Source: Indian Express
Context:
The Government of India launched the Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses on October 11, 2025, aiming to boost domestic pulse production, enhance farmer incomes, and reduce import dependence from countries such as Myanmar and Canada. The mission was first announced in the Union Budget 2024–25.
Objectives:
- Achieve self-reliance in pulses by increasing domestic output and productivity.
- Raise pulse production from 242 lakh MT (2023–24) to 350 lakh MT (2030–31).
- Ensure price stability and farmer profitability.
- Promote climate-resilient varieties of pulses.
Implementation:
- Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare in collaboration with NAFED, NCCF, and state governments.
- Cluster-based approach: District clusters of 10+ hectares (2 hectares in hilly areas) for focused interventions.
- Emphasis on both traditional and non-traditional regions like NE India, rainfed areas, and rice-fallow zones.
Key Features:
- Mission Duration & Funding:
- Six years (2025–26 to 2030–31)
- Outlay: ₹11,440 crore
- Target: 45% increase in production and 13% expansion in area
- Focus Crops:
- Tur (Arhar), Urad, and Masoor
- Cover 34% of total pulse area
- Farmer Support & Incentives:
- ₹10,000/ha for Front Line Demonstrations (FLDs) of new technologies
- 100% assured procurement of Tur, Urad, and Masoor by NAFED and NCCF under PM-AASHA
- Technology & Market Integration:
- Climate-resilient seed development
- Protein enrichment programs
- Post-harvest storage and supply chain management
- Digital verification: Aadhaar-based biometric/facial authentication for registration and procurement transparency
- Integration with National Schemes:
- Linked with PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana
- Connected with Aspirational Districts Programme for regional development
