Malaysia resorts to cloud seeding to save rice crop from drought
South China Morning Post – World
· China
Malaysia is resorting to cloud seeding to bring much-needed rain to the country’s “rice bowl” north, where a drought has delayed planting of the staple crop an…
Can India’s rice farmers reap from US$30 million Amazon carbon credit deal?
South China Morning Post – World
· China
A US$30 million carbon credit deal by tech giant Amazon with India’s Good Rice Alliance will boost carbon markets globally, according to experts, potentially s…
Prepare for ‘China shock 3.0’ to the global food economy
South China Morning Post – World
· China
Even as “China shock 2.0” is roiling Western manufacturers, we must, it seems, brace for “China shock 3.0” – to the global food economy – as President Xi Jinpi…
5 days only: Bring a partner or colleague and get 50% off a second TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 pass
TechCrunch
· US
The BOGO offer is live. For a limited time, buy one pass to TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 and get 50% off a second of the same ticket type. Offer ends this Friday, M…
How the Middle East crisis is expanding China’s agrochemical influence
South China Morning Post – World
· China
As the Middle East conflict spreads uncertainty among farmers around the world, Chinese farmers are carrying out their spring ploughing as usual and appear lar…
As U.S. eases cannabis curbs, firms may get access to IPOs and private funding
The Hindu – World
· India
Executives say stigma reduction and eased banking rules may attract mainstream investors; rescheduling may open Initial Public Offering (IPO) opportunities on …
Thai influencer sells premium durians for dirt cheap to avoid rotting amid surplus
South China Morning Post – World
· China
Thailand is turning to live-streamers to clear a looming durian glut, slashing prices as weaker Chinese demand threatens its biggest export market.
Top online …
Drizzle on top: a new high-end dog food brand is coming for the 1%
TechCrunch
· US
Golden Child is launching with two "five-star" products: a fresh frozen meal system and, more intriguingly, a "drizzle." It has also raised $37 million in fund…
China blocks Meta's $2B acquisition of AI startup Manus
Deutsche Welle (DW) – World
· Europe
Manus claimed to revolutionize agentic AI. Now Chinese authorities are forcing Meta to unwind its purchase of the company in what analysts believe could set a …
Government raises wheat procurement target by 15% as farmers turn to MSP
Times of India – World
· India
Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the article:
• Determine monthly installment amounts for loans: Calculate loan payments with ease.
• Estimating …
[Weekly funding roundup April 18-24] VC inflow continues to decline
Your Story
· India
Venture capital funding into Indian startups continues to remain below the $100 million level and this is largely due to the absence of large value deals.
Malaysia’s durian growers in ‘survival mode’ as early glut and Iran war hit export trade
South China Morning Post – World
· China
Malaysia’s durian growers say they are in “survival mode” as an early bumper harvest collides with a surge in fuel and freight costs, squeezing an export trade…
How ISB DLabs’ I-HEAL is rewiring access for healthtech startups in India
Your Story
· India
Over four cohorts, ISB DLabs’ I-HEAL program has worked with 100+ startups, enabling over Rs 190 crore in funding and meaningful market access. More importantl…
Scott, who represented Atlanta suburbs since 2003, had qualified to run for a 12th term before his deathDavid Scott, a Georgia congressman and moderate Democra…
Virginia congressional map vote could embolden Florida Republicans to push for boundary changes, says Jeffries – US politics live
The Guardian – World
· Europe
House Democratic leader says result should serve as a warning to Ron DeSantis after latest blow to Donald Trump’s redistricting battleCalifornia’s race for gov…
Mouse plague hits WA grain farmers as numbers surge in SA: ‘You literally can’t get away from them’
The Guardian – World
· Europe
CSIRO researcher says there are reports of up to 4,000 mouse burrows per hectare in parts of Western AustraliaGet our breaking news email, free app or daily ne…
UK and EU close in on agricultural deal to reduce Brexit barriers
The Guardian – World
· Europe
Lords told sales of Scottish shellfish among areas that may benefit – but agreement will not erase all paperworkEurope live – latest updatesA new agriculture a…
AI is making farming more precise; Meet companies building circular economy
Your Story
· India
Over the past few years, precision farming, remote sensing, and data-led decision-making have moved from experimentation to adoption, helping farmers optimise …
Hong Kong charity breeding Labrador with golden retriever to boost guide dog supply
South China Morning Post – World
· China
A Hong Kong charity is attempting to fast-track the supply of guide dogs for the blind by breeding a Labrador with a golden retriever for the first time, as on…
The gap between AI insiders and everyone else is widening, and the spending, suspicion, and even new vocabulary are starting to show it. While OpenAI is b…
As people across India celebrate traditional agrarian spring festivals, climate change has become an unwanted guest at the table. How are communities rising to…
Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan to visit Sri Lanka on April 19 and 20
The Hindu – World
· India
Colombo-based political sources told The Hindu that the visiting Indian Vice President is also scheduled to meet opposition politicians, including those from p…
University of Liverpool, IISc back early-stage research with joint seed fund
Your Story
· India
The joint fund aims to support pilot projects across key science areas while strengthening long-term academic links and researcher training between the two ins…
Reworking the economics of farming, with OpenAI in the loop
Your Story
· India
Indian farmers produce at scale but rarely track what they truly earn. GramIQ is using OpenAI to turn scattered data into usable intelligence, helping farmers …
Australia acts to protect winter crops with emergency Indonesian fertiliser deal
South China Morning Post – World
· China
An Australian company will import 250,000 tonnes of urea fertiliser from Indonesia in the coming months, easing fears of a shortage that would crimp food produ…
Using data to improve farming; Diversity engine for innovation
Your Story
· India
Khetibuddy structures its offering around four core pillars, all powered by a shared farm data layer. This allows businesses to start with a single use case, s…
This man has built a vegetable cooling crate that works without electricity
Times of India – World
· India
Indian fruit and vegetable sellers face significant losses due to spoilage in summer heat. Vishal Sighal has developed the 'Cold Easy Box,' an affordable, elec…
Using tech to bridge rural agri knowledge gap; Meta and CoreWeave’s $21B AI deal
Your Story
· India
Digital Green India has worked with the State Rural Livelihood Missions and Departments of Agriculture and Horticulture across more than nine states, reaching …
A platform for home chefs; Agritech’s post-boom correction
Your Story
· India
Tocco helps home chefs, especially women, turn their cooking into income. Meanwhile, in the world of agritech there's a structural correction in how investors …
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Malaysia resorts to cloud seeding to save rice crop from drought
Source: South China Morning Post – World
·
Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the article:
• Malaysia's prime minister announced cloud-seeding operations to trigger rain due to prolonged dry weather and low rainfall.
• Farmers have missed two of three usual planting phases for "wet direct seeding" of rice, a technique that requires flooded fields.
• As an alternative, farmers are using "dry direct seeding", but it provides lower yields and is not feasible in some fields due to recent scattered rainfall.
• More than 50% of the region's rice fields have been prepared, but only a fraction have been planted as farmers wait for rain.
[Weekly funding roundup May 2-8] VC inflow declines due to lower deal volume
Source: Your Story
·
Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the article:
• Venture capital funding into Indian startups decreased in the first week of May due to fewer deals and a lack of high-value transactions, with total funding reaching $129 million across 19 deals.
• The number of deals has averaged around 20 per week, affecting VC funding raised on a weekly basis, and there is no clear investment theme for the Indian startup ecosystem.
• Notable deals included Skyroot Aerospace's $60 million raise from several investors, as well as smaller raises by Pronto, Ecofy, BigEndian Semiconductors, and CHOSEN.
• The current macroeconomic environment remains challenging, and the Indian startup ecosystem is expected to face difficulties in raising capital until there is stability in the external environment.
Can India’s rice farmers reap from US$30 million Amazon carbon credit deal?
Source: South China Morning Post – World
·
Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the article:
• A pact aims to reduce methane emissions and promote green farming practices in India's rice cultivation through scientific advances.
• The organization, backed by Bayer, GenZero, and Shell, helps smallholder farmers adopt climate-smart techniques reducing water use and methane emissions from rice fields.
• Studies show improved water management and nutrient practices can cut methane emissions by 30-50%, with India being the world's top rice exporter and a major contributor to agricultural methane.
• The agreement is expected to secure around 685,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent, according to local media.
Chiratae Ventures commits $10M for 5 deeptech startups
Source: Your Story
·
Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the article:
• Chiratae Ventures commits $10 million to five deeptech startups selected through its inaugural Sonic DeepTech programme.
• The programme focuses on areas such as Energy & Climate, Quantum Technologies, and Applied AI/ML, among others, and offers up to $2 million in seed funding with a decision timeline of 48 hours.
• The selected cohort includes Ctrl B, Interact AI, SuprSend, TakeMe2Space, and an undisclosed stealth startup, with companies like TakeMe2Space building nanosatellite infrastructure for edge AI computing.
• Chiratae Ventures also recognized 14 startups as Sonic DeepTech Disrupters, acknowledging their exceptional potential across the program's focus sectors.
Prepare for ‘China shock 3.0’ to the global food economy
Source: South China Morning Post – World
·
Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the news article:
• China is expected to apply its industry policy playbook for electric cars, solar panels, and AI to agriculture and food self-sufficiency.
• This move could reshape global agricultural commodity supply chains, according to "China's Food Future" a consultation paper by Systemiq.
• The report warns that China's efforts may disrupt the current food system and have significant implications for international trade.
• The Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, which funded the report, is based in California.
5 days only: Bring a partner or colleague and get 50% off a second TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 pass
Source: TechCrunch
·
Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the article:
• The BOGO (Buy One, Get One) offer is live for TechCrunch Disrupt 2026, where you can buy one pass and get a second of the same ticket type for 50% off until May 8 at 11:59 p.m. PT.
• The offer applies to Investor, Founder, Attendee, Non-profit, and Expo+ passes, with savings ranging from $214 to $499.
• Attending Disrupt with someone from your team or organization can increase the value of your experience by allowing you to divide and conquer, compare signals, and act faster.
• Don't miss this limited-time opportunity to amplify the connections and networking you'll make at Disrupt - buy one pass and get a second for 50% off before May 8!
How the Middle East crisis is expanding China’s agrochemical influence
Source: South China Morning Post – World
·
Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the article:
• China accounts for 1/3 of global fertilizer production and 70% of raw materials for chemical pesticides, giving it significant influence over supply chains.
• Despite Middle East conflict, Chinese farmers are unaffected as they carry out spring ploughing with ample supplies of chemical fertilizers at lower prices than international markets.
• The blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global fertilizer shipments, has shifted market dynamics in China's favor, allowing it to exert greater control over supply and demand.
• Higher fertilizer prices globally due to production restrictions and shortages are expected to impact food security worldwide, with China's dominance in the industry amplifying its influence.
Beyond Lovable and Mistral: 21 European startups to watch
Source: TechCrunch
·
Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the article:
• BottleCap AI, a Prague-based startup, develops efficiency-focused foundational LLMs and apps, with a founding trio that includes an entrepreneur who sold his previous company to Meta.
• Alta Ares, a defense tech startup, develops AI-powered counter-drone systems, answering a need for cheaper solutions to detect and fight drone incursions in Europe.
• Flower, a Swedish renewable energy management company, leverages AI and battery energy storage systems to make wind and solar energy more predictable, with over $60 million in bond funding.
• Fundament, a foundation AI company, helps enterprises draw insights from their data using its Nexus foundation model, which is already valued at $1.4 billion following a $255 million Series A investment.
As U.S. eases cannabis curbs, firms may get access to IPOs and private funding
Source: The Hindu – World
·
Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the article:
• The US Department of Justice has rescheduled FDA-approved medicines and state-regulated medical marijuana products, making it easier for companies to bank and receive tax credits and deductions.
• Companies developing cannabis-based medicines expect this move to ease the stigma around marijuana and attract mainstream investors and financial institutions, potentially leading to increased private funding and public market access.
• Several cannabis companies are preparing to raise capital or launch IPOs on major exchanges, with some citing reduced reputational barriers and simplified research and trial design as benefits of the rescheduling.
• The reclassification could also lower development costs by easing logistical hurdles associated with sourcing and transporting study drugs, reducing expenses for companies like IGC Pharma, which has had to grow large quantities of hemp to achieve the same result.
Thai influencer sells premium durians for dirt cheap to avoid rotting amid surplus
Source: South China Morning Post – World
·
Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the article:
• Weaker Chinese demand and growing competition from Vietnam and Malaysia threaten Thailand's durian exports.
• Influencer Pimrypie led a live stream on TikTok and Facebook, selling premium Monthong durians at discounted prices to generate income for Thai farmers.
• The live stream garnered 700,000 viewers, with nearly 2 million real-time order comments and almost 8 million views on Facebook alone.
• The government is using live commerce to address a supply build-up in Thailand, capitalizing on the country's 850,000 video-commerce sellers who drive 1.3 billion transactions annually.
Drizzle on top: a new high-end dog food brand is coming for the 1%
Source: TechCrunch
·
Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the article:
• Golden Child, a new pet food startup, has launched with two products: fresh frozen meals and a "drizzle" liquid topper that can be added to any dog's food.
• The company was founded by Hilary Coles, who previously co-founded Hims & Hers, and Quentin Lacornerie, who developed personalized growth strategies for the company. They argue that the pet food industry hasn't innovated in 12 years.
• Golden Child has raised $37 million in funding from Redpoint Ventures, Atomic, and A*, which will go towards developing its products and building a household brand.
• The company's products are made with human-grade supply chains and developed by a PhD in animal nutrition, a classically trained chef, and a veterinarian nutritionist.
China blocks Meta's $2B acquisition of AI startup Manus
Source: Deutsche Welle (DW) – World
·
Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the article:
• China's National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) blocked Meta's acquisition of Manus, a AI firm with links to China, citing laws and regulations.
• The blockage will force Meta to unwind its purchase of Manus, which was valued at over $2 billion, setting a potential new precedent in Chinese AI regulation.
• Manus had previously relocated its operations from China to Singapore to circumvent US restrictions on investing in Chinese AI firms and Chinese rules limiting AI startups' ability to transfer IP and capital abroad.
• The move is seen as China's attempt to protect its national security asset of AI capabilities, with analysts suggesting that this could set a new precedent for future acquisitions involving Chinese deep-tech companies.
Government raises wheat procurement target by 15% as farmers turn to MSP
Source: Times of India – World
·
Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the article:
• Determine monthly installment amounts for loans: Calculate loan payments with ease.
• Estimating returns on SIPs (Systematic Investment Plans): See potential investment returns.
• Maturity and interest earned on PPF (Public Provident Fund) and FD (Fixed Deposit): Know your return on investments.
• Pension amount and corpus accumulation under NPS (National Pension System): Plan for retirement with estimates.
[Weekly funding roundup April 18-24] VC inflow continues to decline
Source: Your Story
·
Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the news article:
• Venture capital inflow into Indian startups has declined for the fourth time this year, with total funding in the fourth week of April reaching only $81 million from 22 deals.
• The decline is largely due to a lack of large-value deals and tough macroeconomic conditions exacerbated by US-Iran tensions, which have stifled fund inflows.
• Despite the decline, AI startups are still attracting significant investments, with funds flowing into India-based AI startups and game-tech studio LightFury Games raising $11 million from various investors.
• Fintech startup Oolkah raised Rs 130 crore ($13.7 million approx.) from Accel India, Lightspeed, and Z47, while co-founder Kabeer Biswas raised Rs 102 crore ($11 million approx.) for his new venture M.
Global hunger report warns of rising malnutrition and famine risks
Source: Al Jazeera – News
·
Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the article:
• In 2025, conflict and violence caused acute hunger for nearly 150 million people globally, with famine confirmed in parts of Gaza Strip and Sudan.
• Acute food insecurity affected 266 million people across 47 countries and territories, a marginal increase from 2024 but almost double the number recorded in 2016.
• Famine was also reported in other areas of Gaza, Sudan, and South Sudan, while six countries had "catastrophic conditions" with 1.4 million people facing Phase 5 food insecurity.
• Humanitarian and development financing for food crises decreased in 2025, and the report warns that without addressing structural drivers of hunger, fragile countries will continue to bear a disproportionate share of the global burden into 2026.
Malaysia’s durian growers in ‘survival mode’ as early glut and Iran war hit export trade
Source: South China Morning Post – World
·
Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the article:
• Malaysia's durian industry is facing pressure due to an early bumper harvest and rising fuel and freight costs.
• The hot weather has brought forward harvests, swelling supply just as exporters face higher packaging, energy, and transport costs.
• Exporters like Stephen Chow are cutting costs and reducing wastage simply to stay afloat, with packaging and logistics accounting for up to 50% of export revenue.
• The strain is exposing the vulnerability of Malaysia's durian industry, which relies on quality, branding, and tightly managed cold-chain logistics rather than volume shipments.
How ISB DLabs’ I-HEAL is rewiring access for healthtech startups in India
Source: Your Story
·
Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the article:
• ISB DLabs' I-HEAL program has helped over 60 healthtech startups raise around Rs 190 crore and connect with over 180 investors through more than 900 meetings, with many making it past the hospital gate.
• The program focuses on healthcare entrepreneurship acceleration, providing startups with access to hospital partners, clinical validation, and real-world deployment opportunities, helping them overcome challenges in procurement cycles and clinical buy-in.
• I-HEAL also offers digital training sessions for over 300 healthcare professionals, including doctors, on AI in healthcare and care delivery, putting digital health solutions in front of practitioners to gather feedback that shapes products and integration.
• The program's Healthcare Conclave event brought together 2,300+ attendees, speakers, startups, and panel discussions, creating a platform for founders, investors, clinicians, and policymakers to network and drive innovation in the healthcare sector.
Georgia congressman David Scott dies aged 80
Source: The Guardian – World
·
Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the news article:
• David Scott, a moderate Democrat congressman from Georgia, has died at the age of 80 after representing Atlanta's southern suburbs since 2003.
• Scott had qualified to run for a 12th term but faced Democratic challengers due to his declining health, which had been an open question in recent years.
• The congressman was known for his legacy of public service, including being the first Black chairman of the House Agriculture Committee and his work on issues such as farming, veterans' support, and historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs).
• Scott's death has been met with tributes from fellow politicians and community leaders, who praise his dedication to public service and commitment to Georgia, saying that his legacy will continue through others.
AI Overviews are coming to your Gmail at work
Source: TechCrunch
·
Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the article:
• Google announces AI Overviews feature in Gmail, allowing users to ask natural language questions and receive concise answers without opening individual emails.
• The feature uses AI to summarize multiple emails and conversations, pulling information from across different threads, making it easier to find specific details.
• AI Overviews will be the default setting for eligible Workspace and Google AI plans, including business, enterprise, and education customers, as well as previously available to consumers with Google AI Pro and Ultra subscriptions.
• The feature is designed to streamline communication and provide faster answers to common workplace questions, such as performance improvements, project milestones, and invoices.
Virginia congressional map vote could embolden Florida Republicans to push for boundary changes, says Jeffries – US politics live
Source: The Guardian – World
·
Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the news article:
• Secretary of the Navy John C Phelan has departed the administration, effective immediately, and has been replaced by undersecretary Hung Cao as acting secretary.
• The reason for Phelan's departure is unknown, but sources suggest he had fallen out with key Pentagon leadership, including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
• As the US Navy enforces a wartime blockade of Iranian ports, Cao has sparked controversy in the past with comments on diversity and inclusion initiatives, saying they are not needed in the military.
• Two Republican senators, Ted Cruz and Tom Cotton, have denounced a proposed US government bailout of budget carrier Spirit Airlines, citing concerns about taxpayer dollars being used to support an unprofitable company.
Mouse plague hits WA grain farmers as numbers surge in SA: ‘You literally can’t get away from them’
Source: The Guardian – World
·
Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the news article:
• Mouse numbers in Western Australia and South Australia have reached plague proportions, with reports of up to 4,000 burrows per hectare in some areas.
• The situation is concerning for farmers, who may experience significant economic, social, and environmental damage, as well as psychological impacts from the constant presence of mice in their homes and farms.
• CSIRO researcher Steve Henry recommends that farmers monitor mouse activity, apply baits at seeding time, and reduce other food sources to manage the issue.
• Farmers are seeking access to higher-dose zinc phosphide (ZP) mouse baits to effectively control the problem, as the current strength available is not adequate for controlling the infestation.
UK and EU close in on agricultural deal to reduce Brexit barriers
Source: The Guardian – World
·
Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the article:
• A new agriculture agreement with the EU will reduce Brexit trade barriers, allowing for sales of Scottish langoustines and oysters to resume.
• The SPS agreement will eliminate physical checks on farm produce, veterinary certificates, and labeling requirements, but still require customs, VAT, and safety declarations.
• The UK has significant commercial leverage in talks due to its large share of EU agrifood exports, giving it a buyer's advantage; experts suggest using this leverage to negotiate alternative arrangements like mutual recognition of food standards.
• Dynamic alignment with the EU would allow for physical inspections to disappear, but proponents argue that it requires ceding regulatory authority and is not a guarantee of improved treatment for UK exporters.
AI is making farming more precise; Meet companies building circular economy
Source: Your Story
·
Here are 4 clear bullet points summarizing the news article:
• Humanoid robots have beaten human runners in a half-marathon race in Beijing, with over 100 robots participating this year compared to 20 last year.
• Research shows that users who question AI's output or scrap the result altogether show greater resilience against cognitive hijacking caused by relying too heavily on AI chatbots.
• The best-selling video game of all time depends on the platform and business model used, with Tetris selling over 520 million units across multiple platforms since 1984, while Minecraft takes the lead if considering versions.
• Artificial intelligence (AI) is being used in agriculture to drive climate control, satellite imaging, and algorithms to shape farming decisions, such as year-round strawberry cultivation in Ahmedabad.
Anthropic’s Claude Opus 4.7, explained; Steep decline in VC funding
Source: Your Story
·
Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the article:
• Worldcoin (now rebranded as "World") has updated its digital identity project, World ID, with a new "full-stack proof of human" infrastructure for consumers and enterprises.
• Meta is reportedly laying off around 8,000 employees (10% of its global workforce) later in May due to strong business performance and investments in AI-driven enhancements.
• Japan has introduced a new term, "kokushobi", which translates to "cruelly hot", "brutally hot" or "severely hot" day, for days that reach 40C or above, following its hottest summer on record in 2025.
• Indian startups saw unpredictable venture capital inflow in the third week of April, with a total funding of just $70 million across 16 deals, the lowest weekly total for the year so far.
The App Store is booming again, and AI may be why
Source: TechCrunch
·
Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the article:
• Worldwide app releases in Q1 2026 increased by 60% year-over-year, with April seeing a 104% increase compared to last year, despite concerns that AI would kill apps.
• Apple's App Store saw an even higher increase of 80% year-over-year in Q1 2026, with certain categories like "productivity", "utilities", and "lifestyle" seeing more new releases than others.
• The surge in app releases may be driven by the ease of creating apps using AI-powered tools, such as Claude Code or Replit, making it possible for creators without technical skills to design mobile software.
• Despite this growth, Apple's App Store still faces challenges, including malicious and fraudulent apps, with the company having removed or rejected over 17,000 apps in 2024 alone.
Hong Kong charity breeding Labrador with golden retriever to boost guide dog supply
Source: South China Morning Post – World
·
Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the article:
• A Hong Kong charity is breeding a Labrador with a golden retriever to fast-track guide dog supply for the blind.
• The "goldador" litter will be the charity's third local breeding initiative since its guide dog training school opened in 2022.
• Labradors are naturally friendly, obedient, and food-motivated, making them suitable for training; golden retrievers have a slightly higher IQ and are equally affectionate towards people.
• The goal is to create an "even better breed" by combining the best traits of both breeds, which are widely used as guide dogs globally.
(Weekly funding roundup April 11-17) Steep fall in VC inflow into Indian startups
Source: Your Story
·
Here are the 4 clear bullet points summarizing the news article:
• Indian startups saw a sharp decline in funding, with only $70 million raised across 16 deals in the third week of April.
• This marks the lowest weekly funding total for the year so far, and a significant drop from the previous week's $588 million.
• The uncertainty in global macroeconomic environment is mainly responsible for this uneven inflow of venture capital into Indian startups.
• Not a single deal exceeded $50 million in value, adding to the challenges faced by Indian startups that rely heavily on large funding rounds.
Are we tokenmaxxing our way to nowhere?
Source: TechCrunch
·
Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the article:
• The gap between AI insiders and outsiders is widening due to increased spending, suspicion, and new vocabulary in the field.
• OpenAI is buying up various applications, while a shoe company has rebranded as an AI infrastructure play, and Anthropic unveiled a powerful AI model.
• The podcast "Equity" discussed the week's AI headlines, including the enterprise battle between OpenAI and Anthropic, and what's being built in AI infrastructure.
• The article also mentioned various other tech news stories, such as Figma acquiring a coding app, Google training its AI through user data, and Reddit using large language models (LLMs) to solve a problem.
India’s harvest festivals under climate strain
Source: Deutsche Welle (DW) – World
·
Here are the 4 clear bullet points summarizing the news article:
• In India, climate change is disrupting spring festivals and agricultural harvests, particularly in rural areas of Punjab and Assam.
• Climate-related challenges, such as floods and hailstorms, have damaged crops in both regions, with over 135,000 acres affected in Punjab alone.
• The state's farming system faces long-standing structural problems, including groundwater depletion, excessive irrigation due to free electricity, and limited access to credit, which hinder farmers' ability to adapt to climate change.
• To address these challenges, experts suggest providing institutional support, such as shelter for farmers at markets, rethinking farming practices, and diversifying agricultural activities to ensure long-term sustainability.
Startup news and updates: daily roundup (April 17, 2026)
Source: Your Story
·
Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the news article:
• Amazon India has launched an AI Store, featuring curated products with explanations of AI capabilities, addressing growing consumer demand.
• ClearTax has been approved as an Accredited Service Provider under the UAE's e-invoicing framework, supporting enterprises in transitioning to continuous compliance using AI-driven systems.
• Bijliride, an electric mobility platform, reported revenue growth from ₹10 crore to ₹18 crore and aims to scale its fleet to 10,000 vehicles while achieving over 20% EBITDA.
• Aurionpro Solutions has launched Fintra, an AI-native trade finance platform designed to automate document-heavy banking workflows, addressing inefficiencies in trade finance and improving accuracy and governance.
Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan to visit Sri Lanka on April 19 and 20
Source: The Hindu – World
·
Here are the 4 bullet points summarizing the news article:
• Indian Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan will visit Sri Lanka on April 19-20, marking his first bilateral visit to the country.
• During his trip, he will meet with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya, and other dignitaries, as well as Indian diaspora leaders.
• The Vice President is also scheduled to meet opposition politicians, including those representing Tamil groups from Sri Lanka's north and east.
• The visit aims to reinforce the millenia-old people-to-people ties between India and Sri Lanka.
University of Liverpool, IISc back early-stage research with joint seed fund
Source: Your Story
·
Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the article:
• The University of Liverpool (UOL) and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, have launched a joint seed fund for early-stage research collaborations in AI, health, space, and biomedicine.
• The fund will co-invest annually for three years to support ideas in artificial intelligence, biomedicine, life sciences, One Health, quantum technology, and space.
• This development marks a new chapter in the partnership between UOL and IISc, building on existing ties and expertise in biochemistry and international research collaborations.
• The fund aims to foster interdisciplinary dialogue, student exchange, and sustainable engagement through joint supervision, workshops, and symposia, with the goal of making international partnerships more durable.
Reworking the economics of farming, with OpenAI in the loop
Source: Your Story
·
Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the article:
• GramIQ is a platform that helps Indian farmers track their costs and make informed decisions by providing real-time information on crop prices, weather, and government schemes.
• The platform uses OpenAI models to interpret farmer queries and generate responses in local languages, improving accuracy from 65-70% to 85-90%.
• GramIQ currently serves over 1.2 lakh farmers, with about 60-65% actively using the platform each month, and has seen measurable shifts such as a 15% decrease in cost of cultivation and nearly 20% increase in profits per acre.
• The goal is to reach 20 million farmers over the next few years, which could lead to aggregated insights that inform lending decisions, agri-input companies' operations, and government programs, ultimately making farming less uncertain for individual farmers.
Australia acts to protect winter crops with emergency Indonesian fertiliser deal
Source: South China Morning Post – World
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Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the article:
• The deal provides 20% of Australia's fertiliser needs for the planting season, a significant supplier to Southeast Asia.
• Urea prices have risen by 60% in Australia since late February, making it too expensive for some farmers.
• Farmers may reduce planting or fertiliser application due to high costs, potentially cutting crop production and global supply.
• Higher fuel costs add to farm budget pressure, which could lead to higher food prices globally.
Daily Quiz | On Martin Luther King Jr.’s letter
Source: The Hindu – World
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Here are the 4 bullet points summarizing the article:
• The Hindu offers various subscription products, including Premium Stories, Editorials, Opinions, and more, which provide account subscription benefits.
• Subscribers have access to newsletters like e-Paper, Science For All, Data Point, THEdge, Health Matters, and Gender Agenda, as well as book reviews and features.
• The publication also offers a weekly newsletter called Today's Cache, providing top 5 technology stories of the day.
• The website has migrated to a new commenting platform, requiring registered users to log in and abide by community guidelines for posting comments.
DevSparks Bengaluru 2026 returns to decode AI—and the future of developers
Source: Your Story
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Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the article:
• **DevSparks Bengaluru 2026**: YourStory's flagship developer summit returns on May 30 at Marriott Hotel Whitefield, featuring over 20 speakers and hands-on sessions focused on navigating the age of AI.
• **AI's impact on developers**: The event aims to address concerns about AI's role in software development, including its potential to replace junior developers, change coding processes, and require new skills.
• **Key themes and sessions**: DevSparks will explore agentic AI, AI integration and scale, infrastructure, cloud, and data, as well as GCCs and frontier tech, offering practical insights and actionable advice for developers.
• **Real-world application**: The event focuses on building with AI agents, improving developer productivity, and exploring career pathways, featuring speakers from across the ecosystem who bring technical depth and industry perspective.
KhetiBuddy is turning fragmented farm data into business intelligence
Source: Your Story
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Here are the 4 clear bullet points summarizing the news article:
• KhetiBuddy, a Pune-based SaaS platform, aims to solve the problem of fragmented farm data by bringing scattered information into a single, usable system.
• The platform's core features include farm management, supply chain tracking, and sustainability metrics, allowing mid-to-large-sized farm businesses to make data-driven decisions.
• KhetiBuddy has seen success with clients, including 15-20% higher crop yields and comparable cost savings through improved forecasting and proactive operations.
• The company is positioned in the global farm management software market, which is projected to grow at a CAGR of 17.3% from $4.18 billion in 2024 to $10.58 billion by 2030.
Using data to improve farming; Diversity engine for innovation
Source: Your Story
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Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the news article:
• Meta is reportedly building an AI version of its founder Mark Zuckerberg that can engage with employees in his stead, using photorealistic, AI-powered 3D characters.
• SoftBank has established a new company to develop AI models that can control robots, with partners like NEC, Sony, and Honda each holding a 10% stake.
• Luxury brands in Dubai and Abu Dhabi are experiencing a decline in sales due to tensions in West Asia, with some top brands reporting drops of up to 50% at the Mall of the Emirates.
• KhetiBuddy, a Pune-based SaaS platform, aims to improve data usability for farm businesses by providing a multi-modular solution that integrates fragmented information and simplifies decision-making.
This man has built a vegetable cooling crate that works without electricity
Source: Times of India – World
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Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the article:
• The TOI Lifestyle Desk is a team of dedicated journalists.
• They curate lifestyle news for The Times of India readers with passion and commitment.
• The desk goes beyond the obvious, exploring extraordinary topics.
• It's a one-stop destination for inspiration, information, and an enriching lifestyle experience.
Using tech to bridge rural agri knowledge gap; Meta and CoreWeave’s $21B AI deal
Source: Your Story
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Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the article:
• Nandan Reddy, co-founder of Swiggy, will step down from the company's board to pursue independent ventures, as Swiggy reorganizes itself after listing.
• Intel and Google have signed a multiyear collaboration to develop and refine building blocks for cloud computing and AI systems, with Google Cloud continuing to use Intel's Xeon processors.
• India has reached a major milestone in its civil nuclear program with the Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) at Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu, ranking among the top five countries working on nuclear ambitions.
• Technology companies Meta and CoreWeave are expanding their relationship, with Meta committing $21 billion to buy AI computing capacity from CoreWeave, building on a 2023 master services contract.
A platform for home chefs; Agritech’s post-boom correction
Source: Your Story
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Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the news article:
• Anthropic has developed an advanced AI model that is too potent for public release, so it will be shared only with select industry partners to prevent misuse and allow for necessary safeguards.
• KreditBee, a Bengaluru-based fintech startup, has raised $280 million in Series E funding, achieving unicorn status with a post-money valuation of $1.5 billion, which will be used to grow its lending portfolio, enter new markets, and boost AI capabilities.
• Venture debt funding for Indian startups grew 12% in 2025, reaching $1.38 billion across 187 deals, compared to $1.23 billion from 238 transactions in 2024.
• Greece is set to ban social media access for children under the age of 15 from January 1, 2027, following similar moves by Australia, Slovenia, Britain, Austria, and Spain due to concerns about rising anxiety, sleep problems, and addictive behavior.
Startup news and updates: Daily Roundup (April 9, 2026)
Source: Your Story
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Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the article:
• VirtueLife, an Ahmedabad-based startup co-founded by Yogesh Patel and Ruby Patel, aims to make home-based rehabilitation more structured, guided, and accessible through a platform combining video guidance, clinician tools, and AI-assisted planning.
• Astranova Mobility, an EV financing and asset management platform, has raised Rs 60 crore in a Series A funding round led by IvyCap Ventures to deepen its data, AI, and engineering capabilities and expand its services for electric vehicles.
• DAAKit, a hyperlocal fulfilment and last-mile logistics startup, has raised $138,000 in a pre-seed round to launch dark stores, expand across Tier I and II cities, strengthen its technology stack, and build leadership teams, with plans to grow to nearly 500,000 monthly orders in the near term.
• Alia Bhatt has been appointed as the brand ambassador for Myntra and its beauty vertical, Myntra Beauty, to drive customer engagement through value-led offerings across beauty categories, marking a strategic partnership aimed at sharpening Myntra's positioning in India's fast-growing fashion and personal care market.
John Deere Is Paying Farmers $99 Million for Allegedly Monopolizing Repair
Source: Wired
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Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the article:
• John Deere has agreed to pay $99 million in a settlement to a class action lawsuit filed by its customers, who accused the company of restricting access to tools and repairs for its tractors and equipment.
• The settlement requires John Deere to make repair tools and services more widely available for at least 10 years, and the money will be distributed to farmers who can prove they paid for dealership repairs since 2018.
• Repair advocates estimate that the company's restrictions have cost farmers around $4.2 billion in lost profits, with some estimates suggesting overcharging for equipment repairs alone has cost between $190 million and $387 million.
• While the settlement is a significant step forward, repair advocates are skeptical of John Deere's commitment to making changes, citing a history of broken promises and potential loopholes that could allow the company to revert back to its current practices after 10 years.
Top Nomad Goods Promo Codes: Get 25% Off in April 2026
Source: Wired
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Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the article:
• Nomad is offering discounts on various accessories, including iPhone cases, wireless chargers, and more, with up to 80% off.
• Some WIRED-approved items on sale include the Traditional Leather Case for iPhone 16, Nomad Universal Cable, and Modern Leather Case for AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) and iPad Pro.
• For travel essentials, use promo code TRAVELTEN for 10% off your next purchase, and consider accessories like Passport Wallet, Rugged 45-mm Case, and Sport Band for Apple Watch.
• Nomad also offers a community program with perks like exclusive access to product drops and bonuses, including a free gift of a USB-C ChargeKey for new community members.
Irrigreen Smart Irrigation System 3.0 (2026) Review: Smart Watering, Less Hassle
Source: Wired
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Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the article:
• **Upgraded features**: Irrigreen's third-generation smart irrigation system now supports drip irrigation valves, allowing for more efficient watering. It also comes with updated sprinkler heads that are self-cleaning and offer improved precision.
• **Installation complexity**: While the system is easy to set up, it requires professional installation due to complex tubing, wiring, and connectors. The article recommends hiring a pro unless you have experience with plumbing and DIY projects.
• **Controller and app functionality**: The Irrigreen controller offers basic controls for manual operation, but the app is required for most features, including mapping your yard, setting watering schedules, and using auto water technology.
• **Performance and issues**: The system has seen improvements in precision and control, thanks to new pressure-sensing features. However, some users may encounter issues with firmware updates, as experienced during this review.
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