A comprehensive set of programs and investments aimed at enhancing productivity, sustainability, and infrastructure in the agriculture sector.
Arjoon R, AB News, New Delhi: In a crucial effort to revitalize and support India’s agricultural sector, the Government of India has introduced a series of new policy initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of farmers. During a recent session in Lok Sabha, Minister of State for Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Shri Ram Nath Thakur, provided insights into these initiatives, which encompass enhanced funding and a commitment to sustainable agricultural practices.
SUPPORTING STATE EFFORTS
Recognizing that agriculture is primarily a State subject, the Indian government emphasizes its role in supporting state governments through strategic policy measures and budgetary allocations. These initiatives are designed to bolster productivity, ensure remunerative returns, and provide income support to farmers across the nation.
KEY INITIATIVES UNVEILED
1. Clean Plant Programme (CPP): Launched on August 9, 2024, with an outlay of ₹1,765.67 crore, this program is aimed at improving the quality and yield of horticulture crops. The CPP focuses on providing disease-free planting materials and promoting climate-resilient varieties, thereby enhancing productivity for farmers.
2. Digital Agriculture Mission: Approved on September 2, 2024, with a total budget of ₹2,817 crore, this mission aims to harness technology in agriculture. It will support the establishment of digital public infrastructure, including the Digital General Crop Estimation Survey (DGCES), to improve data accuracy and accessibility for farmers, state governments, and research institutions.
3. Agriculture Infrastructure Fund Expansion: On August 28, 2024, the Union Cabinet endorsed the progressive expansion of the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) to bolster agricultural infrastructure. This initiative broadens the scope of eligible projects and incorporates supportive measures for building community farming assets, which are vital for local farming communities.
4. National Mission on Edible Oils – Oilseeds (NMEO-Oilseeds): Aiming to boost domestic oilseed production, this mission was announced on October 3, 2024, with a total outlay of **₹10,103 crore. Spanning from 2024-25 to 2030-31, it seeks to achieve self-reliance in edible oils, reducing dependency on imports.
5. National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF): Approved on November 25, 2024, as a standalone scheme, the NMNF has an allocation of ₹2,481 crore aimed at promoting sustainable and eco-friendly agricultural practices through natural farming.
ADDITIONAL PROGRAMS FOR 2024-25
The government is also rolling out several noteworthy programs, furthering its commitment to agricultural advancement:
– National Pest Surveillance System (NPSS): To monitor and control agricultural pests effectively.
– AgriSURE: An Agri Fund targeted at stimulating startups and rural enterprises in the agricultural domain.
– Krishi Nivesh Portal (Phase-I): A digital platform designed to enhance investment in the agricultural sector.
– Krishi-DSS Portal: A geospatial platform that integrates data to provide actionable insights for farmers.
– Voluntary Carbon Market (VCM): An initiative aimed at promoting sustainable agricultural practices through carbon credit trading.
These policies reflect the Government of India’s commitment to enhancing agricultural productivity, supporting farmers’ welfare, and promoting sustainable practices. By investing in infrastructure, technology, and sustainable farming methods, the government aims to secure the livelihoods of millions of farmers while advancing the broader agricultural landscape. As these initiatives unfold, they promise to foster a more robust and resilient agricultural sector capable of meeting the challenges of the future.
