstration of Bamboo Products etc. have been undertaken in the areas surrounding Shahjahanpur Parliamentary Constituency of Uttar Pradesh State. The details of the activities undertaken in these areas is as provided below.
Name of District
Plantation Area (In ha)
Nursery Established (In Nos)
Activities for development of Bamboo Value Chain
Shahjahanpur
31.00
01
Bareilly
18.00
01
01 Common Facility Center (CFC),01 Bamboo Bazaar, 01 Bamboo Treatment Plant and 01 Carbonization Plant
Sitapur
24.00
01
Pilibhit
17.00
00
Lakhimpur Kheri
14.00
00
This information was given by Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Ramnath Thakur in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.
No specific census/survey of landless farmers has been conducted by this Ministry. Therefore, the exact number of landless farmers and farming on crop sharing basis with land-owners in the country is not available. However, number of wholly leased-in operational holdings/landless farmers in the country as per the latest Agriculture Census 2015-16 is 5,31,285.
Agriculture being a State subject, the State Governments undertake implementation of agricultural schemes/programmes for the welfare of farmers including landless farmers and the Government of India also supplements these efforts through implementation of various central sector/centrally sponsored schemes/programmes. Among these, the schemes which specifically cover landless, tenant farmers and sharecroppers are the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) & Restructured Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme (RWBCIS) and Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme.
Under the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme, farmers receive KCC loans at a subsidized interest rate of 7%. To facilitate this, an up front interest subvention (IS) under Modified Interest Subvention Scheme (MISS) of 1.5% is provided to financial institutions. Additionally, farmers who repay their loans promptly receive a 3% Prompt Repayment Incentive (PRI), effectively reducing the interest rate to 4% per annum. The benefits of IS and PRI are available for loan limits up to Rs.3 lakhs. However, if the short-term loan is taken for allied activities (other than crop husbandry), the loan amount is limited to Rs.2 lakhs only.
As per master circular of RBI dated 04thJuly, 2018, under the KCC scheme, Oral lessees and Share croppers, Self Help Group or Joint Liability Groups of farmers including tenant farmers, share croppers are eligible for short term loans.
Further, to provide relief to the farmers on occurrence of natural calamities, the component of interest subvention is available on the restructured amount to banks for the first year and such restructured loans would attract normal rate of interest from the second year onwards as per the policy laid down by RBI.
IS and PRI on restructured crop loans is also given to farmers affected by severe natural calamities for a maximum period of 5 years based on the report of Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT) for grant of NDRF assistance and Sub-Committee of National Executive Committee (SC-NEC).
This information was given by Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Ramnath Thakur in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.
Agricultural Marketing is a State subject and Agricultural Produce Market Committees (APMCs) are regulated under respective State Agricultural Produce Market Committee Act of the State. The data in reference to accommodation facility for the farmers as well as parking of their carrier vehicles is not maintained centrally.
Student READY programme is an integral part of the undergraduate degree programme in the disciplines of Agriculture, and allied areas. The five components of the Student READY programme are:
Experiential Learning – Business Mode
Experiential Learning – Hands on Training (Skill Development)
Rural Awareness Work Experience (RAWE)
In Plant Training/ Industrial attachment/ Internship
Students Projects
Further, the details of the Scholarships/Fellowships awarded by Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) is at Annexure-I.
Annexure-I
Scholarships/Fellowships awarded by Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)
S. No.
Schemes/Fellowships
Number of Beneficiaries
2022-23
2023-24
1
National Talent Scholarship for Under Graduate (UG) Students
6734
10034
2
National Talent Scholarship for Post Graduate (PG) Students
3542
3428
3
PG Scholarship
1693
1613
4
Junior/Senior Research Fellowship for Ph. D Students
1130
1157
5
Internship for B.V.Sc. Students
4652
4996
6
Merit-cum-Means (MCM) Scholarship for Undergraduate studies
417
439
7
Netaji Subhas-ICAR International Fellowship for Ph. D
39
32
Total
18207
21699
This information was given by Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Ramnath Thakur in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.
Soil Health and Fertility Scheme has been implemented by the Government since 2014-15. So far, 24.74 crore Soil Health Cards(SHC) have been generated across the country and funds amounting to ₹1706.18 crore have been released to various States/UTs. Till date, 8272 Soil Testing Labs (1068 Static Soil Testing Labs, 163 Mobile Soil Testing Labs, 6376 Mini Soil Testing Labs and 665 Village Level Soil Testing Labs) have been established across the country.
The Soil and Land Use Survey of India, a subordinate office under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, organizes short-term training courses (3 days) on topics such as the application of soil databases through Geographic Information System (GIS), Soil Health Management, Integrated Watershed Management (IWMP), Geo-Spatial Technology for Natural Resources Management, and Soil Survey & Mapping. These training programs are designed for officers and officials from various user agencies in different States and Union Territories. In 2024, training program was conducted for officers from the Agriculture, Forest, and Soil & Water Conservation departments of the Government of West Bengal and the North-Eastern States, and in 2025 for the officers of Agriculture Department, Government of Jammu & Kashmir.
Till date, 665 Village-level Soil Testing Labs (VSTL) have been established in 17 States. These include those set up by the entrepreneurs and Self-Help Groups (SHGs), but their data is not maintained centrally.
So far, the Soil and Land Use Survey of India has completed soil mapping at 1:10,000 scale for approximately 290 lakh hectares, covering 40 aspirational districts. To promote judicious use of fertilizer by farmers, the Soil and Land Use Survey of India has also generated 1,987 village-level soil fertility maps for 21 States and Union Territories.
This information was given by Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Ramnath Thakur in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.
The farmer applications who have availed the claims of crop insurance under Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) and Restructured Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme (RWBCIS) in Rajasthan from 2019 to 2024, district-wise is given in Annexure –1.
The number of farmer applications under PMFBY and RWBCIS has grown by 35.12% and 27.50% year-on-year during 2022-23 and 2023-24, respectively, and has reached an all-time high during 2023-24 since the inception of the scheme. The number of farmer applications under PMFBY and RWBCIS from 2019 to 2024 State-wise is given at
Annexure-2.
Government is committed to provide financial security to farmers against the crop loss due to adverse climatic conditions. In order to secure the farmers against the crop yield losses due to natural risks/calamities, adverse weather conditions, pests & diseases etc. two major crop insurance schemes namely, PMFBY and RWBCIS are being implemented by the Government. PMFBY provides comprehensive risk coverage from pre-sowing to post harvest losses against non-preventable natural risks whereas the RWBCIS provides indemnification for likely crop losses due to deviation in weather indices. PMFBY is available to all farmers who insure their crops as per the provisions of the Scheme. However, the scheme is voluntary for farmers and State Governments.
The actuarial/bidded premium rates are charged by implementing agencies.Extremely low premium rate across the country for the season ischarged from the famers, which is maximum2% of sum insured for Kharif crops, maximum 1.5% of sum insured for Rabi crops and maximum 5% of sum insured for commercial/horticultural crops. Further, due to various interventions of Govt. of India, the premium rates under the scheme has reduced significantly due to which some States like Maharashtra, Odisha, Meghalaya, Puducherry and Jharkhand are paying farmers’ share of premium whereas the farmers are required to pay 1 rupee only. This is a step towards universalization of the scheme. Remaining part of actuarial premium is shared by the Central and State Government on 50:50 basis except North Eastern States (from Kharif 2020) and Himalayan States (from Kharif 2023) where it is shared in the ratio of 90:10.
Annexure -1
District-wise details of farmer applications who have availed the claims of crop insurance in Rajasthan from 2019-20 to 2023-24
District
Farmer Applications to whom Claims paid under PMFBY/RWBCIS (No.)
2019-20
2020-21
2021-22
2022-23
2023-24
Ajmer
48,010
39,445
76,561
89,315
1,03,912
Alwar
67,758
15,747
2,514
37,585
2,168
Banswara
35,285
4,555
13,139
12,569
9,356
Baran
41,628
38,537
59,655
20,786
9,395
Barmer
1,17,845
1,43,193
5,30,202
1,52,481
3,57,456
Bharatpur
43,607
6,761
15,133
47,278
4,203
Bhilwara
87,585
1,03,159
1,40,420
95,872
1,05,947
Bikaner
1,10,911
2,11,203
2,67,995
1,01,439
67,632
Bundi
59,231
72,508
70,729
44,193
9,587
Chittaurgarh
1,22,597
56,774
1,24,936
Chittorgarh
1,29,059
1,38,887
Churu
2,57,302
2,91,895
2,64,576
3,56,924
38,244
Dausa
15,527
12,532
90
7,836
2,955
Dhaulpur
3,349
66
961
Dholpur
1,518
254
Dungarpur
18,978
14,536
16,862
25,021
9,715
Hanumangarh
1,77,117
2,31,777
2,50,335
2,18,984
94,632
Jaipur
50,220
50,166
50,589
76,582
1,02,835
Jaisalmer
51,375
65,289
40,355
31,220
35,188
Jalor
1,08,491
1,27,656
3,37,612
Jalore
2,09,275
72,150
Jhalawar
1,16,138
1,35,414
1,17,951
88,815
21,217
Jhunjhunu
1,24,499
99,426
1,86,095
1,92,809
76,186
Jodhpur
82,488
81,992
2,55,539
1,51,266
2,05,358
Karauli
5,830
3,642
6,652
2,516
137
Kota
54,449
16,234
59,719
44,217
5,734
Nagaur
91,844
63,827
1,51,289
1,00,352
1,06,183
Pali
47,864
36,536
1,26,373
25,778
76,189
Pratapgarh
38,186
27,624
25,578
23,205
22,994
Rajsamand
10,060
6,526
1,367
6,131
1,649
Sawai Madhopur
36,337
16,183
24,010
35,526
21,775
Sikar
85,866
57,567
74,066
1,94,480
1,30,719
Sirohi
5,133
3,350
25,001
2,220
8,082
Sri Ganganagar
86,501
92,744
1,01,704
53,902
53,188
Tonk
65,336
57,600
33,272
1,10,177
6,540
Udaipur
30,276
29,439
42,055
38,748
5,785
Total
22,97,623
22,13,903
34,93,335
27,28,079
19,06,252
Annexure -2
State-wise details of farmer applications insured under PMFBY/RWBCIS from 2019-20 to 2023-24
State
Numbers
2019-20
2020-21
2021-22
2022-23
2023-24
A & N Islands
99
339
535
173
187
Andhra Pradesh
27,88,373
1,25,63,699
1,29,01,749
Assam
10,06,212
16,60,076
9,96,027
4,89,983
7,95,553
Chhattisgarh
40,17,118
51,58,351
58,38,755
77,30,260
81,24,956
Goa
886
84
64
403
234
Gujarat
24,80,726
Haryana
17,10,601
16,50,558
14,52,842
14,46,631
1,01,74,480
Himachal Pradesh
2,84,009
2,40,727
2,33,725
2,67,643
2,78,051
Jammu & Kashmir
90,834
91,582
2,45,630
Jharkhand
10,92,116
Karnataka
19,45,207
15,87,801
19,17,808
26,84,781
30,15,023
Kerala
58,135
76,317
98,510
1,46,546
1,74,141
Madhya Pradesh
83,97,265
84,52,044
92,64,216
1,77,32,045
1,77,95,819
Maharashtra
1,45,66,294
1,24,06,368
99,02,582
1,07,33,909
2,41,85,161
Manipur
3,256
–
2,807
4,066
5,073
Meghalaya
607
130
337
38,569
Odisha
48,79,301
97,52,474
81,73,856
80,20,763
1,40,97,157
Puducherry
12,014
10,980
35,818
38,384
42,224
Rajasthan
86,16,616
1,07,59,591
3,44,70,735
3,90,96,690
3,89,87,544
Sikkim
21
85
2,422
5,025
3,104
Tamil Nadu
38,93,787
58,87,474
59,11,015
61,43,139
54,55,753
Telangana
10,34,223
Tripura
36,382
2,57,236
3,35,514
3,56,201
3,73,362
Uttar Pradesh
46,97,567
41,90,508
40,68,679
42,83,804
60,25,293
Uttarakhand
2,12,675
1,70,812
1,82,762
2,82,068
2,26,809
Total
6,17,33,490
6,22,61,955
8,29,79,506
11,21,18,132
14,29,45,872
This information was given by Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Ramnath Thakur in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.
The Government has initiated and is implementing the following schemes aimed to provide farmers with latest skilling requirements.
The Government is implementing Skill Training of Rural Youth (STRY) with the objective to impart short term skill training (7 days duration) to rural youths and farmers in agriculture and allied sectors for upgradation of their knowledge and skills and promote wage/self employment in rural areas. The component aims at providing short duration skill based training programs to rural youth and farmers on agri-based vocational areas for creating a pool of skilled manpower. Recently, the STRY programme has been subsumed under ATMA cafeteria.
The Government is implementing skill development programmes through Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) under Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) in different States of the Country to serve as single window agricultural knowledge, resource and capacity development centres with mandate of technology assessment and demonstration for its use and capacity building. As part of its activities, the KVKs are imparting training to the farmers, farm women and rural youths on different aspects of agriculture and allied sectors (Crop Production, Horticulture, Soil Health and Fertility Management, Livestock Production and Management, Home Science/Women empowerment, Agril. Engineering, Plant Protection, Fisheries, Production of Input at site, Agro forestry etc.) for their capacity building.
A Centrally Sponsored Scheme on ‘Support to State Extension Programmes for Extension Reforms’ popularly known as Agriculture Technology Management Agency (ATMA) is implemented across the country by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare. The scheme promotes decentralized farmer-friendly Extension system in the country with an objective to support State Government’s efforts to revitalize the extension system and making available the latest agricultural technologies and good agricultural practices in different thematic areas of agriculture and allied areas to farmers, farm women and youth, through various interventions like Farmers Training, Demonstrations, Exposure Visits, Kisan Melas etc. Presently, the scheme is being implemented in 739 districts of 28 States & 5 UTs in the country.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare is implementing ‘Sub Mission on Agricultural Mechanization’ (SMAM). For implementation of this scheme Four Farm Machinery Training & Testing Institutes (FMTTIs) located at Budni (Madhya Pradesh), Hissar (Haryana), Geraldine (Andhra Pradesh) and Biswanath Chariali (Assam) are engaged in the country for imparting skill development training courses to different categories of beneficiaries like farmers, technicians, under graduate engineers, entrepreneurs on selection, operation, repair and maintenance, energy conservation and management of agricultural equipments.
Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY), an umbrella scheme of Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, is implemented for ensuring holistic development of agriculture and allied sectors. There is provision for allowing the states to choose their own agriculture and allied sector development activities including training programmes as per the district/state agriculture plan.
The Government has launched National Skill Development Mission under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) in July 2015, under which the DA&FW has been operationalizing skill training courses of minimum 200 hours duration for rural youth and farmers as per the approved Qualification Packs developed by Agriculture Skill Council of India (ASCI) in the areas of agriculture and allied sectors. Recently, this programme has been subsumed under ATMA cafeteria.
The details of the number of farmers benefited/trained under the skill development schemes implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare during the last three years, year-wise is given as under:
S.No.
Schemes
Number of Farmers Trained
Total
2021-22
2022-23
2023-24
1.
STRY
10456
11634
20940
43030
2.
KVK
1691744
1953220
2156363
5801327
3.
ATMA
1359069
1428446
1207207
3994722
4.
SMAM
13261
15440
14971
43672
5.
RKVY
—
3799
2951
6750
6.
MSDE
3470
3715
718
7903
Total
3078000
3416254
3403150
9897404
The funds allotted/utilized under respective schemes in the districts of Tiruchirappalli and Pudukottai are given as under:
District : Tiruchirappalli.
(Rs. in Lakhs)
S.No
Schemes
2021-22
2022-23
2023-24
Funds alloted
Funds utilized
Funds alloted
Funds utilized
Funds alloted
Funds utilized
1.
STRY
0.42
0.42
0.42
0.42
1.26
1.26
2.
ATMA
51.5
51.5
24.9
24.9
21
21
3.
TNSDC STRY
0.88704
0.88704
0.68544
0.68544
—
—
Total
52.80704
52.80704
26.00544
26.00544
22.26
22.26
Source: State Department of Agriculture, Government of Tamil Nadu
District : Pudukottai
(Rs. in Lakhs)
S.No
Schemes
2021-22
2022-23
2023-24
Funds alloted
Funds utilized
Funds alloted
Funds utilized
Funds alloted
Funds utilized
1.
STRY
0.84
0.84
0.42
0.42
1.26
1.26
2.
ATMA
56.40
56.40
39.50
39.50
19.60
19.60
3.
TNSDC STRY
1.69
1.65
0.60
0.58
—
—
Total
58.93
58.89
40.52
40.50
20.86
20.86
Source: State Department of Agriculture, Government of Tamil Nadu.
This information was given by Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Ramnath Thakur in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.
Project VISTAAR (Virtually Integrated System To Access Agricultural Resources) aims to develop a unified, federated digital ecosystem for agriculture by integrating reliable, validated and up-to-date resources across platforms. It focuses on enhancing scalability, accessibility and inclusivity of digital solutions while enabling two-way communication to incorporate farmer feedback. By driving center-state convergence, fostering partnerships with stakeholders and aligning with broader efforts of ICAR Institutes and State Agricultural Universities. VISTAAR supports the development of robust Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) for agricultural extension. Its goal is to empower farmers with actionable information, streamline collaboration and ensure the long-term sustainability of digital agricultural extension initiatives.
Digitalization of the existing agricultural extension system aims to expand its outreach substantially and enable every farmer to access high-quality advisory services on crop production, marketing, value and supply chain management and Climate Smart Agricultural (CSA) practices, weather advisories etc. The advisory services provide information about all Government schemes related to agriculture & allied sectors from which the farmers are benefited.
The Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with states of Odisha, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan to onboard their technical and content review committees onto the network and have started work on small pilots.
Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare supports existing VISTAAR project implementation. No separate funds are allotted.
VISTAAR aims integration with all initiatives and federal solutions via the network for access of farmers to up-to date information. This includes leveraging AI enabled chatbots deployed at the ground level and subsequent integration with Agristack.
Efforts for VISTAAR includes extension worker training on the digital bots. This can be facilitated through existing partnerships and network volunteers for conducting training to Front Line Extension Workers (FLEW) to enhance video production skills and handling advanced IT tools to access required information at field level for providing further training to farmers in a phased manner.
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) have been signed with EkStep Foundation which is a not for profit organization for development of the VISTAAR DPI network on pro-bono basis. VISTAAR is also supported by not for profit organizations like Digital Green for content development on pro-bono basis. IIT-Madras has signed an MoU with DA&FW for sharing content on Agri-Startups for the benefit of farmers on pro-bono basis.
This information was given by Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Ramnath Thakur in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.
With an objective to address the existing gaps in post-harvest management infrastructure in the country, the flagship scheme of Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) was launched in 2020-21 to strengthen the infrastructure in the country through creation of farm gate storage and logistics infrastructure to enable farmers to store and preserve their farm produce properly and sell them in the market at better price with reduced post-harvest losses and lesser number of intermediaries. Improved post-harvest management infrastructure like warehouses, Cold stores, sorting and grading units, ripening chambers etc will allow farmers to sell directly to a larger base of consumers and hence, increase value realization for the farmers. This will improve the overall income of farmers. As on 26.01.2025, Rs. 56334 Crores have been sanctioned for 92393 projects under AIF, out of this total sanctioned amount, ₹41996 crores are covered under scheme benefits. These sanctioned projects have mobilized an investment of Rs.91856 crores in agriculture sector.
In state ofAndhra Pradesh, ₹2819 cr (Including Rs. 924 in principle sanctions for PACS by NABARD) have been sanctioned for 2686 projects under AIF. The total project cost for these sanctioned projects is ₹4124 crore. The district- wise details of projects identified and approved for providing support under Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) in the State of Andhra Pradesh is given inAnnexure.
As per the MoU signed by The Department with the Banks and other lending institutions, Interest rate on AIF loans should not exceed the cap fixed at 9% per annum. Again, all loans under this financing facility will have interest subvention of 3% per annum up to a limit of ₹ 2 crore. This subvention will be available for a maximum period of 7 years. In case of loans beyond ₹ 2 crore, then interest subvention will be limited up to ₹ 2 crore.
As on 26.01.2025, Rs. 56334 Crores have been sanctioned to applicants for 92393 projects under AIF which leaves an amount of Rs 43,666 crore remain to be sanctioned by the lending institutions by 2025-26.
To achieve the ambitious target of ₹1 lakh crore within the deadline, a series of strategic initiatives have been undertaken. The Union Cabinet has approved the progressive expansion of the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF). Key measures include allowing viable community farming assets for all eligible beneficiaries, including secondary processing projects integrated with primary processing in eligible activities, and converging AIF with PM-KUSUM Component-A. Additionally, NABSanrakshan is also included in scheme to extend credit guarantee support to FPOs. The recently concluded annual Bankers’ Conclave on 23.01.2025 at NABARD, Mumbai brought together top executives from banks and financial institutions to strengthen commitment and accelerate approvals. Additionally, multiple state-level conclaves are being planned over the coming months to engage regional stakeholders, address challenges, and enhance outreach. Regular interaction with AIF Nodal Officers of banks and state governments is being conducted to boost awareness, streamline processes, and promote the AIF initiative effectively. These efforts aim to create momentum, ensure timely sanctions, and drive funding toward the ₹1 lakh crore target.
Annexure
The district- wisedetails of projects identified and approved for providing support under Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) in the State of Andhra Pradesh
(Amount in Rs Crore)
SN
District
Sanctioned No.
Sanctioned Amt.
1
East Godavari
258
228
2
Guntur
116
195
3
Krishna
199
143
4
Palnadu
101
127
5
West Godavari
284
109
6
Sri Potti Sriramulu Nellore
111
95
7
Eluru
116
94
8
Ananthapuramu
114
85
9
Nandyal
160
83
10
Kakinada
101
75
11
Vizianagaram
186
72
12
Srikakulam
187
72
13
Bapatla
89
71
14
Kurnool
90
66
15
Tirupati
42
58
16
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema
127
55
17
Ntr
48
50
18
Prakasam
69
48
19
Chittoor
31
44
20
Y.S.R.
58
35
21
Parvathipuram Manyam
64
29
22
Sri Sathya Sai
54
23
23
Anakapalli
42
17
24
Visakhapatnam
24
15
25
Alluri Sitharama Raju
9
6
26
Annamayya
6
2
Grand Total
2686
1895#
*Information is based on the applications received on AIF portal.
# Excluding the Rs. 924 Crore in principle sanctions for PACS by NABARD
This information was given by Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Ramnath Thakur in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.
Potassium Derived from Molasses (PDM), a by-product of sugar industry has minimum 14.5% potash and can be used by farmers in field as an alternative to MOP (Muriate of Potash with 60% potash content) reducing the dependence on imported potash Institute of Pesticides Formulation and Technology works on supporting adoption of greener technologies and development of user & environment friendly new pesticide formulations
Posted On: 04 FEB 2025 6:52PM by PIB Delhi
Potassium Derived from Molasses (PDM) is a by-product of sugar industry. PDM has minimum 14.5% potash and can be used by farmers in field as an alternative to MOP (Muriate of Potash with 60% potash content). Thus, PDM can reduce the dependence on imported potash. PDM was notified under Fertilizer Control Order (1985) in 2009, and in order to incentivize the use of PDM, it was inducted under Nutrient Based Subsidy scheme since Rabi, 2022. During 2024-25, Rs. 345 per tonne of subsidy has been fixed for PDM.
Potash and Glauconite(Potassic mineral) have been classified as Critical and Strategic Minerals under “The Mines & Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment (MMDR) Act, 2023”by Ministry of Mines which aims to enhance domestic production and achieve self- sufficiency in critical minerals. MMDR Act, 1957 ensure that critical minerals are produced, processed, and recycled by catalyzing investments from governments and the private sector across the full value chain, emphasizing the importance of sustainable and responsible mineral management practices. The Central Government has also commenced the auction of mineral blocks for critical & strategic minerals as per provisions of MMDR Act, 1957. As on 10.12.2024, Ministry of Mines have successfully auctioned 5 mineral blocks of Glauconite(Potassic mineral).
Chemical sector is broadly de-regulated and delicensed sector. The manufacturing, import, export, transportation etc. of Ammonium Nitrate are being regulated by Ammonium Nitrate Rules, 2012. Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) issues licenses for manufacture, storage, transportation, import and export of Ammonium Nitrate under these rules. The licenses for manufacturing of Ammonium Nitrate are issued based on Industrial Licenses issued by Department of Promotion of Industry & Internal Trade (DPIIT).
In Budget 2024-25, Basic Custom Duty (BCD) on Ammonium Nitrate has been increased from 7.5% to 10% to support existing and new capacities in pipeline. Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR), Department of Commerce provides a level playing platform to the domestic industry against the adverse impact of the unfair trade practices viz. dumping, actionable subsidies, circumvention etc. from any exporting country by using effective Trade Remedial measures such as anti-dumping and safeguard measures. However, currently, there are no pending applications seeking protection in terms of import barriers like anti-dumping duty or countervailing duty/anti-subsidy duty on Ammonium Nitrate.
The Government has approved the Market Development Assistance (MDA) @ Rs. 1500/MT to promote organic fertilizers, i.e. manure produced at plants under GOBARdhan initiative covering different Biogas/CBG support schemes/programmes of stakeholder Ministries/Departments such as Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable Transportation (SATAT) scheme of Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG), ‘Waste to Energy’ programme of Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE), Swachh Bharat Mission (Rural) of Department of Drinking Water & Sanitation (DDWS), etc. with total outlay of Rs. 1451.84 crore (FY 2023-24 to 2025-26), which includes a corpus of Rs. 360 crore for research gap funding, etc.
Further, Institute of Pesticides Formulation and Technology works on supporting adoption of greener technologies and development of user & environment friendly new pesticide formulations. UNIDO FARM (Financing Agrochemical Reduction and Management) Project undertaken by HIL (India) Ltd. to detoxify the agriculture sector by eliminating the use of highly hazardous pesticides and Persistent Organic Pollutants. The project focuses on three types of bio-pesticides: Btk (Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki), Neem, and Trichoderma spp. Btk, a strain of the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis, which is effective for controlling caterpillar pests, while Neem controls a wide range of insect pests. Trichoderma provides effective control against soil-borne fungal diseases and enhances plant growth.
This information was given by the Union Minister of State for Chemicals and Fertilizers Smt Anupriya Patel in Rajya Sabha in written reply to a question today.
