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99 Pancakes joins forces with Amazon to bring unique snack delights to customers nationwide

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Brownie Brittle Chips
The selection of Brownie Brittle Chips will encompass a range of flavors such as Almond, Coffee, Pistachio and Strawberry.

99 Pancakes has partnered with Amazon to offer its unique FMCG products in the snack category, including Brownie Brittles, Chocolate Bars, and Almond Waffle Rolls, through the Amazon marketplace.

The selection of Brownie Brittle Chips will encompass a range of flavors such as Almond, Coffee, Pistachio, and Strawberry. As for the Chocolate bars, they will come in various options, including Caramelized Milk Bar, Milk Chocolate Bar, Dark Chocolate Bar, 100% Dark Chocolate Bar, and Keto Dark Chocolate Bar. Additionally, the Almond Waffle Roll will be presented in two distinctive variations: Orange Almond Roll and Almond Waffle Roll. These offerings are accessible for nationwide delivery.

Brownie Brittle Chips

Commenting on associating with Amazon, Vikesh Shah, Founder of 99 Pancakes, said, “With a wide range of products across categories, Amazon.in has become a destination for customers seeking quality and diversity. Having a successful e-commerce platform like Amazon.in will help us reach out to more consumers efficiently, which will help us meet their needs.”

In the near future, the Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) will introduce a range of offerings on the Amazon marketplace, including Gift Hampers, Hot Chocolate Bombs, Stroop Waffles, and Pancake Premixes.

Recently, 99 Pancakes made a strategic move into the FMCG sector and introduced a line of snack products through its widespread retail outlets across India.

Distinguished as a prominent QSR chain in India, 99 Pancakes specializes in offering an array of pancake variations. Its inaugural establishment emerged in Kala Ghoda, Mumbai, in 2017. Within a mere six years, the brand has rapidly expanded its reach, establishing a footprint in 13 cities throughout India, boasting an impressive tally of over 40 outlets.

Fuelled by an ambitious growth strategy, the company is actively engaged in expansion initiatives, aiming to establish a presence in Northern India through both franchising and company-owned models. In the preceding year, specifically in May, the company secured a funding round amounting to INR 65 million from a consortium of angel investors. Currently, the company is actively seeking additional funding opportunities to support its ongoing ventures.

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House of Pandora opens in Bandra: Elevating nightlife with cocktails, music and culinary delights

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House of Pandora
House of Pandora

Rahul and Monish Rohra, accomplished experts in the hospitality industry and proprietors of Executive Enclave, Records Coffee, and Veranda located in Bandra, have unveiled their latest venture, the House of Pandora, affectionately referred to as HOP. This new establishment introduces an exceptional fusion of exquisite cocktails, dynamic events, music, and a diverse selection of Indian and global tapas.

HOP proudly houses Shelton Fernandes, awarded the title of Bartender of the Year UAE 2022, along with his team of skilled mixologists. The beverage menu takes inspiration from renowned venues such as Sips, Tayer Elementary, The Clumsies, and other esteemed establishments.

Pandora emerged as a pioneer in Mumbai’s vibrant nightlife landscape, showcasing a lineup of exceptionally skilled electronic and hip-hop performers. The stage welcomed renowned artists such as Aggy from Kayan, Hanumankind, Blot, Ankitrixx, Sickflip, Blurry Slur, Tansane, and a host of other talents. This venue became a central haven for both ardent music aficionados and spirited revelers, offering an unparalleled experience for all who sought outstanding music and an electrifying party atmosphere.

The Founder and Le Cordon Bleu graduate, Monish Rohra says, “Bandra is yearning for a high-energy neighbourhood bar, all while being affordable. And with the introduction of HOP, brace yourself to be blown away by the cocktails, atmosphere and menu.”

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Grand Chennai’s J.Hind Restaurant unveils ‘En Vazhi, Thani Vazhi’ – A feast in honor of Rajinikanth

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Grand Chennai
Lourduraj Anand, Elango Rajendran (Sr.General Manager), P.C Balasubramanian, Kubendra Prasad & Johnson.S

Grand Chennai, a shining example of exceptional hospitality situated in the heart of the city, is delighted to present ‘En Vazhi, Thani Vazhi – Rajinism 2.0’, an extraordinary gastronomic event honoring the legendary figure of Tamil cinema, the Superstar Rajinikanth.

The event was inaugurated on August 9th at J.Hind, in their premier dining venue at Grand Chennai. It is set to spotlight the splendid work of P. C. Balasubramanian, author of ‘Rajini’s Mantras’, in honouring Rajinikanth, accompanied by the attendance of notable influencers and esteemed Chennai dignitaries.

Nestled within Grand Chennai, J.Hind stands as a lavish culinary haven where the vibrancy of traditional Indian art seamlessly merges with the exquisite portrayal of Indian cuisine, presented in all its magnificence. This culinary destination presents a rich array of local delicacies, extending a warm invitation to guests to partake in an unforgettable gastronomic spectacle.

‘En Vazhi, Thani Vazhi – Rajinism 2.0’ at J.Hind is poised to offer an engaging gastronomic journey, meticulously curated by Grand Chennai’s seasoned culinary experts.

A selection of the festival’s standout features encompasses delectable creations like Basha Bhai Thandai, Muthu Cheese Bombs, Billa Meen Varuval, Kaalaiyan Kari Kuzhambu with Mooru Kali, Thillu Mullu Idiyappam, Manic Kulcha, and an array of other delights. These distinctive flavors extend an unmatched chance to submerge oneself in the realm of Rajinikanth, indulging in his iconic charisma while relishing an opulent spread for both lunch and dinner.

Attendees will be able to engage in enthralling exchanges with the distinguished author, capture enduring memories at the selfie booth, and immerse themselves in a tempting culinary escapade that pays homage to the richness of South Indian cuisine.

For More Information – ‘En Vazhi, Thani Vazhi’
Date of the Festival: Till 20th August 2023
Venue: J.Hind, Grand Chennai by GRT, T. Nagar, Chennai: 600017
Wallet Factor: INR 2000/- plus tax (Vegetarian) Per Person & INR 2300/- plus tax (Non Vegetarian) Per Person.
Cuisine: Modernist Indian
Timings: 12.30 PM (Noon) to 3.00 PM (Lunch) & 07.30 PM to11.00 PM (Dinner)
Contact Number for Reservations: +91 7550036789
Website: https://grthotels.com/chennai

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Muttiah Muralitharan’s Ceylon Beverages to invest INR 440 Crore in can manufacturing plant in Dharwad

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Muttiah Muralitharan
Muttiah Muralitharan

Sri Lankan beverages company Ceylon Beverage Can Pvt Ltd, promoted by Muttiah Muralitharan, is poised to establish a full-fledged plant in Mummigatti, near Dharwad in Karnataka, as reported by Deccan Herald (DH) on Thursday.

Having previously submitted a proposal to the state government, the company has expressed its intention to construct an “aluminium cans and beverages filling plant” in the specified region. The proposal outlined a requirement for 26 acres of land and an investment totaling INR 440 crore. The establishment of this plant is projected to create employment opportunities for approximately 500 individuals.

Presently, the Sri Lankan firm produces a variety of slim, sleek, and standard cans encompassing eight different sizes, all featuring a diverse selection of customer labels. The decision to establish a plant in India is a direct response to the substantial demand originating from this particular geographical area.

Back in May, Ceylon Beverage joined forces with Reliance Consumer Products to engage in the production of cans for Campa soft drink.

Read More: Reliance Consumer Products partners with Ceylon Beverage to manufacture Campa soft drinks cans in India

Founded in the year 2020, Ceylon Beverages has formed collaborations with numerous enterprises involved in the production of canned mineral water, energy drinks, soft drinks, and flavored milk. With a production rate exceeding 48,000 cans and 34,000 bottles per hour, the company’s facility boasts the capacity to fill up to 300 million cans annually.

As reported by DH, the Karnataka Industrial Area Development Board (KIADB) has allocated land for the project. Specifically, they have assigned 16.70 acres of land at plot no 157, 2.64 acres on plot no 156, and 6.15 acres on plot no 158. Additionally, necessary clearances have been granted, including the provision of 3,000 kVA power by Hescom and a daily supply of 20 lakh litres of water.

Muralitharan had made two prior visits to the industrial area, and there are also plans for him to visit again in order to commence the plant’s construction process.

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Molson Coors diversifies further: Acquires Blue Run Spirits, expanding into bourbon and rye whiskey market

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Blue Run Spirits
Blue Run Spirits (Representative Image)

Molson Coors Beverage Company has entered into an agreement to purchase Blue Run Spirits, a producer of bourbon and rye whiskey.

This purchase marks another step in Molson Coors’ evolution into a comprehensive beverage enterprise. The acquisition empowers Blue Run Spirits with the essential resources to sustain its expansion. Currently accessible in 31 U.S. states, Blue Run is present in both retail and on-premise establishments across the country, as well as online.

Situated in Georgetown, Kentucky, Blue Run stands as a recent entrant to the whiskey industry, making its debut in the market in October 2020. This agreement signifies Molson Coors’ inaugural venture into the realm of spirits acquisitions.

According to Molson Coors, the acquisition of Blue Run boosts the company’s footprint in the spirits sector, “as it continues to evolve from its storied history as a beer company and premiumise its portfolio”.

Concurrently, Molson Coors has introduced Coors Spirits Co, an extension of its current spirits enterprise. This new entity will encompass Blue Run, Five Trail Blended American Whiskey, Barmen 1873 Bourbon, as well as upcoming innovative offerings. The agreement is projected to significantly increase the scale of Molson Coors’ spirits segment, surpassing twofold, and thus bolstering the company’s strategy of enhancing premium products.

Molson Coors’ chief commercial officer, Michelle St. Jacques, said, “Molson Coors has been on a journey to broaden beyond our beer roots and build powerful brands in growing categories, and Blue Run joining us is an exciting next step as we establish Coors Spirits Co. Blue Run has accomplished in three years what many brands hope to do in a generation and has done it at the luxury end of the whiskey category. Importantly, we are committed to maintaining Blue Run’s well-known quality, design and innovation as we continue to grow our spirits portfolio.”

The founders of Blue Run, namely Mike Montgomery, Tim Sparapani, Jesse McKnight, and Andy Brown, will continue their involvement with the brand.

In March 2023, Blue Run disclosed its plans to construct a distillery in Kentucky, USA. These plans will persist under the Molson Coors umbrella. Furthermore, Blue Run has slated the introduction of three new whiskey offerings for the late summer/autumn timeframe.

The details of the deal were not made public.

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Resilient local competitors chip away market share from big brands in India’s FMCG landscape

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shopping mart
(Representative Image)

Companies like Hindustan Unilever, Britannia, Parle, and Marico have observed a shift in their market dynamics. Smaller players are progressively encroaching upon their market share in sectors such as tea, detergents, oil, biscuits, and snacks. This trend has materialized as a result of moderated raw material prices, which have facilitated the entry of these smaller competitors into the market with products that are priced more affordably.

“In biscuits, we have been flattish, and the gainers of market share have been all local players. The local players, because of the pricing actions that they are taking in their small vicinity, have gained a little bit of market share,” Varun Berry, managing director at Britannia, told analysts.

“When the inflation is high, local players just walk away. And when things start to become more normalised, local players come into the market and start to operate large schemes for customers as well as consumers. So that’s what we are looking at currently.”

To illustrate, the rusk market is teeming with approximately 2,500 local competitors, whereas the snacking segment sees the dominance of over 3,000 smaller or regional players, encompassing almost 40% of the market share. According to companies, in times of deflation, these local adversaries tend to offer consumers greater value through additional quantity and demonstrate enhanced agility in swiftly introducing new products.

“There are thousands of local players in the snacking market especially in the extruded sub-segment. Since they are closer to the market and also understand local taste and flavour profile, they can be very agile in adapting to market conditions,” said Krishnarao Buddha, senior category head at Parle Products.

Over the years, local brands have steadily eroded the market shares of prominent consumer product companies, particularly in segments like soaps, detergents, hair oil, tea, and biscuits. Nevertheless, the disruptions caused by the pandemic and the subsequent inflation in crucial raw materials compelled numerous of these local brands to either cease operations altogether or significantly downsize their activities.

However, Hindustan Unilever (HUL) has noted a resurgence in the activity of small and regional players, a considerable number of whom had exited the market during the height of inflation. As an example, in the tea segment, these smaller players have experienced growth rates 1.6 times higher than their larger counterparts, while within the detergent bars category, regional participants have expanded at a rate three times faster.

“There are certain pockets of our portfolio, in mass segments and specific regions where we have seen a dip in market shares. However, our shares are ahead of what they were pre-inflation,” Ritesh Tiwari, chief financial officer at HUL, said during its earnings call.

Marico also reported a notable increase in activity within the bottom of the pyramid segment, primarily governed by smaller players. Market research agency Kantar examined 13 categories spanning personal care, home care, and food and beverages. Their analysis revealed that local enterprises, operating solely in one market, achieved a 13% growth during the year ending in April 2023, surpassing the 9% expansion observed by national brands in the same timeframe.

Nevertheless, regional labels with a presence in two to eight markets experienced a decline of 2%, whereas unbranded enterprises saw a more pronounced decrease of 5%.

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AB InBev and Tilray seal $80 Million deal for eight beverage brands

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Breckenridge Brewery
Breckenridge Brewery (Representative Image)

Tilray, a cannabis-lifestyle and consumer packaged goods company, has recently forged a deal to purchase eight beer and beverage brands from Anheuser-Busch for a sum of $85 million.

Subject to the fulfillment of standard closing prerequisites, Tilray will proceed with the acquisition of Shock Top, Breckenridge Brewery, Blue Point Brewing Company, 10 Barrel Brewing Company, Redhook Brewery, Widmer Brothers Brewing, Square Mile Cider Company, and HiBall Energy from AB InBev. This transaction encompasses existing personnel, brewpubs, and breweries affiliated with these brands.

This acquisition brings four manufacturing sites situated across the United States – in Portland and Bend (Oregon), Littleton (Colorado), and Patchogue (New York) – under the Tilray umbrella. Additionally, it encompasses the transfer of ownership for eight brewpub establishments located in Seattle (Washington), two in Bend (Oregon), Portland (Oregon), Boise (Idaho), Littleton and Breckenridge (Colorado), and Patchogue (New York).

The deal is anticipated to broaden Tilray’s presence in the US beverage alcohol sector, elevating it from the ninth to the fifth spot as a leading craft beer enterprise in the country. In addition to its existing brands like SweetWater Brewing Company, Montauk Brewing Company, Alpine Beer Company, and Green Flash Brewing Company, Tilray will now also possess Breckenridge Distillery and Happy Flower CBD sparkling non-alcoholic cocktails, solidifying its diverse portfolio.

Established back in 2006, Shock Top, a classic Belgian-style wheat ale, stands out as the centerpiece within this collection. Its notable nationwide presence across all ABInBev divisions and its pivotal role in various advertising campaigns mark it as the most prominent element of this acquisition.

Breckenridge Brewery opened in 1990 and has grown into one of the most recognised craft breweries in the US with a focus on balanced, approachable and interesting beer.

Founded in 1998, Blue Point Brewing Company has grown into one of the largest breweries in New York, offering a line-up of easy-drinking and innovative craft beers.

10 Barrel Brewing Company was founded in 2006 and today boasts an award-winning team of brewers with four brewpub locations. 10 Barrel is said to be one of the most acclaimed breweries in the US and is consistently a top medal winner at the Oregon Beer Awards.

Redhook Brewery – founded in 1981 – is one of the nation’s original craft breweries and has an 8-barrel brewing system where consumers can taste the latest experiments.

Widmer Brothers Brewing, founded in 1984, is one of the largest craft breweries in the Pacific Northwest.

Square Mile Cider Company, which launched in 2013, offers ciders made with pure Pacific Northwest apples and lager yeast to create a crisp, clean and semi-dry hard cider.

HiBall Energy, which was discontinued by AB InBev in May of this year, was founded in 2005 as a clean energy seltzer made with zero sugar, zero calories and organic caffeine.

Irwin Simon, Chairman and CEO of Tilray Brands, said, “Leveraging the deep CPG expertise of Tilray’s leadership team and acquisition integration track record, we intend to drive both revenue and cost synergies, while significantly expanding national distribution to coveted markets across the US and internationally. In a matter of three years, Tilray has solidified its leadership position in the craft beer industry, and we fully intend to be that change agent that reinvigorates the sector.”

Tilray is projecting pro forma revenue of $250 million from the transaction. It says that the distribution relationships through the Anheuser-Busch system will strengthen its distribution footprint nationwide.

Ty Gilmore, President of US Beer at Tilray Brands, added, “With this transaction, our beer business is expected to triple in size from 4 million cases to 12 million cases annually. Looking ahead, we will further capitalise on the potential of these brands through product innovation, retailer partnerships and expanded distribution into key markets, including the Pacific Northwest and California.”

The purchase price will be paid in all cash and the transaction is expected to close in 2023.

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Tulua unveils an aromatic line of spices, showcasing the true essence of Indian flavors

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Tulua's Spices
Tulua's Spices

Tulua, a renowned name known for its assortment of convenient ready-to-eat pastes, has introduced its most recent innovation – a collection of fragrant and pure spices. This fresh lineup from Tulua stands as proof of the brand’s unwavering dedication to furnishing top-notch, transparently labeled items, as well as its mission to highlight local recipes and ingredients. It’s worth highlighting that Tulua proudly stands as a female-led enterprise, epitomizing elegance and distinction in all facets of its product range.

Thoughtfully curated and meticulously hand-picked, every spice within Tulua’s diverse assortment pledges to enhance homemade meals to unparalleled levels of excellence. Ranging from the robust Coriander Powder to the exquisite Lakadong Turmeric Powder, the fiery Guntur Chilli Powder to the lively Kashmiri Chilli Powder, the fragrant Mustard Seed to the zesty Cumin Seed, the delicate Bay Leaf to the potent Whole Kashmiri Chilli – each element has been scrupulously selected to coax out the finest flavors in a multitude of dishes. Whether crafting a simple, comforting meal or a complex, aromatic curry, Tulua’s spices stand as the ideal companions for embarking on a culinary journey of exploration.

Tulua’s commitment to excellence shines through in its meticulous acquisition of ingredients from reputable sources throughout India, guaranteeing that solely the most aromatic and fresh spices make the cut. With meticulous attention, Tulua guarantees that every spice is meticulously processed and thoughtfully packaged, safeguarding its unmatched flavor and aroma intact.

The brand prioritizes ethical and sustainable sourcing methods, enabling customers to make mindful decisions while relishing the delectable tastes of their dishes. Particularly noteworthy is that five out of the eight spices have already received organic certification, with a commitment to transitioning the remaining products to organic within the upcoming three months. Tulua’s renown for excellence goes beyond its culinary expertise. Its remarkable spice blends have garnered significant demand from prominent hotel chains like Marriot Group, Taj Group, and Ramada, as well as numerous eateries and coffee houses throughout Mumbai. This recognition serves as a clear testament to the brand’s resolute journey towards achieving perfection.

Founder Richy Dave expressed her excitement about the new spice range, stating, “We are thrilled to introduce our new line of spices to the market. We believe that food should be an adventure, and our spices are the perfect way to explore new flavors and create delicious meals at home. With our commitment to quality and authenticity, we’re confident that our customers will love our new spice range.”

Tulua’s central objective revolves around combating the erosion of cooking know-how and abilities among younger generations. They achieve this by offering meal solutions that combine convenience and simplicity, utilizing natural and premium ingredients. These solutions encompass meal kits, spice blends, and ready-to-eat dishes, catering especially to the fast-paced lifestyles of millennials and Generation Z. These demographics seek nutritious and flavorful meal choices that demand minimal time and effort.

Through this approach, Tulua not only addresses modern dining needs but also upholds traditional culinary wisdom, ensuring its accessibility to a wide audience. Concurrently, the company collaborates with farmers to foster a mutually beneficial community. Their focus centers on presenting single-origin products sourced from specific farms, which aids in simplifying the farmer’s life. This involves assisting farmers in securing organic certifications and providing upfront payments, among other support measures, on a small scale that collectively contributes to alleviating the challenges faced by farmers.

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BigBasket’s B2B arm, Supermarket Grocery Supplies, reports 21% increase in losses for FY23

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BigBasket
BigBasket (Representative Image)

According to reports on Wednesday, the B2B subsidiary of BigBasket, which is owned by the Tata Group and operates under the name Supermarket Grocery Supplies Pvt Ltd, experienced a 21 percent increase in losses, reaching INR 215.2 crore during the fiscal year 2023.

For the fiscal year, The Economic Times reported that the division recorded a turnover of INR 2,261.3 crore.

During FY22, Supermarket Grocery Supplies incurred losses of INR 177.9 crore while generating an operating revenue of INR 1,707.2 crore.

BigBasket, while purportedly setting its sights on an impending initial public offering (IPO), garnered a substantial sum of $200 million in December of the preceding year from its primary investor, Tata Digital.

Tata Digital holds a majority stake of 64.3 percent in Supermarket Grocery Supplies, the parent company of BigBasket.

Among the additional investors in Supermarket Grocery Supplies are UK-based CDC Group and Mirae Asset.

Meanwhile, Innovative Retail Concepts, the online grocery delivery entity operating as BigBasket, experienced an increase in losses to INR 1,535 crore during FY23, as indicated by data from the private company research platform Tofler.

The company had posted a loss of around INR 812 crore in 2021-22. The company’s revenue increased by 5 per cent to INR 7,462 crore.

“The company’s total expenses for the fiscal were reported as INR 8,998 crore,” the report said.

Collection from groceries and household products constituted 97 per cent of its total operating revenue, which grew 4.3 per cent to INR 7,175 crore in FY23.

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Rice prices reach 15-year high in Asia amid supply concerns and export bans

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rice1
Rice (Representative Image)

Rice prices have escalated to their highest levels in almost 15 years across Asia. This surge comes amidst mounting concerns regarding global supplies, as dry weather imperils production in Thailand. Adding to the situation, India, a prominent rice exporter, has imposed bans on certain exports, further exacerbating the price hike, as reported by various media outlets.

Read More: India prohibits non-basmati white rice exports amidst supply concerns

Also Read: India’s rice export ban triggers panic buying among NRIs in the US

According to data released by the Thai Rice Exporters Association and reported by Bloomberg, the Asian benchmark for Thai white rice with 5 percent breakage has surged to $648 per tonne. This price point marks the highest since October 2008.

This results in a price hike of nearly 50 percent over the course of the past year.

The report highlights that rice holds immense significance in the diets of billions across Asia and Africa. The considerable rise in prices has the potential to contribute to inflationary pressures and amplify the import expenditures for purchasers.

Bloomberg has reported that the current challenge to the supply chain originates from Thailand, the second-largest exporter of rice. In anticipation of drier conditions due to the onset of El Nino, authorities in Thailand are urging farmers to transition towards cultivating crops that require less water.

In the essential central cultivation area, the cumulative rainfall has fallen 40 percent below the usual levels. This decision to restrict planting aims to preserve water resources for households. Earlier, the government had advised growers to harvest just one crop this year.

Last month, India widened its shipment ban to protect domestic supplies, spurring panic buying in some countries. The curbs exacerbated worries over a global shortage amid growing world consumption, Bloomberg reported.

Read More: India’s ban on rice exports expected to worsen global food price volatility, warns IMF Chief Economist

The price surge will aggravate stresses in global food markets that have been rocked by wild weather and reduced grain supplies from the Black Sea region because of the Russia-Ukraine war.

Read More: India’s rice export ban expected to improve domestic supplies and modestly impact retail prices, says CRISIL

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