PULSES PRODUCTION IN INDIA (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Economy)

Context: Recently, the Union government has initiated the crafting of a scheme to enhance domestic production of pulses, particularly targeting select states. 

• This effort comes at a time when recently erratic weather patterns and the allure of more remunerative crops have prompted many farmers to shift away from these essential kitchen staples.

Indian Mission for Self-Sufficiency in Pulse Production

• Aim: To lift production, meet buffer norms, and end import dependency.
• States: Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, Telangana and Karnataka.
• Implementing Agency: National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India (Nafed)
• NAFED to preregister farmers, and buy their entire produce.
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Agriculture
• They will integrate elements of the existing Price Support Scheme (PSS) and the Price Stabilisation Fund (PSF).

Pulses Production in India

• India is the largest producer (25% of global production), consumer (27% of world consumption) and importer (14%) of pulses in the world.
• Additionally, pulses cover approximately 20% of the foodgrain cultivation area and contribute around 7-10% to the overall foodgrain production within the country.
• Top States: Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Karnataka.