Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, Shri Parshottam Rupala, addressed the media to highlight the remarkable achievements of the Department of Fisheries over the past nine years. With a focus on the fisheries sector, Shri Rupala emphasized its significance in providing livelihoods, employment, and entrepreneurship opportunities to millions of fishers and fish farmers across the country. The fisheries sector has witnessed substantial growth, making India the 3rd largest fish producing nation globally and the 2nd largest in aquaculture production.

Overview 

The government’s commitment to the fisheries sector is evident from the record investments made in the last 9 years, amounting to Rs. 38,572 crore. Schemes like the Blue Revolution Scheme, Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF), and Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) have contributed significantly to its growth. Over the past 75 years, India’s fish production has surged by 22 times. In the last 9 years alone, annual fish production has reached an all-time high of 162.48 lakh tons, showing an increase of 66.69 lakh tons. The provisional figures for 2022-23 are even more promising, projecting a potential record of 174 lakh tons.

Inland fisheries and aquaculture production witnessed extraordinary growth, soaring from 61.36 lakh tons in 2013-14 to a whopping 121.12 lakh tons in 2021-22.These figures indicate a doubling of production in just 9 years, with aquaculture contributing significantly to this achievement.

Key Points

1. Kisan Credit Card (KCC) for Fishers and Fish Farmers: The KCC facility was extended to fishers and fish farmers from 2018-19, providing them with financial support to meet their working capital requirements. A total of 1,42,458 KCC cards have been issued to them to date.
2. Investing in Infrastructure: The government has placed a strong focus on creating and modernizing Fishing Harbours (FHs) and Fish Landing Centres (FLCs) to enhance post-harvest operations. Projects worth Rs. 9028.29 crore have been approved under various schemes.
3. Sagar Parikrama Yatra: Shri Rupala’s unique initiative of the Sagar Parikrama Yatra has enabled him to meet fishers at their doorstep, understand their challenges, and promote sustainable fishing practices.
4. Group Accident Insurance Scheme (GAIS): Under PMMSY, fishers, fish farmers, and workers in fisheries-related allied activities are provided accidental insurance coverage. Over 33.21 lakh individuals have been enrolled in the Scheme during 2022-23.
5. Co-operatives and Fish Farmers Producers Organizations (FFPOs):The government has taken measures to strengthen FFPOs and promote collectivization to enhance the bargaining power of fisheries co-operatives.
6. Vessel Communication and Support System: The installation of a satellite-based Vessel Communication and Support System on fishing vessels aims to ensure the safety and security of fishermen at sea, enabling them to stay connected during adverse weather conditions.
7. Contributing to National GVA: The fisheries sector’s sustained average annual growth rate of 8.61% from 2014-15 to 2021-22 has made it an essential pillar of India’s socio-economic growth. It currently contributes 1.069% to the National Gross Value Add (GVA) and 6.86% to Agriculture GVA.
8. Booming Seafood Exports: India’s seafood exports have witnessed a remarkable surge, more than doubling since 2013-14. The export value reached an impressive Rs. 63,969.14 crore during FY 2022-23, showcasing a growth rate of 111.73% despite global challenges posed by the pandemic.
9. Triumph in Brackish Water Aquaculture: The success of shrimp cultivation, especially in states like Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Odisha, and Tamil Nadu, is a testament to the positive impact of government interventions. Shrimp production skyrocketed by 267% from 3.22 lakh tons in 2013-14 to a record 11.84 lakh tons (provisional figures) in 2022-23.

Conclusion

With these transformative initiatives and impressive achievements, the fisheries sector in India has reached new heights. The government’s dedication to the welfare of fishers and fish farmers has created a thriving industry, contributing significantly to the nation’s economy and livelihoods of millions. The future looks promising as India continues to emerge as a global leader in fish production and aquaculture.

Exciting news awaits as the tomato market experiences a major shift. Farmers and consumers rejoice as the price of tomatoes is expected to decline with the influx of new crops from Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. Government initiatives, such as the Price Stabilisation Fund and Operation Greens, ensure affordable tomato prices, benefiting growers and consumers alike. The arrival of new crops from Maharashtra’s Nashik, Naryangoan, and Aurangabad belt, along with Madhya Pradesh, promises to bring relief to both growers and consumers alike.

Overview

The Department of Consumer Affairs, in its commitment to ensuring affordability and accessibility of essential food commodities, closely monitors tomato prices. To combat the recent price surge, the Government has taken action by procuring tomatoes under the Price Stabilisation Fund, offering them at highly subsidized rates to consumers. Through collaborations with National Cooperative Consumers Federation (NCCF) and National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation (NAFED), tomatoes are being sourced from various mandis in Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Maharashtra. These cost-effective tomatoes reach major consumption centers, including  Bihar, Rajasthan, Delhi-NCR, and other regions, ensuring widespread accessibility for consumers.

Key Points

1. The government has taken proactive steps by procuring tomatoes under the Price Stabilisation Fund, ensuring subsidized access for consumers to these essential commodities.
2. The National Cooperative Consumers Federation (NCCF) and National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation (NAFED) are actively procuring tomatoes from different states and providing them at affordable prices in various consumption centers.
3. The retail price of tomatoes, initially set at Rs. 90/kg, has been progressively reduced to Rs. 70/kg as of 20.07.2023.
4. The current increase in tomato prices is likely to encourage more farmers to cultivate tomatoes, which will eventually stabilize prices in the upcoming months.
5. To safeguard farmers from distress sales during bumper crop seasons, the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare (DAFW) implements the Market Intervention Scheme (MIS). Remarkably, no proposals for tomato market intervention have been received to date, reflecting the scheme’s effective support for growers.
6. The Ministry of Food Processing Industries executes Operation Greens, aimed at enhancing value addition and reducing post-harvest losses for agri-horticultural commodities like tomatoes.
7. Operation Greens aims to achieve multiple objectives, including enhancing value realization for farmers, shielding them from distress sales, fostering food processing and value addition, as well as mitigating post-harvest losses.
8. The scheme offers both short-term interventions, such as transportation and storage subsidies, and long-term interventions, including grants for Integrated Value Chain Development Projects and Stand-alone Post-Harvest Infrastructure Projects.

Conclusion

With the steady influx of new tomato crops from different regions, coupled with the government’s proactive measures to stabilize prices, farmers can look forward to a fruitful harvest and better returns. The collective efforts of various government agencies aim to support growers while ensuring that consumers can enjoy tomatoes at affordable rates. As we witness this positive shift in the market, let us remain optimistic about the future of tomato farming and its impact on both the agricultural sector and the daily lives of consumers across the nation.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has recently released the eagerly awaited Third Advance Estimates for the agricultural year 2022-23. These estimates reveal a momentous milestone in the agricultural sector, with record-breaking production figures across various crops. Farmers across the country have reason to celebrate as their hard work, coupled with the government’s farmer-friendly policies, has resulted in exceptional growth. Under the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the agriculture sector is flourishing, showcasing the tremendous potential of India’s farmers.

Overview

The Third Advance Estimates provide valuable insights into the agricultural landscape, drawing on data from states, alternative sources, and comprehensive feedback mechanisms. This initial assessment is subject to revision as subsequent estimates incorporate additional information. The highlights of the Third Advance Estimates for 2022-23 are as follows:

1. Food Grains:

• A record-breaking foodgrain production of 3305.34 Lakh Tonnes is estimated for the current agricultural year.
• Rice production is estimated at a record 1355.42 Lakh Tonnes, setting a new benchmark.
• Wheat production is expected to reach 1127.43 Lakh Tonnes, marking a significant increase.

2. Other Major Crops:

• Bajra: An estimated production of 111.66 Lakh Tonnes.
• Nutri/Coarse Cereals: Anticipated production of 547.48 Lakh Tonnes, a remarkable achievement.
• Maize: Projected production of 359.13 Lakh Tonnes, reaching a record high.
• Total Pulses: Expected production of 275.04 Lakh Tonnes, surpassing the previous year’s figures.
• Gram: Estimated production of 135.43 Lakh Tonnes, reflecting consistent growth.
• Moong: A substantial increase in production, reaching 37.40 Lakh Tonnes.
• Oilseeds: A record production of 409.96 Lakh Tonnes, signifying significant progress.
• Groundnut: Expected production of 102.82 Lakh Tonnes.
• Soybean: Estimated production of 149.76 Lakh Tonnes, setting a new record.
• Rapeseed & Mustard: Production anticipated to reach 124.94 Lakh Tonnes, another remarkable feat.
• Cotton: Production estimated at 343.47 Lakh bales (of 170 kg each).
• Sugarcane: A record-breaking production of 4942.28 Lakh Tonnes, indicating exponential growth.
• Jute & Mesta: Estimated production of 94.94 Lakh bales (of 180 kg each).

Key points and Comparative Analysis

The Third Advance Estimates for 2022-23 demonstrate the extraordinary progress achieved by Indian farmers.

Key highlights of the estimated production figures, compared to previous years, are as follows:

1. Food Grains: A remarkable increase of 149.18 Lakh Tonnes, showcasing the consistent growth trajectory of the agricultural sector.
2. Rice: An impressive surge of 60.71 Lakh Tonnes in production, underlining the sector’s resilience.
3. Wheat: Production witnessed a substantial growth of 50.01 Lakh Tonnes, reinforcing India’s self-sufficiency in staple grains.
4. Maize: A significant rise of 21.83 Lakh Tonnes in production, reflecting enhanced agricultural practices.
5. Nutri / Coarse Cereals: A commendable increase of 36.47 Lakh Tonnes, indicating diversified cultivation patterns.
6. Moong: Witnessed a substantial growth of 5.74 Lakh Tonnes, contributing to the overall pulses production.
7. Total Pulses: Recorded a modest increase of 2.02 Lakh Tonnes, further strengthening the pulse production scenario.
8. Oilseeds: A significant rise of 30.33 Lakh Tonnes, emphasizing the importance of oilseed cultivation.
9. Soybean and Rapeseed & Mustard: Noteworthy increases of 19.89 Lakh Tonnes and 5.31 Lakh Tonnes, respectively, denote the potential for oilseed cultivation.
10. Sugarcane: An astounding surge of 548.03 Lakh Tonnes in production, reflecting the promising future of the sugar industry.
11. Cotton and Jute & Mesta: Stable production figures, ensuring the availability of raw materials for textile industries.

Conclusion

The Third Advance Estimates for the agricultural year 2022-23 paint a promising picture of Indian agriculture. The record-breaking production figures across various crops highlight the incredible efforts of farmers, the proficiency of scientists, and the farmer-friendly policies of the government. As the agriculture sector continues to evolve and thrive, it reinforces the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to empower and uplift the farming community. The Indian agricultural landscape is poised for unprecedented growth, ensuring a prosperous future for our farmers and the nation as a whole.

The world of farming, where hard work and dedication come together to create bountiful harvests. As a farmer, your role in ensuring food security and economic stability is crucial. The Government of India recognizes the importance of your contributions and has implemented a robust procurement policy for paddy that aims to provide you with fair prices, guarantee food availability for all, and maintain market stability. In this overview, we will delve into the key aspects of this policy, including its objectives, the procurement process, payment mechanisms, and the benefits it brings to farmers like you.

Overview

The Government policy of procurement of paddy has broad objectives encompassing the welfare of farmers and the food security of the nation. It strives to ensure that farmers receive a Minimum Support Price (MSP) for their produce, making farming a financially viable profession. Simultaneously, it ensures the availability of food at affordable prices for the weaker sections of society. This policy also plays a vital role in market intervention, effectively managing prices and contributing to the overall food security of the country.

Key Points

1. Production and Procurement Statistics

• As per the second advance estimate, the production of rice during the Kharif Marketing Season (KMS) 2022-23 is projected to reach 1308.37 LMTs, showcasing a significant contribution to the agricultural landscape.
• The estimated procurement of rice for the same season is 626.06 LMTs, with an actual quantity of rice procured standing at 520.63 LMTs.
• This procurement has led to a significant MSP payment of Rs. 159,659.59 Crores, benefiting a total of 1,12,96,159 farmers.

2. Agencies Involved in Procurement

• The Food Corporation of India (FCI), along with other State Agencies, acts as the nodal central agency for the Government of India in the procurement of paddy.
• The procurement operations are primarily carried out by State Governments and their agencies, ensuring a decentralized and localized approach.

3. Minimum Support Price (MSP) and Awareness

• Before each Rabi/Kharif Crop season, the Government declares the MSP for procurement based on the recommendations of the Commission of Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP).
• Multiple communication channels are utilized to generate extensive awareness about the Minimum Support Price (MSP) operations. These include diverse platforms like pamphlets, banners, signboards, radio, television, print media, and electronic media, ensuring widespread publicity and information dissemination.
• Farmers are made aware of quality specifications and the purchase system to help them bring their produce in line with the required standards.

4. Procurement Centers and Convenience

• FCI and Respective State Government agencies strategically establish procurement centers, taking into account various factors like production levels, marketable surplus, convenience for farmers, and the availability of logistical infrastructure.
• Additional temporary purchase centers are established at key points to facilitate farmers, ensuring convenience and reducing waiting periods.

5. One Nation, One MSP through DBT

• To strengthen the system and ensure direct MSP payments to farmers, the “One Nation, One MSP through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)” initiative has been implemented since RMS 2021-22.
• This initiative eliminates fictitious farmers, reduces payment diversion and duplication, and brings transparency, accountability, and probity to the system.

6. Online Procurement System

• To enhance transparency and convenience for farmers, both FCI and several State Governments have developed their own online procurement systems, revolutionizing the procurement process. These digital platforms provide farmers with easy access to information, ensure transparency in operations, and streamline the overall procurement experience.
• Farmers can access updated information regarding MSP, nearest purchase centers, and procurement dates through these systems, reducing waiting periods and allowing flexible delivery.

7. Procurement Systems

•  There are two systems for the procurement of paddy: the Centralized (Non-DCP) system and the Decentralized (DCP) system. Under these systems, paddy is acquired through different approaches, each serving specific purposes in the overall procurement process.
• In the centralized system, procurement is undertaken by FCI or State Government Agencies, with the quantity procured by State agencies being handed over to FCI for storage and distribution.
• The DCP scheme, introduced in 1997-98, encourages local procurement by State Governments to benefit local farmers, enhance procurement efficiency, and save on transit costs.

8. Minimum Support Prices

• The Minimum Support Price (MSP) for paddy is fixed by the Department of Agriculture & Cooperation, Government of India, based on the recommendations of the CACP.
• The MSP for paddy has seen a consistent increase from KMS 2018-19 to KMS 2022-23, ensuring better remuneration for farmers.

Conclusion

The Government’s procurement policy for paddy is designed to empower farmers by providing fair prices, ensuring food availability for all, and maintaining market stability. Through the implementation of transparent systems, direct benefit transfers, and widespread awareness campaigns, the policy aims to bring transparency, convenience, and financial security to farmers across the country. Your hard work and dedication are the backbone of our nation’s food security, and the Government is committed to supporting you every step of the way.

In a landmark move, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has unveiled a groundbreaking package of schemes for farmers. With a staggering outlay of Rs. 3,70,128.7 crore, these innovative initiatives are designed to revolutionize the agricultural sector, focusing on the overall well-being and economic prosperity of farmers. By promoting sustainable agriculture, these schemes aim to elevate farmers’ income, bolster natural and organic farming practices, rejuvenate soil productivity, and ensure food security.

The Indian government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has announced a comprehensive package of schemes for farmers aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture and improving their economic well-being. With a total outlay of Rs. 3,70,128.7 crore, these initiatives focus on boosting farmers’ income, rejuvenating soil productivity, and ensuring food security. Key highlights include the continuation of the Urea Subsidy Scheme, strengthening the Nano Urea ecosystem, promoting natural farming practices, introducing Sulphur Coated Urea (Urea Gold), and expanding Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samruddhi Kendras (PMKSKs). These measures will reduce input costs for farmers, enhance soil health, protect the environment, and increase agricultural productivity, ultimately leading to better returns for farmers and a sustainable future for Indian agriculture.

Key Points

1. Urea Subsidy Scheme Continuation: The Urea Subsidy Scheme by the CCEA , ensures that farmers have urea constantly available to at an affordable price of Rs. 242 / 45 kg bag. The subsidy commitment for urea for three years (2022-23 to 2024-25) amounts to a massive Rs. 3,68,676.7 Crore. This measure helps moderate farmers’ input costs, ensuring they need not spend extra for urea purchase, while also driving indigenous production to attain self-sufficiency levels.
2. Protecting Farmers from Rising Fertilizer Prices: In the face of global geopolitical changes and increased raw material costs, fertilizer prices have surged worldwide. However, the Government of India has safeguarded its farmers by augmenting fertilizer subsidies significantly, rising from Rs. 73,067 Crore in 2014-15 to Rs. 2,54,799 Crore in 2022-23, effectively shielding them from steep price hikes.
3. Strengthening Nano Urea Ecosystem: By 2025-26, the country aims to commission eight Nano urea plants, capable of producing 44 Crore bottles, equivalent to 195 LMT of conventional urea. Nano urea releases nutrients gradually, enhancing nutrient use efficiency while being more cost-effective for farmers, ultimately leading to increased crop yield.
4. Atmanirbhar in Urea Production by 2025-26: India’s efforts towards self-sufficiency in urea production by 2025-26 have been bolstered by the establishment and revival of six urea production units across the country. From 225 LMT in 2014-15, indigenous urea production has increased to 284 LMT in 2022-23. This, combined with the implementation of Nano Urea Plants, will reduce India’s reliance on urea imports and pave the way for complete self-sufficiency by 2025-26.
5. PM Programme for Restoration and Sustainable Farming: The introduction of the “PM Programme for Restoration, Awareness Generation, Nourishment and Amelioration of Mother – Earth (PMPRANAM)” incentivizes states and union territories to promote alternate fertilizers and balanced chemical fertilizer use, fostering natural and organic farming practices.
6. Market Development Assistance (MDA) for Organic Fertilizers: To promote organic fertilizers, a budget of Rs. 1451.84 crore has been allocated for Market Development Assistance (MDA) . This initiative aims to facilitate the marketing of Fermented Organic Manures (FOM), Liquid FOM, and Phosphate Rich Organic Manures (PROM) produced through Bio-gas and Compressed Biogas (CBG) Plants under the GOBARdhan initiative. By offering affordable organic fertilizers, this scheme supports farmers in adopting sustainable agricultural practices.
7. Promotion of Natural Farming: Natural farming practices are being promoted through demonstrations and awareness programs involving 6.80 lakh farmers across 425 Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs). Curricula for BSc and MSc programs in Natural Farming have been developed to be implemented from the upcoming academic session.
8. Introducing Sulphur Coated Urea (Urea Gold): To address soil sulfur deficiency and save input costs for farmers, Sulphur Coated Urea (Urea Gold) is being introduced for the first time in the country. This innovative urea variant is more cost-effective and efficient than Neem-coated urea, benefitting both farmers and enhancing production and productivity.
9. Expansion of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samruddhi Kendras (PMKSKs):Over one lakh Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samruddhi Kendras (PMKSKs) have been established to provide farmers with a one-stop solution for all their agricultural needs, simplifying access to essential farm inputs.

Benefits of the approved schemes

1. Reduced input costs and increased income for farmers through affordable urea and low-cost Nano urea.
2. Judicious use of chemical fertilizers, leading to improved soil health, higher nutrient efficiency, and a safer environment with reduced soil and water pollution.
3. Resolution of air pollution issues by utilizing crop residue, converting waste into wealth, and promoting a cleaner living environment.
4. Availability of branded organic fertilizers at affordable prices, addressing crop residue management challenges and providing an additional income source for farmers.
5. Improved soil fertility, reduced input costs, and enhanced production and productivity leading to better returns for farmers.
6. Creation of a comprehensive ecosystem that promotes sustainable agriculture practices, restoring soil health, and ensuring food security.

Conclusion

This visionary package of innovative schemes by the Indian government is a significant step towards transforming the agricultural landscape and uplifting the livelihoods of farmers. By focusing on sustainable practices, affordable inputs, and increased self-sufficiency, these initiatives aim to secure a prosperous future for the farming community while safeguarding the environment.

In a remarkable stride towards ensuring food security and controlling inflation, the Government of India is taking proactive measures through the Food Corporation of India (FCI). Recognizing the pivotal role that farmers play in the nation’s progress, the government has unveiled an innovative approach to stabilize prices while bolstering agricultural prosperity. OMSS(D), is set to revolutionize the market dynamics by offloading substantial wheat and rice stocks through E-auctions, creating a win-win scenario for both farmers and consumers.

Overview

The OMSS(D) initiative is strategically designed to strike a harmonious balance between agricultural sustainability and consumer affordability. By releasing 50 LMT (Lakh Metric Tons) of wheat and 25 LMT of rice into the open market, the government is proactively addressing market demand while curbing inflationary pressures. Underpinned by a transparent E-auction mechanism, the initiative ensures fair participation from private entities, fostering healthy competition that benefits the entire nation. Notably, this move is projected to result in a significant reduction in market prices, enhancing the accessibility of these essential grains to all citizens.

Key Points

1. Reserve Price Reduction: Drawing from insightful experiences of previous rice e-auctions, the government has slashed the reserve price by Rs 200/qtl. This strategic step aims to make wheat and rice more economically viable for consumers while fostering increased market participation. The new effective price of Rs 2900/Qtl enhances affordability, ushering in a new era of accessibility.
2. Price Stabilization Fund: The cost of reducing the reserve price is thoughtfully borne from the Price Stabilization Fund, managed by the Department of Consumer Affairs. This ensures that the economic burden is managed seamlessly, allowing the benefits to cascade to both farmers and consumers without compromising stability.
3. Curbing Inflation: In a dynamic market landscape, the government’s decision to offload wheat and rice stocks aligns seamlessly with its commitment to curbing food inflation. By augmenting supply during lean seasons and deficit regions, this approach actively moderates market prices, providing a stable environment for both producers and consumers.
4. Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojna (PM-GKAY): Even as the OMSS(D) takes center stage, the government remains steadfast in its dedication to the welfare of its citizens. The provision of foodgrains to National Food Security Act (NFSA) beneficiaries remains unshaken, ensuring their entitlements are met without charge. This pledge, initiated on January 1, 2023, underscores the government’s commitment to social welfare.
5. Fostering Agricultural Prosperity: The phased offloading of wheat and rice stocks serves multifaceted objectives. It enables the efficient disposal of excess foodgrains, diminishing carrying costs and optimizing resources. Moreover, this strategic approach enhances food supply during lean periods, thus fostering stability and bolstering agricultural resilience.
6. A Vision Realized in 2023: As the calendar year unfolds, the Government of India’s resolute commitment to the OMSS(D) initiative remains steadfast. The phased release of wheat and rice stocks reflects a comprehensive approach to maintaining market equilibrium while safeguarding the interests of both farmers and consumers. By aligning with the strategic reserve prices determined by the government, FCI is set to orchestrate a symphony of stability, affording the nation’s population access to affordable foodgrains.

Conclusion

The OMSS(D) is a resounding testament to the government’s unwavering dedication to fostering a thriving agricultural ecosystem while ensuring affordable food for every citizen. By reducing reserve prices, tapping into the Price Stabilization Fund, and maintaining a delicate balance between supply and demand, this visionary initiative has the potential to revolutionize the market, making quality food accessible to all, while empowering our farmers to thrive.