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Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses
The Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses is in the news as early momentum is observed in bridging policy intent and ground-level execution. The Mission provides for measures to boost domestic pulses production and achieve self-sufficiency over a defined implementation period.
About the Mission:
| Dimension | Key Details |
|---|---|
| Implementation period | Applies for a 6-year period from 2025-26 to 2030-31. |
| Outcome focus | Provides for reducing import dependence and sustainably improving farmers’ incomes through enhanced domestic production. |
| Area expansion target | Mandates expanding pulses cultivation area by an additional 35 lakh hectares, targeting rice fallows and other suitable lands, and promoting intercropping and crop diversification. |
| Comprehensive strategy components | Comprises research, seed systems, area expansion, procurement, and price stability. |
| Quality seed focus | Provides for development and dissemination of high-yielding, pest-resistant, and climate-resilient pulses varieties, supported by a robust seed system. |
| Certified seeds and seed kits | Mandates production and distribution of 126 lakh quintals of certified seeds and the free provision of 88 lakh seed kits to farmers. |
| State seed production planning | Authorises states to prepare 5-year rolling seed production plans to ensure availability of premium quality seeds. |
| Breeder seed supervision | Regulates breeder seed production to be supervised by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). |
| Capacity building | Provides for structured training programmes for farmers and seed growers to promote sustainable techniques and modern technologies. |
| Post-harvest infrastructure | Mandates development of 1000 processing units to reduce crop losses and improve value addition. |
| Subsidy for processing and packaging units | Provides for a maximum subsidy of ₹25 lakhs for setting up processing and packaging units. |
| Cluster-based approach | Comprises tailoring interventions to the specific needs of each cluster to enhance productivity and promote geographic diversification of pulse production. |
| Procurement coverage | Provides for assured maximum procurement of Tur, Urad, and Masoor under the Price Support Scheme (PSS) of PM-AASHA. |
| Procurement agencies and extent | Mandates NAFED and NCCF to undertake 100% procurement in participating states for the next 4 years from farmers who register with these agencies and enter into agreements. |