In a major push to reduce reliance on imports, the government has launched the 'Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses' under the Union Budget 2025. The six-year initiative focuses on boosting domestic production of key pulses like tur (pigeon pea), urad (black gram), and masoor (red lentil). The mission aims to transform pulse farming by providing climate-resilient seeds, improved storage facilities, and assured procurement at fair prices. It is expected to strengthen farmers financially and enhance India’s food security, paving the way for self-sufficiency in pulse production.
Key Highlights of the 'Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses'
The six-year plan will introduce several farmer-centric initiatives to boost production and economic stability in the sector. These include:
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Enhanced Procurement: The government will procure a maximum quantity of tur, urad, and masoor through central agencies over the next four years, ensuring that farmers get a stable and fair price for their produce.
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Improved Seeds and Productivity: High-quality, climate-friendly seeds will be distributed to farmers to increase productivity and enhance protein content in pulses, improving nutritional security.
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Modern Storage Facilities: Post-harvest losses will be minimized by expanding storage infrastructure, allowing farmers to store their produce longer and sell at the right time for better returns.
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Fair Minimum Support Price (MSP): Farmers will be guaranteed an attractive MSP, ensuring stability in pulse prices and reducing their economic risks.
Direct Benefits to Farmers
This ambitious initiative is a game-changer for Indian farmers. Especially to those growing tur, urad, and masoor. With government-backed procurement and better storage options, they will have more financial security and greater control over market fluctuations. The distribution of climate-resilient seeds will further help them combat environmental challenges and increase overall yield.
The stabilization of pulse prices will also help consumers by maintaining a stable supply of pulses at reasonable prices in the domestic market. To decrease dependence on pulse imports, this initiative is going to further enhance the agricultural sector of the nation and, thereby, long-term economic growth.
A Step Towards Agricultural Self-Sufficiency
This 'Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses' will be an important strategic move from the government side toward achieving self-sufficiency in pulse production and towards protecting farmers from price fluctuations and market uncertainties. This will not only improve agricultural productivity but also nutritional security in the country.
With this landmark scheme, the government has taken a significant step toward strengthening the agricultural economy, ensuring food security, and making India truly self-reliant in pulse production.
