India Boosts Agriculture with New Initiatives

The Government of India has recently launched several programs aimed at revitalizing the agriculture sector, which focus on enhancing farm production, increasing farmer incomes, and promoting sustainable practices. The Union Cabinet’s approval puts stress on the commitment to agricultural improvement.

Clean Plant Programme (CPP)

The CPP was approved on August 9, 2024, and has a budget of ₹1,765.67 crore, aiming to enhance horticultural productivity. It provides disease-free plants and promotes climate-resistant crop varieties. This initiative ensures higher yields and sustainable farming practices.

Digital Agriculture Mission

Approved on September 2, 2024, this mission has a budget of ₹2,817 crore. The central government contributes ₹1,940 crore. The mission focuses on integrating digital solutions into farming. It includes developing digital infrastructure and implementing crop estimation surveys. IT tools will assist farmers in decision-making.

Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) Expansion

On August 28, 2024, the Cabinet approved the AIF expansion. It now encompasses community farming assets and integrated processing units. The fund will also connect with PM-KUSUM-A projects. This aims to support comprehensive agricultural growth.

National Mission on Edible Oils – Oilseeds (NMEO-Oilseeds)

Launched on October 3, 2024, the NMEO-Oilseeds has a budget of ₹10,103 crore. The mission aims to boost oilseed production in India. It seeks to reduce reliance on imports. This initiative will run from 2024 to 2031.

National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF)

Introduced on November 25, 2024, the NMNF has a budget of ₹2,481 crore, promotes natural farming methods. This initiative encourages eco-friendly agricultural practices. These programmes reflect the government’s dedication to building a robust agricultural system. They aim to equip farmers with essential tools and support for success.

GKToday Facts for Exams:

1. Clean Plant Programme (CPP) – Launched on August 9, 2024, with a budget of ₹1,765.67 crore. It enhances horticultural productivity through disease-free plants and climate-resistant varieties.
2. Digital Agriculture Mission – Approved on September 2, 2024, with ₹2,817 crore allocated. It integrates digital solutions into farming, improving infrastructure and assisting farmers with IT tools for decision-making.
3. National Mission on Edible Oils – Oilseeds (NMEO-Oilseeds) – Launched on October 3, 2024, with a budget of ₹10,103 crore. It aims to increase oilseed production and reduce import dependence until 2031.
4. National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) – Introduced on November 25, 2024, with ₹2,481 crore budgeted. It promotes eco-friendly farming practices, encouraging sustainability and natural methods in agriculture.

Month: Current Affairs - December, 2024

Category: Agriculture Current Affairs