-The Economic Times KOCHI: An extensive dry spell has affected the sowing of chilli, turMeric, cardamom and pepper. Rains have been weak this season in southern states, where the spices are mostly grown. Chilli acreage has fallen by over 40% in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, which account for a majority of the spice cultivated in the country. Chilli farMers are finding cotton a better option as it needs less moisture. Interestingly, most growers...

Union minister for consuMer affairs, food and public distribution KV Thomas tells Nitin Sethi that it makes better sense to distribute stocked foodgrain to people of the country than subsidise exports. Possible spread of drought that the government is looking at... At the moment, monsoon rainfall is 23% below the long term average. But we have to wait another 15 days to know the full situation. We had discussion in the presence...

-The Times of India GUWAHATI: The death toll in the ongoing ethnic clash between Bodo and Bengali speaking Muslims in the Bodo heartland in Kokrajhar district since Friday, rose to 20 as additional central paramilitary forces from different parts of the country are on their way to the troubled area. Over 50, 000 people belonging to both the communities have been affected in the spate of violence so far. The population of...

-The Hindu Instruments that permit people to vote directly on policy and to initiate legislation can ensure that the citizen’s voice is heard   Independent India has been a large-scale experiment in democracy. Unlike many other nations that gained independence from colonial rule but descended into dictatorships and military rule, India has remained a democracy, despite its size and diversity. While we pride ourselves on this achievement, we also need to reflect more...

-The Times of India Maruti Suzuki workers who went on the rampage on Wednesday evening appear to have systematically and Mercilessly "hunted" senior executives. At least 26 executives have sustained fractures, with several having multiple injuries, as the protesters used everything from rods to car parts. General manager, human resources, Awanish Kumar Dev died in the fire after both his legs were fractured in the thrashing by workers and he was left...