In News:

In an effort to streamline and accelerate investments in India’s agriculture and allied sectors, the Government of India has launched the Krishi Nivesh Portal, developed by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare.

The initiative aligns with the government’s broader goal of promoting the ease of doing business in agriculture by integrating schemes from multiple Central ministries and State governments into a single digital platform.

Key Features of the Portal

• One-Stop Solution: The portal acts as a centralized hub providing real-time access to information on agricultural schemes from various government departments and ministries.
• Multi-Stakeholder Access: It is designed to cater to farmers, entrepreneurs, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), industries, and agri-startups.
• Scheme Integration: As of now, the portal integrates 17 flagship schemes spanning seven Union Ministries, including:
  • Agriculture Infrastructure Fund
  • Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund
  • PM KisanSampada Yojana
  • PM-KUSUM
• Technological Features: It offers a user-friendly interface, chatbot support, and interactive dashboards for data-driven insights and monitoring.
• Investment Tracking: Users can track application status, explore investment opportunities based on geographical spread, and gain assistance with loan disbursal.

Institutional Integration

• Currently, 14 Union ministries/departments and 9 state government departments are involved in implementing schemes related to agriculture and allied sectors.
• Ministries already integrated include:
  • Ministry of Agriculture
  • Ministry of Food Processing Industries
  • Ministry of Rural Development
  • Ministry of Jal Shakti
  • Ministry of New and Renewable Energy
  • Ministry of Fertilisers

Efforts are underway to onboard over 300 schemes from various ministries and states, including those related to credit-linked initiatives, PPP models, venture capital projects, and startups.

Significance for Agricultural Sector

• The portal addresses key challenges such as fragmented scheme information, siloed departmental operations, and delays in loan processing.
• It aims to unlock the investment potential of India’s agri-sector, especially for private investors, by offering a consolidated, transparent, and accessible interface.
• According to official estimates:
  • The revised budget allocation for FY 2024–25 for agricultural investment schemes stands at ?1.31 lakh crore.
  • In FY 2021–22, private sector investment in agriculture amounted to ?2.79 lakh crore.

In News:

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has launched two major global initiatives to advance inclusive and sustainable agrifood systems:

• “Four Betters Courses” Initiative – To revolutionize agrifood systems education
• “Commit to Grow Equality” Initiative – To bridge the gender gap in agrifood sectors

1. Four Betters Courses Initiative

• Launched: October 2024 during the World Food Forum
• Objective: To integrate FAO’s expertise into global agrifood systems education through partnerships with universities and academic networks.
• Alignment: Anchored in the FAO Strategic Framework 2022–2031

Core Philosophy – The “Four Betters” Approach:

1. Better Production – Promote efficient, inclusive, and resilient food systems
2. Better Nutrition – Ensure access to safe, nutritious, and affordable diets
3. Better Environment – Address climate change and protect ecosystems
4. Better Life – Improve rural livelihoods and reduce inequalities

• Delivery Platform: Implemented through the FAO eLearning Academy, which provides over 600 multilingual, certified courses.

2. Commit to Grow Equality (CGE) Initiative

• Launched: 2024 on the platform of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA)
• Objective: To narrow the gender gap in agrifood systems and enhance women’s empowerment, especially in rural areas.

Key Highlights:

• Aims to benefit over 54 million women worldwide
• Mobilizes $1 billion in investments toward gender-responsive agrifood initiatives
• Provides strategic tools for tracking gender equality outcomes in public and private sectors
• Promotes gender-aligned national agricultural policies
• Facilitates evidence-based policymaking and fosters collaboration across governments, NGOs, and the private sector

In News:

India faces growing global pressure to liberalise its agricultural markets amidst trade negotiations, FTAs, and WTO commitments. At the same time, ensuring food security and protecting rural livelihoods remains a domestic priority.

Benefits of Global Trade Integration

• Export Revenue Growth: Enhanced access to global markets has increased agri-exports.E.g., India’s agricultural exports to the US were worth $8.4 billion.
• Technology & Investment Inflow: FTAs can attract agri-tech innovations and cold-chain infrastructure.E.g., partnerships with developed nations enable modernisation of storage and logistics.
• Market Efficiency: Global competition improves price discovery and benefits quality producers.
• Geopolitical Leverage: Trade agreements strengthen India’s role in forums like the WTO and BRICS.
• Input Security via Diversified Imports: Import of essentials like palm oil and fertilisers protects supply chains. E.g., Indonesia’s 2022 palm oil export ban highlighted India’s vulnerability.

Importance of Domestic Food Security

• Rural Livelihoods: Agriculture employs ~42% of the workforce, primarily small and marginal farmers.Over 100 million dairy farmers depend on protective tariffs.
• Nutrition and Price Stability: Domestic self-sufficiency guards against global price shocks.
• Reduced Import Dependence: A strong domestic base cushions India during crises.E.g., Ukraine war caused a spike in fertiliser prices, exposing dependency.
• Political and Strategic Stability: Ensures rural harmony and policy autonomy.

Challenges of Trade Liberalisation

• Subsidy Imbalances: Developed nations offer massive farm subsidies.E.g., US farm aid of $10 billion distorts global price competitiveness.
• FTA Pressures: Demands from countries like New Zealand to lower dairy tariffs threaten Indian farmers.
• WTO Constraints: India’s MSP system faces scrutiny under global trade rules.
• Illegal Imports: Despite bans, cheap imports like Chinese garlic infiltrate markets, undermining domestic prices.
• Retaliatory Tariffs: India’s high tariffs invite reciprocal duties.E.g., the US “reciprocal tariff” policy under Trump era.

Macroeconomic Risks

• Rural Unemployment: Liberalisation could displace small-scale farmers.
• Trade Deficit Worsening: Import liberalisation without export flexibility can widen the deficit.
• Revenue Loss: Tariff cuts may reduce fiscal space for welfare schemes.
• Exposure to Global Shocks:E.g., Ukraine war disrupted fertiliser supply; Indonesia’s ban hiked edible oil prices by 27% in India.

Way Forward

India must adopt a calibrated, strategic approach:

• Selective Liberalisation: Lower tariffs only in non-sensitive sectors while safeguarding essential crops.
• Investment-Oriented FTAs: Prioritise infrastructure, tech transfer, and rural development over tariff cuts.
• Domestic Strengthening: Boost agri-logistics, seed innovation, and food processing capabilities.
• Trade Vigilance: Strengthen customs and surveillance to prevent substandard or banned imports.
• WTO Reforms: Advocate for fair subsidy norms and transparent trade rules.

In News:

The Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan is a nationwide agricultural outreach and awareness initiative being launched by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare from May 29 to June 12, 2025.

The campaign is part of the government’s vision of “Viksit Bharat” and seeks to empower farmers through the dissemination of modern agricultural knowledge, technologies, and innovations across India.

Key Objectives and Vision

• Enhance agricultural productivity, improve farmer incomes, and ensure national food security.
• Promote modern, sustainable, and scientific farming practices aligned with the Prime Minister’s Lab-to-Land vision.
• Strengthen agriculture’s contribution to making India the “Food Basket of the World.”

Campaign Features

• Coverage: 700+ districts, 65,000+ villages, targeting 1.3–1.5 crore farmers
• Organized by: Ministry of Agriculture, ICAR, agricultural universities, and state governments
• Teams Deployed: ~2,170 expert teams with scientists, officials, FPOs, and progressive farmers
• Sessions Held: Morning, afternoon, and evening village-level meetings daily
• Format: Two-way interaction for knowledge dissemination and farmer feedback

Strategic Focus Areas

• Lab-to-Land Technology Transfer:Dissemination of ICAR research, advanced seed varieties, scientific sowing practices, and balanced fertilizer use through 731 Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs).
• Farm Productivity and Resource Use Efficiency:Recommendations based on Soil Health Cards, agro-climatic conditions, water availability, and rainfall data to reduce input costs and promote sustainable practices.
• Farmer Empowerment and Inclusivity:Addressing field-level challenges like pest infestation, enabling participatory feedback loops for future agricultural research.
• Six-Point Strategy by Ministry:
  • Increase agricultural output
  • Lower production costs
  • Ensure fair pricing for farmers
  • Compensate disaster-related losses
  • Promote crop diversification and value addition
  • Encourage natural and organic farming

Notable Achievements and Data

• Record Agricultural Output (2024–25):
  • Foodgrains: 3309.18 lakh tonnes (up from 3157.74 lakh tonnes in 2023–24)
  • Pulses: 230.22 lakh tonnes
  • Oilseeds: 416 lakh tonnes
  • Kharif Rice: 1206.79 lakh tonnes
  • Wheat: 1154.30 lakh tonnes
  • Maize: 248.11 lakh tonnes
  • Groundnut: 104.26 lakh tonnes
  • Soybean: 151.32 lakh tonnes
• Over 16,000 agricultural scientists are contributing to real-time research translation to the field.

Latest Winner

• Recipient: Mariangela Hungria, a microbiologist from Brazil.
• Achievement: Recognized for her groundbreaking research in biological seed and soil treatments that improve crop nutrition and yields.
• Her innovations reduce the dependency on chemical fertilizers by helping crops derive nutrients through soil microbes, enhancing sustainable agricultural practices.

About the World Food Prize

• Nature of the Award: A prestigious international honour for outstanding contributions to the global food system.
• Often referred to as the “Nobel Prize for Food and Agriculture.”

Objectives

• Recognizes exceptional efforts in improving the quality, quantity, and accessibility of food worldwide.
• Contributions can come from fields such as:
  • Agricultural science & technology
  • Food production and nutrition
  • Economics, policy, marketing
  • Poverty reduction & social science
  • Leadership in food security initiatives

Establishment

• Founded in: 1986 by Dr. Norman E. Borlaug, Nobel Peace Prize laureate (1970) and father of the Green Revolution.
• Administered by: The World Food Prize Foundation, with support from public and private sector partners.

Award Details

• Prize Amount: $500,000
• Award Ceremony: Held annually in Des Moines, Iowa, USA, during the Borlaug Dialogue and around World Food Day (October 16).

Historical Note

• India’s Contribution: Renowned agricultural scientist M.S. Swaminathan was the first recipient of the World Food Prize in 1987.
• Honoured for introducing high-yielding wheat and rice varieties in India during the 1960s, contributing to food self-sufficiency.

In News:

On Earth Day 2025 (April 22), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations launched the AIM4NatuRe (Accelerating Innovative Monitoring for Nature Restoration) initiative with funding from the United Kingdom (GBP 7 million / USD 9.38 million).

Key Highlights:

• The programme aims to enhance countries’ capacities to monitor and report ecosystem restoration as part of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF).
• Objective: To support Target 2 of the Global Biodiversity Framework:Restore at least 30% of degraded ecosystems globally by 2030.
• Key Features
  • Lead Agency: FAO (United Nations)
  • Funding:
    • GBP 7 million from the UK (approx. USD 9.38 million)
    • Project duration: 2025–2028
  • Scope of Restoration:
    • Forests
    • Wetlands
    • Grasslands
    • Marine ecosystems
    • Degraded agricultural lands
  • Technology Integration:
    • Uses satellite tools, data analysis, and advanced monitoring systems
    • Promotes standardized data formats and data interoperability
  • Monitoring Support Tools:
    • Introduces the Framework for Ecosystem Restoration Monitoring (FERM)
    • Provides technical guidance and capacity development training
  • Inclusivity & Indigenous Participation:
    • Pilot projects in Brazil and Peru
    • Supports Indigenous Peoples in biocentric monitoring — respecting traditional knowledge and holistic ecosystem restoration

Why It Matters

• Global Restoration Commitments: Nearly 1 billion hectares pledged for restoration
• Transparency & Accountability:
  • Creation of a harmonized global dataset
  • Public tracking of progress toward restoration goals
• Bridging Gaps:
  • Responds to 80% of countries reporting lack of monitoring capacity (CBD survey)
  • Provides tools and training for effective implementation and reporting
• Broader Goals:
  • Tackles climate change, biodiversity loss, and land degradation
  • Enhances food security and livelihoods

In News:

The diversity of plant genetic resources for food and agriculture was under growing threat as despite 6,000 plant species cultivated, 60 per cent of the global crop production was alarmingly dependent on just nine crops, an important report by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

Key Highlights:

• Released by:Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), under the Commission on Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (CGRFA-20).
• Crop Dependency & Diversity:
  • 60% of global crop production is dependent on just 9 crops:Sugarcane, Maize, Rice, Wheat, Potatoes, Soybeans, Oil Palm Fruit, Sugar Beet, Cassava.
  • Though 6,000 plant species are cultivated globally, there is a rising loss of genetic diversity, increasing vulnerability to climate shocks and food insecurity.
• Farmers’ Varieties / Landraces (FV/LRs):
  • Traditional crop varieties adapted to local conditions, offering greater resilience to climate, pests, and diseases.
  • Globally, 6% of FV/LRs are threatened; this figure exceeds 18% in some regions like Southern Africa, the Caribbean, and Western Asia.
  • In India, over 50% of FV/LRs across five agro-ecological zones are at risk of extinction.
• Conservation Efforts
  • In-situ (on-farm): Around 35 million hectares in 51 countries are under cultivation with FV/LRs.
    • 42% of plant taxa are threatened at species or varietal level.
  • Ex-situ (off-farm):
    • Over 5.9 million accessions preserved globally.
    • Many stored in the Svalbard Global Seed Vault.
    • Conservation is constrained by funding, political support, infrastructure, and skilled personnel shortages.

India-Specific Initiative

• Seed Hub Initiative (2016) by the Ministry of Agriculture:
  • Aimed at promoting high-yielding varieties (HYVs) of pulses.
  • Resulted in increased production from 14.76 million tonnes (2007–08) to 24.42 million tonnes (2020–21).

Impact of Climate Change

• Increasing frequency of extreme weather events threatens crop diversity.
• Countries lack mechanisms to assess disaster impacts on crop genetics.
• Post-disaster germplasm distribution often suffers due to poor seed adaptation to local agro-climatic and cultural contexts.

Key Challenges

• Genetic erosion due to monoculture, urbanization, and climate stress.
• Underfunded gene banks and weak institutional capacity.
• Lack of trained plant genetic experts and documentation gaps.
• Limited access to locally adapted seeds, especially post-disaster.

Way Forward

• Integrate in-situ and ex-situ conservation with community participation.
• Enhance funding and explore public-private partnerships.
• Build capacity in taxonomy, plant breeding, and genebank management.
• Promote participatory breeding with farmers and Indigenous communities.
• Strengthen policy support for crop diversification and climate-resilient agriculture.

About CGRFA

• Established: 1983 by FAO.
• Mandate: Only intergovernmental body focusing on sustainable use of agricultural biodiversity.
• Membership: 179 countries + European Union.
• Major Achievement:Instrumental in adoption of International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA), 2001.

In News:

In a major policy and scientific initiative, the Government of India is transforming the Northeast into the country’s next saffron cultivation hub, following the successful model of Jammu & Kashmir’s Pampore. The development is being led by the North East Centre for Technology Application and Reach (NECTAR), an autonomous body under the Department of Science and Technology (DST).

Mission Saffron and the Saffron Bowl Project

Originally launched in 2010–11 for Jammu and Kashmir, Mission Saffron was expanded to the Northeast in 2021 through the Saffron Bowl Project. The initiative now promotes saffron cultivation in Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, and Meghalaya, with further expansion planned for Nagaland and Manipur.

Saffron, derived from the stigmas of Crocus sativus, requires high-altitude (approx. 2000m), well-drained loamy or calcareous soils, and a dry to temperate climate. These agro-climatic conditions are present in parts of the Northeast, making it a viable region for saffron farming.

NECTAR’s Role in Agri-Tech and Regional Development

Established in 2014, NECTAR is driving technology-based interventions in agriculture, infrastructure, and economic development across the Northeastern states. The foundation stone for its permanent campus in Shillong was laid in March 2025 by Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, marking a significant boost for scientific infrastructure in the region.

NECTAR's notable initiatives include:

• Saffron cultivation under the Saffron Bowl Project.
• Use of drone technology for land mapping under the Swamitva Yojana.
• Promotion of bamboo-based industries and honey production.
• Supporting indigenous technologies for sustainable rural development.

The Shillong campus is envisioned as a Centre of Excellence for advanced technological demonstrations and skill development, helping bridge last-mile gaps in technology adoption.

Significance for India’s Development

The Northeast is integral to India's aim of becoming a developed nation by 2047. Improvements in connectivity—roads, railways, and air links—have laid the groundwork for economic and scientific transformation in the region. The government sees the Northeast as a key growth frontier to unlock the country’s untapped potential.

In News:

Punjab's cotton sector is facing a severe crisis due to increasing pest infestations and declining yields. In response, there is a rising demand for advanced genetically modified (GM) cotton varieties, particularly Bollgard-3, ahead of the 2025 sowing season.

Key Facts:

Decline in Cotton Cultivation in Punjab:

• Cotton acreage in Punjab has drastically declined from ~8 lakh hectares (1990s) to just 1 lakh hectares (2024).
• The ginning industry has also shrunk — only 22 ginning units remain functional, down from 422 in 2004.
• The main causes are whitefly (2015–16) and pink bollworm (2018–19) infestations.

About Bollgard Series of Bt Cotton:

Version                      Introduced in India             Features

Bollgard-1                2002                                     Contains Cry1Ac gene — limited pest resistance

Bollgard-2               2006                                     Added Cry2Ab gene — wider pest control, still ineffective against

                                                                               whiteflies and pink bollworms

Bollgard-3               Not approved in India       Contains Cry1Ac, Cry2Ab, and Vip3A — effective against

                                                                                 lepidopteran pests like pink bollworm

• Bollgard-3, developed by Monsanto, offers enhanced pest resistance, but remains unapproved in India despite global usage.
• Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) is a soil-dwelling bacterium used in GM crops for pest resistance by producing insecticidal proteins.

Alternative in Pipeline – BG-2RRF:

• Bollgard-2 Roundup Ready Flex (BG-2RRF) is aherbicide-tolerant GM cotton variety pending final regulatory approval in India.
• Enables better weed control and potentially reduces pest hosts, boosting yield.  

• Field trials for BG-2RRF were conducted in 2012–13, but commercial approval remains pending.
• Experts argue that regulatory hurdles are delaying the adoption of next-generation GM seed technologies, affecting India's cotton competitiveness.

Current Agronomic Recommendations:

• In absence of new GM varieties, experts suggest:
  • High-density planting
  • Drip fertigation
  • Proper seeding and mulching
• However, pest management remains a critical issue under current practices.

Comparative Global Context:

• Countries like Brazil are using Bollgard-5, achieving yields of 2400 kg/ha, compared to 450 kg/ha in India.
• India's profit margin from cotton is just 15%, whereas Brazil enjoys 85% margins due to advanced biotech adoption.

In News:

Microsoft Chairman Satya Nadella recently showcased the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Indian agriculture through Project Farm Vibes in Baramati, Maharashtra, where AI-driven techniques led to a 40% increase in crop yields while reducing resource consumption significantly.

What is Project Farm Vibes?

Developed by Microsoft Research in collaboration with the Agricultural Development Trust, Baramati, Project Farm Vibes is an open-sourced AI suite aimed at making farming more data-driven, efficient, and sustainable.
Key Technologies:

• Azure Data Manager for Agriculture: Aggregates satellite imagery, weather data, and sensor inputs for a complete view of field conditions.
• FarmVibes.AI: Analyzes soil moisture, temperature, humidity, and pH to offer precise, AI-driven farming recommendations.
• Agripilot.AI: Provides real-time, localized, and personalized farming advice, including in regional languages.

Impact:

• 40% increase in crop production with healthier crops.
• 25% reduction in fertilizer costs through precision spot fertilization.
• 50% decrease in water usage, promoting sustainable irrigation.
• 12% reduction in post-harvest wastage, improving profitability.
• Environmental gains through reduced chemical runoff, soil erosion, deforestation, and greenhouse gas emissions.

How is AI Revolutionizing Indian Agriculture?

• Smart Irrigation:
  • AI-based soil and climate analysis optimizes irrigation.
  • Schemes like "Per Drop More Crop" are integrating AI with drip and sprinkler systems.
  • IoT-driven irrigation systems by ICAR automate water supply based on real-time data.
• Pest and Weed Control:
  • The National Pest Surveillance System uses AI to detect pests early and issue real-time alerts.
  • AI-enabled computer vision distinguishes between crops and weeds, minimizing herbicide use.
• Economic Impact:
  • The AI in agriculture market is projected to grow from USD 1.7 billion (2023) to USD 4.7 billion (2028) at a CAGR of 23.1%.
  • Tools like Kisan e-Mitra, an AI chatbot, are improving farmer access to government schemes like PM-Kisan.

Challenges in AI Adoption

• Lack of Awareness: Limited digital literacy in rural areas hampers effective use.
• High Costs: Expensive AI tools like drones and IoT devices are unaffordable for small and marginal farmers (85% of farming community).
• Infrastructure Gaps: Poor internet connectivity; over 25,000 villages lack mobile/internet access.
• Data Issues: AI needs accurate, real-time agricultural data, which is often missing or unreliable.
• Limited Customization: Generic AI models fail to address India's diverse agro-climatic conditions, requiring localized solutions.

Way Forward

• Strengthening Data Frameworks: Utilize platforms like AgriStack and IDEA for integrated farm data management.
• Develop Region-Specific Solutions: Leverage National AI Centres of Excellence to create localized AI applications.
• Improving Digital Infrastructure: Expand PM-WANI and BharatNet to enhance rural connectivity.
• Farmer Skilling and Awareness: Scale initiatives like NeGPA and FutureSkills PRIME for farmer education in digital technologies.
• Financial Support: Promote subsidized loans and investments through the Digital Agriculture Mission (2021-2025) to empower agri-tech startups and farmer cooperatives.

In News:

Context:
The Government of India has approved the continuation of the PM-AASHA Scheme till 2025–26, aligning with the 15th Finance Commission cycle, to strengthen farmer income security and achieve self-sufficiency in pulses production.

Overview of PM-AASHA Scheme

• Launched by: Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare
• Objective: To ensure remunerative prices to farmers and stabilize market prices of key crops.
• Type: Umbrella scheme combining various price support mechanisms.

Key Components

• Price Support Scheme (PSS)
  • Procurement of pulses, oilseeds, and copra at Minimum Support Prices (MSP) through NAFED and NCCF.
  • Covers 25% of national production, except for 100% procurement of Tur, Urad, and Masur during 2024–25 and extended for the next four years.
  • Procurement is done from pre-registered farmers through State-level agencies.
• Price Deficiency Payment Scheme (PDPS)
  • Farmers receive direct payments for the shortfall between the MSP and market price.
  • Covers 40% of oilseed production for a duration of four months.
• Price Stabilization Fund (PSF)
  • Maintains buffer stocks of pulses and onions.
  • Aims to stabilize prices, prevent hoarding, and ensure affordable supply for consumers.
• Market Intervention Scheme (MIS)
  • Provides price support for perishable horticultural crops.
  • Covers 25% of production with direct financial transfers to farmers, not physical procurement.

Recent Developments (2025)

• Procurement Commitment:The Union Government announced 100% procurement of Tur (Arhar), Urad, and Masur under PSS for 2024–25, extended for four years, to reduce import dependence and promote self-sufficiency.
• Tur Procurement Approval:Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan approved procurement of 13.22 Lakh Metric Tonnes (LMT) of Tur for Kharif 2024–25 in 9 states:
  Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Haryana, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Telangana, and Uttar Pradesh.
• Procurement Progress(as of 15 Feb 2025):
  • 0.15 LMT of Tur procured from Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Telangana.
  • 12,006 farmers have benefited so far.
  • Procurement in remaining states will commence shortly.
  • Central procurement is conducted by NAFED and NCCF.

In News:

Announced in Union Budget 2025, the Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (PMDKY) aims to boost agricultural productivity, sustainability, and rural income in India’s lagging agricultural regions.

Inspired by the Aspirational Districts Programme (ADP), PMDKY targets 100 districts marked by low productivity, moderate cropping intensity, and limited credit access, benefiting approximately 1.7 crore farmers.

Key Highlights:

Objectives:

• Enhancing Agricultural Productivity:Promote scientific techniques and modern farming to improve crop yield and land use efficiency.
• Crop Diversification & Sustainable Practices:Encourage climate-resilient and eco-friendly farming methods, reducing dependence on water-intensive crops.
• Post-Harvest Infrastructure Development:Establish storage and agro-processing units at panchayat and block levels to reduce post-harvest losses (currently ~35-40%).
• Improving Irrigation Efficiency:Support micro-irrigation techniques like drip and sprinkler systems to raise water-use efficiency from the current 38%.
• Expanding Agricultural Credit:Facilitate short- and long-term institutional credit, especially through the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) and agri-fintech models.

Implementation Framework:

• Targeted District Identification:Based on cropping intensity, productivity, and credit penetration, using data from the Ministry of Agriculture, NABARD, and Department of Financial Services.
• Integrated Funding Approach:Leverages existing schemes like RKVY, PMKSY, NFSM, and SMAM through convergence for efficient fund utilization.
• Institutional Mechanism:Multi-tier coordination involving the Centre, States, and District-level authorities for implementation and real-time performance tracking.
• Technology Integration:GIS mapping, AI advisories, blockchain for supply chain transparency, and sensor-based monitoring for precision agriculture.
• Farmer Empowerment:Strengthening Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) to support knowledge dissemination, skill development, and market access.

Strategic Significance of PMDKY:

• Bridging Regional Disparities:Targets structurally weak districts to ensure balanced regional growth in agriculture.
• Food and Water Security:Supports climate-resilient farming amid rising rainfall variability (+15–20% by 2050) and increasing water scarcity (55% of agriculture is rainfed).
• Boosting Rural Incomes:Aimed at transforming smallholder agriculture, as ~80% of Indian farmers are marginal with an average income of ?1.2 lakh annually.
• Reducing Post-Harvest Losses:Addresses infrastructural bottlenecks causing 35–40% losses, especially in perishables like fruits and vegetables.

In News:

• Recently, the Union Government has introduced the PM Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana which aims at enhancing agricultural productivity.
• Objective: To boost agricultural productivity, modernize farming practices, and enhance rural prosperity by addressing region-specific challenges in backward agricultural districts.

Key Features:

• Integrated Approach:
  • Consolidates multiple existing agricultural schemes under one umbrella for greater synergy and implementation efficiency.
  • Draws inspiration from the Aspirational Districts Programme, which has improved socio-economic outcomes in backward regions.
• District-Specific Interventions:
  • Focuses on districts with:
    • Low crop productivity
    • Moderate crop intensity
    • Limited institutional credit access
  • Implements customized strategies based on the unique challenges of each region.
• Core Focus Areas:
  • Enhancing farm productivity through modern technology.
  • Improving irrigation infrastructure.
  • Increasing formal credit availability to reduce dependence on informal moneylenders.
  • Promoting crop diversification and sustainable agriculture.
  • Strengthening post-harvest infrastructure like storage at Panchayat and block levels.
• Technology-Driven Solutions:
  • Encourages adoption of climate-resilient and precision farming.
  • Supports digital access to credit and advisory services.
• Financial Inclusion:
  • Strengthens linkages with government financial programs, microfinance institutions, and banks.
  • Aims to reduce rural indebtedness and promote formal financial participation.
• State and Centre Collaboration: Implementation will involve both central and state governments, ensuring localized solutions with national support.
• Reducing Distress Migration: By improving rural livelihoods and opportunities, the scheme aims to make migration a choice rather than a compulsion.

In News:

Contract farming has emerged as a significant model in India's agricultural landscape, especially with its success in processed potato cultivation and the recent rise in French fry exports. As the country transitions from being an importer to a major exporter in sectors like frozen French fries, the contract farming model underpins the structural transformation of Indian agriculture.

Understanding Contract Farming

Contract farming is an agricultural production system where farmers and buyers (agribusinesses, processors, exporters, or retailers) enter into a pre-harvest agreement. This contract outlines key parameters including price, quality, quantity, delivery schedules, and in many cases, input provision and technical assistance.

Types of Contract Farming Arrangements

• Direct Input Provision by the Company: Firms supply seeds, fertilizers, and support services, deducting costs from the final payment to farmers.
• Partnership with Local Input Dealers: A hybrid model balancing company control with third-party services, chosen based on crop complexity, local support availability, and firm capabilities.

Advantages of Contract Farming

• Stable and Enhanced Income: Contracts assure farmers of a fixed price and market access, shielding them from volatile markets. RBI data shows farmers typically receive only 31%–43% of consumer prices; contract farming can significantly improve this share.
• Access to Inputs and Technology: Companies provide high-quality seeds, fertilizers, training, and modern farming practices, leading to improved yields and quality.
• Post-Harvest Efficiency: Streamlined procurement reduces wastage of perishables and post-harvest losses, ensuring efficient supply chain management.
• Credit and Financial Support: Assured incomes help farmers access institutional credit, reducing dependency on informal lenders.
• Food Safety and Export Standards: Training on pesticide use and residue limits ensures compliance with international standards like Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs), boosting export potential.
• Consumer Benefits: Direct procurement reduces intermediaries, enabling competitive pricing and higher quality products.
• Technology Transfer: Farmers benefit from the introduction of new, high-efficiency production techniques.

Concerns and Challenges

• Power Imbalance: Small and marginal farmers often lack bargaining power. This dependency may lead to exploitative contracts or one-sided terms, especially where firms demand investments in crop-specific infrastructure.
• Market Risk and Default: Price volatility can lead to side-selling by farmers or contract breaches by firms when market prices crash.
• Delayed Payments and Inputs: Contractual delays in payment or input delivery can severely affect crop cycles and farmer finances.
• Exclusion of Marginal Farmers: For economies of scale, firms often prefer large landholders, sidelining smallholders.
• Environmental Impact: Monocropping, overuse of water and agrochemicals, and soil degradation threaten long-term sustainability.
• Food Security Trade-offs: A shift to high-value crops under contracts may reduce acreage for food crops, impacting local food security.
• Loss of Autonomy: Farmers may lose control over farming decisions, with firms determining most aspects of cultivation, leading to indirect control over land use.

Case Study: Contract Farming in Potato Sector

India is the second-largest potato producer globally, with Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Bihar as leading states. The Central Potato Research Institute (CPRI), Shimla developed several high-yielding Kufri varieties to support commercial cultivation.

The success of processed potato farming is best illustrated by India’s emergence as an exporter of frozen French fries, driven by contract-based procurement from farmers. However, issues such as the PepsiCo vs. Indian farmers legal dispute over unauthorized cultivation of the FL 2027 variety underline ongoing concerns around intellectual property rights and farmers’ autonomy.

Policy and Legal Framework

• Model APMC Act, 2003: Introduced contract registration, dispute resolution, and exempted market fees while protecting land ownership.
• Model Agricultural Produce and Livestock Contract Farming Act, 2018: Proposed institutional frameworks, insurance provisions, and promotion of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs).
• e-NAM Integration: Supports transparent pricing and contract enforcement.
• National Agriculture Policy: Endorses contract farming as a tool for enhancing productivity and rural incomes.

In News:

The Aroma Mission, also known as the Lavender Revolution, is emerging as a transformative initiative for regions like Jammu & Kashmir and the North East, prioritised under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for inclusive development.

It aims to harness the untapped potential of India’s biodiverse regions through the scientific cultivation of aromatic crops and production of essential oils, with the dual goals of economic upliftment and sustainable innovation.

Key Objectives and Features:

• Launched By: Ministry of Science & Technology
• Nodal Agency: CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CIMAP), Lucknow
• Started In: Jammu & Kashmir, now extended to the North East
• Known As: Lavender Revolution
• Purpose: Boost India’s aroma industry by promoting the cultivation of high-value aromatic crops and increasing the production of essential oils.

Major Focus Areas:

• Crops Cultivated: Lavender, lemongrass, citronella, palmarosa, vetiver, patchouli, rose, peppermint, and chamomile
• Target Sectors: Cosmetics, aromatherapy, pharmaceuticals, and food flavouring industries

Impact and Achievements:

• Over 5,000 hectares brought under aromatic crop cultivation in the North East.
• Establishment of 39 essential oil distillation units.
• Distribution of 1 lakh agarwood saplings planned to boost the region's share in global aromatic plant trade.
• Expected annual essential oil production: 2,000 tonnes, valued at over ?300 crores.
• Estimated to generate 60 lakh man-days of rural employment.
• Projected increase in farmers’ income by ?60,000–?70,000 per hectare annually.

Institutional Support: IICON – Incubation and Innovation Complex

• Location: CSIR-North East Institute of Science and Technology (CSIR-NEIST), Jorhat, Assam
• Launched By: Dr. Jitendra Singh (Minister of Science & Technology)
• Purpose: Provide technical assistance, advanced facilities, and business incubation support for startups, MSMEs, and SHGs.
• Facilities: Access to 27 cutting-edge technologies for up to two years to help refine production and marketing strategies.

Integrated Development Approach:

The Aroma Mission exemplifies the “whole-of-government” approach, aligning with various flagship programmes such as:

• Start-Up India
• MSME Development
• Doubling Farmers’ Income
• Women Empowerment (e.g., through Rural Women Technology Parks)
• Act East Policy (enhancing North East's connectivity and trade potential)

Over 25 startups and self-help groups have already been empowered through access to facilities and entrepreneurial training at IICON, contributing to local innovation ecosystems.

Strategic Significance:

• Regional Empowerment: Converts underutilised natural resources into economic assets, especially in remote regions like J&K and the North East.
• Environmental Sustainability: Encourages eco-friendly cultivation and reduces pressure on traditional farming.
• Economic Diversification: Supports India’s transition to a bio-economy, with aromatic plant industries offering export potential and rural employment.
• Vision India@2047: Positions the North East as a hub for biotechnology, essential oils, innovation, and trade, aligning with long-term national growth goals.

In News:

A three-year study was conducted on a 23-hectare DDT-contaminated former tree nursery in southern Sweden. Researchers mixed biochar into sections of the contaminated soil and planted different crops, including pumpkins, legumes, grasses, and willows.

Key findings:

• Reduction of DDT Uptake: The presence of biochar reduced DDT absorption by soil organisms, cutting the toxin uptake by earthworms in half.
• Enhanced Soil Health: Biochar improved soil structure, fertility, and microbial activity.
• Cost-Effective Alternative: Unlike traditional soil removal methods, which are expensive and labor-intensive, biochar treatment offers a sustainable and economical approach.
• Support for Renewable Energy: The method allows for the growth of bioenergy crops such as willow trees, further contributing to environmental benefits.

Implications for Future Agricultural Practices

This breakthrough provides a viable approach to rehabilitate contaminated lands worldwide. Many regions, including India, still grapple with DDT contamination. While India banned agricultural use of DDT in 1972, it continues to be used for disease control under strict regulations. The application of biochar could significantly aid in soil restoration and sustainable land management

About DDT

• Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) is a synthetic insecticide first introduced in 1939. It was widely used in agriculture and public health initiatives to control vector-borne diseases like malaria.
• However, despite its effectiveness against pests, DDT’s persistence in the environment led to severe ecological and health concerns.
• It degrades slowly, accumulates in fatty tissues, and disrupts ecosystems by affecting soil fertility, harming wildlife, and posing potential human health risks, including endocrine disruption and carcinogenic effects.

Challenges Posed by DDT-Contaminated Soils

The prolonged use of DDT has resulted in extensive soil contamination, making land infertile and unsuitable for cultivation. Conventional methods of decontamination, such as soil excavation and disposal, are expensive and environmentally unsustainable.

Biochar as a Solution

Researchers at Sweden’s Chalmers University of Technology have developed an innovative method to restore DDT-contaminated soils by integrating biochar.

What is Biochar?

Biochar is a charcoal-like material produced by burning organic waste in a controlled oxygen-limited environment (pyrolysis). It is known for its ability to enhance soil quality, bind contaminants, and store carbon for extended periods.

In News:

• Union Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan urges states to accelerate efforts under the National Mission on Edible Oils - Oil Palm (NMEO-OP) to enhance domestic production of edible oils and reduce reliance on imports.

Key Facts Regarding the NMEO-OP Scheme:

About the Scheme:

• Objective: Enhance domestic production of crude palm oil (CPO) and reduce India's dependence on edible oil imports.
• Centrally Sponsored Scheme: Focuses on expanding oil palm cultivation in India.

Key Targets:

• Area Expansion: Aim to cover an additional 6.5 lakh hectares by 2025-26, reaching a total of 10 lakh hectares.
• Production Increase: CPO production is targeted to rise from 0.27 lakh tonnes (2019-20) to 11.20 lakh tonnes by 2025-26, and further to 28 lakh tonnes by 2029-30.
• Per-Capita Consumption: Maintain a consumption level of 19 kg/person/annum until 2025-26.

Focus Regions:

• Special Focus: North-Eastern States and Andaman & Nicobar Islands for oil palm cultivation and CPO production.

Key Features:

• Viability Price (VP) Mechanism: Aims to protect farmers from market volatility by providing price assurance. Payments are made through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
• Increased Assistance:
  • Assistance for planting material increased from Rs 12,000/ha to Rs 29,000/ha.
  • Special assistance of Rs 250 per plant for rejuvenating old gardens.
• Regional Support:
  • For North-East and Andaman, an additional 2% of the CPO price is borne by the government to ensure fair payments to farmers.
  • Special provisions for half-moon terrace cultivation, bio-fencing, and land clearance for integrated farming.

Oil Palm Cultivation:

• Origin: Native to the tropical rainforests of West Africa, oil palm is a new crop in India with high oil-yielding potential.
• Oil Yield: Oil palm produces five times the yield of traditional oilseeds per hectare.
• Types of Oil Produced:
  • Palm Oil: Extracted from the mesocarp (fruit's fleshy part), containing 45-55% oil.
  • Palm Kernel Oil: Derived from the kernel, used in lauric oils.
• Major States for Cultivation: Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Kerala (98% of total production).
• Other Key States: Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Gujarat, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Nagaland.

India's Oil Palm Potential:

• Cultivated Area: India currently has 3.70 lakh hectares under oil palm cultivation.
• Total Potential Area: Around 28 lakh hectares.
• Imports: India is the world's largest palm oil importer, with imports of 9.2 million tonnes in 2023-24, accounting for 60% of total edible oil imports. The country primarily imports from Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand.

In News:

Scientists develop ‘kisan kavach’ to shield farmers from pesticide sprays.

Key Highlights:

• Purpose: The Kisan Kavach is designed to shield farm labourers from harmful pesticide exposure. Pesticides, often neurotoxins, can be detrimental to health, causing symptoms like dizziness, headaches, vomiting, and even death with high exposure.
• Development:
  • Developed by Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council (BRIC-inStem), Bangalore, in collaboration with Sepio Health Pvt. Ltd.
  • Launched by Union Minister of State for Science and Technology.
• Fabric Technology:
  • The suit uses oxime fabric, which chemically breaks down common pesticides on contact, preventing them from penetrating the skin.
  • Mechanism: The fabric works through nucleophilic mediated hydrolysis, deactivating pesticides upon contact and preventing pesticide-induced toxicity and lethality.
• Components of the Kit:
  • Consists of a trouser, pullover, and face-cover.
  • Washable and reusable: The suit retains its protective properties even after 150 washes, in a wide temperature range, and under UV light exposure.
• Affordability:
  • Priced at ?4,000 per kit, with efforts underway to reduce costs through increased production.
• Field Testing and Efficacy:
  • Animal studies: Rodent tests showed that animals exposed to pesticides and covered with ordinary cotton cloth died within four days, while those with the activated fabric remained safe.
  • Human trials are still pending.
• Health Implications:
  • Pesticides are linked to chronic health issues, including cancer, as per studies by the National Institute of Nutrition (Indian Council of Medical Research).
• Global Context:
  • In 2020, India used 61,000 tonnes of pesticides, despite producing much more (2,58,130 tonnes in 2022-2023).
  • Pesticide-related health issues are a major concern, with 60% of India’s adult workforce engaged in agriculture.
• Impact:
  • The suit aims to protect farm labourers from pesticide exposure and promote sustainable agriculture.
  • It could help reduce health complications and improve working conditions for farmers, who often lack proper protective gear.
• Future Plans:
  • Awareness campaigns will be conducted to inform farmers about this protective technology.
  • Efforts are underway to make the kit more affordable as demand increases.

In News:

The Credit Guarantee Scheme for e-NWR based Pledge Financing (CGS-NPF), launched by Union Minister Pralhad Joshi aims to support farmers by facilitating post-harvest finance using electronic negotiable warehouse receipts (e-NWRs). This initiative is part of the government’s efforts to minimize distress selling and ensure financial security for farmers, particularly small and marginalized ones.

Key Features of the Scheme:

• Total Corpus: ?1,000 crore for post-harvest finance.
• Loan Coverage:
  • Agricultural purposes: Loans up to ?75 lakh.
  • Non-agricultural purposes: Loans up to ?200 lakh.
• Eligible Borrowers: Small and marginal farmers, women, SC/ST/PwD farmers, MSMEs, traders, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and farmer cooperatives.
• Eligible Institutions: All scheduled and cooperative banks.
• Guarantee Coverage:
  • Small and marginal farmers/Women/SC/ST/PwD: 85% for loans up to ?3 lakh, and 80% for loans between ?3 lakh to ?75 lakh.
  • Other borrowers: 75% coverage for loans up to ?200 lakh.
• Risks Covered: Both credit risk and warehouseman risk.
• Guarantee Fees: 0.4% per annum for farmers, and 1% per annum for non-farmers.

Objectives:

• Minimize distress selling: By providing easy access to loans post-harvest, the scheme helps farmers avoid selling produce at low prices due to cash crunches.
• Instill confidence in banks: The scheme provides a guarantee cover to lenders, encouraging them to offer loans against e-NWRs.
• Encourage warehouse registration: The scheme emphasizes the need for more warehouses, particularly those closer to farmland, to improve accessibility for farmers.

About e-NWRs:

• e-NWRs are digital versions of traditional warehouse receipts that enable farmers to pledge stored commodities as collateral for loans.
• These receipts are governed by the Warehousing (Development and Regulation) Act of 2007, and since 2017, e-NWRs have been mandated for use in transactions related to agricultural produce stored in WDRA-accredited warehouses.

Expected Impact:

• This scheme is expected to boost post-harvest lending, with a target of increasing lending to ?5.5 lakh crore in the next decade.
• It will improve farmers’ income, reduce dependence on informal credit sources, and foster better financial inclusion.
• Additionally, it will create a more reliable supply chain for agricultural produce, enhancing food security.

Future Targets:

• Increase the number of registered warehouses under the WDRA to 40,000 in the next 1–2 years.
• Use platforms like e-Kisan Upaj Nidhi to streamline the lending process and avoid repeated visits to banks.

In News:

Recently, the Government of India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a $98 million loan agreement to enhance horticulture crop productivity by improving plant health management. This initiative is part of India’s Atmanirbhar Clean Plant Programme (CPP), aiming to provide farmers with access to certified disease-free planting materials to improve yields, quality, and resilience, particularly against climate change impacts.

Key Highlights of the Loan Agreement

• Objective: Improve access to certified, disease-free planting materials for horticulture crops.
• Implementation: The project will be implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare through the National Horticulture Board (NHB) and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).
• Focus: The initiative will enhance farmers’ productivity, resilience to climate change, and pest/disease management through the Atmanirbhar Clean Plant Programme (CPP).

About the Atmanirbhar Clean Plant Programme (CPP)

The Atmanirbhar Clean Plant Programme aims to tackle critical challenges in horticulture by ensuring farmers have access to high-quality, virus-free planting materials. The program is designed to:

• Enhance crop yields and quality.
• Promote climate-resilient varieties to help farmers adapt to rising temperatures and extreme weather events.
• Safeguard the environment by controlling plant diseases and pests proactively.

Key Components of the CPP

• Clean Plant Centers (CPCs): Establishment of nine world-class CPCs across India, equipped with advanced diagnostic labs and tissue culture facilities to maintain disease-free foundation planting materials.
• Certification Framework: A robust certification system will be introduced to ensure accountability in planting material production, including accreditation for private nurseries.
• Climate Resilience: Focus on developing and disseminating climate-resilient plant varieties, addressing the growing concerns over extreme weather events and changing pest behavior due to climate change.

Significance of the Loan Agreement

• Climate Adaptation: The project will help farmers mitigate the effects of climate change, including unpredictable weather patterns and altered pest/disease behaviors.
• Economic Impact: The initiative aligns with India's vision of self-reliance in horticulture (Atmanirbhar Bharat), boosting agricultural productivity and sustainability.
• Long-term Benefits: Improved farm productivity, sustainability, and economic well-being for farmers, especially in the face of climate change.

Global Horticulture Significance

• India’s Position: India is the second-largest producer of fruits and vegetables globally, contributing 33% to the agricultural GDP.
• Land Coverage: Horticulture occupies 18% of India’s agricultural land, yet its production surpasses that of food grains.

Implementation and Impact

• Implementation Period: The project will be executed from 2024 to 2030, with 50% financial assistance from ADB.
• Institutional Strengthening: The initiative will bolster India’s ability to manage plant health, integrating advanced diagnostic techniques and capacity-building for horticulture professionals.

In News:

The Indian government is actively promoting the creation of digital identities for farmers through the KisanPehchaan Patra (Farmer ID). The initiative is an essential part of the Digital Agriculture Mission under the AgriStack initiative.

Key Details:

Objective:

• The main goal is to provide digital IDs linked to Aadhaar for farmers, capturing comprehensive agricultural data including land records, crop information, and ownership details.
• These digital identities are designed to enhance farmers' access to government schemes and digital agriculture services.

Farmer ID Creation Timeline:

• The government plans to create digital IDs for 11 crore farmers in phases:
  • 6 crore farmers in FY 2024-25.
  • 3 crore farmers in FY 2025-26.
  • 2 crore farmers in FY 2026-27.

AgriStack Initiative:

• The AgriStack initiative aims to build a Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) for the agriculture sector, which includes:
  • Farmers' Registry.
  • Geo-referenced village maps.
  • Crop Sown Registry.

Implementation Strategy:

• Camp-mode approach: States have been instructed to organize field-level camps to ensure faster and inclusive registration of farmers.
• Financial Incentives:
  • States will receive ?15,000 per camp for organizing these camps.
  • Additionally, ?10 per Farmer ID issued.
  • Funding is provided through the Pradhan Mantri KisanSamman Nidhi (PM-Kisan) scheme.

Benefits of Digital Farmer ID:

• Targeted Delivery of Benefits: Ensures subsidies and benefits reach legitimate farmers and eliminates duplication.
• Precision Agriculture: Supports data-driven policies for better crop planning, insurance, and market linkages.
• Financial Inclusion: Facilitates easy access to credit, loans, and crop insurance, empowering farmers financially.
• Better Monitoring: Helps in tracking the actual implementation of schemes and ensures that only eligible farmers benefit.

Progress in States:

• Advanced States: Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh have made significant progress in issuing digital Farmer IDs.
• Testing Phase: States like Assam, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha are still in the field-testing phase.
• Special Assistance Scheme: The Finance Ministry allocated ?5,000 crore in August 2024 to assist states in creating the Farmers' Registry, with funds available until March 2025.

Linkage with Land Records and Crop Data:

• The Farmer ID integrates with state land records and crop data, creating a dynamic and accurate database known as the Farmer’s Registry.
• This data helps in the development of better agricultural policies and decision-making.

Digital Agriculture Mission:

• The government approved a substantial outlay of ?2,817 crore for the Digital Agriculture Mission, which is intended to modernize agricultural practices and build robust digital infrastructure.
• The mission also includes the launch of the Digital Crop Estimation Survey (DGCES), which will help in crop estimation and better resource allocation.

In News:

Government of India and ADB sign $98 million loan to promote plant health management in India’s horticulture.

Key Highlights:

$98 Million Loan Agreement with ADB:

• India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a $98 million loan to enhance horticulture productivity and resilience.
• Objective: Improve farmers' access to certified, disease-free planting materials, which will increase crop yield, quality, and climate resilience.
• Focus Areas: The project aligns with India’s Atmanirbhar Clean Plant Programme (CPP), aiming to strengthen plant health management in horticulture.

Atmanirbhar Clean Plant Programme (CPP):

• Implemented under MIDH: The Clean Plant Programme is part of the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH).
• Goal: To provide virus-free, high-quality planting materials to farmers, boosting horticultural crop yields and promoting climate-resilient varieties.
• Implementation Period: 2024-2030, with 50% financial support from ADB.
• Key Components:
  • Establishment of 9 Clean Plant Centers (CPCs) with state-of-the-art diagnostic, therapeutic, and tissue culture laboratories.
  • Certification Framework: Developing a regulatory framework under the Seeds Act 1966 to certify clean plants.
  • Support to Nurseries: Infrastructure development for large-scale nurseries.
• Significance: The programme strengthens India's self-reliance in horticulture and enhances adaptability to climate change impacts.

Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH):

• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
• Focus: Holistic development of the horticulture sector, including fruits, vegetables, mushrooms, spices, and more.
• Funding Pattern:
  • General States: 60% by Government of India (GoI), 40% by State Governments.
  • North-Eastern and Himalayan States: 90% by GoI.

Horticulture Sector at a Glance:

• Contribution to Agricultural GDP: Accounts for 33% of the gross value.
• Land Coverage: Occupies 18% of agricultural land in India.
• Global Standing: India is the second-largest producer of fruits and vegetables globally.
• Surpassing Food Grains: Horticulture production exceeds food grain production, occupying much less land (25.66 million hectares vs. 127.6 million hectares for food grains).

Key Benefits of the CPP:

• Climate Resilience: Promotes climate-resilient plant varieties and helps farmers adapt to climate change.
• Innovation: Encourages the use of advanced testing techniques and builds institutional capacity.
• Long-term Impact: Expected to improve sustainability, productivity, and the economic well-being of farmers.

Additional Horticulture Initiatives:

• CHAMAN (Horticulture Assessment using Geo-informatics): A programme to estimate area and production of horticultural crops using scientific methods.
• Kisan Rail Services: Facilitates transportation of perishable horticultural products like fruits and vegetables.
• Capital Investment Subsidy Scheme: By the National Horticulture Board to support the sector’s growth.

In News:

• The 13th National Seed Congress (NSC), organized by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers' Welfare, concluded with significant discussions and outcomes focused on advancing India's seed sector.
• The theme for this year's congress, held in Varanasi, was "Innovating for a Sustainable Seed Ecosystem."

Key Highlights:

• Focus Areas:
  • Seed Technologies and Biofortification: Emphasis on high-nutrition seeds like iron and zinc-enriched rice and Vitamin A-rich crops to combat malnutrition.
  • Climate-Resilient Agriculture: Promoting practices like Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) and the development of stress-tolerant seed varieties to withstand climate change.
• Challenges in India’s Seed Ecosystem:
  • Seed Replacement Rate (SRR): SRR in India is around 15-20%, with 100% for hybrid seeds, pointing to the need for higher adoption of certified seeds.
  • Monoculture and Seed Market Monopoly: Issues like over-reliance on Bt cotton and domination by multinational companies (e.g., Bayer) in seed markets.
• Government Initiatives:
  • National Seed Corporation (NSC): Produces foundation and certified seeds for over 600 varieties.
  • Seed Village Programme (Beej Gram Yojana): Focus on improving the quality of farm-saved seeds.
  • National Seed Reserve: Ensures seed availability during climatic disruptions.
• Policy Discussions:
  • Proposed Seeds Bill: A new bill to regulate seed quality and promote sustainable practices.
  • Public-Private Partnerships: Strengthening collaborations to improve seed production, accessibility, and quality.
• Outcomes:
  • Biofortified Seeds: Increased development and distribution of nutrient-rich seeds.
  • Climate-Resilient Seed Systems: Enhanced focus on developing crops that can withstand climate challenges.
  • Public-Private Partnerships: Strengthening collaborations in seed technology and policy reform.

In News:

The Union Cabinet approved the launching of the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) as a standalone Centrally Sponsored Scheme under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers' Welfare.

Key Highlights

Objective & Focus:

• Launch of NMNF by the Union Cabinet to promote chemical-free farming in India.
• Aim to improve soil health, reduce input costs, and produce nutritious food.
• Support the shift to natural farming (NF), emphasizing local knowledge and agro-ecological principles.

Financial Allocation:

• Total Outlay: ?2481 crore (Government of India share ?1584 crore, State share ?897 crore) until FY 2025-26.

Key Features of NMNF:

• Coverage: Targeting 15,000 clusters in Gram Panchayats, covering 7.5 lakh hectares and impacting 1 crore farmers.
• Bio-Input Resource Centres (BRCs): 10,000 BRCs to supply ready-to-use natural farming inputs.
• Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) and Agricultural Universities (AUs): Establishment of 2,000 model demonstration farms for hands-on training in natural farming techniques.
• Farmer Training: 18.75 lakh farmers to be trained in NF practices such as preparation of organic inputs like Jeevamrit and Beejamrit.
• Krishi Sakhis/CRPs: Deployment of 30,000 workers for farmer mobilization and awareness.

Implementation Strategy:

• Farmer Certification System: Providing easy, simple certification for marketing natural farming produce with dedicated branding.
• Monitoring: Real-time, geo-tagged monitoring of implementation through an online portal.
• Convergence with other government schemes and organizations for market linkages and support.

Natural Farming Practices:

• Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF): Promote sustainable farming by using local livestock and diverse crop systems.
• Benefits: Reduce dependence on external inputs like chemical fertilizers and pesticides, rejuvenate soil quality, and increase resilience to climate risks (e.g., drought, floods).
• Encourage biodiversity, and improve soil carbon content and water-use efficiency.

Targeted Areas and Farmer Support:

• Focus on areas where NF practices are already being followed or where farmer producer organizations (FPOs) or self-help groups (SHGs) are active.
• Training through model demonstration farms will focus on practical, location-specific NF techniques tailored to regional agro-ecologies.

Impact on Agriculture and Environment:

• Environmental Impact: Encourages sustainable farming by reducing chemical exposure, improving soil health, and promoting climate resilience.
• Farmer Well-being: By reducing input costs and promoting nutritious food, it aims to improve farmer incomes and family health.
• Contributing to the long-term health of the environment, ensuring a healthy Mother Earth for future generations.

Challenges and Concerns:

• Soil Nutrient Compromise: Concerns that some crops, like rice, might require chemical fertilizers (e.g., NPK) for optimal growth, which may not be sufficiently replaced by organic manure alone.
• The shift to natural farming requires significant awareness and training to ensure sustainable and productive yields.

Institutional Framework:

• Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare is the implementing body.
• Collaboration with KVKs, AUs, and farmer organizations ensures grassroots level support and knowledge dissemination.

In News:

• Global Soil Conference (GSC) 2024 held in New Delhi.
• Focused on soil health's importance for food security, climate change mitigation, and ecosystem services.

What is the Global Soil Conference 2024?

• Organizers: Indian Society of Soil Science (ISSS) in collaboration with the International Union of Soil Sciences (IUSS).
• Objective: Address sustainable soil/resource management challenges and foster global dialogue.
• Theme: "Caring Soils Beyond Food Security: Climate Change Mitigation & Ecosystem Services."

Key Highlights of GSC 2024:

• Soil Health Issues:
  • Soil degradation threatens productivity and global food security.
  • 30% of India's soil is compromised by erosion, salinity, pollution, and organic carbon loss.
  • Soil erosion is linked to SDG 15 (Sustainable Development Goal 15), aiming to protect terrestrial ecosystems.
• SDG 15:
  • Goals: Promote sustainable land use, combat desertification, halt land degradation, protect biodiversity.

Concerns Regarding Soil Health in India:

• Soil Degradation:One-third of India's land faces degradation due to poor farming practices.
• Soil Erosion & Fertility Loss:
  • India loses 15.35 tonnes of soil/hectare annually.
  • Results in crop losses, economic damage, and environmental issues like floods and droughts.
• Soil Salinity:Reduces water infiltration, nutrient uptake, and aeration, making land infertile.
• Low Organic Content:
  • Organic carbon in Indian soil is 0.54%, which hampers fertility.
  • Over 70% of soils are affected by acidity or alkalinity, disrupting nutrient cycles.
• Desertification:Reduces soil fertility, increases erosion, and worsens food insecurity.
• Diversion of Fertile Land:Fertile agricultural land is diverted for non-agricultural purposes.

India's Initiatives for Soil Conservation:

• Soil Health Card (SHC) Scheme:Provides farmers with soil nutrient information.
• Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana:Focuses on efficient water use.
• Zero Budget Natural Farming & Natural Farming Mission:Promotes sustainable farming practices to protect soil health.

In News:

• In 2023, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) revealed that Indian farmers faced the highest implicit taxation globally, amounting to USD 120 billion.
• Implicit Taxation: This taxation arises from government policies like export bans, duties, and price controls, aimed at lowering food prices for consumers but reducing the income of farmers.
• Export Restrictions: Key commodities affected include rice, sugar, onions, and de-oiled rice bran.

Impact on Indian Farmers

• Market Price Support (MPS):
  • Negative MPS: In 2023, Indian agricultural policies resulted in a negative MPS of USD 110 billion.
  • Farmers received lower prices than international market rates due to export bans and trade restrictions, impacting their income.
• Budgetary Support: Despite government subsidies and the Minimum Support Price (MSP) worth USD 10 billion, negative MPS outweighed positive support, leading to an overall loss for farmers.
• Farmer’s Share in Global Negative Support:
  • India’s share of global negative price support in 2023 was 62.5%, a significant increase from 61% in 2000-02.

Global Agricultural Policy Trends

• Global Support: Total support for agriculture across 54 countries averaged USD 842 billion annually (2021-2023). However, there was a decline in support in 2022-23 from the pandemic-era peak.
• Challenges:
  • Geopolitical Tensions (e.g., Russia-Ukraine war) and climate change are exacerbating global agricultural production and trade.
  • Export Restrictions in various countries are distorting international agricultural markets.
  • Farmer Protests across countries reflect the economic and social struggles of the farming community.
• Sustainability Issues: Global agricultural productivity growth is slowing, posing challenges to feeding a growing population sustainably.

India's Agricultural Policies

• Export Bans and Restrictions: These policies are intended to control domestic prices but undermine farmers’ income by lowering market prices for key agricultural products.
• Minimum Support Price (MSP): MSP is meant to protect farmers, but is often set below international market rates, leading to a negative price effect.
• Regulatory Constraints: Policies like the Essential Commodities Act (1955) and APMC Act (2003), though aimed at ensuring food security, often lead to price suppression for farmers.
• Price Depressing Policies: India's agricultural policies result in lower farm-gate prices due to price controls, government-set procurement prices, and lack of market access.

Negative Market Price Support (MPS)

• Historical Trends:
  • From 2014-2016, India’s Producer Support Estimate (PSE) was -6.2%, driven mainly by negative MPS (-13.1%).
  • The PSE measures the annual value of transfers to farmers, both from consumers and the government.
• Inefficiencies:
  • Infrastructure Gaps: Poor infrastructure and high transaction costs lower the prices farmers receive.
  • Inefficient Resource Allocation: Short-term subsidies for inputs (fertilizers, irrigation) don’t address long-term agricultural challenges like climate change and market access.

Government Support Programs

• Subsidies and Schemes:
  • National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA)
  • Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) for organic farming.
  • Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) to promote agricultural development.
  • Digital Agriculture Mission and Unified Farmer Service Platform (UFSP) for modernizing agricultural practices.
• Sustainability Efforts:
  • The government has introduced initiatives like AgriStack and Mission Organic Value Chain Development in the North East to enhance sustainable agricultural practices and reduce the negative impacts on farmers.

Global Context and Recommendations

• Environmental Public Goods Payments (EPGP): Only 0.3% of total producer support is dedicated to environmental sustainability, despite the growing need for climate-resilient agriculture.
• Sustainable Agricultural Practices: The OECD advocates for governments to tie producer support to sustainable farming practices, including the use of metrics like Total Factor Productivity (TFP) and Agri-Environmental Indicators (AEIs).
  • TFP measures agricultural efficiency, while AEIs assess the environmental impacts of farming.

OECD Overview

• OECD Function: Founded in 1961, the OECD is an international organization of 38 countries that promotes prosperity, equality, and well-being through economic reports, data, and policy analysis.
• India’s Role: India has been an OECD Key Partner since 2007, engaging with the OECD on various policy issues, though it is not a member.

In News:

A mechanically stable, biodegradable, hydrophobic nanocoating material can enhance the nutrient use efficiency of chemical fertilizers by tuning them for slow release, thereby limiting their interaction with the rhizosphere soil, water and microbes.

Development of Slow-Release Fertilizers:

• A biodegradable, hydrophobic nanocoating has been developed to enhance the nutrient use efficiency of chemical fertilizers.
• The nanocoating allows for slow release of nutrients, thus limiting excessive interaction with soil, water, and microbes, and optimizing fertilizer usage.

Coating Composition:

• The coating is made from nanoclay-reinforced binary carbohydrates, primarily chitosan (a biopolymer from chitin) and lignin (a plant-based polymer).
• These materials are low-cost, naturally derived, and eco-friendly, ensuring sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of fertilizer use.

Technological Innovation:

• The coating process involves using a drum rotor method to uniformly coat fertilizers, improving their efficiency.
• The tuning of hydrophobicity in the nanocoating alters the release kinetics of fertilizers, ensuring that nutrients are released in accordance with the crop’s nutrient uptake needs.

Sustainability and Biodegradability:

• The nanocoating is biodegradable, which ensures that it does not harm the environment post-application, unlike conventional chemical fertilizers that may lead to soil degradation and water pollution.
• Life cycle assessment confirms the product's long-term sustainability compared to traditional fertilizers.

Enhanced Crop Productivity:

• The slow-release coating enables a reduced fertilizer dose, while maintaining or even increasing crop yields, particularly for staple crops like rice and wheat.
• This technology facilitates higher agricultural output with fewer inputs, contributing to food security.

Industrial Viability:

• The mechanical stability of the coated fertilizers ensures they can withstand transportation and handling, making them suitable for large-scale industrial application.
• The rotary drum system used for coating ensures uniform application and superior mechanical performance, ensuring that the fertilizers are not damaged during the supply chain process.

Economic Benefits:

• The use of slow-release fertilizers can reduce overall fertilizer costs for farmers while enhancing yields, leading to improved socio-economic conditions for farmers.
• The technology holds potential for economic growth by boosting agricultural productivity and reducing the financial burden on farmers for chemical fertilizer inputs.

Global Relevance:

• The research is significant in the context of global sustainable development goals, aiming to reduce the over-reliance on conventional chemical fertilizers that contribute to soil degradation, water contamination, and greenhouse gas emissions.

Research Collaboration:

• This breakthrough was achieved by scientists from the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali, in collaboration with the Department of Science and Technology (DST).
• The findings were published in the peer-reviewed journal Environmental Science: Nano, highlighting its scientific validation.

In News:

• India's annual hidden costs from agrifood systems total $1.3 trillion, the third-largest globally, after China ($1.8 trillion) and the US ($1.4 trillion).
• These costs are mainly driven by unhealthy dietary patterns leading to non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke.

Major Contributors to Hidden Costs:

• Unhealthy Diets: Over 73% of India’s hidden costs stem from unhealthy dietary habits, including:
  • Excessive consumption of processed foods and additives ($128 billion).
  • Low intake of plant-based foods, fruits, and beneficial fatty acids ($846 billion).
• These dietary risks contribute to a significant health burden, increasing the prevalence of NCDs and reducing labor productivity.

Global Context:

• Global hidden costs of agrifood systems amount to $12 trillion annually.
• 70% of these costs (~$8.1 trillion) arise from unhealthy dietary patterns, which include high intakes of sugar, salt, and processed foods, contributing to diseases and economic losses.